Decades Day Outfit Ideas: How to Dress Up for Your Next Themed Party - Read This First (2024)

Guide Apr 28

Written by Stephanie Patterson

Decades Day Outfit Ideas: How to Dress Up for Your Next Themed Party - Read This First (2)

Stephanie Patterson

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Decades Day is an exciting opportunity to explore the different styles and trends from past eras. It’s a fun and creative way to dress up and show off your personality while paying homage to some of the most iconic fashion moments in history. Whether you prefer the preppy look of the 1950s or the hippie vibe of the 1970s, there are endless possibilities to choose from.

As someone who loves fashion and enjoys experimenting with different styles, I’m always on the lookout for new and interesting outfit ideas. Decades Day is the perfect occasion to try something new and step out of your comfort zone.

With so many different eras to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide on a specific look. That’s why I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite decades day outfit ideas to help inspire you and get your creative juices flowing.

Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1920s

When it comes to Decades Day, one of the most popular time periods to dress up as is the Roaring Twenties. This era was known for its flapper dresses, feather boas, and bold makeup. Here are some outfit ideas for your 1920s Decades Day costume:

  • Flapper dress: A classic flapper dress is a must-have for any 1920s outfit. Look for a dress with fringe, sequins, or beading to really capture the spirit of the era.
  • Headband: A headband with a feather or beaded detail is a great way to accessorize your flapper dress.
  • T-strap heels: T-strap heels were a popular shoe style in the 1920s and will complete your flapper look.
  • Fedora: If you’re looking for a more masculine 1920s outfit, a fedora is a great accessory. Pair it with a suit or vest for a dapper look.
  • Newsboy cap: Another option for a more casual 1920s outfit is a newsboy cap. Pair it with a button-up shirt and suspenders for a laid-back look.

When it comes to makeup, bold lips and smoky eyes were popular in the 1920s. Consider using dark lipstick and eyeliner to really make your eyes pop. And don’t forget to add some blush for a healthy glow.

In terms of colors, the 1920s were all about bold and bright hues. Think reds, blues, and greens when choosing your outfit. And don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns for a fun and eclectic look.

Overall, the 1920s is a great era to draw inspiration from for your Decades Day outfit. Whether you go for a classic flapper look or a more casual newsboy cap and suspenders, you’re sure to turn heads in your 1920s-inspired costume.

Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1950s

Rockabilly Style

If you’re looking for a bold and edgy look for your 1950s decades day outfit, consider going for a rockabilly style. This style is characterized by leather jackets, denim, and bold prints. For women, a polka dot dress with a petticoat underneath can give a great rockabilly vibe. Pair it with a leather jacket and some boots to complete the look. For men, a classic white t-shirt with rolled-up sleeves, a leather jacket, and some jeans can give a great rockabilly look.

Greaser Style

Another great 1950s decades day outfit idea is the greaser style. This style is characterized by slicked-back hair, leather jackets, and denim. For women, a leather jacket over a white t-shirt with some high-waisted jeans can give a great greaser look. For men, a white t-shirt, leather jacket, and jeans with some slicked-back hair can give a classic greaser vibe.

Pin-Up Style

If you’re looking for a more feminine 1950s decades day outfit idea, consider going for a pin-up style. This style is characterized by fitted dresses, high heels, and bold makeup. For women, a fitted dress with a full skirt and a cinched waist can give a great pin-up look. Pair it with some high heels and bold makeup to complete the look.

Overall, there are plenty of great 1950s decades day outfit ideas to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a bold and edgy look or a more feminine and classic look, there’s sure to be a style that suits your taste. Just remember to have fun with it and embrace the spirit of the decade!

Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1960s

Hippie Style

If you want to channel the free-spirited, bohemian vibe of the 1960s, then the Hippie style is perfect for you. Think of flowy maxi dresses, bell-bottom jeans, and fringe vests. You can also accessorize with a headband, round sunglasses, and peace sign jewelry.

For a more authentic look, opt for earthy colors like brown, green, and orange. You can also add some tie-dye prints to your outfit. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes like sandals or moccasins.

Mod Style

If you prefer a more polished and sophisticated look, then the Mod style is the way to go. This style is characterized by bold geometric prints, mini skirts, and knee-high boots. You can also add a statement accessory like a chunky necklace or oversized sunglasses.

For a classic Mod look, stick to black and white or primary colors like red, blue, and yellow. You can also play with textures like vinyl or patent leather. Don’t forget to style your hair in a sleek bob or a high ponytail.

Overall, the 1960s was a decade of fashion experimentation and self-expression. Whether you choose to go Hippie or Mod, make sure to have fun with your outfit and let your personality shine through.

Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1970s

Decades Day is a fun way to celebrate the fashion of past eras. The 1970s was a decade of bold, colorful, and diverse fashion trends. Whether you want to channel your inner disco diva or punk rocker, there’s a 70s outfit for everyone. Here are some Decades Day outfit ideas for the 1970s.

Disco Style

Disco style was all about glitz, glamour, and dancing the night away. To create a disco-inspired outfit, you can start with a jumpsuit or a pair of high-waisted flared pants. Pair it with a sparkly top, a sequin jacket, or a metallic blazer. Don’t forget to accessorize with platform shoes, hoop earrings, and a disco ball necklace. For makeup, go for bold eyes and glossy lips.

Here are some items you can use to create a disco outfit:

JumpsuitFlared pantsSparkly top
Sequin jacketMetallic blazerPlatform shoes
Hoop earringsDisco ball necklaceGlittery makeup

Punk Style

Punk style was all about rebellion, individuality, and DIY fashion. To create a punk-inspired outfit, you can start with a pair of ripped jeans or a denim skirt. Pair it with a band t-shirt, a leather jacket, or a studded vest. Don’t forget to accessorize with combat boots, fishnet stockings, and a spiked choker. For makeup, go for dark eyes and bold lips.

Here are some items you can use to create a punk outfit:

  • Ripped jeans
  • Denim skirt
  • Band t-shirt
  • Leather jacket
  • Studded vest
  • Combat boots
  • Fishnet stockings
  • Spiked choker
  • Dark makeup

These are just a few ideas for Decades Day outfits inspired by the 1970s. Remember to have fun and be creative with your outfit. Whether you’re a disco queen or a punk rocker, embrace the fashion of the past and make it your own.

Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1980s

If you’re looking for a fun and unique outfit idea for Decades Day, why not go back to the 1980s? This decade was all about bold colors, big hair, and statement accessories. Here are some ideas for putting together an outfit that will transport you back in time.

Preppy Style

The preppy look was huge in the 1980s, especially among college students. To achieve this look, think bright colors, collared shirts, and pleated skirts. You can also add some accessories like a headband or a pair of classic loafers.

If you’re going for a preppy vibe, try pairing a bright pink polo shirt with a pleated skirt in a coordinating color. Finish off the look with a pair of white knee-high socks and some classic white sneakers.

Hip Hop Style

The 1980s were also a time of great innovation in the world of hip hop fashion. If you want to channel this look, think oversized jackets, baggy pants, and bold accessories like chunky gold chains and hoop earrings.

A great way to achieve a hip hop look is to pair a bright, oversized jacket with a pair of baggy, high-waisted pants. Add some chunky gold jewelry and a pair of high-top sneakers to complete the look.

Whether you’re going for a preppy or hip hop look, the 1980s are a great source of inspiration for Decades Day outfits. Just remember to have fun with it and don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors and statement accessories!

Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1990s

When it comes to Decades Day, the 1990s is a popular choice for many people. The 90s was a decade of grunge, pop, and hip-hop, and there are plenty of outfit ideas to choose from. Here are some 90s Decades Day outfit ideas to inspire you.

Grunge Style

Grunge was a popular style in the 90s, and it’s still a popular choice for Decades Day. To achieve a grunge look, start with ripped jeans, a flannel shirt, and combat boots. You can also add a beanie or a knit cap to complete the look. For a more feminine take on grunge, try a babydoll dress with combat boots and a choker necklace.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at the search result from Who What Wear, which has a list of 20 ’90s outfits that make the decade look the coolest. They suggest throwing together all your favorite ’90s trends with a sleeveless turtleneck, overalls, a plaid button-down, and combat boots.

90s Pop Star Style

If you’re looking for a more glamorous 90s look, why not try a 90s pop star outfit? Think Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, or the Spice Girls. For a Britney Spears-inspired outfit, try a plaid skirt with a crop top and knee-high socks. For a Christina Aguilera-inspired outfit, try a denim mini skirt with a crop top and a choker necklace. For a Spice Girls-inspired outfit, try a tracksuit with platform sneakers.

Party City has a range of Decades Day costumes, including an adult 90s pop star concert costume, which includes a metallic silver jacket, a crop top, and leggings.

Whether you choose grunge or pop star, the 90s is a fun and nostalgic decade to dress up for on Decades Day.

