13 Things You Could Only Get at a ’70s Mall
Malls in the 1970s were vibrant hubs of culture, style, and pure nostalgia. Picture disco beats bouncing off the walls, the smell of buttery popcorn filling the air, and aisles brimming with the latest trends and must-have treasures. Stepping into a ’70s mall was like diving headfirst into the heart of the decade’s pop culture.
From groovy lava lamps to sky-high platform shoes, these malls were more than retail spaces—they were the places where the spirit of the ’70s came alive. So, let’s take a walk back in time and rediscover 13 iconic items that made mall shopping in the ’70s an unforgettable adventure.
1. Lava Lamps
If there was one item that screamed ’70s, it was the lava lamp. These mesmerizing, psychedelic beauties lit up bedrooms across America, their hypnotic wax blobs slowly floating in a colorful liquid glow.
Every mall had at least one store displaying rows of these lava-filled wonders, practically daring passersby not to stop and stare. Whether you were a budding hippie or just wanted to add some groovy ambiance, a lava lamp was a must-have piece of ’70s decor.
2. Pet Rocks
Some trends make sense. Others? Well, they just rock.
In 1975, Pet Rocks took the world by storm—because apparently, owning a rock in a box was the height of cool. Each “pet” came with an instruction manual on how to care for it, making it the lowest-maintenance pet ever invented.
Mall kiosks sold thousands of these little guys, proving that sometimes, a simple gag gift can turn into a cultural phenomenon.
3. Mood Rings
Want to know how you’re feeling? Just look at your ring!
Mood rings were the ultimate accessory for self-expression, changing color based on body temperature and supposedly revealing your emotional state.
Every ’70s mall had a kiosk filled with these magical rings, drawing in crowds eager to see if their ring would turn blue for calmness or red for passion. Whether or not the science was legit, mood rings became an instant hit and a fashion staple of the era.
4. Platform Shoes
If you weren’t towering at least three inches off the ground, were you even fashionable in the ’70s?
Platform shoes were bold, colorful, and unapologetically loud, giving wearers both height and confidence. Found in every major shoe store, they were a disco essential, perfect for strutting into the nearest club or just strolling through the mall.
From striped to sequined, platforms weren’t just a fashion choice—they were a power move.
5. Tube Tops
Simple, stylish, and slightly risky—tube tops became a summer staple in the ’70s. With no straps and minimal fabric, they were perfect for showing off sun-kissed shoulders while grooving to the latest disco hits.
Malls were filled with stores offering tube tops in every color and pattern imaginable, making them an essential addition to any ’70s wardrobe. Whether paired with bell-bottom jeans or a flowy skirt, they defined the carefree fashion of the era.
6. Record Albums
Long before Spotify and digital playlists, music lovers had record stores—and nothing beat the thrill of flipping through stacks of vinyl at the mall.
From Led Zeppelin to Donna Summer, every genre had its place, and album covers were works of art in themselves.
For many, shopping for records was a social experience, where fans gathered to discuss the latest hits and hidden gems. Nothing could replace the excitement of bringing home a brand-new LP, dropping the needle, and letting the music play.
7. Bean Bag Chairs
Need a chair? Nah, just sink into this giant bag of beans.
Bean bag chairs were the ultimate in casual comfort, making every room feel just a little bit cooler. Found in furniture stores and novelty shops throughout the mall, they came in wild colors and funky patterns that perfectly matched the era’s vibe.
No proper ’70s teen room was complete without one of these squishy seating wonders.
8. Waterbeds
Regular mattresses? Boring. In the ’70s, waterbeds were all the rage.
These wavy wonders promised better sleep, more relaxation, and just the right amount of swagger. Malls had furniture stores dedicated to showcasing waterbeds, complete with mirrored headboards, plush bedspreads, and mood lighting to set the scene.
Owning a waterbed wasn’t just about sleep—it was about status.
9. Bell-Bottom Jeans
Nothing screams ’70s style quite like bell-bottom jeans. With their fitted thighs and dramatically flared legs, they were equal parts groovy and rebellious.
Every clothing store in the mall had racks filled with bell-bottoms in every wash, color, and design imaginable. Whether paired with a flowy top or a fitted vest, these jeans were the ultimate symbol of ’70s fashion freedom.
10. CB Radios
Before Facebook and Twitter, CB radios were how people stayed connected.
These two-way radios became a sensation in the mid-’70s, with truckers, hobbyists, and everyday drivers tuning in to chat, share news, and even coordinate meetups.
Sold in electronics stores throughout the mall, CB radios became so popular they even inspired hit songs and movies. If you had a CB handle, you were officially part of the coolest underground communication trend.
11. Earth Shoes
Forget stilettos—Earth Shoes were where it was at.
Designed with a negative heel (where the heel sat lower than the toes), these shoes claimed to improve posture and relieve back pain. Malls were packed with shoppers eager to grab a pair, thanks to the growing health-conscious movement of the decade.
They might not have been glamorous, but they were definitely iconic.
12. Polaroid Cameras
Long before smartphones, Polaroid cameras gave people instant photography magic.
With a simple click, out popped a developing picture right before your eyes—no waiting, no film labs, just instant memories. Found in camera stores throughout the mall, Polaroids were a must-have gadget for capturing the moment, anytime, anywhere.
13. Macramé Plant Hangers
What’s a ’70s home without hanging plants in knotted rope holders?
Macramé plant hangers were everywhere—in home décor stores, craft shops, and even DIY kits for those who wanted to make their own.
They were the perfect blend of nature and creativity, adding a touch of bohemian charm to any space. If you wanted your home to feel earthy and artistic, macramé was the way to go.