Ultimate Mix Tape Gift Guide 2022
2022 Christmas Gift Guide for Rad ’80s Lovers!
Welcome to the 2022 guide to finding the most bodacious retro-themed gifts for those of us who grew up in the ’70s and ’80s—or just love that era. Whether you’re the recipient or shopping for friends and family, you’ll find unique gift suggestions in this list curated just for you. You’ll probably find what you had no idea you were looking for!
This list includes stocking stuffers as well as one-of-a-kind gifts from $11 to $200, so you’re sure to find something within your budget. You’re welcome.
HELLO: Door Mat
What better greeting than Lionel Richie telling visitors it IS you they’re looking for? Handmade heavy-duty coir doormat in several sizes and two finishes. (Smallest size is currently sold out.)
Etsy | Original Price: $59+ but often on sale
GET (these) ON YOUR FEET:
Retro Game Socks
You can wear a different favorite childhood game on your feet for 12 days! Comes with crew and no-show socks. Gift boxed, with each pair in its own compartment.
The Lakeside Collection | $19.99 but often on sale
TRUE COLORS: Rubik’s Cube Tissue Box Holder
As seen on The Big Bang Theory—or in my office—this will instantly be everyone’s favorite and most-talked-about piece in the room. Has a magnetic bottom, making it easy to change out the tissue box.
Amazon | $25.95
KEEP ON LOVING YOU:
Mead Trapper Keeper
Yes, they’re back! Available in several styles with different price points, this one features the classic palm tree photo from years gone by.
Walmart | $20.75 but often on sale
YOU SPIN ME ROUND (Like a Record): Custom Turntable Slipmat
Vinyl-lovers will flip for this cool, handmade, felt turntable slipmat that can be customized with a logo or other design. For 12’’ or 7’’ turntables.
Etsy | $14.09 but often on sale
I WANNA GO BACK:
Retrofied Magazine
Retro nostalgia fans rejoice! ‘Retrofied’ is a quarterly magazine (digital and in print) created to celebrate the pop culture you grew up with. This high-quality publication includes articles about TV, toys, books, movies, fashion, food, video games and more. I’ve had the pleasure of writing for this team several times and can assure you, it’s amazing! (I do not get compensated for sales.) You can even get a free digital issue if you just want to kick the tires.
Retrofied | $3–$14.99
I WANT CANDY: 1980s Candy Box
From Atomic Fire Balls and Candy Cigarettes to Lemonheads, Pop Rocks, Zotz, and more, you’ll find all of your faves in either a 2lb. or 4lb. box. For $6.99 more, they’ll include a Remember When booklet full of memories from the decade. A free hand-written gift note is included if you’re not buying for yourself.
OldTimeCandy.com | $27.99
GIVE ME SOME WATER: ’80s Memphis Design Men’s Swim Shorts
These bodacious swim trunks will ensure you’re the most rad man on the beach or at the pool! Several colors and patterns in the popular Memphis style and available in sizes M–XXL.
Amazon | $15.99 Prime Price
IN YOUR ROOM:
Custom Cassette Coffee Table
A great conversation piece! Set your retro magazines, music, and Pepsi Free on it, prop your feet up, and watch your favorite movie on VHS. Available as-is or with custom colors and message. Please email us with questions or to order.
Totally Cool ’80s | $160–$200
TAKE IT ON THE RUN:
Boombox Metal Lunchbox
Carry your Cool Ranch Doritos and bologna sandwich in this super-sweet boombox-styled tin lunchbox. 7.75 x 6.75 x 4.13 inches.
Amazon | $25.99
SIGN ‘O’ THE TIMES: Wall or desk sign for ’80s music lovers
I need this one! (Hint, hint, Mom.) I bet you can relate to this sign’s message, too. For your wall or tabletop, it’s 3.6” x 12” and is available as a flat sign with wire hanger as well.
Amazon | $18.88
HAVE A DRINK ON ME:
Nintendo Game Cartridge Coasters
Set that Bartles & Jaymes on a coaster that looks like one of your favorite retro game cartridges! Set of 8 officially-licensed, double-sided, chipboard coasters.
Amazon | $10.99
YOU WEAR IT WELL:
Custom Cassette Tape Necklace
This tiny custom cassette necklace makes an awesome gift for anyone who remembers making mix tapes! You can personalize it with a title, name, or date. Available in sterling silver, 14K gold/rose gold filled.
Etsy | $27.99
PLAY THE GAME:
Retro Music Quiz Books
I can’t forget to tell you about my very own music quiz books, Ultimate Mix Tape and Ultimate Mix Tape: Side B. (Yes, there’s a new sequel!) Test your knowledge of ’70s, ’80s, and early ’90s music one-on-one or in a party setting. Fabulous gifts for any retro music lover, if I do say so myself!
Totally Cool ’80s | $14.87 each
There you go, my totally sweet friends. Hope you’ve had fun shopping, even if it’s no longer at the mall. Hey, let me know what you bought and how much you love it! Leave your comments below. Oh, and don’t forget to leave product reviews. They’re super important to vendors and creators.
Blessings,
Tamara Dever