The 1980s was an iconic decade that continues to remain hugely relevant today. The 80s had its own unique language, fashion trends, music scene, TV shows and movies that have continued to shape culture and be influential to this day. One of the best things about the 1980s were the taglines. Here we take a trip down memory lane and look at some of the most popular and iconic taglines from the era that have a special place in the hearts of 80s kids.
What Were Popular Taglines of the 1980s?
The 80s was the decade of the tagline. Anyone who lived through that period of time will surely remember some of the time’ most popular ones. Some of these taglines have managed to become timeless and continue to be used today, while others have been left in the past. Here are some of the iconic 80s taglines that you may remember:
- “Just do it” – Nike
This was Nike’s slogan for the duration of the 1980s, released in 1988. It has since become one of the most recognisable catchphrases in advertising history and has remained with Nike to this day.
- “Taste the Rainbow” – Skittles
Skittles also released their iconic “Taste the Rainbow” catchphrase in the 80s and continue to use it to this day.
- “I can’t believe I ate the whole thing” – Alka-Seltzer
This popular tagline was used by Alka-Seltzer in the 80s, but has since been retired in favour of a new slogan.
- “Strong enough for a man, but made for a woman” – Secret
This was Secret’s tagline for women’s deodorant and remained the most popular one of its kind in the 1980s.
- “Be all you can be” – US Army
This US Army slogan was released in 1980, and has since become one of the most famous advertising slogans of all time.
- “Don’t leave home without it” – American Express
American Express also released this memorable tagline in the 80s, and it continues to be used to this day.
- “It takes a tough man to make a tender chicken” – Perdue
Another popular tagline of the era was released by Perdue to advertise its chicken products.
- “Sometimes you feel like a nut, sometimes you don’t” – Almond Joy and Mounds
The tagline for Almond Joy and Mounds was also released in the 80s, and remains beloved by many.
- “Just for the taste of it” – Coca-Cola
This catchphrase was used by Coca-Cola from 1979 to 1987 and continues to be associated with the brand.
- “Can you hear me now?” – Verizon Wireless
This tagline was used by Verizon Wireless for their advertising campaigns in the 80s, and has since become a popular catchphrase.
Why Are 1980s Taglines So Memorable?
The 1980s saw an explosion in the number of advertising campaigns and catchy phrases. These made a huge impact on the public consciousness and have remained embedded in the minds of many. So why were 80s taglines so memorable? It may be because of their unique combination of brief but powerful slogans as well as their edgy attitude.
The 80s taglines were no-nonsense and meant to get right to the point. They also had a certain attitude that made them stand out. As people were becoming more aware of advertising and its influence at the time, the taglines were created to have a substantial impact.
Moreover, the language used in 80s taglines was designed to be both simple and clever. They were punchy and memorable, making them difficult to forget. They also had a touch of humour, as well as an inspirational quality that encouraged viewers to take action.
How Are 1980s Taglines Being Used Today?
The 1980s saw an explosion in the use of taglines, and many of them have since been adapted for use today. While some may be used in their original form, most of them have been edited slightly to account for changes in language or technology.
In the modern era, taglines are still incredibly important for many companies. They are used to capture the viewer’s attention, while also conveying a company’s message and values. Many of the 80s taglines have found their way into the 21st century, with some of the most iconic ones becoming an integral part of modern advertising.
One example is the Nike tagline “Just do it”, which has remained unchanged through the decades and is still used in modern advertisements. Other popular 80s taglines are also still used to this day, but have been adapted to fit the digital age.
The 1980s was the era of the tagline, and many of them have found their way to the present day. From Nike’s iconic “Just do it” to Skittles’ “Taste the Rainbow”, these classic phrases have found their way into the modern age. They remain memorably powerful and effective, thanks to their edgy attitude and punchy language. The 80s still lives on in its taglines, with many of them continuing to be used to this day.
