THINGS WE MISS ABOUT THE 90S

The 1990s—a decade that shaped so much of modern culture, technology and fashion—holds a special place in many people’s hearts. For those who grew up during this era, it was a time of innocence, exploration and innovation. Sure, we could talk about how gas prices were significantly lower back then, but there’s so much more to miss about the 90s than just affordable fill-ups.

From iconic music and movies to nostalgic toys and simpler lifestyles, here’s a trip down memory lane to revisit some of the things we truly miss about the 90s. I was a toddler during the 90s, but there are so many things I cannot shake off my memory, such as the music my sisters used to listen to, the fashion and everything.

Song

If you were alive in the 90s, chances are, you have at least one song from that decade permanently etched into your brain. Whether it was the iconic Brenda Fassie, Boom Shaka or pop icons such as Britney Spears, the 90s produced some of the most memorable tunes ever recorded. Music wasn’t just something to listen to; it was a lifestyle. Cassette tapes and CDs ruled the airwaves and mixtapes became symbols of friendship and romance.

Remember painstakingly creating a personalised tape for someone special? It wasn’t just about the songs—it was about the effort, the thought and the connection behind it. Today, while playlists are convenient, they lack the charm of flipping through album covers and rewinding cassettes, using a ball-point pen! Fashion in the 90s was bold, quirky and unapologetically unique.

Baggy jeans, flannel shirts, platform sneakers and scrunchies defined the look of the decade. Women rocked slip dresses paired with chunky boots, while men embraced oversized hoodies and cargo pants. I remember my sisters had one dress they would take turns wearing; no one knew who it really belonged to. They had even named it ‘Everybody.’. And let’s not forget the accessories: Butterfly clips, chokers and jelly bracelets added flair to any outfit.

Playtime

For children growing up in the ‘90s, playtime was filled with imagination and creativity. Iconic toys like Barbie dolls, walkie-talkies and Tamagotchis captured our attention and sparked endless hours of fun. There was nothing quite like the thrill of playing ‘inketo’ and ‘ingcatfu’ the whole day without even getting tired. When I was in primary school in the early 2000s, I remember spending hours in front of the computer playing Super Mario and SIM Town.

One of the biggest differences between the 90s and today is the absence of smartphones. Back then, communication happened face-to-face or over landline phones, but the most common one was letter writing; there were even pay pals. Calling your best friend after school to chat for hours—or sneaking calls when your parents weren’t home—was part of everyday life. Cell phones existed, but they were bulky, expensive and mostly used for emergencies.

Without constant access to social media, life felt slower and more intentional. People wrote letters instead of sending texts and waiting for photos to develop, adding excitement to capturing memories. It was such an inconvenience when the photographer came back and said, ‘Lishile lifilimu’, we have to retake those shots. While technology has undoubtedly improved convenience, there’s something charming about the simplicity of pre-smartphone living.

There were also movies and TV shows that resonate even today, that were born out of the 90s. These stories didn’t just entertain—they taught valuable lessons about love, friendship and resilience. Characters like Karabo from ‘Generations’, Rachel Green from ‘Friends’ and Joey Tribbiani became household names and quotes from these shows remain popular, decades later. Watching reruns of favourite programmes continues to bring comfort and joy to fans worldwide.

And the food? Dining out was less about fine dining and more about casual comfort. Recipes from cookbooks and magazines inspired home cooks to try new dishes, laying the groundwork for today’s culinary obsession. I was exposed in a household that used cookbooks a lot, the Allens’ family household and they were American. I was lucky to experience that because my mum was in the rural areas and never used a cook book in her life.

Technology

Looking back, the 90s remind us of the importance of balance and presence. Life moved at a slower pace, allowing people to savour moments without distraction. Technology hasn’t eliminated human connection, but it has changed how we interact. By revisiting the values of the 90s—authenticity, creativity and community—we can incorporate them into our modern lives.

Of course, no decade is perfect, and the 90s had its share of challenges, but its contributions to music, fashion, entertainment and culture continue to influence generations. As we reflect on the past, let’s celebrate the joy and innovation that defined the 90s. After all, it’s not just about low gas prices (and electricity, my God!)—it’s about the memories, the laughter and the lessons that make this era unforgettable.

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