Summer in the 90s

May 27, 2026

Here’s what we miss about the most epic time to be a kid.

Summer in the 90s was, to put it simply, cool beans. From phone-free antics to ice cold Capri Sun, here’s a look back at some of our favorite parts of 90s summertime. And who knows? Some of it could make a comeback.

While we might not be sailing this year, we’re always in a ‘90s state of mind. Join us for a walk down memory lane, summer style.

This backyard staple was the ultimate sign your crew were about to have the best day ever. And while this popular toy is still going strong, it hit a little different in the 90s—maybe because we had younger, more durable knees.   

Phone-less freedom meant jumping the pool without checking your pockets, calling your friends up on the landline, and acting a fool without online evidence…at least until the disposable photos developed.    

The greatest way to beat the summer heat? Picking out a brand new Blockbuster VHS or two. There’s still no freedom like the feeling of being told it’s your turn to choose the tape (which, if we recall, was Will Smith’s Independence Day more than once). If only we could bottle that feeling!

Before “research” and “online guidance,” we drank from the garden hose whenever we were thirsty. Should we have? Who knows. Was it epic? Definitely.   

Jelly sandals. Denim overalls. Slap bracelets. We spent our summers looking fly and feeling flyer. But if you’re still holding onto some of these 90s summer staples, don’t toss them just yet. They say fashion goes in cycles.