5 consumer trends that totally ruled in NJ during the 90s

Those mid-90s memories of New Jersey life have been rushing back, lately, thanks to some upcoming TV fodder.

There's the anticipated "Friends" reunion airing this month on NBC and let's not forget "Fuller House" and of course, the O.J. Simpson miniseries that begins tonight on FX. On the more dramatic side, there's tonight's debut of the FX show retelling one of the "trials of the century." But let's just stick to the lighter side and remember some tech, stores and trends that ruled 20 years ago in NJ.

1. Cell phones were just catching on, with New Jersey leading the way.

In 1995, there were roughly 30-million mobile phone users, nationwide.  It was just starting to become a 'thing' for obnoxious callers to be annoying fellow Jersey commuters on their bus or train each day.

2. Playstation was brand-new, with a Jersey legend among its first game "stars"

The first PlayStation gaming console came out in 1995.  A game called "Jersey Devil" was among its ever-so cutting edge offerings.  He was no "Sonic the Hedgehog" though, who still has endured for rival system,

3. Jersey malls were the place to be, though not as thrilling as "Mallrats" made it look.  

The crude comedy from Jersey's own Kevin Smith that hit theaters in 1995 was an ode to Jersey's thriving mall scene. Think of those must-stop stores- Contempo Casuals, Merry Go Round, maybe shoe shopping at Wild Pair.  For guys, Structure and GadZooks were a must stop. For the younger crowd, may some Limited Too and the Warner Brothers Studio store. Round out the afternoon with some Roli Boli at the food court.

 4. Buying CDs or Movies was a big deal

Stores like Coconuts, Sam Goody’s, Suncoast Motion Picture Company and Borders Books and Music were go-to spots when you just wanted to browse through rows of DVDs, CDs and the remnants of VHS and cassette tapes.

5. Linens ’n Things was a go-to store 

Because you could never have enough decorative hand towels or bath mats. We also can't leave out Circuit City and K.B Toys. It wasn't difficult to lose track of time wandering around looking for sales and the newest toys and must-have gadgets.

Erin Vogt is a lifelong Jersey Girl, whose first reporting gig involved her Fisher Price tape recorder. As a wife and momma of two kiddies, she firmly believes that life’s too short to drink bad coffee.  A fan of the beach, Dave Grohl and karma, in no particular order.