The 1980s were a time of bold fashion, vibrant music, and iconic pop culture. As a teenager, having a unique and personalized bedroom was all the rage, and many of us took pride in showcasing our favorite memorabilia and art on the walls. From pop stars to dolphins, here's a trip down memory lane to the 17 must-have items every teenager had on their bedroom wall during this memorable decade.
Smash Hits Posters: An iconic magazine of the era, any posters of pop stars from Smash Hits were a must-have. These posters were often displayed with Blu Tack, and if it was a centerfold, you were truly winning. The magazine's influence on pop culture was undeniable, and having these posters was a symbol of being 'with it'.
DIY Collages: Creative teenagers loved to make their own posters by cutting out pictures and words from magazines. It was like having an analog Pinterest! This DIY approach allowed for unique and personalized displays, showcasing individual tastes and interests.
Neighbours Memorabilia: The popular Australian soap opera, Neighbours, dominated the screens of many 80s kids. Posters of Kylie and Jason, the beloved lovebirds, adorned many bedrooms. Their romance was a significant part of pop culture, and having their images on the walls was a way to stay connected to the show's magic.
Dolphin Items: Dolphins were the 'it' animal of the decade. Anything with a dolphin on it was cool, and adding glitter made it even better. From posters to stickers, dolphins were a popular choice for bedroom decor, reflecting the era's love for all things quirky and whimsical.
A-ha Stickers: A-ha stickers were universally fabulous. They were versatile, perfect for lining school books, jazzing up walls, or even as a funky border around a mirror. Hannah Hargrave, a Deputy US News Editor, even plastered her bed with them, showcasing the extent of their popularity.
Cereal Box Stickers: The excitement of opening a new box of cereal was amplified by the possibility of getting a sticker. Mr. T and Chucky stickers were popular choices, and having a collection of these stickers was a fun way to decorate your room.
Athena Posters: Athena was a go-to shop for posters, and its chain stores were a treasure trove for teenagers. The shop offered a wide range of posters, and having them on your walls was a sign of being trendy and stylish.
Horse Posters: For those who weren't into music, horse posters were a popular choice. Stable girls, in particular, loved to display pony pictures on their walls. Sophie Hamilton, a Deputy Features Editor, confessed to having a soft spot for these posters, showcasing the diverse interests of teenagers.
Fuzzy Coloring: Distinct posters with black velvet-like material and space for coloring between the lines were a favorite. Isabel Mohan, a Second Act Editor, had plenty of 'works of art' on her walls, indicating a creative and artistic approach to bedroom decor.
CD Towers: By the late 80s, CDs were taking over, and having an epic storage solution for your collection was essential. CD towers were a must-have, showcasing your musical taste and providing a functional yet stylish way to display your albums.
Kate Bush Posters: Kate Bush, the iconic singer of 'Running Up That Hill', was a low-key obsession for many. Her resurgence in 2022, thanks to the hit TV show Stranger Things, only added to her popularity. Having her posters on the walls was a way to stay connected to her timeless music.
Iron Maiden Album Covers: For those who preferred heavy metal, Iron Maiden posters and album covers were a terrifying yet captivating choice. Katherine Robinson, a VIP Editor, remembers her brothers' walls adorned with these iconic images, a testament to the diverse musical tastes of teenagers.
Manchester United Shirts: Sir Alex Ferguson's era at Manchester United marked a trophy-laden period for the club. Loyal fans proudly displayed their shirts and scarves on the walls, showcasing their passion and dedication to the sport.
Corkboards: Corkboards were the perfect solution for keeping gig tickets, instant camera photos, and other hand-drawn treasures. They provided a versatile and functional way to display your memories and keep your bedroom organized.
Puppy Calendars: Puppy calendars were a predictable yet enjoyable Christmas gift. Each year brought a fresh calendar, often featuring puppies, kittens, or a mix of both. It was a fun way to stay organized and add a touch of cuteness to your room.
Glow-in-the-Dark Stars: Lucky children convinced their parents to get them glow-in-the-dark stars for their ceilings and walls. These stars added a magical touch to the room, creating a cozy and enchanting atmosphere.
World Maps: The bigger, the better! Having a world map on your wall was a great way to add interest and a sense of adventure to your bedroom. It was a popular choice for those who loved geography and exploring the world.
In my opinion, the 80s were a golden age of pop culture, and these items were a testament to the creativity and individuality of teenagers. From pop stars to animals, these memorabilia and art pieces were a reflection of our interests and a way to express ourselves. It's fascinating to see how these trends have evolved and continue to inspire new generations of teenagers.
