12 Bizarrely Short-Lived Fads From The ’70s That Everyone Tried At Least Once
The ’70s were a decade of bold fashion, funky trends, and bizarre fads that became pop culture phenomena… only to fade away just as quickly.
From platform shoes to disco fever, these fleeting moments left their mark on the culture and are still fondly remembered by many.
Get ready to laugh, cringe, and maybe even feel a little nostalgic through these 12 unforgettable trends!
1. Gas Station Collectible Glasses
Remember when filling up your car came with a free souvenir? Gas station collectible glasses were all the rage in the ’70s.
These colorful glasses, adorned with everything from cartoon characters to rock bands, became a must-have for families. People proudly displayed them in their kitchens, racing to complete their collections.
How many did you or your family collect? Do you still have any tucked away somewhere?
2. The 8-Track Tape Craze
Before Spotify, there were 8-track tapes. These chunky cartridges promised endless music without the hassle of flipping a vinyl record.
They became a staple in cars and homes, offering a new level of convenience. But honestly, the track-switching sounds and bulky design were hard to ignore.
Interestingly, an 8-track tape could hold about 40 minutes of music, which was roughly 10 songs depending on the length. Which 10 songs would you have chosen to record? Tough choice, right?
3. Earth Shoes
If you desired a better posture and a more natural walk in the 70s, Earth Shoes were the most popular choice!
They cost around $30, which was a bit pricey for the time. Celebrities like tennis star Billie Jean King wore them for their comfort.
However, many people found that the shoes absorbed water easily, making them less ideal for rainy weather. It seems they weren’t the best choice for keeping your feet dry.
4. String Art
This DIY craze took over living rooms in the ’70s! All you needed was a wooden board, some nails, and colorful thread to create intricate designs. It was a creative way to add personality to your walls.
The trend eventually lost its charm, but for a while, string art was the height of home decor. The first string art designs were created in the 19th century by mathematicians, who used it to demonstrate geometric concepts.
Who would have guessed that this mathematical concept would become a favorite craft for homeowners years later?
5. Pyramid Power
Did you ever believe in the energy benefits of pyramids, or were you a skeptic too?
Pyramid Power fascinated many in the ’70s, promising mysterious energy benefits. People believed these pyramids could sharpen razor blades, preserve food, and improve meditation.
Many filled their homes with pyramid replicas, hoping to tap into these cosmic powers. But scientists remained skeptical, and soon the excitement faded.
The idea of pyramid power actually dates back to ancient Egypt. Back then, people believed pyramids could channel spiritual energy.
6. Water Beds
Water beds were a big symbol of ’70s luxury. Who wouldn’t want to sleep on a big bag of water? They promised great comfort and support, but the reality wasn’t so perfect.
Leaks, maintenance, and the heavy weight of moving the mattress made them more trouble than they were worth. The trend faded, but water beds are still a fun reminder of the bold ideas of the ’70s.
Back then, a water bed could cost $100 to $500, which was a lot for a mattress. Did you ever have one, or do you remember when it popped and you had to clean up all the water?
7. Disco Fashion for Everyday Wear
It wasn’t just for the dance floor—it took over everyday life in the ’70s. Shiny fabrics, bell-bottoms, and glittery tops turned sidewalks into runways.
Everyone, from teens to adults, was rocking this flashy look, adding a bit of nightclub magic to their daily routine. But let’s be real—wearing sequins to do your grocery shopping wasn’t always the most practical choice.
Did you ever rock the disco look, or maybe spot someone in it out and about? The trend eventually faded, but disco fashion remains a bold symbol of ’70s style, forever leaving its glitzy mark on the decade.
8. CB Radio Craze
Before social media, there were CB radios. These devices allowed drivers to talk to each other like truckers.
It was a fun way to connect on the road, but as mobile phones became more popular, CB radios faded away. Still, they remind us of a time when talking was just as much about fun as it was about staying connected.
Fun fact: On some CB radios, you could ask other drivers to play your favorite songs! It was like having your own personal radio station on the highway! Let the party begin!
9. Sea Monkeys
Sea Monkeys were sold as ‘instant life’ in a packet. Kids were fascinated by the idea of creating their own underwater world, but the reality was less magical.
Turns out, Sea Monkeys were just shrimp—not monkeys. Still, they remain a quirky memory of childhood curiosity.
A packet of Sea Monkeys only cost around $1 to $2 back then, making it an affordable ‘pet’ for kids.
10. Carpeted Bathrooms
Carpeted bathrooms? Yes, it was a thing. In the ’70s, people loved the idea of stepping onto a warm, cozy carpet after a shower.
It felt luxurious at first, but moisture and hygiene issues quickly made it a soggy mess.
Some people even installed heating systems under the carpets to make sure they stayed warm—talk about a soggy luxury!
11. Roller Disco Craze
Roller disco combined the thrill of skating with the energy of disco.
People of all ages hit the rinks, donning flashy outfits and grooving to the beat of the music.
The atmosphere was electric, with neon lights, sequins, and endless spins. Still, the memories of glittering nights and carefree roller spins remain a highlight of the ’70s.
12. Puka Shell Necklaces
Well, these were the ultimate ’70s beach accessory. Puka shell, simple, stylish necklaces captured the laid-back vibe of surf culture.
Everyone wanted one, but, like the tides, fashion trends change.
These necklaces became an iconic symbol of the free-spirited ’70s and were even worn by musicians like Bob Dylan and members of the Beach Boys!