What To Wear To An 80’s Themed Party?
If you’ve been invited to an 80s-themed party, you may be thinking about what you should wear to match the theme. There are plenty of fashions and styles from the 1980s, so you can pick a look that fits your taste.
A popular trend in the 1980s was athleisure clothing that included vibrant-colored leggings, large tops, and headbands. You can easily recreate this look with the help of bright leggings, a t-shirt with a striking design, and a headband or sweatband for your forehead.
Another iconic style from the 1980s was power dressing, which usually included shoulder pads, blazers, and skirts with high waists. You can create a power dressing style by pairing an oversized blazer with shoulder pads, the top of a button-up shirt, with high-waisted trousers or skirts. Make sure to add the perfect belt and pumps.
For those who like punk, new wave, or gothic style, the 80s also offered many options. You can get an edgy look by wearing cut-off jeans or a leather jacket that is studded as well as a band tee. A trendy outfit could consist of a vibrant blazer, skinny jeans, and a slim tie. A goth look could include the black color of leather, a corset with a lace-up top, and a choker pendant necklace.
If a more preppy look is your style, consider wearing a polo with a pop collar, khaki pants, and boat shoes. If you like the hip-hop fashion of the 80s, you can consider an outfit in a vibrant hue, a gold chain necklace, and high-flying sneakers.
No matter which fashion you pick, make sure to add accessories. Hoop earrings, sunglasses, and large hair bows were popular accessories during the 1980s. To finish your appearance, you could also wear scrunchies, leg warmers, or fingerless gloves.
Clothing Styles Of The ’80s
The 1980s were a decade full of big fashion, and various styles developed. From casual attire to punk, power dressing, and preppy styles, the 1980s witnessed a wide range of fashion trends.
Athleisure Wear
A popular and recognizable trend in fashion in the 1980s was the athleisure style. The rising popularity of fitness and aerobics culture influenced this fashion. It usually included bright-colored leggings, large T-shirts, and even headbands. This fashion was all about practicality and comfort, but it also created an impressive fashion statement.
Leggings were typically worn with a large sweatshirt or t-shirt with striking designs or slogans. The shirt was then placed inside the leggings, which were often bright or neon-colored. The look was typically completed by putting a sweatband or headband on the forehead. The style is still in fashion today. You can effortlessly recreate the 1980s athleisure style with contemporary activewear.
Power Dressing
Power dressing was a popular fashion in the 1980s, centered around portraying a persona of power and accomplishment. The style was typically comprised of shoulder pads, blazers, and high-waisted pants or skirts. Women tended to wear slicked-back hair with dramatic and bold makeup.
Blazers were an essential part of dressing power and were often adorned with big shoulder pads that created an open-shouldered look. Women wore an oversized blouse or button-up shirt beneath, tucked into high-waisted trousers or a skirt. Accessories were typically striking and bold, like a big necklace or belt.
The power dressing style was very popular in the workplace because it allowed women to project an image of power and accomplishment. This fashion isn’t as fashionable today. However, aspects of power dressing can still be seen in contemporary fashion.
Punk, New Wave, And Goth Fashion
The 1980s witnessed the growth of punk, the modern wave, gothic fashion, and goth fashion, all subcultures that emerged during this time. Distressed jeans, leather jackets with studded studs, and band T-shirts marked fashion for punk. The new wave of fashion was all about vibrant colors, skinny ties, and striking prints. The goth style was often black and featured corset tops, leather pants, or chokers.
The punk fashion movement was a protest against the mainstream and was focused on making a statement. Rubbed jeans and studded leather jackets were the staples of a punk outfit, along with leather boots and band t-shirts. Pop culture had a big impact on new wave fashion, which frequently featured eye-catching patterns, skinny jeans, and colorful pants.
Goth fashion was focused on creating an eerie and dark look and was characterized by black corsets, leather pants, and lace-up shoes. This fashion also had many accessories, including jewelry chokers, spiked bracelets, and skull rings.
Preppy And Yacht Club Style
The yacht club and preppy styles were fashion trends of the 1980s. Straight forms, timeless cuts, and vibrant colors distinguished them. The preppy look typically consisted of polo shirts with pop collars, khaki pants, and boat shoes. Knit sweaters, blazers, and loafers represented the yacht club style.
The preppy look was focused on simple lines and traditional cuts paired with bright patterns and vibrant colors. Polo shirts were the most popular in this fashion and were usually worn with khaki shorts or pants. Boots were similarly a popular choice since they were comfy and flexible.
Accessorizing For Your 80’s Outfit
The appropriate accessories can differentiate between a successful and a failed 80s look. In addition to sunglasses, jewelry, makeup, and hair, the correct accessories will help you finish your look in the 80s and make a statement with your style.
