As I watch my nearly 10-year-old daughter wander through her favorite store, Glimmer, I can’t help but feel that the experience is almost enchanting. The allure this cramped little shop has over the kids under 12 is reminiscent of the hold The Limited and Gap had on me back in the day. I half-suspect that there’s some kind of tween enchantment woven into the sparkly and flamboyant outfits that hang ominously on the racks.
My daughter approaches her search like she’s hunting for the ultimate prom dress, which sends chills down my spine for the day that actually arrives. She gingerly touches various items, her head tilting as she weighs the chances of me giving the green light. Her face lights up when she spots a must-have graphic tee, while I stand back, desperately trying to maintain my sanity. Our shopping rule is simple: I get final say, and I don’t hesitate to use it. As I pray this shopping trip ends without any meltdowns, I start to notice some painfully familiar trends in the merchandise.
- Macramé is making a comeback, which means another generation will snag their attire on door handles as they stroll past.
- Neon colors are everywhere, resurrecting the spirit of Wham! and George Michael—let’s just steer clear of any park incidents.
- Nail polish shades are vibrant and daring.
- Tapered pants are in vogue, but let’s be honest; only kids can pull them off without hips to worry about.
- Floral prints remain as garish as they were when Lisa Turtle rocked them in Saved by the Bell.
- Smiley faces and peace signs are eternally fashionable.
- Jean jackets continue to reign supreme—Molly Ringwald would give her stamp of approval.
- Capezios have been swapped for a similar style featuring a rounded toe and nearly flat soles with a small heel.
- Off-the-shoulder sweatshirts are still a trend, proving that Flashdance was well ahead of its time. Just need to hear “What a Feeling” blasting through the speakers and I’d feel complete.
- Stuffed animals and diaries still tug at the hearts of tweens.
- Gum tape is still around, taking me back to when I got it stuck in my palate stretcher.
- Initials are everywhere, making my daughter grin and my wallet cringe.
- Cuffed jeans are still alive and kicking—sadly, they should have stayed buried.
- Jean shorts are far too short for my liking, but my daughter thinks they’re perfect.
- Ripped jeans are the pinnacle of fashion, leaving me wondering why I’m shelling out more for less fabric.
- Fringe is back with a vengeance; the only thing that could make it worse is if mullets made a return.
Just like when my mom took me shopping, I brace myself for the inevitable sighs and debates. What my daughter, Sophia, doesn’t realize is that, much to her chagrin, she’s got the heart of an ’80s girl, just like I did. Here’s hoping shoulder pads stay firmly in the past.
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In summary, the fashion world seems to be stuck in an ’80s time warp, with trends that evoke nostalgia and a mix of disbelief. From macramé to neon, it’s clear that the past is making a bold return in the wardrobes of today’s youth.
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