Every era has its icons and its… well, not-so-iconic moments. We’ve all been tempted at some point to jump on the bandwagon of the latest trend, only to wonder later, “Why?” From fashion faux pas to bewildering beauty trends, here are 18 fads many wish could be banished from our memories.
Over-Plucked Eyebrows
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Thin brows were the rage back in the day, with many over-plucking to achieve the look. Unfortunately, eyebrows don’t always grow back to their original fullness. Today, many regret that trend and turn to solutions like microblading. Full, natural eyebrows have made a strong comeback, making some miss their original set.
Mullets Gone Wrong
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While there’s been a recent revival, not everyone can pull off the “business in the front, party in the back” hairstyle. The mullet’s earlier era was filled with regrettable experiments. Many teens have grimaced at past photos, wondering what they were thinking. Thankfully, hair grows, and style evolves!
Sunburn Art
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There was a brief period when people intentionally got sunburned to create ‘artistic’ patterns. Not only was this trend painful, but it increased the risk of skin damage. Today, we know the dangers of excessive sun exposure. Those who tried sunburn art now advocate for SPF and sun safety.
Unblended Contouring
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The makeup trend of sharp contouring took the world by storm, but not everyone mastered the blending aspect. Some ended up with noticeable streaks instead of a subtle definition. Thankfully, makeup tutorials have since highlighted the importance of blending. The lesson here? Always blend until seamless!
Parachute Pants
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Baggy, shiny, and not necessarily comfortable, parachute pants were once a fashion must-have. But as trends shifted, they became a closet regret for many. Today’s fashion is more about comfort and versatility. Those who once rocked parachute pants now chuckle at their past wardrobe choices.
Chunky Platform Sneakers
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These shoes weren’t just a style statement but also a potential trip hazard. Many remember twisting an ankle or two. Though they added height, comfort was often sacrificed. Current sneaker trends lean towards functionality and sleek design.
Overly Frosted Lips
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A shimmering pout was all the rage, leading many to over-frost their lips. The result? A sometimes icy and unnatural look. Today’s beauty enthusiasts prefer a more balanced shine, embracing everything from matte to subtle gloss finishes.
Extreme Low-Rise Jeans
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Sitting down or bending over became a challenge with these pants. Many recall the constant struggle to prevent unwanted exposure. High-waisted jeans have since taken the lead, offering comfort and coverage. Looking back, many wonder how low-rise jeans ever became a trend!
Spray-On Tan Disasters
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While a bronzed look was desired, the execution wasn’t always flawless. Many ended up with streaky, orange, or patchy results. Today, self-tanners have evolved, and there’s a greater appreciation for natural skin tones. Still, the memories of past tanning mishaps bring a chuckle or two.
Overly Popped Collars
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One popped collar was a statement, but some took it to the next level with multiple layers. This trend quickly became synonymous with trying too hard. Nowadays, collars are mostly left in their natural state. Simplicity often trumps over-the-top fashion choices.
Massive Shoulder Pads
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Big shoulders dominated the fashion scene at one point. While they added structure, they often looked exaggerated. Current trends appreciate a more natural silhouette. Many now smile at their past ‘power shoulder’ days.
Bizarre DIY Piercings
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The allure of self-expression led some to try at-home piercings. Many of these DIY attempts resulted in infections or lopsided results. Professional piercings have since gained traction for safety reasons. It’s a reminder that some things are best left to the pros!
Rubber Band Bracelet Overload
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Crafty and colorful, these bracelets were everywhere. Some people wore so many it looked like they had rubber armor. While fun at the time, many now see them as a short-lived phase. Current accessory trends are all about meaningful, minimalistic pieces.
Excessive Hair Gel
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For that wet, sleek look, many are overloaded on hair gel. The result? Crunchy, immovable hair. Soft, natural hairstyles are now the preferred choice, making many grateful hair trends have evolved.
Mismatched Earring Trend
Intentionally wearing two different earrings was a bold statement. Though fun, it often looked unintentional or lost. Symmetry in fashion has since found its place again. Mixing and matching is fun, but today’s style leans more towards coordination.
Overloaded Plastic Accessories
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From plastic necklaces to rings, the more, the merrier was the mantra. But over time, these accessories often broke or discolored. Today’s trendsetters appreciate sustainable, long-lasting pieces. The plastic overload now seems like a fleeting moment in fashion history.
Skinny Jeans Too Skinny
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While skinny jeans are stylish, some take the ‘skinny’ too far. The ultra-tight versions were not only uncomfortable but also sometimes unflattering. Today, relaxed and comfortable fits have become equally fashionable. A balance between style and comfort is now the goal.
Tattoo Choker Overuse
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Stretchy, black, and fitting snugly around the neck, these chokers were a 90s and 2000s staple. While nostalgic for some, many felt constricted and over-accessorized. The modern jewelry landscape celebrates diverse styles, from dainty to bold. The tight chokers serve as a reminder of fashion’s cyclical nature.
Looking back at these trends, it’s evident that while some fads quickly fade, the lessons and laughter they bring last a lifetime. It’s all a part of growing, learning, and finding our unique style. The next time a new trend emerges, remember: sometimes it’s okay to sit one out and enjoy the show from the sidelines.
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