Shoes: Shoes are essential to any outfit and can make a huge difference to your 80s-inspired look. Sneakers were popular during the 1980s, especially high-top shoes in bright shades. They can be worn with a t-shirt, leggings, or a hairband for an informal appearance. Another fashion-forward shoe from the 1980s is the ankle boot, specifically in leather. Ankle boots are often paired with jeans or a leather jacket to create an edgy or goth style.
Jewelry: Jewelry was an integral aspect of fashion in the 1980s and was about making a dramatic statement. Hoop earrings were very popular, along with large bracelets and necklaces. Large, bulky jewelry was the norm during the 1980s and was usually paired with basic outfits to make a statement.
For a gothic or punk style, spiked bracelets or choker necklaces were the most popular accessories. An easy string of pearls or chain necklace made of gold was frequently worn for an elegant or yacht club appearance. Jewelry was usually worn in multiples, with multiple necklaces or bracelets worn simultaneously.
Hair and Makeup: Hair and makeup are crucial elements in an 80s-style outfit and can make an enormous difference in how your outfit appears. The big hairstyle was the norm in the 80s and was usually made up of lots of hairspray and the occasional teasing. Hair scrunchies and bows were very popular as accessories.
The makeup of the 1980s was often extravagant and dramatic, featuring vivid colors and plenty of eyeliner. Eyeshadow in bright blue was an extremely popular style, along with vibrant pink or red lipsticks. The blush was usually applied with a lot of force and used in vibrant pink or peach shades.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses were a major accessory during the 80s and were usually seen in bright, bold shades. Larger sunglasses were especially well-liked, as were those that had colored lenses or mirrored lenses. Wayfarer sunglasses, popularized through the movie “The Blues Brothers,” were popular styles.
Leg Warmers and Other 80s Staples: Leg warmers were a fashion accessory in the 80s, particularly for the athleisure look. The leg warmers could be layered with leggings or shorts and an oversized t-shirt. They were a common accessory to create a punk or new wave style. The sweatbands and headbands were typically worn on the wrist or forehead.
Putting It All Together: Dressing Up for Your 80’s Party
Dressing in an 80s-themed outfit is enjoyable but can also be a bit overwhelming when you don’t know where to begin. There are a lot of suggestions and tricks to use to create a unique and fashionable 80s look.
Tips for Finding Vintage and Thrift Store Items: Searching for antique or thrift store pieces is one of the best ways to make an authentic 1980s outfit. Thrift stores are an excellent source of 1980s-inspired clothing, and you might be able to locate some genuine gems for a reasonable cost. You can look for large T-shirts, leggings with bold shades, and high-waisted pants or skirts.
Vintage stores are also great sources of fashion from the 1980s. Find blazers with straps for the shoulders, leather jackets, and accessories such as choker necklaces and hoop earrings. Don’t rush mixing and matching pieces to create a unique and personal 80s style.
Mixing and Matching To Create A Unique Outfit: Mixing and matching various clothes is a great method to make a unique and personal 80s-inspired outfit. Consider pairing a blazer and shoulder pads with an oversized t-shirt with a graphic design and high-waisted trousers or an eye-catching tracksuit with an elegant chain of gold. Don’t be afraid to play with different patterns and textures; think outside the box with your attire.
Adding Your Personal Touch: Giving your personal touch to your outfit could make it more unique and individual. Add a statement belt scarf to your outfit or a statement jewelry piece. It is also possible to add accessories to your outfit, such as making patches for a jacket out of denim or distressing a pair of jeans.
Tips for Putting on Your Outfit and Getting Ready: When you’ve got your outfit sorted, it’s essential to ensure you put it on correctly and dress yourself. Make sure that the clothing fits well and is comfortable. You may also want to add a few accessories to finish your look. Make sure you take the time to style your hair and makeup and ensure it matches the outfit you’re wearing.
Making Sure Your Hair and Makeup Are On Point: Makeup and hair are essential aspects of your 80s style and can make an enormous difference in your appearance. Hair was big in the 80s, and you can get this look by using a lot of hairspray and playing with your hair. The makeup of the 1980s was usually striking and dramatic, using vivid colors and a lot of eyeliner. Play around with various styles and hairstyles to find the best fit for your look.
Presenting Your 80s Style With Confidence: It’s also important to present your 80s fashion with confidence. The 80s are about bold fashion declarations, so don’t be uneasy about taking risks with your attire. Make sure you are proud of your style and enjoy the 80s-themed party!
What To Wear To An 80s Party Male?
Dressing for a party in the 80s is a lot of fun. However, deciding on the right attire can be difficult, particularly for men. The 1980s were about bold declarations, making bold statements, and taking risks.
