As I accompany my soon-to-be 10-year-old, Lily, through her favorite store, Sparkle & Shine, it feels like we’ve stepped into a whimsical time capsule. The allure this cramped wonderland holds over kids under 12 surpasses even the grip that The Limited and Gap had on me back in the day. I can’t help but think there must be some secret ingredient in those glittery, over-the-top outfits that keeps the kids coming back for more.
Lily moves through the aisles like she’s hunting for the ultimate prom gown, which makes me anxious about the day that arrives. She reaches for a sparkly top, her head tilting in anticipation of my approval. Her face lights up when she spots a trendy T-shirt while I try to maintain my sanity. We have a shopping rule: I get the final say, and believe me, I take full advantage of it. As I hope for a swift end to this shopping escapade, I can’t help but notice some striking similarities in the fashion choices available today.
- Macramé has made an unfortunate comeback, ensuring another generation will snag their outfits on door handles.
- Neon colors are still in vogue, resuscitating memories of Wham! and making George Michael relevant once more—let’s just hope we avoid any park incidents.
- Nail polish shades are bold and brash, reminiscent of the vibrant hues of the past.
- Tapered pants are back in style, but thankfully only kids like Lily can pull them off—no hips to worry about!
- Floral prints remain just as cringe-worthy as when Lisa Turtle rocked them on Saved by the Bell.
- Smiley faces and peace symbols continue to reign supreme.
- Jean jackets are still the go-to outerwear choice—Molly Ringwald would definitely approve.
- Capezios have evolved into a similar style, featuring rounded toes and almost flat soles with a slight heel.
- Off-the-shoulder sweatshirts are still trendy, proving that Flashdance was way ahead of its time. Just a blast of “What a Feeling” and I’ll be transported back.
- Stuffed animals and journals still hold a special place in the hearts of tweens.
- Gum tape is still a thing, making me nostalgic for the days when it got stuck in my palate stretcher.
- Initials are everywhere—my daughter loves them, but they sure make my wallet a little lighter.
- Cuffed jeans are still around, unfortunately; some things should have stayed buried.
- Denim shorts are still way too short for my taste, but Lily thinks they’re just right.
- Ripped jeans are considered high fashion, which leaves me pondering why I should pay more for something so tattered.
- Fringe is back in full force; the only thing that could make this worse is if mullets made a return.
Just like my own mother experienced, I brace myself for the inevitable sighs and debates. But what Lily doesn’t realize is that she’s a chip off the old block—a true ’80s girl at heart. I just hope that shoulder pads remain firmly in the past.
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In summary, fashion trends seem to be caught in a nostalgic loop, bringing back styles from the ’80s that many of us thought were long gone. From macramé to neon, it’s clear that these trends have made their way back into the hearts of the younger generation—and their parents alike.
Keyphrase: fashion trends stuck in the ’80s
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