In this nostalgic piece from 2011, the author reflects on their preference for covering 80s pop culture on their site, Branded in the 80s. They emphasize that the term “branded” relates to the formative experiences of their youth during this decade, which significantly shaped their adult perspective. While recognizing the appeal of other eras, especially the early 90s, the author finds a distinctive charm in the 80s that continues to resonate with them.
The author explores the stark differences within the 80s itself, pointing out how the styles and cultural elements shifted dramatically from early to late in the decade. They express a reluctance to embrace the 90s, even as the decade approaches its end, while reminiscing about the visual explosion of 90s advertisements, particularly those for Leviโs. These ads, full of vivid imagery and exaggerated aesthetics, inspire a shift in the authorโs perspective. Initially set to critique 90s design, they become enamored with its over-the-top extremes, leading to an appreciation for the eraโs audacious style.
The piece culminates in a realization that this extreme aesthetic, while messy, can also serve as a clever commentary on the period. The author even considers dedicating a section of Branded to the fascinating world of 90s advertising and eventually identifies the artist behind these works, Mark Fredrickson, highlighting their impact on the visual landscape of the time.
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The 90s were so damn EXTREME!