Ah, you've got to love the 1980s. A decade of neon, boomboxes, and mullets. As time moves forward, many of us are feeling a bit nostalgic for those simpler times. I know I sure am. Although some '80s trends are best left in the past (I'm talking about you, shoulder pads), there are others that deserve a second chance in the spotlight.

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LinkedIn thinks so too and mentions a few items you're starting to see pop up once again. It got me thinking about what items and memories from this great decade I would like to see come back. Here's my list of ten gems from the '80s.

LOOK: BRING BACK THESE 10 TOTALLY AWESOME OBJECTS FROM 1980s

Photo by Quinton Coetzee on Unsplash
Photo by Quinton Coetzee on Unsplash
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Roller Skates

Before hoverboards and electric scooters, there were roller skates. Some of my best memories are with childhood friends at roller skating rinks. They were the social scene back then and a ton of fun. Bring them back, and let's roll.

Saturday Morning Cartoons

Before cartoons were available on demand, Saturday mornings were an important time for kids to tune in to their favorite cartoons. My all-time favorites were the Warner Bros. Bugs Bunny shorts that featured the amazing Mel Blanc.


 

Photo: Canva
Photo: Canva
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Mixtapes

Before streaming was a thing, making a mixtape for someone was the ultimate labor of love. Hand-picking songs and recording them onto a cassette tape was special. Who doesn't love the gift of music?

Pop Rocks

Retro candies are great but the whole experience changed when Pop Rocks came along. This tasty sensation made for an exciting, tongue-tingling experience.


 

Photo by Kevin Borrill on Unsplash
Photo by Kevin Borrill on Unsplash
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Arcade Games

Unfortunately, with the rise of gaming consoles, arcades have dwindled (though there are still a few in Abilene: Retro Arcade, Prime Time, and Bloo Kangaroo). Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and pinball were a blast when you were competing for a high score with friends.

Trivial Pursuit

In a world dominated by video games, the joy of a simple board game like Trivial Pursuit seems forgotten. I remember some heated games back in the day with family and friends. It’s time to dust off those game pieces and put our brains to the test again.


 

Photo by Dave Weatherall on Unsplash
Photo by Dave Weatherall on Unsplash
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Boomboxes

Music was an experience you shared in the '80s, often cranking out of a large, shoulder-hoisted radio. Boomboxes turned everyday boredom into instant dance parties.


 

Photo by Dazzling & Hypnotic on Unsplash
Photo by Dazzling & Hypnotic on Unsplash
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Scrunchies

These were as practical as they were stylish. You still see them around today, and let’s be honest, they’re more gentle on your hair than basic rubber bands.


 

Photo by 7AV 7AV on Unsplash
Photo by 7AV 7AV on Unsplash
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Rubik’s Cube

Let's face it. This 3D puzzle wasn’t just a fad, it was a phenomenon. The Rubik’s Cube was endless hours of aggravating, yet satisfying, fun.


 

Photo by Florian Schmetz on Unsplash
Photo by Florian Schmetz on Unsplash
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Walkman

Listening to your favorite music on the go was a sensation when the Walkman hit the scene. Unlike streaming services, you did have to commit to one album or mixtape, but that was alright with me. The turntable is making a comeback. Why not the Walkman?

So there you have it. Whether it's the excitement of arcade games or sentimental mixtapes, these iconic '80s items offer something modern-day life is missing. I say we bring back a touch of the '80s.

I loved the toys growing up as a kid in the '80s and there were plenty of great ones to choose from. Take a look below and see how many you remember.

Top 25 Toys From The 80's

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