7 Forgotten Fads from the 70s That Were Absurdly Popular
via Decades TV Network / YouTube
The 1970s were filled with wild and unique trends that reflected the era’s experimental spirit. Many of these fads were once all the rage but have since faded from mainstream popularity, leaving behind memories of a truly colorful decade. Here’s a look at seven of the most memorable 70s fads.
1. Pet Rocks
The Pet Rock craze hit in 1975 when Gary Dahl introduced the idea of smooth stones as “pets.” These rocks were sold in a cardboard box with air holes and a “care manual,” teaching owners how to “train” their rock. The concept was so simple it was almost absurd.
Still, the novelty of owning a “pet” that required no maintenance quickly caught on, and people were surprisingly willing to pay for it. Although it was little more than a joke, the fad spread nationwide and turned into a short-lived, profitable craze that showcased 70s humor.
2. Streaking
Streaking became an odd social trend in the 70s, with people running naked through public places or large events. It started in college campuses, and soon, streakers were appearing on live broadcasts and at major sports events. It was seen as a fun, rebellious statement against societal norms.
The fad reached its peak when a streaker ran across the stage at the 1974 Academy Awards. Though law enforcement cracked down on it, streaking reflected the decade’s carefree attitude. The trend faded over time, but its brief popularity showcased the playful, sometimes reckless spirit of the 70s.
3. Waterbeds
Waterbeds became a huge trend in the 1970s, offering a unique alternative to traditional mattresses. Filled with water instead of springs or foam, they were marketed as a luxurious and relaxing way to sleep, promising comfort and even health benefits. Waterbeds quickly became a staple of 70s bedrooms.
Though they were popular for years, waterbeds proved hard to maintain. Leaks and burst seams were common, and moving one was no easy task. By the 80s and 90s, they had largely disappeared from homes. Today, they remain a quirky reminder of 70s bedroom décor and lifestyle choices.
4. Mood Rings
Mood rings were small rings that supposedly changed color based on the wearer’s emotional state. Introduced in 1975, the rings used heat-sensitive liquid crystals that shifted in response to body temperature, which was then linked to different “moods.” The idea that a ring could reveal feelings quickly caught on.
Millions of people wore these rings as a fun and colorful fashion statement. Though the science behind them was iffy at best, mood rings stayed popular throughout the decade. They eventually became more of a nostalgic item but remain one of the more curious trends from the 70s.
5. Platform Shoes
Platform shoes dominated 70s fashion, giving both men and women extra height and bold style. With thick, chunky soles and often bright colors, these shoes were an essential part of disco culture and could be seen on dance floors, runways, and even the streets.
While they may seem impractical now, platform shoes were a symbol of self-expression and freedom in the 70s. Over time, as fashion tastes shifted, they were replaced by more grounded footwear. Platform shoes, however, left a lasting impression as one of the era’s most iconic fashion statements.
6. CB Radios
CB (Citizens Band) radios became incredibly popular in the mid-70s, especially among truck drivers and everyday people. With the rise of movies like Smokey and the Bandit (1977), the appeal of CB radio culture surged, allowing people to communicate with each other on the open road.Drivers used CB radios to chat, share road tips, and even avoid police. The craze eventually faded as cell phones and other technology advanced, but CB radios helped create a unique subculture. They remain a notable piece of 70s communication history and transportation culture.
7. Lava Lamps
Lava lamps first appeared in the 60s but reached peak popularity in the 70s as a must-have item for anyone looking to add some psychedelic flair to their home. The colorful blobs inside these lamps would rise and fall, creating a mesmerizing effect that fit perfectly with the decade’s aesthetic.
People found lava lamps both relaxing and visually appealing, making them a staple in bedrooms and living rooms across the country. Though they lost their widespread appeal over time, lava lamps are still iconic as symbols of 70s design and remain popular with fans of retro style.
