Gen Z love these surprising trends from the 1980s, poll reveals – as Zoomers say it’s their favourite decade to live through

It may have been a simpler time, without the internet, smartphones or devices.

That could explain why Generation Z has declared the 1980s the decade they most wanted to experience.

A poll found that VHS tapes, Woolies candy, leg warmers and David Bowie were among the most popular things of the era.

Sixty percent of Generation Z – usually born between 1997 and 2010 – chose the 1980s.

Nine out of ten of them indicated that they believe that the fashion of the decade is back and that retro games have also become popular again.

Generation Z has declared the 1980s as the decade they would most like to experience

A poll found that VHS tapes, Woolies' pick 'n' mix sweets, leg warmers and David Bowie were some of the most popular things from that period.  Pictured: David Bowie

A poll found that some of the most popular items from the period were VHS tapes, Woolies’ pick ‘n’ mix sweets, leg warmers and David Bowie. Pictured: David Bowie

While they could be forgiven for looking back on the decade with rose-tinted glasses, it’s also a favorite among those who actually lived through the decade.

Seven in 10 of them think this was the best time to be a teenager, although almost half also admit they cringe when they look back at photos of themselves.

Most said they were sad that younger Britons would never understand what it was like to have only four TV channels. And half-despaired that today’s youngsters would never go to a video store to rent a film.

PacMan, Nintendo, The A-Team and MTV also made the list of the best things of the era. The research was conducted on the occasion of the release of the new film Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F on Netflix.

The first film in the comedy franchise, starring Eddie Murphy, was a huge hit in 1984.

Sixty percent of Generation Z – generally considered those born between 1997 and 2010 – chose the 1980s.  Pictured: Woolworths Pic 'n' Mix

Sixty percent of Gen Z – generally considered to be those born between 1997 and 2010 – chose the 1980s. Pictured: Woolworths Pic ‘n’ Mix

Producer Jerry Bruckheimer said: ‘For me, the eighties have always been in fashion, but it’s nice to see others catching up now.

‘For ten years it had a reputation as being really innovative, so you can still see the influence of that period even now in the style, films and music.’

According to the poll of 2,000 Brits, the best things of the 1980s included Woolworths Pick n Mix, David Bowie, George Michael, VHS tapes, Sony Walkman cassette players, Rubik’s Cubes, The A-Team, Blockbuster Video stores, leg warmers and production machines . mixing tires.