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Every generation has distinctive trends and behaviors—some timeless, others not so much. The Gen X cohort, those born between 1965 and 1980, definitely left their mark on the culture of the time. However, like all trends, some of this era’s trends have become outdated and should be reconsidered.
Below are 18 Gen X trends many feel have outlived their relevance. As with any analysis of generational trends, some will agree with our list, and others won’t. Let us know what you think.
Oversized Flannel Shirts
A staple of grunge fashion, oversized flannel shirts were everywhere in the ’90s. But today, these garments often look dated rather than stylish. Today’s style leans towards fitted and tailored clothing.
CD Collections
While there’s a certain nostalgia for CDs, the rise of streaming services has rendered these collections largely unnecessary. They take up space and are less environmentally friendly than digital music.
Pagers
Before everyone had a cell phone, pagers were the go-to communication device. However, in the age of smartphones, they’re practically obsolete and can be seen as a bit of a relic.
Frosted Tips
Frosted tips were a hair trend that many Gen Xers embraced. However, today’s hair trends lean more towards natural color and less harsh contrasts.
Calling Cards
Calling cards were once necessary for international or long-distance calls. However, they are now unnecessary and outdated, especially with various internet-based communication platforms.
Chain Wallets
Chain wallets were a staple of punk fashion in the Gen X era. But today, they are often seen as cumbersome and unnecessary, with slim wallets and cardholders in style.
Dial-up Internet
Once the only way to connect to the internet, dial-up is painfully slow compared to today’s high-speed options. It’s a trend best left in the past.
Disposable Cameras
While disposable cameras were once a staple for vacations and events, they have been replaced by digital cameras and smartphones, which offer better quality and less waste.
Low-Rise Jeans
Low-rise jeans were all the rage in the late ’90s and early 2000s, but high-waisted styles have made a significant comeback and are considered more flattering and comfortable by many.
Portable CD Players
Portable CD players have largely been replaced by music streaming services that can be accessed from phones, making them less convenient for music on the go.
Tanning Beds
Once widespread, the health risks associated with tanning beds are now well-known. Today’s trends lean more towards natural skin tones and sun protection.
Bootcut Jeans
While bootcut jeans are still popular, they’re not nearly as popular as they once were. Today, skinny jeans and straight-leg styles are more prevalent.
VHS Tapes
Like CDs, VHS tapes are now largely obsolete due to streaming services. They take up a lot of space and are much less convenient than modern alternatives.
Velour Tracksuits
Once a must-have leisure outfit, velour tracksuits are now seen as outdated and are often associated with early 2000s fashion trends.
Teased Hair
The big, teased hair of the ’80s and ’90s is no longer in style. Today’s hair trends lean more towards natural, soft, and sleek styles.
Pop-up Ads
Pop-up ads were once a standard feature on the Internet, but they’ve since been recognized as intrusive and annoying, and many browsers now offer pop-up blockers.
Fanny Packs
While there’s been a slight revival of the fanny pack, or “belt bag,” the bulky fanny packs of the ’90s are often seen as outdated and not exceptionally stylish.
Baggy Jeans
Baggy jeans were a significant trend in the Gen X era, but today’s fashion trends lean more towards well-fitted styles.
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