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

What can you wear for Decades Day? ›

Travel through time: Ideas for “Decades Day” outfits
  • 1920s flapper: Get ready to dance the Charleston in a fringed dress, feather boa, and a glamorous headband.
  • 1950s rockabilly: Channel your inner James Dean or Sandy from 'Grease' with a leather jacket, jeans rolled at the cuffs, and slicked-back hair.
Jan 23, 2024

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

Best '80s party outfit:

Think short, pink, and lots of ruffles. Big, teased-out hair is optional. Sydney Sweeney rocked the exact look at her birthday party last year. Pair a pretty pastel off-the-shoulder top with your favorite straight-legged jeans or a skirt, just like the popular girl in those '80s teen movies.

How do you dress for the 80s decade? ›

Oversized clothing was a big part of the 80s look. Look for items like oversized blazers, sweaters, and jackets. You can also look for items with exaggerated details like shoulder pads and big collars. High-waisted pants, skirts, or shorts were a popular choice in the 80s.

How to dress for retro day? ›

How do you make a retro look? To make a retro look you must wear printed, floral and patterned outfits. On this, high bun, and puff hairstyle is common. Just match your jewelry with the clothing, and you will get the look you want.

How to dress like a 50 year old? ›

Our top 5 style tips for what to wear at 50
  1. Embrace color. While you can never go wrong with a dependable neutral color, bright and bold hues add excitement to your closet. ...
  2. Widen your neckline horizons. ...
  3. Invest in luxe knits. ...
  4. Play up your waistline. ...
  5. Find your perfect fit.
Feb 15, 2024

What should a 70 year old wear? ›

Top 5 tips on how to dress over 70
  • Fancy up your flats. Thankfully, the days of boring, sensible flats are long gone. ...
  • Try new collar shapes. ...
  • Make an understatement. ...
  • Bag a trend. ...
  • Embrace the eclectic. ...
  • Mid-rise bootcut jeans. ...
  • White pants. ...
  • A breezy dress.
May 8, 2024

What footwear was popular in the 80s? ›

Huaraches & Sperrys

This casual leather footwear was great for keeping cool in the summertime – and we're not just talking temperature. Sperrys, the infamous boat shoe, was similar in nature in the idea that they were a mix between a shoe, sandal and a sneaker (sole) while also being perfect for those hot days.

What makes an 80s outfit? ›

Just think about it: The '80s brought us fishnets and leg warmers, served up electric colorways and the naked dress, made a case for leggings-as-pants, and inserted shoulder pads into any blazer and blouse that designers would allow.

What color is 80s style? ›

Some of the most popular colors in 1980s athletic fashion included indigo, mauve, forest green, tan, and orange while popped collars and pastels invigorated the preppy aesthetic.

How did ladies dress in the 80's? ›

For women, the hottest fashions included high waisted jeans (mom jeans), leg warmers, ripped denim, spandex and Lycra, acid wash jeans, statement shoulder business suits (usually with skirts), punk leather items and leotards.

How to dress rock and roll for 80s? ›

The rock music scene was all about leather, studded clothes, bandannas, ripped tees, and long mulleted hair. When looking more into fashion trends that rock bands introduced in the 80's, you can see the trend of metal chain usage, and sometimes heavy usage of makeup.

What is 80's theme party? ›

If there's one thing the 80s theme parties are known for, it's the vibrant colors. These neon shades dominated everything from interior design to clothing, so this is a great party theme that can subtly encapsulate the decade. All of the décor can be bright shades and guests can come in neon colors.

What to wear to an 80's party? ›

80's styles... big bows, leg warmers, off the shoulder tops, big ear rings, heavy makeup, Big Hair, big bracelets and Neon colors!! <3.

What is a retro theme outfit? ›

The polkas, plaids, the shararas, the palazzo, angrakhas, anarkali, bold prints and patterns, winged eyeliners, hairbands and ruffles – are the signature of a retro style.

How to dress in 1970s style? ›

Popular styles included bell bottom pants, frayed jeans, midi skirts, maxi dresses, tie-dye, peasant blouses, and ponchos. Some accessories that will help pull together your early '70s Hippie outfits are chokers, headbands, scarves, and jewelry made of wood, stones, feathers, and beads.

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 to wear to decades DC? ›

Decades DC Entry Requirements

To get in, you'll need to bring a valid US license or passport confirming that you are 21+. The venue also has a dress code and entry is always subject to management and the doorman's discretion. Fashionable dress is preferred, and sportswear, hats, and work boots are never allowed.

What to wear for a Deca competition? ›

Males must be in a suit, official DECA blazer or sport coat with dress slacks, collared dress shirt, necktie, dress shoes and dress socks. Business Casual for gentlemen means a collared shirt and dress slacks / khakis. For ladies, it includes slacks and a dress polo or button-down blouse.

How to dress like a senior citizen for Spirit Week? ›

Try khaki slacks, a sweater vest, and bow tie to go as an old man.
  1. Wearing a full suit is another option, if you have one. You could also check a second hand store for a vintage suit.
  2. If you want to look like an old man in pajamas, wear a matching pajama set with a robe and slippers.

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