What if I told you that the hottest trend in 2023 was actually looking backward, not forwards? Yep, you heard it right, dudes and dudettes – the 80s and 90s are back in a big way, and it’s totally tubular! Let’s dive into this wave of nostalgic marketing and understand how you can ride it to success.

The Resurgence of the ’80s and ’90s

Retro is the new black in marketing and the 1980 – 1990s in particular are making a major comeback. Whether it’s neon color palettes, chunky fonts, or pixel art graphics, we’re seeing a growing trend of ’80s and ‘90s aesthetics being integrated into modern marketing campaigns. Why? Because nostalgia sells. It triggers powerful emotions, bringing back fond memories and connecting consumers to a simpler time. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good throwback?

Totally Tubular Trends in Digital Marketing

Here are three trends you can incorporate nostalgia from these decades into your digital marketing strategy to make it stand out in 2023.

• Aesthetics in Visual Content: There’s a big trending wave of reverting to ’80s and 90’s graphic design in creating visual content. This includes using vibrant colors, bold typography, and throwback imagery. Brands are using these designs in social media posts, ads, and even on their websites to capture that authentic vibe

Example: 

Social Media Posts: You can design social media graphics that incorporate design elements, such as neon gradients, bold 3D fonts, and geometric shapes. For instance, a quote post could feature a bright, color-block background with a chunky, 3D font. Or, create a series of Instagram Stories using Polaroid-style frames or 80’s and 90s-style cartoons.

* Remember, while it’s fun to incorporate nostalgic elements, it’s also important to ensure these designs are accessible and do not hinder the user experience. Keep the nostalgic vibe, but balance it with modern design principles to create a visually appealing and effective design.

Check out our Instagram for some inspo!

• Gaming Nostalgia: These decades were a golden age for gaming, and brands are now leveraging this nostalgia to engage with consumers. Whether it’s through the use of retro game-inspired filters on social media, or gamified marketing campaigns that mimic the style of the ‘80s and ’90s arcade classics, gaming nostalgia is a powerful tool for engagement. Get creative and get gaming with your customers, it will be a totally tubular experience they won’t soon forget! 

Example: 

Social Media Posts: Share posts that include gaming references or trivia, such as a “Throwback Thursday” post showcasing classic ‘80s and ’90s game consoles or video game characters. This can engage your followers, stimulate conversations and comments, and help to solidify your brand’s identity as one that values and shares in their nostalgia.

• Pop Culture References: ‘80s and ’90s pop culture remain beloved by many, and referencing it can help your brand resonate with audiences. Think about incorporating classic movie quotes, iconic music, or popular TV show themes into your content. 

Example: 

Social Media Post: To engage with your audience, you could post a picture of E.T.’s finger touching something related to your product/service with the caption: “Even E.T. knew the magic was in the connection. Connect with our [product/service] and experience the magic yourself.”

Time to Catch That Wave… COWABUNGA!! 

So, there you have it. These decades are back, and they’re influencing digital marketing in a big way. Just remember, while it’s great to ride the wave of nostalgic marketing, always ensure it aligns with your brand identity and appeals to your target audience. And most importantly, have fun with it! After all, these decades were all about having a good time.

Team up with Marketing Simplify and slay your worthy rivals. It will be Totally rad!