Iconic Objects of the 1980s

80 Cult Designs
A journey through 80 iconic objects that defined the spirit, style, and innovation of the 1980s.

A journey through 80 iconic objects that defined the spirit, style, and innovation of the 1980s.

Iconic Objects of the 1980s: 80 Cult Designs is a vibrant and richly illustrated retrospective that celebrates the bold energy and unmistakable style of one of history’s most unforgettable decades. Through eighty objects that range from Walkmans and BMX bikes to shoulder pads and floppy disks, this book explores how innovation, creativity, and a sense of fun shaped the everyday experiences of the 1980s. Each entry combines evocative photography with cultural and historical commentary, providing insight into how these objects reflected—and influenced—the era’s attitudes in entertainment, fashion, technology, design, and beyond. With chapters organized by theme and decade-defining anecdotes throughout, this guide offers a playful but informed lens through which to explore the past. Whether you lived through the decade or are discovering it anew, this book brings the 1980s back to life in vivid, unforgettable detail.

Key Features:

• Profiles eighty iconic objects that defined the 1980s across categories including sports, fashion, toys, tech, and design
• Includes pop culture milestones such as VHS tapes, Air Jordans, My Little Pony, Apple II computers, and the Game Boy
• Each item is accompanied by striking full-color photography and engaging historical commentary
• Organized thematically into 7 chapters for easy exploration: Sports & Entertainment, Fashion & Accessories, Everyday Objects, Technology, Toys, Furniture & Design, and Cars
• Reveals the cultural significance and lasting legacy of each object, from household staples to trendsetting innovations
• Features an introductory essay on the 1980s as a decade of exuberance, ambition, and global cultural shifts

A must-have celebration of 1980s design, culture, and creativity—perfect for collectors, pop culture enthusiasts, designers, and nostalgic readers alike.

UK Delivery:

• Free delivery on all orders of £10 or more.
• £1.49 delivery fee on orders below £10.
• UK orders are shipped via Royal Mail 2nd Class.

International Delivery:

• Flat rate delivery charges vary by country.

Dispatch and Delivery Times:

• All orders are shipped from our warehouse in Northampton, UK within 48 hours of receipt during working hours.
• UK mainland orders typically arrive within 3-5 working days via Royal Mail 2nd Class.
• International estimated delivery times:
• Europe & Channel Islands: 7 to 10 working days
• USA: 7 to 15 working days
• Rest of the World: 9 to 21 working days

View our full delivery infomation here.