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Last Updated on September 12, 2023 by Canny Costumes
The year 2019 marks the 30th anniversary for a number of notable events in pop culture: the Simpsons; Madonna’s Like a Prayer; the fall of the Berlin Wall; and the Apple Macintosh computer, to name a few. There is certainly no shortage of memorable 80’s icons, so why not celebrate them? Costume parties needn’t be limited to Halloween.
Dare to be different and shake up the next party by making it themed. Throw an 80’s-themed party and invite guests to dress up as a different figure from 1980’s culture. Similarly, set the tone with 80’s décor and music. This fun, unexpected twist is sure to bring back old memories and make new ones as well.
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The MTV Generation
Music never had a louder voice than during the 1981 launch of MTV. This music-only channel showcased the talent of its time, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Pick a favourite musical artist of the time and use them as inspiration for 80s costumes Australia. Echo the defiance of a material girl in jingling bangle bracelets and religious jewellery, or get physical in colourful stirrup pants.
If headbanging is a better fit, don a heavy blonde wig and head scarf to become a member of an 80’s hair band. If all else fails, rocking a silver glove and an embellished jacket are sure to get instant recognition in the 80’s spirit of things.
Embrace the Trends
Not all fashions in the 1980s were thanks to pop culture; some were simply trends of the time. For a more simple costume, go with a few of the fads and add them to an outfit. Pair an oversized sweatshirt with some high-topped Chuck’s tennis shoes. A 1980’s hairstyle can be achieved by teasing and oversaturating with hairspray. Dig Mom’s puffy-sleeved wedding dress out of the attic and for an 80s fancy dress. Don’t forget about small details, like blue eyeshadow, chunky jewellery and fishnet stockings.
Look to the Silver Screen
Plenty of groundbreaking movies were released in the 1980s. Have fun picking a favourite character and be that person for a night. Save the world as a Ghostbuster, or wear neon leggings and a welding helmet as a steel-toed girl on a Saturday night. A dark fedora and sunglasses with a black suit is a dead ringer for a Blues Brother.
If November 5, 1955 is an important date to you, go back to the future as Marty McFly in a vest and jeans. Make a costume as elaborate or as simple as desired; the plethora of iconic 80’s movies is seemingly never-ending.
Pull Inspiration From History
Some of the world’s biggest changes took place in the 1980s. The home computer was a brand new concept with the release of the Commodore 64. Princess Diana and Prince Charles were newlyweds, and they only just had Princes William and Harry. Mount Saint Helens erupted, its trail of ash circling the globe. 80s costumes do not need to be a specific person or character but can be a nod to one of these events. Decorate a cardboard box with coloured squares and dress up as the infuriatingly difficult Rubik’s Cube.
Get creative and go as a couple dressed as Pac-Man and one of the ghosts. Originality can be the most fun part of attending an 80’s-themed party!
The ’80s might be more than 40 years in the past, but its memories and legacies still live on to this day. Throwing a themed party celebrating this unique time in history is sure to be a hit with friends and family alike. A like, totally rad time will be had by all!
