18 Things Millennials Have Made Cool Again

Millennials are notorious for taking old trends and putting a fresh spin on them, breathing life into things previously deemed outdated. From the throwback polaroid camera to the humble houseplant, millennials have an eye for nostalgia with a modern twist, and they’ve popularized some surprising classics along the way. Here’s a look at 18 things millennials have pulled from the past and made undeniably cool again.

1. Vinyl Records: Spinning Back to the Future

In a digital world, millennials revived the vinyl record as the go-to for a cozy, analog music experience. The crackle, the smell of vintage vinyl, and the album art make it all feel more authentic than playlists and streaming. Listening to a record has become more than just pressing play; it’s a vibe. Record players now hold a permanent place in millennial living rooms. Who knew grandpa’s turntable would ever become an Instagram prop?

2. Film Photography: Because Pixels Just Don’t Cut It

Thanks to millennials, the charm of film photography is back, despite it being more expensive and time-consuming than digital. Film’s “happy accidents” create unfiltered magic that digital lacks, with light leaks and accidental blur that feels artsy. Disposable cameras are now a staple at weddings and events, and old-school film labs have seen a revival. Millennials didn’t just dust off their parents’ old cameras—they gave them a whole new lease on life.

3. Polaroid Cameras: Shaking it Like It’s 1978

Nothing says “instant memories” quite like a Polaroid photo, and millennials have embraced them for both the nostalgia and aesthetic. Polaroids capture the moment with no retakes, adding a candid authenticity to memories. They also make for excellent wall decor, because who doesn’t love a display of retro-filtered snaps? In the age of perfect selfies, the perfectly imperfect Polaroid photo has become iconic.

4. Thrifting: Fashion for Less, with More Character

Millennials took thrifting from a budget hack to a treasure hunt for unique pieces. In an era of fast fashion, the appeal of one-of-a-kind, second-hand clothing became all the rage. Thrift shopping allows millennials to look stylish on a budget while being eco-conscious. Now, thrift stores are the place to find ‘90s gems, vintage Levi’s, and ironic tees that double as conversation starters.

5. Houseplants: Greenery Is the New Pet

Houseplants became the quintessential millennial accessory, brightening up apartments and Instagram feeds alike. From succulents to monstera, each plant offers some indoor jungle vibes. With names, personalities, and entire social media accounts dedicated to them, these leafy friends are more than decor—they’re family. The love for plants also ties into sustainability and wellness, two millennial obsessions.

6. Hiking: Nature as the New Brunch Spot

Going outdoors used to be something people did reluctantly, but millennials have made hiking a major weekend activity. It’s the perfect excuse to disconnect from the screen and breathe some fresh air, plus it’s practically free. Hiking selfies with mountain views are now a staple of social media feeds, often with an added side of humble-bragging. National parks should probably send millennials thank-you cards for the tourism boost.

7. Board Games: Game Night Is Back

For millennials, board games have become the ideal low-key evening with friends. Forget the competitive stress of Monopoly; now it’s all about quirky, new games like Catan or Exploding Kittens. Board game cafes and themed nights bring people together for an old-school evening of laughs. It turns out, getting off screens and into games is the perfect excuse to socialize in person.

8. Dungeons & Dragons: Fantasy Escapes

Image Credit: GreyRaptor/Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0/Wiki Commons

Once the domain of basement-dwelling enthusiasts, Dungeons & Dragons made a huge comeback, with millennials leading the charge. The fantasy role-playing game provides an immersive escape, an excuse to be creative, and plenty of laughs. Celebs and influencers have even jumped on board, normalizing a game once considered niche. It’s proof that imagination has no expiration date, and millennials are here for it.

9. Crocs: The Ugly Shoe That Found New Fans

Image Credit: Paul Munhoven – Own work/CC BY-SA 3.0/Wiki Commons

The controversial shoe of the early 2000s found a cult following among millennials, who embraced its clunky, comfy style with open arms (and open minds). Now, you’ll find Crocs in every color and with customizable charms, as millennials prioritize comfort over conformity. Love them or hate them, Crocs have become a millennial style staple and are worn everywhere, from the beach to brunch.

