5 Baby Boomer Trends We Love And 5 That We'd Rather Forget

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As the generation that came of age in one of the most vibrant decades of cultural and technological changes, the Baby Boomers have significantly shaped our world in a myriad of ways. Their influence has been felt in everything from music and movies to fashion and lifestyle choices.

Let’s take a walk down memory lane to revisit some of the Baby Boomer trends we love the most. But not all trends are created equal. While some have stood the test of time and continue to be loved, others have thankfully fallen by the wayside.

Baby Boomer Trends We Still Love

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Despite the generational gap, Baby Boomers have contributed many enduring trends that continue to influence our society today. Let’s take a nostalgic trip back and revisit 5 of these beloved trends that are still relevant and appreciated in the modern era.

Vinyl Records

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The resurgence of vinyl records in recent years has been fueled by a nostalgia for the tangible and authentic music listening experience that boomers hold dear. The warm, rich sound that vinyl provides is cherished by many, making this boomer trend a beloved classic.

Classic Cars

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Baby boomers’ love for classic cars has never faded. The craftsmanship, style, and sheer nostalgia associated with these cars continue to captivate people of all ages.

Outdoor Activities

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Baby boomers have always embraced the great outdoors. The love for camping, fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities that boomers have instilled in younger generations continues to promote a healthier lifestyle and a deeper appreciation for nature.

Home Cooking and Baking

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Boomers grew up in a time where home-cooked meals were the norm. This trend has seen a resurgence, with many people recognizing the benefits of cooking at home, such as healthier ingredients, cost savings, and the joy of preparing a meal.

Quality Craftsmanship

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Baby boomers appreciate quality and durability over fast fashion. The trend of investing in high-quality goods that are made to last is one we are glad to see making a comeback.

5 Baby Boomer Trends That Should Stay In The Past

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Not all trends from the Baby Boomer era have aged well. As we look back, here are 5 trends we believe should remain a thing of the past, serving as amusing relics of bygone times.

Overemphasis on Formal Dress Codes

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Baby Boomers are known for their adherence to formal dress codes in professional settings, often associating professionalism with strict guidelines on clothing and appearance. However, in today’s evolving work culture that values comfort and personal expression, such rigid dress codes can feel unnecessarily restrictive and outdated. The trend of overemphasizing formal dress codes is one that could definitely stay in the past.

Rotary Phones

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While there’s a certain charm to rotary phones with their spinning dial and hefty construction, they’re just not practical in our fast-paced, digital world. The time-consuming dialing process and lack of features like caller ID and speed dial make these devices better suited for a museum display than for everyday use.

Overworking and Lack of Work-Life Balance

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The “live to work” mentality, often associated with the boomer generation, has taken a toll on mental health and family relationships. Modern views lean more toward a balanced lifestyle that values personal time and self-care.

Reluctance to Adopt New Technology

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While not true of all baby boomers, some have been resistant to adopting new technologies. In the digital age, embracing technology is crucial for efficiency, communication, and access to information.

Calling Instead of Texting

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In today’s era of rapid communication, the expectation of immediate phone calls for every minor question or update can feel intrusive and disruptive, especially when a text message would suffice. While phone calls are still essential for detailed discussions and personal connection, the baby boomer trend of calling instead of texting for simple communication should stay in the past, reserving calls for emergencies or more significant conversations.