Traveling back in time to a world of nostalgia and color – A decade later we reflect on the year that defined most childhoods – 2016.

As Stranger Things rises again in 2025 for its fifth season, 2016 can take credit for being the freshman year of the beloved show. Stranger Things and the love of Eggo Waffles takes hold of 2016 along with a growing fandom.

Fashionable statements of mom jeans, nostalgic logos, and off the shoulder tops were staples of everyday outfits. With bright pink and blue hair along with a side part takes fashionable hairstyles to a new level. Accessorizing with chokers, pins, and scarves make up the look of 2016.

Eye-catching cuisine of galaxy and rainbow themed food, along with creative breakfast toast and acai bowls takes over trending food. The popular sensation of Starbucks Pink Drink taking over menu orders and social media posts.

The leading technology of 2016 was the iPhone 7 and the Apple MacBook. As the iPhone 17 is released in 2025 we can look back at how long ago 2016 was with each passing iPhone. The iPhone 7 is just a fossil from its time.

The 2016 trending makeup collab between James Charles and Morphe Cosmetics invites millions of followers and a new beauty line. As 2016 beauty goes viral and trending, over lined duck lips and block eyebrows are happily gone and in the past.

The hype of slime peaks in 2016 as YouTubers show DIY recipes to make slime. With creative twists of plain, beaded, and glittery slime made it desirable in 2016. Along with slime, collectible and colorful fidget spinners became a hit in 2016.

Memes take over social media as trending opinions, politics, and breaking news become popular. The death of Harambe takes the internet by storm along with Kermit the Frog memes.

2016 carries childhood hits that are full of nostalgia. Justin Bieber’s “Love Yourself” and “One Dance” by Drake are full of energy and memories.

Catchy music and entertainment are combined through the popular Broadway musical Hamilton. Hamilton takes off in attendance at shows and popularity as it was recorded for everyone to stream. The musical won 11 awards with 16 nominations and won the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Hamilton breaks records and revives the love of musicals.

Striking colors and vibrant memories are hopefully remembered when returning to 2026. Souvenirs and memes hold memories of the past that shouldn’t be forgotten as a decade pasts and another one starts.