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Decades Day Outfit Ideas: How to Dress Up for Your Next Themed Party - Read This First (2024)

FAQs

How to dress up for an 80s theme party? ›

Make your own 80s outfit by wearing bright colors, a loose top, and tight-fitting pants. Thrift for 80s fashion staples like acid-washed jeans, jumpsuits, and denim jackets. Channel the spirit of the 80s with a teased hairstyle, sweatband, and heavy, bright makeup.

What is decade dress up day? ›

Decades Day at school is a popular event where students dress up in outfits from different time periods. It's a fun way to learn about history and express your unique style.

How should I dress for decades day in the 90s? ›

Channel those 90s girl power vibes with an oversized flannel shirt (tied around your waist if you're feeling extra daring) paired with short overalls or shorts. Finish off the outfit with a pair of chunky sneakers like Doc Martens, Converse All Star shoes, or even platform sandals.

How to dress up like 1920s? ›

People embraced the look with great gusto, donning low necklines, tight-fitting dresses, and knee-length skirts with often extravagant accessories. For others, great Gatsby-style fashion focused more on the tailored look. They opted for dapper suits and hats, often in shades of black or white.

How do you dress like the 80s decade? ›

The 80s were all about making a statement with vibrant colors. Incorporate bold hues like neon pinks, electric blues, and vibrant yellows into your outfits. Mix and match different colors to create a lively and eye-catching look. Shoulder pads were a defining feature of 80s fashion.

What is the dress code for the 80's? ›

The 1980s woman loved bright, neon colors, so you should add lots of color in your outfit, regardless of the individual pieces you include. Finish off your style with gaudy jewelry, bold make-up, and big hair. Find a blouse or suit jacket with thick shoulder pads.

What is a decades theme party? ›

Decade parties are a great way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries or commemorations of an event or date. Guests love dressing up for “the look” of the period; just add nostalgic playlists, decorations, food and drink to create a memorable occasion.

How do you dress in the 50 decade? ›

1950s Fashion Shopping List
  1. Pencil skirt.
  2. Crew neck cardigan.
  3. Petticoat.
  4. Circle skirt or dress preferably halter or boat neck.
  5. Bullet bra.
  6. Waist knickers.

How do you dress like the 70s decade? ›

Flared trousers are often the most prominent garment associated with the decade, but miniskirts, crop tops, shearling coats, and the rise of the bell sleeve are of equal importance. They're made all the more enjoyable when they feature psychedelic colouring and prints, or have been printed with a tie-dye blend.

How do you dress like the 60s decade? ›

Styles skimmed the body and necklines were high in the form of turtle neck, high scoop, bateau or high cowl. Backs were low especially in eveningwear. We see the princess line feature on many styles from the mid 60s and obvious use of fabulous brocades, satins and chiffons.

What should I wear to a 90s party? ›

Denim jackets, jeans, and even hats are going to be your best bet when dressing for the 90's. A classic and unbeatable look that represents the 90's is double denim. Pair some washed out straight leg jeans with a denim jacket and some retro trainers and you've transported yourself back to the 90's.

What does the 90s outfits look like? ›

Slip dresses, bomber jackets, scrunchies and plaid flannel shirts were all the rage during the '90s — and many of these fashion trends are working their way back into vogue (although some of these pieces may have never left your closet).

What did ladies wear in 1920s? ›

You could put on a one-piece 'frock' or a skirt and blouse/jumper combination, bearing in mind that to achieve the low waistline popular for most of the decade, blouses had to be worn on top of skirts. Outside, dresses were covered with matching or contrasting jackets and coats, often lined and/or trimmed with fur.

What did girls dress like in the 1920s? ›

For girls, clothing became looser and shorter. Dresses and skirts were now knee length and loose fitting. Shoes were also made out of canvas, making them lighter and easier to wear. For boys, knee-length trousers were worn all year long and would be accompanied by ankle socks and canvas shoes.

How to dress 80s with normal clothes? ›

Embrace Bright Colors

The 80s were all about vibrant and bold colors. To capture the essence of this decade in fashion, embrace bright hues such as neon pink, electric blue, and sunny yellow. Incorporate these colors into your outfits through statement pieces like a colorful blazer or a pair of neon sneakers.

How to decorate for 80s theme? ›

Choose balloons and wall decorations in neon green, yellow, and pink for a perfect 80s color party idea. Plates and cups can follow similarly bright shades. In the 80s, it's the brighter, the better, and there's no such thing as clashing colors.

What do you wear to an 80s holiday party? ›

There are loads of accessories you can add to your outfit to make it truly 80s. These include leg warmers, bum bags, slap braces, big earrings and sunglasses, loads of colourful beady necklaces and lots of eye makeup. Hair in the 80s was big with lots of hairspray or mousse.

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