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 do you wear to Decade 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? ›

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.

How do I dress up as an old lady? ›

Baby powder in hair, scarf on head, glasses, cardigan, pearl necklaces, skirt, tights, dress shoes and cane.

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? ›

Tips to Get 80s Looks
  1. Wear bright colors. The 80s were all about making a statement with vibrant colors. ...
  2. Highlight your shoulder area. ...
  3. Go for the oversized. ...
  4. Choose high-waisted bottoms. ...
  5. Remember to include a trench coat in your outfit. ...
  6. Expose the shoulders. ...
  7. Rock a mini-skirt. ...
  8. Consider wearing ripped jeans.
Jun 11, 2023

What should a 72 year old wear? ›

In your 70s, it's a good rule of thumb to avoid looking too prim, too girly, or preppy. However, it's the perfect time to experiment with arty styles like tailored sweater coats, wide-leg pants, unusual clutches, and colorful patterns.

What color is 80s style? ›

Neon colors like neon pink, electric blue, and acid yellow made a profound impact on 80s culture and style. People wore bright colored outfits, used neon makeup, added neon decals to vehicles, and decorated photo slides with neon markers.

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.

How should a 50 year old woman dress? ›

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

How to dress feminine over 50? ›

Style Smarts
  1. Get a good tailor. ...
  2. Define your waist, no matter how big or small.
  3. Keep your skirt and dress lengths to the knee or slightly above.
  4. Flowy dresses look best if they are mid-calf length.
  5. Steer clear of cropped pants — they were an unflattering fashion fad for way too long.
Nov 28, 2022

How to dress stylish over 60? ›

5 tips for dressing in your 60s
  1. Big patterns, bold colors. First, let's toss the old “rules” and expectations for how a 60+ woman should dress. ...
  2. Breathable fabrics? A breath of fresh air. ...
  3. Balance timeless with trends. Trends are for everybody. ...
  4. Layer mixed textures. ...
  5. Accessorize with dressed-up details.

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.

What color dresses were popular in the 1920s? ›

Neutral colors were popular in the 1920s, such as light pink, off-white, green, and pale gold for women, and light blue or green for men. These colors reflected the cultural emphasis on airy, less-restrictive clothing in the 1920s.

What is the 1920s look? ›

The fashion trends of the 1920s were more casual and relaxed. Women often wore knee length tubular day dresses and men often wore knickerbockers with sweater vests. The flapper style for women and the zoot suits for men were also popular in the 1920s.

What do you wear on 90s Decade Day? ›

We pulled together some of the most iconic 90s style elements ahead, ripe for the repurposing.
  • Bucket Hats. We can't talk about 90s fashion and not mention the iconic bucket hat. ...
  • Baby Tees. ...
  • Slip Dresses. ...
  • Thick Headbands. ...
  • Bike Shorts. ...
  • Combat Boots. ...
  • Claw Clips. ...
  • Velvet Suits.
Mar 14, 2023

What can I wear for 80s day? ›

High-Waisted Jeans: Opt for high-waisted jeans or pants. They were a big trend in the 80s and add that retro touch. Graphic Tees: Look for tees with retro logos, band names, or pop culture references. Don't be afraid to tuck them into your pants.

How do you dress for the 60's decade? ›

Mid '60s look

Outfits were often paired with plastic raincoats, fake fur, sandals, kitten heels, or white go-go boots. Another defining fashion moment from the mid '60s was the creation of the miniskirt. Miniskirts were often worn with tight sleeveless shirts and tall bright colored go-go boots.

What should I wear for the 90s decade? ›

Things You Should Know

Channel authentic 90s grunge by throwing on baggy ripped jeans, a graphic tee and checkered flannel. Wear bike shorts, track suits, and colorful windbreakers to really run head first into a 90s sporty vibe.

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