14 Shopping Mall Trends That Completely Disappeared
From arcades to fountain-filled courtyards, these once-popular mall trends have vanished from the retail landscape entirely.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Shopping malls were once more than simply locations to buy clothing. They served as social hubs, fashion runways, and weekend hangouts. Many of the most famous mall styles have faded over time because to shifting customer preferences and internet competition. Take a nostalgic look at 14 mall-era favorites that no longer exist.
1. Mall Arcades
Mikhail Nilov on Pexels
Packed with flashing lights and the sound of coins clinking, arcades were teen magnets in the ’80s and ’90s. Friends would gather after school to battle in Street Fighter or race in Daytona USA.
2. Fountain Courtyards
Jebulon on Wikimedia Commons
Once the centerpiece of many malls, elaborate fountains created relaxing spaces for shoppers to take a break. Kids tossed pennies in while parents caught their breath.
3. Glamour Shots Studios
Antiporda Productions LV, LLC on Flickr
These mini photo studios offered over-the-top makeovers with feather boas, heavy makeup, and teased hair. Friends and families lined up for glossy, magazine-style portraits.
4. Teen Hangout Zones
limecools on Flickr
Malls weren’t just for shopping — they were the weekend meetup spot for teens. You’d cruise the food court, scope out the latest trends, or just loiter with friends.
5. Waterbeds and Massage Chair Stores
Asacyan on Wikimedia Commons
There was always one oddball store where you could test out a waterbed or get a massage demo. They felt high-tech and unique at the time.
6. Indoor Mini Golf or Play Areas
Found5dollar on Wikimedia Commons
Some malls featured full-on mini golf courses or playgrounds for kids. They gave families a reason to stay longer and spend more.
7. Giant Neon Storefronts
Mike Mozart on Flickr
Store signs used to scream for attention with bright neon lettering and flashing lights. Brands like Sam Goody and Spencer Gifts embraced this aesthetic.
8. Free Sample Carts
Choo Yut Shing on Flickr
From teriyaki chicken bites to smoothie shots, food court vendors lured in customers with tasty freebies. It was part of the browsing experience.
9. Photo Booths
Fred Hsu on Wikimedia Commons
Classic black-and-white photo booths sat near restrooms or exits, offering goofy mementos for just a couple of bucks. Couples and best friends snapped strip after strip.
10. Mall Fashion Shows
Jenny Mealing on Flickr
Some malls hosted live fashion runways showcasing the latest collections from in-house stores. Shoppers would gather to see what was in style, often with live music and emcees.
11. Sit-Down Chain Restaurants
Harrison Keely on Wikimedia Commons
Before fast casual took over, malls often included full-service eateries like Ruby Tuesday or TGI Friday’s. They made the mall feel like a full-day destination.
12. Seasonal Kiosks with Odd Products
Luk YUE kUM GODNVWowi on Wikimedia Commons
Halloween stores, back-to-school supply booths, and weird pop-ups selling massage stones or “miracle” pillows — these were all part of the seasonal shuffle. Their variety added spontaneity to mall trips.
13. Perfume Sprayers at Store Entrances
aboompics.com on Pexels
Department stores once stationed staff at the door to mist you with the latest scent. It was a bold (and sometimes overwhelming) welcome.
14. Mall-Wide Coupon Booklets
Auckland Museum on Wikimedia Commons
You’d grab a thick booklet at the entrance, loaded with discounts from every store inside. It encouraged shoppers to visit places they normally wouldn’t.