In the vibrant 1980s, being trendy was not just about flaunting Z. Cavs or Jordache jeans; our scent played a pivotal role in expressing our identity. The fragrance we wore could say as much about us as our crimped hairstyles or our choice of Trapper Keeper. We eagerly flipped through the latest magazines, ripping out scent samples to test on our wrists, searching for the perfect aroma to make a statement. At the mall, we’d hover around perfume counters, spritzing tiny cards and ourselves, enveloped in a dreamy cloud of fragrance.
We knew the difference between eau de toilette and perfume, solidifying our status as scent aficionados. The fragrances of the ’80s were bold and potent, and we embraced them wholeheartedly. Advertisements promised glamour, fun, and charming boys, and we believed that wearing the right scent would help us find someone as dreamy as Jason Bateman. Here are eight fragrances that defined our adolescence:
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Exclamation
The black and white bottle shaped like an exclamation point was iconic. Wearing Exclamation made us feel adventurous and lively, with its scent embodying excitement. The commercials featured a young actress named Eva who flirted and danced, making us feel like we, too, were “making a statement without saying a word.” -
Opium
This was the scent we often “borrowed” from our mothers. With its alluring blend of mandarin and jasmine, Opium exuded a sense of mystery and sophistication. The 1986 ad featured the stunning supermodel Bella, and we longed to capture that same allure. -
Electric Youth
Inspired by Debbie Gibson’s hit song, Electric Youth was a fragrance that celebrated the vibrancy of youth. The scent encapsulated the electric thrill of growing up. The playful bottle, complete with a pink spring, was a hit, though loyal Tiffany fans would never dream of wearing the scent of their rival. -
Obsession
The early ads for Obsession often flirted with the idea of intense love, capturing the all-consuming feelings we experienced as teens. The scent was rich and sultry, and with David Lynch directing the commercials, we were drawn in by the allure of literature and romance. We secretly hoped that one day a boyfriend would lend us a Champion sweatshirt bearing the intoxicating scent of Obsession. -
Benetton Colors
Known for its commitment to diversity, Benetton’s Colors fragrance represented unity. The ads celebrated people from all walks of life, and wearing the perfume made us feel unique while embracing the individuality of others. It was a reflection of the changing world, and we were proud to be part of that evolution. -
Designer Imposters Body Spray
These budget-friendly sprays were our go-to when we were low on cash. While they might not have perfectly mimicked the designer scents, they did the trick. Parfums de Coeur offered a variety of knockoffs, including Ninja, a take on Opium, and Confess, an Obsession alternative. These frugal fragrances helped us save for essential fashion staples like acid-washed jeans. -
Jovan Musk
With its wild, earthy aroma, Jovan Musk captured a sense of untamed desire. The scent seemed to awaken our budding understanding of attraction. The 1987 commercial posed the question, “What is sexy?” and answered it by showing how the fragrance embodied that essence, thanks to the creative direction of Adrian Lyne, known for his steamy films. -
Love’s Baby Soft
Infused with a powdery, fresh scent, Love’s Baby Soft took us back to childhood. Its advertising campaign targeted teens like us, featuring relatable girls who had the same crushes and awkward moments we did. Love’s became synonymous with those sweet moments of adolescent discovery.
Regardless of which fragrance ruled our ’80s experience, the memories they evoke remain vivid. Should we chance upon our old favorites in a perfume aisle today, we might just indulge in a spritz, allowing nostalgia to wash over us.
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In summary, the fragrances of the ’80s were more than just scents—they were symbols of a generation, encapsulating the essence of youth and the thrill of growing up. Each perfume carried with it a story, a memory, and a feeling that many of us cherish to this day.