Why do these 1987 high schoolers look like adults? The internet has theories.

Every now and then, an old video surfaces that makes people question everything. A clip from 1987, titled "Students in a 1987 high school," was posted on Reddit by user _roldie, sparking a lively debate: Why do these high school students look like full-grown adults?

The footage captures everyday moments—students sitting in class, walking through the halls, and joking around with friends. It’s all set to the classic ‘80s track Everybody Wants to Rule the World by Tears for Fears, with the famous Ferris Bueller’s Day Off quote layered over it:

"Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it."

There's social science that explains this but somehow the 80s just hit differently. _roldie - Reddit

But while the nostalgia is undeniable, one thing stood out above all else—these “kids” don’t look like kids at all.

The internet reacts: “They wanted to look older”

Commenters couldn’t get over the fact that these teenagers looked so much older than today’s high schoolers.

"Teenagers before Y2K always looked VASTLY older. We (born in the early '90s) looked like kids. These people are adults."

— @somefunandjames

One user, leodog13, offered a simple explanation:

"Class of 1989. We were all trying to look older. That way you wouldn't get carded getting booze."

— leodog13

Another commenter, @pennytweets97, agreed, saying:

"It's mainly the hairstyles. And they wanted to look older."

— @pennytweets97

Big hair, bold fashion, and different beauty standards

Something just hits different about 1980s teens._roldie - Reddit

So what’s behind this phenomenon? A few key differences stand out:

1. Hairstyles and fashion

The ‘80s were all about dramatic styles—big hair, voluminous bangs, and strong silhouettes. Teens dressed with a level of polish that’s less common today, favoring structured outfits over the casual, oversized aesthetic that dominates now.

2. Makeup was simpler—but heavier

Modern teens have access to countless makeup tutorials and a wide range of skincare products. Back then, beauty routines were different. @jbrower73, who was a freshman in 1987, explained:

"Our makeup was different—no concealer, bronzer, or blending. No YouTube tutorials to teach us!"

— @jbrower73

3. Teens wanted to look like adults

Unlike today, when youthful looks are often celebrated, many ‘80s teens actively tried to appear older. Whether it was to get into bars or simply fit in with the trends of the time, looking grown-up was the goal.

The nostalgia factor

Beyond the debate, one thing is clear—the video captures an era in a way that feels both familiar and distant. The mix of grainy, unfiltered footage and effortless coolness of ‘80s teens makes it a fascinating time capsule. As user littleliongirless put it:

"If your bangs weren’t going both up and down, like dudette, do you even Aquanet?"

— littleliongirless

Whether it’s the hair, the fashion, or just a trick of perception, one thing’s for sure—high school in 1987 had a vibe all its own.