Sparkles, headbands, neon prints and rubber bracelets are all associations for the wildest decade of the previous century. The era of R’N’B, synthpop, metal, and rock never goes out of fashion. Even today, when we have a variety of choices when it comes to fashion, the 80s still keep coming back. Thankfully, not everything. Just small details here and there.
Nevertheless, the era was so diverse and prolific that some of the biggest classics were invented then. From movies to fashion trends, there is no way to miss the 80s vibe.
Speaking of vibe, if you are looking for a fresh idea for your party and still haven’t figured out what to choose, we are here to give you our top five suggestions for a themed party. Ladies, let’s give it up to 80s-themed parties!
1. Got to stay fit
Okay, so people in the 80s were all about the wild excess. Partying like there is no tomorrow often takes a toll on our bodies. That’s why it was very important to stay fit. The astonishing crowd of women (and men) who became obsessed with fitness after Jane Fonda released her workout video created one of the biggest stereotypes that we know and cherish today.
If you want to throw a vivacious party that’s all about the right moves, our first suggestion is to bring a lot of mirrors. You can strategically place funny aerobics paraphernalia around the place, but keep in mind to open enough space in the chance your guests decide to do a quick workout. In terms of costumes, the ideas are aplenty.
The first item would be, of course, a leotard (don’t forget to add a belt as the finishing detail). You can also grab biker shorts or Spandex pants. You can complete the look with leg warmers, and extra-large socks. Of course, white trainers are a must. While picking a colour scheme for your apparel, keep in mind that the best choice is always neon – any colour – and/or wild patterns. Another very important detail is a headband if you decide to put your hair up.
2. It's all about the dancing
One more excellent thing about the decade is all the dancing. Back in the day, the world really appreciated when a man knew how to dance. Of course, another strong reference to the hip movements of the decade is the string of movies released in that period. Dance movie aficionados have watched and re-watched those blockbusters like it was the Bible. Seriously - Footloose? Dirty Dancing? Flashdance? Fame? Hairspray?
The 1980s were the best decade ever if you love dancing.
That’s why you can organise a party where all your friends and guests can show some skills on the dancefloor, just like Alex from Flashdance. You can even dress up like her – you’ll only need your gym clothes (consult theme number 1). Furthermore, the cowboys are always in, so if you are a fan, just grab a pair of boots and join the line dance!
If you want to go simple, just grab a pair of denim shorts and a white shirt – you’ll be looking like Baby in no time. Minus the watermelon.
3. Casino hotshots
Casinos are timeless. They do not belong to any specific decade per se, but the 8th decade of the previous century really left a unique signature on this concept. Wealth and opulence, mystery and adrenaline make a powerful cocktail called the casino. But imagine all that, only boosted with an 80s mindset?
Throwing a party that involves casino games will provide entertainment for everyone included. You can place tables around the house by assigning a game per each room. If you want to keep it a bit more contemporary, you have at your disposal a host of online casinos that provide real-time entertainment. Even though we are quite far from the 80s, there are social casino sites aimed at boosting social interactions and connect people even more.
4. Heavy metal headbanger
Music was an important part of this decade. The 80s were a decade of change and rebellion, especially of the youth, against the constraints of the conservative society.
While we all know the pop versions of crazy (because they are heavily commercialised), other spheres of music were blossoming as well. One such example is the heavy metal genre. Major bands such as Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Motörhead had been formed during the ‘70s but reached world recognition only at the beginning of the new decade.
From the year 1980, more children got to hear these powerful bands across the globe, and the influence is seen even today.
If you are a fan, organise a leather-friendly headbanging rumble with your friends that will honour all the legends of heavy metal.
5. Horrors of Halloween
The 80s were great for parties, yes, but that’s not the only great thing about the whole era. During the 80s, a thriller/horror cinematographic feast was released as well.
First – A Nightmare on Elm Street, The Changeling, Friday the 13th, Children of the Corn, The Thing, and The Shining all come from this era. If you ever wanted to know where good horrors come from, this is it.
For your party, you can either clad your house with appropriate ghoulish decoration, where you can play the soundtracks of the mentioned movies (if you want to keep your guests’ sanity, please don’t) or you can organise a nice slumber party with your friends where the main activity can be a top 80s horror movie marathon.