The Ultimate Guide: What to Wear to an 80s Party
Whether you're a child of the 80's, or you simply adore the in-your-face style of this iconic era, 80's-themed parties are a blast. However, if you're pondering over what to wear to an 80's party, you might be scratching your head. Don't fret! We’ve got you covered with our fancy collection of 80s costumes and accessories. Let's dive in!
Channel Your Inner Hair Band Rocker
The 80's were rife with hair bands, and the fashion of these rock gods and goddesses is an excellent starting point when deciding what to wear to an 80's themed party.
Female Rockers
Ladies, think acid-washed jeans, ripped to perfection, or edgy black leather pants. Pair these with a tight, sleeveless t-shirt or a figure-hugging spandex tank top. To top it all off, don a long-haired wig to truly embody the hair band rocker spirit.
Male Rockers
Gents, similar rules apply. Opt for bleached jeans or black leather trousers and pair them with a snug-fitting t-shirt or tank top. If you want to go the extra mile, find a wig with long, wild hair.
Go Preppy
The preppy look is another fantastic choice if you're wondering what to wear to 80's party.
Preppy Ladies
For women, start with a khaki skirt and a brightly-coloured polo shirt, collar up, naturally. Tie a sweater around your shoulders for that authentic preppy vibe, and finish the look with a pair of classic penny loafers.
Preppy Gentlemen
Men, grab your khaki pants and pair them with a vibrant, collared polo shirt. Just like the ladies, tie a sweater around your shoulders and don your penny loafers.
Unleash Your Inner Punk
If you're after a more rebellious look, 80's punk fashion is for you.
Punk Princess
Ladies, a leather skirt or pants will set the punk tone. Complement this with a leather vest and add a splash of colour with bright eye makeup. Complete your punk princess look with a fake or real nose ring, red lipstick, and a choker necklace.
Punk Prince
Men, opt for black leather trousers and a leather vest. To enhance your punk look, consider a temporary bright hair colour or a wig.
80's Prom Queen and King
If you're attending an 80's prom-themed party, embrace the iconic styles of 80's teen fashion.
Prom Queen
Ladies, think organza, bright colours, and puffy sleeves. Don't forget to pair your dress with matching dyed shoes. Accessorise with rhinestone jewellery and a wrist corsage.
Prom King
Gents, dust off your tuxedos and polish your dress shoes. Remember, bright and bold is the name of the game, so don't shy away from vibrant bow ties or cummerbunds.
Embrace 80's TV Stars
One fun way to decide what to wear to an 80's party is to channel your favourite 80's TV characters.
Miami Vice
Both men and women can take inspiration from Don Johnson's character in Miami Vice. Pair a t-shirt under a suit jacket for an instantly recognisable 80's look.
Magnum, P.I.
For men, consider emulating Tom Selleck's character in Magnum, P.I. with a vibrant Hawaiian shirt.
Get Physical with Flashdance
If you're looking to make a statement, why not channel the popular movie, Flashdance?
Flashdance Females
Ladies, pair a black leotard with black leg warmers and an oversized grey sweatshirt. Remember to cut out the neck of the sweatshirt so it hangs over one shoulder.
Flashdance Males
Men, think sporty yet casual. Opt for a snug-fitting t-shirt paired with workout pants or shorts. Don't forget the sweatband!
Big Hair, Don't Care
When it comes to hairstyles for what to wear to an 80's themed party, the bigger, the better.
Women's Hairstyles
Ladies, the 80's was all about big hair and even bigger bangs. Consider crimping your hair or using a banana clip for that authentic 80's look. And remember, never underestimate the power of a well-placed side ponytail.
Men's Hairstyles
Gentlemen, big hair was also a staple for men in the 80's. Consider sporting a mullet or a feathered hairstyle for your 80's party. If your hair is short, a wig can help you achieve these iconic styles.
Rock On with 80's Band Fashion
If music is your thing, why not dress as a member of your favourite 80's rock band?
Female Rock Band Outfits
Ladies, think leather, denim, band t-shirts, and animal print. Pair this with vibrant makeup, big hair, and don't forget your air guitar!
Male Rock Band Outfits
Gentlemen, channel the likes of Bon Jovi, Motley Crue, or Guns 'n Roses with leather pants, band t-shirts, and a denim vest. Complement your look with a bandana and some killer rockstar moves.
Embrace the Synthwave Aesthetic
If you prefer a subtler approach, the synthwave aesthetic is a great way to subtly hint at the 80's while still being on-trend.
Synthwave Ladies
Women can opt for a synthwave logo sweatshirt, parachute pants, and a fanny pack. Finish off your look with Adidas trainers, funky socks, and star earrings.
Synthwave Men
Men, follow suit with a synthwave logo t-shirt, parachute pants, and a fanny pack. Pair with Adidas trainers and funky socks to complete your synthwave look.
Choose the Perfect 80's Party Accessories
No 80's outfit is complete without the right 80’s party accessories. Here are some items you can use to add the finishing touches to your 80's party outfit, regardless of your gender.
80's Neon Bangle
Accentuate your eighties attire to the max with some vibrant and funky costume jewellery like this pack of neon coloured bangles! This set comprises four different coloured neon bangles that are absolutely gonna rock your 80s costume appearance!
80’s Wig
Seems like it's the age of thick black eyeliner, unruly mullet hair, and spiked jewellery!! Snag this black 80s wig to finalize your fancy dress ensemble for your upcoming 1980s costume event! This headbanger black mullet wig is the ideal 80's addition to immerse yourself in the vibe of the rock music and transform you into a headbanging rock deity.
Fishnet Gloves
Add an edge to your outfit with fingerless fishnet gloves. Whether you opt for neon colours or classic black, these gloves will add a touch of 80's punk to your look.
80's Headbands
Headbands were incredibly popular in the 80's. Choose from big bow headbands, favourites of pop stars like Madonna, or neon sweat headbands for a sportier look.
80's Glasses
Step out sporting some super cool shades at your upcoming fluro party wearing these Adults 1980's Party Glasses. These Retro Party Sunglasses Costume Accessory are perfect for completing your throwback 80's ensemble.
Bead Necklaces and Bracelets
Beads were a popular way to express individuality in the 80's. Choose from genuine pearls to colourful plastic beads to accessorise your 80's look.
Ready to Party Like it’s the 80’s?
When it comes to deciding what to wear to an 80's party, female or male, there's no such thing as overdoing it. The 80's were all about bold colours, big hair, and making a statement. So embrace the extravagance and have fun! After all, 80's parties are all about letting loose and travelling back to a decade of unforgettable fashion.
At Heaven Costumes, we have all the 80's costumes and accessories you need for your next 80's-themed party. Check out our women's 80's costumes and men's 80's costumes to find the perfect outfit for your party.