10. Picnics: Fancy Baskets and Blanket Spreads

Millennials took the humble picnic and transformed it into a must-do event. Think artisanal cheeses, charcuterie boards, fancy blankets, and aesthetic backdrops. Picnics have become a scene for romantic dates, friend meetups, and perfect Instagram shots. It’s affordable, charming, and best of all—completely customizable. Now every park is a potential venue for these trendy outdoor gatherings.

11. Bowling: Strikes, Gutterballs, and Drinks

Bowling was once a family activity or a retro relic, but millennials brought it back with a twist. Think retro bowling alleys, craft beer, and karaoke nights alongside bowling lanes. The low-pressure, throwback nature of the game makes it perfect for social gatherings. Bowling may never be as highbrow as mini-golf, but it’s cool enough to go out of your way for on a Saturday night.

12. Road Trips: Because the Journey Really Is the Destination

Road trips are the ultimate millennial getaway. With a playlist queued up and no flight costs, the open road promises adventure and lots of scenic snaps. Millennials love the spontaneity and freedom of hitting the road, especially with a van or camper. It’s all about finding the hidden gems along the way and escaping the everyday grind, even if just for the weekend.

13. Vintage Glassware: Drinking in Style

Millennials have brought back delicate wine goblets, crystal tumblers, and vintage champagne coupes as essentials for the perfect drink setup. Retro glassware adds a touch of class to cocktail nights, turning even boxed wine into a fancy affair. It’s about the details, the aesthetics, and maybe a bit of nostalgia for a time when dinnerware felt fancy.

14. Crafting and DIY: Made By Hand, Loved By Heart

Whether it’s knitting, embroidery, or DIY wall decor, crafting is back thanks to millennials, who find both creativity and calm in making things by hand. Crafting has even become a social activity, with workshops, classes, and crafting parties galore. The satisfaction of making something from scratch appeals to their love for individuality and personalization. Plus, it’s a break from the digital world that never stops buzzing.

15. Book Clubs: Reading and Wine Pairings

Image Credit: Tima Miroshnichenko/Pexels

Thanks to millennials, book clubs aren’t just for suburban moms anymore. Whether meeting in person or virtually, book clubs are a favorite social activity where reading mixes with wine, food, and a lot of laughs. They make reading cool again, as millennials search for real connection in a hyper-digital world. Oprah isn’t the only book influencer around anymore—millennials have a club for every genre and theme imaginable.

16. Crystals and Tarot Cards: Spirituality Gets a Hip Makeover

Millennials have dusted off old mystical practices like crystals, tarot, and astrology, bringing them back as symbols of self-care and good vibes. Crystals are not just decoration—they’re meant to bring calm, clarity, or confidence to anyone in need. Tarot readings have also gone mainstream, adding a bit of introspection to casual get-togethers. It’s spirituality without dogma, a mystical practice redefined for modern life.

17. Analog Watches: The Timeless Timepiece

While digital clocks are everywhere, millennials made the analog watch cool again, choosing classic and quirky designs that tell time with style. Analog watches represent a slower, more thoughtful approach to life in a world that moves at warp speed. From sleek leather straps to chunky metal casings, these watches are part accessory, part retro homage. For millennials, it’s about adding a personal touch to telling time.

18. Tiki Bars: Vintage Cocktails in Tropical Mugs

Tiki bars may have seen their heyday in the 1950s, but millennials brought them back with a splash of kitsch and charm. With rum punches, flaming drinks, and elaborate garnishes, tiki cocktails make for a night out with character. Tiki bars feel fun and carefree, a perfect setting for escape in a pineapple drink. Now, whether for happy hour or a themed night, tiki is back on the social calendar.

Like our content? Be sure to follow us!