11 Fads From the 90s You’ve Probably Forgotten All About

The 1990s was a captivating decade marked by bold fashion statements, technological breakthroughs, and unforgettable pop culture phenomena. This era was a melting pot of unique styles and trends that, for many, remain fondly remembered. From the birth of the internet to the explosion of boy bands, the ’90s offered a little something for everyone.

However, not all trends stood the test of time. Many fads that once dominated our lives have faded into obscurity. Today, we’re taking a nostalgic journey back to the ’90s, uncovering 11 fads that you might have completely forgotten about. Get ready to revisit these quirky trends that defined a generation and left a lasting impact on our culture.

1. Pogs

Pogs were the ultimate 90s playground craze. These small, circular cardboard discs featured various designs and were collected and played with by kids everywhere. Players would stack their pogs and use a heavier disc called a slammer to flip them.

Whoever flipped the most pogs won the stack. The game was simple but incredibly addictive. Pogs became a cultural phenomenon, with different themes from cartoons to sports teams.

Despite being banned in many schools, the pogs fad thrived, creating a community of collectors and players, each eager to own the rarest discs.

2. Tamagotchi

Tamagotchis were digital pets that lived in a small, egg-shaped device. These virtual companions required regular feeding, cleaning, and playtime, mimicking the responsibilities of real pet ownership.

Kids would attach them to their backpacks or keep them in their pockets, constantly checking in to ensure their pet’s well-being. The challenge was keeping the Tamagotchi alive and happy.

The Tamagotchi craze was a testament to budding technology’s ability to capture hearts. Though the trend faded, its influence remains, with many adults reminiscing about their virtual pet-keeping days.

3. Butterfly Clips

Butterfly clips were a staple in 90s fashion, adding flair to any hairstyle. These small, colorful clips came in various designs and were often used to pull back sections of hair, creating playful looks.

They were inexpensive and allowed for creativity, making them popular among young girls and teens. Whether worn in clusters or as a singular statement piece, butterfly clips were a fun way to brighten up an outfit.

Though no longer in vogue, these accessories are fondly remembered as a quintessential part of 90s style, epitomizing the era’s love for bold, playful fashion.

4. Beanie Babies

Beanie Babies were the must-have collectible plush toys of the 90s. Each stuffed animal came with its own name and personality, quickly becoming a favorite among children and collectors alike.

Their popularity soared, driven by the notion they could become valuable over time. This led to a buying frenzy, with people rushing to find rare editions.

While the Beanie Baby bubble eventually burst, their legacy endures. The craze highlighted how simple toys could capture imaginations, and they remain a nostalgic symbol of the decade’s collecting mania.

5. Plaid Flannel Shirts

Plaid flannel shirts became synonymous with 90s grunge fashion, popularized by musicians and embraced by teens. Often worn oversized, these shirts offered comfort and a sense of rebellion.

Whether tied around the waist or layered over a band tee, flannel shirts were a wardrobe staple. The trend was more than just a fashion statement; it represented youth culture’s desire for authenticity.

Though grunge has evolved, plaid flannel remains an enduring symbol of the 90s. It speaks to the era’s influence on casual wear, merging style with individuality.

6. Slap Bracelets

Slap bracelets were simple yet entertaining fashion accessories. Made from flexible metal covered in fabric, they straightened out when pulled but curled around the wrist with a satisfying slap.

Kids loved them for their novelty and the wide array of designs available. Schools, however, were less enthusiastic, often banning them due to concerns over safety.

Despite such restrictions, slap bracelets became a 90s icon, symbolizing the playful spirit of the time. They were a perfect blend of fun and fashion, leaving a memorable mark on the decade.

7. JNCO Jeans

JNCO Jeans were emblematic of 90s streetwear, known for their extremely wide legs and oversized fit. Loved by skaters and youth embracing alternative fashion, these jeans made a bold statement.

Pairing them with graphic tees, wearers expressed individuality and defied conventional fashion norms. JNCOs offered not just style, but comfort with their roomy design.

Though the trend was short-lived, its impact on youth culture was significant. JNCO Jeans remain a nostalgic reminder of a decade that celebrated rebellious fashion choices and self-expression.

8. Frosted Tips

Frosted tips were a defining hairstyle for men in the 90s, characterized by lightened hair ends. Achieved through bleaching, this look was favored by pop stars and teens seeking to emulate their idols.

The style was both edgy and playful, offering a way to stand out. Combined with spiky gelled hair, frosted tips became an iconic look.

While hair trends have evolved, frosted tips remain a memorable part of 90s fashion history. They symbolize a time when experimentation with personal style was embraced and celebrated.

9. Mood Rings

Mood rings captured the curiosity of the 90s with their color-changing magic. Encased in silver, these rings contained liquid crystals that shifted hues with temperature changes.

Advertised as a window to one’s emotions, they fascinated wearers with their supposed ability to reflect feelings. Though not scientifically accurate, mood rings were fun.

They became a novelty item, often shared among friends to compare ‘moods.’ Despite the gimmick, mood rings remain a symbol of the 90s fascination with quirky accessories that blended science with entertainment.

10. Pencil Grips

Pencil grips were a small but significant classroom trend in the 90s. These rubber accessories slid onto pencils, providing comfort and improved grip for young writers.

Available in bright colors and fun shapes, they transformed ordinary pencils into personalized stationery. Students loved them for the added flair and practicality.

Though simple, pencil grips represented a broader 90s trend of customizing school supplies. They showed how even minor innovations could enhance everyday experiences and remain a fond memory for those who grew up in the decade.

11. Bubble Chairs

Bubble chairs were the ultimate 90s statement piece in home decor. Made from clear acrylic, these hanging chairs offered a cozy spot for relaxation with a futuristic vibe.

They were often suspended from the ceiling, creating a floating aesthetic that appealed to teens and young adults. Filled with colorful cushions, bubble chairs provided a unique blend of comfort and style.

Although their popularity waned, bubble chairs are fondly recalled by those who experienced lounging in them. They remain a playful reminder of the decade’s innovative approach to interior design and self-expression.