Athleisure Wear: The athleisure look was all the rage in the 80s and is a fantastic choice for any 80s-themed event. You can achieve an athleisure-inspired look by wearing colorful leggings, a baggy T-shirt featuring a bold design, and a headband or sweatband on your forehead. Complete the look with high-end sneakers, and you’ll soon be ready to dance on the floor.
Power Dressing: It was a huge fashion in the 80s and is a fantastic option for a party in the 80s. This type of dress typically featured jackets with shoulder pads, high-waisted pants, and formal shoes. A blazer can be paired with shoulder pads, an unbuttoned shirt, and high-waisted pants or trousers. Add a belt and formal shoes to finish the appearance.
Punk Fashion: The punk style was a major element of the culture of the 80s, and it’s an excellent idea for a themed party in the 80s. For a look that resembles punk, put on the leather jacket with an oversized t-shirt with a band logo, distressed denim, and booties made from leather. Make sure you add the appropriate spiked bracelet or choker necklace.
Hip-Hop Fashion: Hip-hop fashions were also fashionable in the 80s and are a fantastic idea for an 80s-themed party. You can achieve hip-hop style with the perfect tracksuit, a vibrant shade, and chains of gold with high-top footwear. Make sure to put on the perfect baseball cap to complete the appearance.
Preppy Style: The preppy look was another fashion trend of the 1980s and was perfect for a party in the 80s. This type of outfit typically consisted of blouses with collars that were popped, khaki pants, and boat footwear. Putting a sweater on your shoulders is also possible to add a prettier look.
What To Wear To An 80s Party Female?
Dressing for a party in the 80s as a woman is a lot of fun. However, figuring out what you should dress for can be challenging. The 1980s were a decade that was full of extravagant fashions, and there were a lot of choices about fashions that were inspired by the 80s. Here, we’ll examine the best outfits to wear to an 80s-themed party for a female.
Athleisure Wear: The athleisure look was a rage during the 80s, and it’s a great option for any 80s-themed event. You can create an athleisure style by wearing colorful leggings, a t-shirt featuring a striking graphic, and a headband or sweatband that wraps around your forehead. Add high-end sneakers, and you’ll be ready to dance on the floor.
Power Dressing: The power dressing trend was a huge fashion during the 80s, and it’s an excellent option for a party in the 80s. This type of dress typically features jackets with shoulder pads or high-waisted trousers. You can also wear formal shoes. Wear a blazer with shoulder pads, a button-up top, or pants or trousers with high waists. Wear a statement belt and elegant shoes to finish the style.
Punk Fashion: The punk style was a major element of the culture of the 80s and is a fantastic idea for a themed party in the 80s. For a look that resembles punk, put on a leather jacket over a t-shirt from a band, paired with distressed pants and boots made of leather. Don’t forget to wear an encased or spiked necklace.
Preppy Style: Preppy fashion was another fashion trend of the 80s, perfect for a party in the 80s. This type of outfit typically consisted of polo shirts with pop collars, khaki pants, and boat footwear. It is also possible to put a sweater on your shoulders to give them a prettier look.
New Wave Fashion: The latest fashions in fashion focus on vibrant prints, colors, and slim ties. You can achieve a modern style with a vibrantly colored jacket, skinny jeans, and a graphic T-shirt. Wear the perfect necklace or a slim tie for a stylish accent.
FAQ’s
What are some classic 80s fashion trends?
Some classic 80s fashion trends include:
- Neon colors
- Leg warmers
- Shoulder pads
- Denim on denim
- Mullets
- Platform shoes
- Scrunchies
- Fanny packs
- Graphic tees
- Headbands
What are some popular 80s costumes?
Some popular 80s costumes include:
- Michael Jackson
- Madonna
- Prince
- Cyndi Lauper
- Eddie Murphy
- Arnold Schwarzenegger
- Sylvester Stallone
- Patrick Swayze
- John Travolta
- Molly Ringwald
What are some accessories that would complete an 80s outfit?
Some accessories that would complete an 80s outfit include:
- Sunglasses
- Chokers
- Earrings
- Bracelets
- Rings
- Necklaces
- Hair accessories
- Fanny packs
- Boomboxes
- Walkmans
Where can I find 80s clothes?
You can find 80s clothes at a variety of places, including:
- Thrift stores
- Vintage clothing stores
- Online retailers
- Costume shops
- Party stores
How can I make my own 80s outfit?
You can make your own 80s outfit by:
- Upcycling old clothes
- Sewing your own clothes
- Buying 80s-inspired clothes from a store and customizing them
What are some tips for dressing for an 80s themed party?
Here are some tips for dressing for an 80s themed party:
- Have fun with it! The 80s were a time of excess, so don’t be afraid to go all out.
- Choose clothes that are bright and colorful.
- Don’t be afraid to accessorize.
- Be creative and have fun with your outfit!