Decade-themed parties are always a hit, and '80s themed parties are no exception. One of the key components to preparing for any themed party is dressing the part, but this can sometimes be a difficult process. Luckily, the '80s saw some very distinct dressing styles that make dressing for an '80s-themed party a breeze.
'80s Hip-Hop
As with the music of any decade, 1980s hip-hop was defined by the clothes the artists wore. Wear shell toe Adidas shoes with a matching jumpsuit and Gazelle-style sunglasses for an early 1980s Run DMC look. Alternately, wear a button down shirt with an argyle sweater and some baggy pants for the more dignified hip-hop look of the later 1980s. Gold chains and fedora hats are also good representations of 1980s hip-hop.
'80s Rock Star
Women that want to dress like an 1980s rock star have a few options. They can go the route of 1980s Madonna and wear a large ribbon on their head, combined with a skirt, pair of leggings, tank top, tons of bracelets and dangling earrings. Or they can opt for the Joan Jett look, with an all black ensemble, combined with bracelets up both arms and a patterned neck wrap. Men can pull off the '80s look by imitating the image of 1980s hair metal bands. Tight jeans, a tight black shirt, teased hair and a bandanna wrapped around one leg let other party goers know you are there to rock.
'80s Prep/Jock
The '80s prep look is best represented in the John Hughes movies of the '80s. Women should wear bright polo shirts with the collar up, khaki pants or a knee-length skirt, plain white tennis shoes and a sweater tied around the shoulders. Men can replicate the same look, or opt for an '80s jock look. To achieve the jock look, wear jeans, tennis shoes, a plain white T-shirt and a vintage-looking varsity jacket.
'80s Trends
On top of these '80s clothing ideas, there are several '80s trends that can turn almost any outfit into an '80s-inspired costume. For women's costumes, wear shoulder pads, leg warmers, neon jewelry, shoulder-slung tops and high-waisted pants to achieve an '80s look. For men's costumes, wear harem "Hammer-style" pants, leather or jean jackets, sleeveless shirts, tight stone-washed jeans and high top shoes for a distinct '80s look.
