The 1980s was an era of excess and extravagance, where opulence was often displayed through material possessions. For many, the defining image of wealth was embodied by the privileged few who seemed to have it all. Let’s take a nostalgic journey back to that era and explore ten things that symbolized affluence during the 1980s.
Intercom Systems in Larger Homes
While yelling across the house was the norm for most families, affluent households boasted intercom systems that allowed seamless communication from room to room. For rich kids, being summoned for dinner via the intercom was a hallmark of luxury, signaling a level of convenience and sophistication that others could only envy.
Novelty Phones with Dedicated Lines
Having a dedicated phone line was a status symbol in itself, but rich kids took it a step further with novelty phones. Whether it was a Garfield phone or a transparent handset that lit up when it rang, these quirky devices not only served a practical purpose but also added a touch of whimsy to their owners’ homes.
London Fog Jackets
In the realm of fashion, London Fog jackets reigned supreme among the affluent youth. These stylish outerwear pieces not only provided protection from the elements but also served as a badge of privilege. Sporting a London Fog jacket was akin to wearing a sign that proclaimed one’s elite status to the world.
Basement Bars and Entertainment Spaces
For rich kids, basements weren’t just storage areas—they were fully equipped entertainment spaces. Complete with mini-fridges stocked with refreshments and pool tables for leisure, these basement bars were the epitome of luxury living. Entertaining friends in such lavish surroundings was a hallmark of an affluent upbringing.
Designer Jeans, Particularly Guess
While jeans were a staple of 1980s fashion, rich kids elevated their denim game with brands like Guess. Featuring the iconic upside-down triangle logo on the back pocket, Guess jeans became synonymous with an upscale style. Wearing a pair of Guess jeans was a surefire way to signal one’s membership in the elite fashion club.
Gourmet Condiments and Specialty Foods
A peek inside the refrigerator of a rich kid’s home often revealed a treasure trove of gourmet condiments and specialty foods. From Grey Poupon mustard to Viennetta ice cream cakes, these culinary indulgences were a testament to the family’s refined tastes and elevated lifestyle.
Multiple Swatch Watches as Accessories
While Swatch watches were popular among the masses, rich kids took accessorizing to the next level by wearing multiple Swatch watches simultaneously. These colorful timepieces adorned their wrists like badges of affluence, signaling their ability to indulge in whimsical fashion trends with abandon.
Extensive VHS Movie Collections
Owning a VCR was a sign of technological prowess in the 1980s, but rich kids went a step further by amassing extensive collections of VHS movies. Instead of renting tapes from Blockbuster, they bought them outright, creating personal libraries of cinematic treasures that showcased their discerning taste and financial privilege.
Grand Pianos in Formal Living Rooms
In affluent households, a grand piano served as both a musical instrument and a statement piece in the formal living room. Its presence not only hinted at the family’s appreciation for the arts but also signaled their refined sensibilities and cultured upbringing.
High-End Shopping Spree at the Mall
While most families frequented discount stores for back-to-school shopping, rich kids were treated to lavish shopping sprees at the mall. From boutique stores like Merry-Go-Round to department giants like Macy’s, these shopping excursions were opportunities to indulge in the latest trends and splurge on designer labels.
Lacoste and Ralph Lauren Polos
In the late 1980s, flaunting one’s wealth extended to fashion choices, and nothing epitomized preppy elegance quite like Lacoste and Ralph Lauren polos. Adorned with the iconic alligator or polo player emblem on the chest, these shirts were a must-have for affluent kids. Whether worn for a morning tennis match or as a staple school attire, these polos exuded an air of sophistication that set their wearers apart.
Big Screen Televisions
While most households had standard console TVs, rich kids boasted big screen televisions that were the epitome of home entertainment luxury. Encased in wood and featuring larger projection screens, these TVs were the pinnacle of technology during the 1980s. Equipped with drawers that revealed the projector, these TVs were status symbols that signaled a family’s commitment to cutting-edge entertainment.
Refrigerators with Ice and Water Dispensers
The discovery of refrigerators equipped with ice and water dispensers was a revelation for many in the 1980s. Visiting a friend’s house and witnessing the convenience of filling up a tall glass with ice-cold water or ice cubes straight from the fridge left others envious and wide-eyed. These appliances were not only functional but also represented a level of comfort and convenience that only affluent households could afford.
Air Jordans
In the realm of footwear, Air Jordans were the ultimate status symbol for affluent kids. Priced at around $100, these iconic basketball sneakers were a luxury item that only a select few could afford. With each new release, rich kids eagerly showcased their latest pair, eliciting admiration and envy from their peers. Sporting Air Jordans was not just about style—it was a declaration of social status and affluence.
Era Of Extravagance
As we reminisce about the opulence of the 1980s, it’s clear that wealth was often flaunted through material possessions. While these symbols of affluence may have been out of reach for many, they continue to evoke a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era of excess and extravagance.
