14 Strange Rules High Schoolers Followed In The ’80s
Step back into the vibrant world of the 1980s, where high school wasn’t just about academics – it was a playground of bold fashion, quirky etiquette, and strict yet amusing rules.
From dress codes that banned certain hairstyles to lunchtime hierarchies and unspoken social expectations, these regulations shaped the teenage experience in ways that might seem bizarre today.
Whether it was a rule about note-passing or the ultimate cafeteria seating arrangement, high school in the ‘80s had its own unique structure. Join us as we uncover 14 unusual rules that defined the era and made the high school halls unforgettable!
1. Mandatory Denim Days
Denim ruled the fashion scene in the ’80s, and some high schools even had ‘Denim Days’ where students were encouraged—or required—to show up in their best denim ensembles.
The halls were flooded with jean jackets, pants, and skirts. This trend was more than just a fashion statement – it was practically a badge of coolness. Whether you liked it or not, denim was the name of the game.
The more distressed and faded, the better. So, if you wanted to fit in, you’d better have a pair of Levis or two in your wardrobe.
2. Strict Hair Regulations
Big hair was not just a preference; it was practically the law in some schools.
Using gallons of hairspray wasn’t an exaggeration but a necessity. Teachers often turned a blind eye to the scent of aerosol that permeated the hallways.
Hair height competitions among friends were not uncommon, and the higher the hair, the closer to ’80s style heaven you were. Despite the damage to hair health, it was a small price to pay for popularity. Hairspray was your best friend, and gravity your sworn enemy.
3. Locker Decoration Contests
In the ’80s, locker decorations were serious business. Schools would hold competitions to see who could create the most extravagant locker designs.
From magazine cut-outs to shimmering streamers, students left no stone unturned. The aim was to showcase personality and stand out in a crowded hallway. For those artistic types, this was an opportunity to shine creatively.
Winning a contest came with bragging rights and sometimes even small prizes. The competition was fierce, proving that creativity and aesthetics were valued highly in that era.
4. Dance-Off Duels
Dance-offs were more than just fun; they were a revered tradition in ’80s high schools.
Whether at a school dance or spontaneously in the cafeteria, students would battle it out on the dance floor. Skills in breakdancing or new wave moves could earn you respect and admiration.
These duels weren’t only about dancing but were a way to showcase individuality and creativity. The judges? Your peers, of course. Winning a dance-off was like being crowned royalty for the day, a badge of honor you wore with pride.
5. Boom Box Battles
Before the age of smartphones and wireless speakers, boom boxes ruled the airwaves.
Students often engaged in boom box battles, competing to see who had the loudest, bassiest sound system.
These battles were a display of audio prowess, with music ranging from hip-hop to rock blasting through the courtyards. Owning a boom box was a sign of status, and carrying it on your shoulder was the ultimate power move.
It wasn’t just about the music – it was about making a statement. Only the brave dared to enter the sonic battlefield.
6. Fashion Police Patrol
Fashion at ’80s high schools had its enforcers: teachers who acted as the ‘fashion police.’
They made sure students adhered to the dress code while allowing some room for style expression. Leg warmers, bright colors, and oversized shirts were usually safe, but ripped clothing or overly flashy accessories could land you in detention.
The balance between following the rules and showing flair was a daily challenge. Navigating this was like walking a tightrope but was also an opportunity to showcase personal style within boundaries.
7. The Walkman Rule
Walkmans were the prized possession of ’80s high schoolers, but schools often had rules about when they could be used.
Listening to your favorite band during class was a no-go, but breaks or solo study sessions were fair game. The challenge was to sneak in tunes without getting caught, a skill honed by many.
The Walkman was more than just a music player; it was a personal sanctuary amidst the chaos of school life. Navigating these rules was part of the fun, making music a secret companion.
8. Puffed Shoulders Protocol
Shoulder pads were the height of fashion, and some schools had unspoken rules about wearing them.
The more puffed the shoulders, the more fashionable you were considered. This trend wasn’t just for students; even teachers got in on the action. Puffed shoulders symbolized confidence and authority, a style that permeated classrooms.
However, wearing them too large could make you the subject of a few laughs. Navigating this fashion rule was an art, ensuring you stood out for the right reasons while maintaining an air of authority.
9. Saturday Detention Rituals
Saturday detention was a dreaded yet iconic part of ’80s high school life.
Made famous by movies like “The Breakfast Club,” it was a place where unlikely friendships formed. Spending a Saturday morning in a quiet classroom wasn’t fun, but it was a rite of passage.
The irony was that it often became a social event, a place where students from different cliques mingled. While you sat there pondering your misdeeds, bonds were forged over shared boredom.
The rules during detention were strict, but camaraderie was its unexpected reward.
10. Graffiti Graffiti Guidelines
Graffiti was a rebellious art form for high schoolers in the ’80s. Unofficially, there were rules about where and what could be spray-painted.
The bathroom stalls and the underside of bleachers were prime real estate. Only the bold dared to leave their mark, often resulting in a colorful display of creativity. These pieces told stories, shared secret messages, and sometimes just screamed “I was here!”
The thrill of avoiding getting caught was part of the allure, making it a risky yet rewarding endeavor. Schools tried to clamp down, but the art always found a way.
11. Mullets and Moustaches Mandate
The ‘business in the front, party in the back’ hairstyle, known as the mullet, was a staple in the ’80s.
Some schools had unspoken rules about facial hair too, leading to the infamous pairing of mullets with moustaches. While the look might cause a chuckle today, it was a symbol of rebellion and individuality back then.
The trend transcended social groups, with jocks, nerds, and rockers all embracing it. Achieving the perfect mullet-moustache combo was an art, blending ruggedness with a devil-may-care attitude that defined an era of rebellious youth.
12. Sticker Swapping Sessions
Sticker collecting and trading was a favorite pastime for ’80s high schoolers.
Lunchtime often turned into vibrant sticker swap meets. Students would bring their sticker books, showcasing everything from scratch-and-sniff to holographic treasures. These sessions were not just about collecting but also about socializing and forming connections.
Trading the right sticker could elevate your status among peers. The excitement of finding a rare gem made it a thrilling activity. While simple, it was a cherished tradition that brought joy and camaraderie, creating a colorful common ground amid the complexities of high school life.
13. Cafeteria Conspiracy Theories
Rumors about the mystery meat or strange food combinations were a staple in ’80s high school cafeterias.
Theories abounded about what exactly was in the meatloaf or why the jello seemed to glow. While mostly in jest, these conspiracies added a layer of intrigue and humor to lunchtime.
Sharing the latest theory was a way to bond with classmates and bring a bit of fun to the mundane. This pastime was a creative outlet for storytelling, allowing imaginations to run wild. Over time, these tales became part of the school’s folklore, shaping collective memories.
14. Pledge of Allegiance Persistence
The Pledge of Allegiance was a daily ritual for high schoolers in the ’80s, with strict expectations for participation.
Despite its serious nature, students often found humorous ways to liven it up. The rebellious might mouth the words or sneak a joke among friends.
Teachers watched closely, ensuring respect was maintained. Though a small part of the day, it was a time when youthful defiance met tradition.
This ritual became a canvas for subtle acts of rebellion and a chance to inject personality into the routine, showcasing the ever-present tension between authority and adolescence.