The 1980s were an era with such a distinct look, feel, and vibe that it’s almost too easy to pull off “the ’80s” at a Halloween party.
⬇️ Keep scrolling for the iconically ’80s photos. ⬇️
Think brightly colored tracksuits, complete with headbands, legwarmers, and all the iconic accessories. But for those of us who actually lived through the ’80s, the reality wasn’t always so neon-bright—especially if you were stuck wearing the family’s drab ’70s hand-me-downs.
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This street scene in Fort Lauderdale, Florida is a masterclass in ’80s fashion.
Big Trends Meant Big Money
Beyond the fashion trends, kids growing up in the ’80s became a driving force in the economy.
RELATED: Try Guessing These Awesome ’80s Movies From a Single Freeze-Frame
Home video game systems brought the arcade experience into living rooms, while blockbuster movies spawned a wave of must-have merchandise. It was a decade fueled by an endless cycle of buy, buy, buy.
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The Images of the ’80s Weren’t All Neon Bright and Carefree
Some news events profoundly shaped the lives of those growing up during that time, from the real-time disaster movie that was the Mount St. Helens’ eruption to the Challenger tragedy—both unfolding on live TV and leaving lasting impressions on young, impressionable minds.
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Totally ’80s: The Pictures That Take You Back
Take a nostalgic journey through the ’80s with these iconic photos—capturing the fashion, toys, and unforgettable news events that left a lasting impact on a generation. Keep scrolling to relive the moments that defined the decade.
Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz
QUIZ: Can You Identify the Iconic ’80s Film From Just a Single Freeze-Frame?
Embark on a journey through ’80s nostalgia with kids (and aliens) on bikes, and teens dodging principles (and responsibilities). We’ve put the proverbial pause on some of the decade’s most iconic flicks, and now it’s your mission to name them all.
Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz
LOOKS: Things you’d likely see in an awesomely ’80s garage
From scandalous bikini calendars to your dad’s AMC Gremlin, ’80s garages were a treasure trove of adventure, good fun, and sometimes downright danger.
Gallery Credit: Stephen Lenz