14 Best '80s Party Costume Ideas for Adults
The 1980s was a decade of bold fashion, iconic pop culture, and unforgettable music. Whether you're attending an '80s-themed party or just want to relive the era's vibrant style, here are 14 fantastic costume ideas that will make you the star of any event.
1. Madonna
Madonna was the queen of the '80s pop scene, and her style was as iconic as her music. To recreate her look:
-
Outfit: Wear a lace corset, tulle skirt, and fishnet stockings.
-
Accessories: Pile on the bangles, necklaces, and fingerless gloves. Don’t forget the big hair with a bow or headband.
-
Makeup: Bold red lips and heavy eyeliner.
2. Michael Jackson
The King of Pop's style is instantly recognizable and perfect for an '80s party.
-
Outfit: A red leather jacket with black pants.
-
Accessories: White glove, fedora, and aviator sunglasses.
-
Footwear: Black loafers with white socks.
3. Ghostbusters
Who you gonna call? Ghostbusters! This costume is great for groups.
-
Outfit: Beige jumpsuit with Ghostbusters patches.
-
Accessories: Proton pack and ghost trap.
-
Footwear: Black combat boots.
4. The Breakfast Club
Channel the iconic characters from this classic movie.
-
Outfit: Choose from the jock, the brain, the princess, the criminal, or the misfit.
-
Accessories: Each character has distinct accessories, like the criminal's flannel shirt or the princess's pearl necklace.
5. Prince (Purple Rain)
Prince's flamboyant style is perfect for a show-stopping costume.
-
Outfit: Purple velvet jacket, white ruffled shirt, and tight pants.
-
Accessories: Purple guitar and high-heeled boots.
-
Makeup: Eyeliner and a beauty mark.
6. Pac-Man and Ghosts
This costume is fun and nostalgic, ideal for couples or groups.
-
Outfit: Yellow circular costume for Pac-Man, colorful ghost costumes for the ghosts.
-
Accessories: Black gloves and shoes to complete the look.
7. Flashdance
Dance your way into the party with this iconic '80s workout look.
-
Outfit: Off-the-shoulder sweatshirt, leg warmers, and leotard.
-
Accessories: Headband and ballet shoes.
-
Makeup: Natural look with a bit of blush.
8. Beetlejuice and Lydia Deetz
This duo costume is perfect for fans of Tim Burton's classic film.
-
Beetlejuice Outfit: Striped suit with wild, green hair.
-
Lydia Outfit: Red lace wedding dress with black veil.
-
Accessories: Makeup to create Beetlejuice’s ghostly appearance and Lydia’s goth look.
9. Top Gun
Channel your inner Maverick or Goose with this military-inspired look.
-
Outfit: Green flight suit with patches.
-
Accessories: Aviator sunglasses and dog tags.
-
Footwear: Combat boots.
10. David Bowie (Labyrinth)
David Bowie’s character Jareth the Goblin King is a standout look.
-
Outfit: White ruffled shirt, tight pants, and a velvet jacket.
-
Accessories: Crystal ball and wild, teased hair.
-
Makeup: Dramatic eye makeup and contouring.
11. Rock Stars (KISS)
Transform into one of the legendary members of KISS.
-
Outfit: Black leather with silver studs and chains.
-
Accessories: Face paint to match your chosen band member.
-
Footwear: Platform boots.
12. Care Bears
Bring some childhood nostalgia with these colorful, cuddly costumes.
-
Outfit: Furry bear costume in bright colors.
-
Accessories: Belly badge to represent your chosen Care Bear.
-
Footwear: Matching furry slippers.
13. Wonder Woman
Lynda Carter’s Wonder Woman is a timeless superhero look.
-
Outfit: Red, blue, and gold bodysuit with a star-spangled skirt.
-
Accessories: Golden tiara, bracelets, and lasso of truth.
-
Footwear: Red boots.
14. Stranger Things
Although it’s a modern show, its '80s setting makes it a perfect fit.
-
Outfit: Choose from characters like Eleven, Dustin, or Hopper.
-
Accessories: Props like Eggo waffles for Eleven or a baseball cap for Dustin.
-
Footwear: Sneakers or boots depending on the character.
Tips for Creating the Perfect '80s Costume
Bold Colors and Patterns
The '80s were all about bright, neon colors and bold patterns. Don’t be afraid to mix and match.
Big Hair
Whether you’re going for teased hair, mullets, or crimped styles, bigger is better.
Accessories
From oversized earrings to leg warmers and fanny packs, accessories are key to completing your look.
Makeup
Think bold eyeshadows, heavy eyeliner, and bright lip colors. The '80s makeup was all about making a statement.
DIY vs. Store-Bought
Many of these costumes can be put together with items you already have or can easily find at thrift stores. However, there are also plenty of ready-made options available online if you prefer convenience.
Group Costumes
Consider coordinating with friends for group costumes like the Ghostbusters, The Breakfast Club, or characters from Stranger Things. This can make your entrance even more impressive.
Conclusion
An '80s-themed party is a fantastic way to relive one of the most colorful and eclectic decades in recent history. Whether you’re channeling a pop icon, a movie character, or a nostalgic favorite, these costume ideas will ensure you stand out and have a blast. So tease your hair, put on your best neon outfit, and get ready to party like it’s 1985!
