Lisa O
Baby Boomers may get a bad rap about being old-fashioned, but many things Boomers loved are making a remarkable comeback. From entertainment to fashion, some of the most loved things from their heyday are now a rage again. These trends are not only nostalgic for Boomers but also creating fans among Millennials and Gen Alpha. Here is a list of 15 Boomer things that are making a comeback.
Vinyl
Vinyl records are back in demand. Music enthusiasts love vinyl’s rich, warm sound, which is impossible with digital music formats. Music collectors like the large, detailed vinyl album covers. Did you know vinyl records now beat digital music as a symbol of authenticity? Some pubs and cafes even host ‘vinyl nights’ where music collectors can play records from their own collections. Nostalgia and collectability are other factors contributing to the popularity of vinyl records.
Polaroid Camera
Instant Polaroids are back, too. Mobile phone photos are convenient, but imagine watching a photo print appear as you watch! Polaroid cameras produce instant prints, which are popular for their vintage charm. These pictures offer a tangible way to capture memories. In the digital age, In a world of filters and retouching, there is something special about holding an instantly printed photo in your hands.
Board Games
When was the last time you played board games in your living room? Did you know they are making a comeback? Board games almost disappeared from the scene when the online gaming fever caught on. More people are now bored with staring at screens. Sitting together in the living room to play games, like jigsaw puzzles and Scrabble, is a real treat.
Drive-In Theaters
Who would have thought people would turn to drive-in movies after cineplexes, 4D, and on-demand content? But outdoor movies offer a complete viewing experience from the comfort of your car. Drive-ins ignite a sense of nostalgia that other movie experiences can’t match. Watching ‘movies under the stars’ with your partner or friends is an amazing experience with a steadily growing fan following.
Vintage Cars
Have you spotted any classic or vintage cars on the roads lately? Well, if you haven’t, here’s some news for you. Vintage cars are back on the streets and in high demand. Auto enthusiasts enjoy restoring and driving vintage cars. These cars remind us of a time when driving meant more than the morning commute. People often flock to vintage car shows and rallies where car owners flaunt their prized possessions, and enthusiasts enjoy auto history in live action.
Typewriters
Where did you see a typewriter last? In a vintage store? But wait! Typewriters are not extinct. Well, not yet. On the contrary, they are making a huge comeback. A growing number of writers are trying the sensory ‘typing’ experience with keys clacking away on crisp paper. Typewriters present no distractions either, unlike digital tools. This also makes typewriters a more productive writing tool than digital ones.
Record Players
Record players are not just for music connoisseurs. Many music lovers now buy record players for the rich sound quality and vintage look. Even Millennials cherish the ritual of selecting a record, placing it on the player, and enjoying a divine musical experience. It’s a welcome break from their digital streaming services and subscriptions for which you have to keep paying.
Handwritten Letters
Texts and online chats lack a personal touch. This is a big reason why handwritten letters are making a great return. In the age of quick texts and emails, writing a letter shows that you care. Handwritten notes carry a personal touch that digital communication doesn’t have. People are enjoying receiving and sending handwritten letters once again, just like the Boomers did.
Rotary Phones
Remember rotary phones? The ones that took ages to dial a number? These vintage telephones, with their mechanical dialing mechanism, are now becoming a sought-after decor item in homes, stores, and offices. They can’t replace your smartphone, but they certainly add a nostalgic charm to your space. Some people have even started using them for calls, enjoying the uniqueness and good old charm.
Jukeboxes
Like vinyl and record players, jukeboxes are making a musical comeback. Once common in cafes and diners, they are now becoming popular in retro-themed establishments. Jukeboxes make it possible for you to listen to your favorite tunes while adding a vintage vibe to your surroundings.
Bell-Bottom Jeans
Skinny jeans are not as popular as bell bottoms anymore. The iconic ‘70s bell-bottom jeans are in vogue again. These wide-legged pants flare out from the knee. Fashion lovers are embracing bell bottoms for a bold, retro look to feel confident and stand out in the crowd. This fit-and-flare style of jeans is comfortable and stylish and helps you make a fashion statement, too. Do you have a pair?
Shag Carpets
The long, plush shag carpets from the ’60s and ’70s are making a warm return. The modern home decor trend is minimalistic. Placing a shag carpet in your space instantly adds a cozy feel. They offer comfort and vintage appeal while lending warmth and luxury to a room. Shag carpets are best for lounging areas and for adding a unique texture to home interiors.
Coffee Makers
Move over, automated machines! Interest in manual coffee makers is brewing once again. The French press and pour-over devices are back in favor because they give you better control over the brewing process. With manual coffee makers, you enjoy each step of the brewing process—from grinding the beans to pouring your hot cuppa. Automated machines are faster and more convenient, but manual coffee makers ensure your coffee is filled with more flavor than automated machines.
Roller Skating
Roller skating is back with a bang, refreshing memories of times spent roller skating to music! Many adults have started roller skating again after their childhoods. You can often see skating rinks and outdoor parks full of both beginners and experienced skaters enjoying this fun and healthy activity. Roller skating is an unusual blend of a great workout and lots of fun and healthy social interaction.
Classic TV Shows
Boomers love their classic TV shows, but these shows are now amassing new fans. Younger people are discovering series like “The Twilight Zone” and “The Andy Griffith Show” on streaming platforms only now. These shows are examples of great humor and timeless storytelling that resonate with people of all ages. Classic shows are a comforting escape as well as a glimpse into the entertainment of yesteryears.