Throwing an 80’s themed party is, like, totally one of the most tubular parties you’ll ever throw. So to set you off on the right foot, we’ve compiled this list of everything you need to throw an epic 80’s party…and we didn’t leave anything out.
‘80s Must-Have Music Playlist
When you’re in charge of throwing a themed party, the music has to be spot on. So go for the gnarly 80’s songs that will throw the right vibe from the moment your guests walk through the door.
Add iconic songs to your playlist like:
- Total Eclipse of the Heart – Bonnie Tyler
- I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston
- Tainted Love – Soft Cell
- Time After Time – Cyndi Lauper
- Anything – Journey
Once the party gets started, you’ll have plenty of ideas (and requests) from your guests for their favorites that can’t be left out.
Rad ‘80s Themed Decorations
The ’80s were bright, gaudy, and yes a little cheesy. So feel free to get obnoxious with your decor and have your guests feeling like they walked straight into an 80’s rom-com…Molly Ringwald, eat your heart out.
Think magenta, geo shapes, and purple lighting. If you’re unsure, just look back at some yearbooks from the ’80s and check out the sweaters in those school photos. You’ll get the idea.
Elegant or Cheesy ‘80s Costumes
Costumes are mandatory for any themed party, but especially an 80’s shindig. Create a group event on social media and throw out photos for inspiration. They can be of you, or your bestie, sporting a mullet and noisy windsuit…a totally gnarly 80’s staple.
If you’d rather host a more tastefully-clothed party, think about modeling it after a movie that is more your style, like Working Girl.
While the 80s is often looked down upon for its fashion sense, there’s always another side to the story.
Not everything was hot pink and purple! Feel free to surprise your guests with something a tad out of the ordinary for the ‘80s..
Photo Op for the ‘80s
Since everyone is going all out for this 80’s themed party, you can’t forget to capture each moment with an ’80s themed photo booth.
Rent a photo booth that has options to add, like a typical 80’s backdrops…think pink and purple lasers.
Hire a photo booth vendor that has an expansive prop collection that will have your guests laughing all the way to the dance floor.
Iconic ‘80s Food and Drinks
Luckily, many of the more popular, recognizable foodie hits are still available in stores today. Get creative with your snack table and incorporate iconic treats like a Fruit Rollup plate, Pizza Roll platter, or a fun Dorito dish…you just can’t go wrong.
Guests will go nuts for old favorites like Capri Sun, Squeeze-It’s or Hi-C. If you’re lucky, you might catch a comeback of the Ecto Cooler during the next Ghostbuster’s reboot.
If you can check these kooky items off your list, you’re in for an epic ‘80s party that your guests won’t soon forget.