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Makeup in the 1980s was big, bold and bright. Taking clues from celebrities of the time, such as Cyndi Lauper and Madonna, this theatrical look forced a dramatic statement, empowering women through their makeup. Although this style eventually gave way to a more natural appearance by the end of the decade, the popular look favored the idea that there is no such thing as too much makeup.
Throwing a 1980s costume party and requesting that all the guests come dressed like the 1980s are still alive and kicking can be great fun. Costume parties of all types are popular; however, in the United States the decade of the 1980s was known for its fun-loving spirit and vibrant pop culture, making the 1980s an ideal theme for a lively costume party.
People call the 1980s "the era of excess" for good reason. This was true not just of lifestyle, but also of clothing and hairstyles, when men wore the famous "mullet" and women had "big hair." Men can choose from many themes when trying to create that classic '80s look.
Whether it's for a Halloween-themed party or because a friend just decided to relive one of the more outrageous decades, you may find yourself needing an outfit for an 80s party. With bunched socks, acid wash jeans, side ponytails, and torn shirts defining the 80s styles, you can secure the different pieces of your outfit with just a little effort.
If you're throwing an '80s-themed party, get your guests in the mood from the start with the right invitations. Pull themes from '80s music, pop culture and slang to interest guests in your party and get them ready to rock like it's the decade of excess.
Perhaps you are one of those '80s fans that never get tired of side ponytails, off-the-shoulder blouses and parachute pants. It's high time you plan an '80s party and revisit that fantastic decade of fads that are funny and memorable. Unpack your fishnet leggings and the rest of those '80s outfits and learn how to throw an '80s party that "like, totally" no one will forget.
The 1980's were a defining era for Michael Jackson, with the release of his Thriller album, the Bad album and numerous other ventures. So of course, dressing up as Michael Jackson is perfect for an 80's party. One of the most iconic, and easy to pull off Michael Jackson outfits is from his music video for Beat It. A few simple pieces blend together to make the perfect Michael Jackson outfit. Learn how to do the moonwalk as well -- and you'll be sure to be the hit of the party.
Aerobics was at the forefront of a surge of interest in health and fitness during the '80s. Jane Fonda was creating aerobics videos, Olivia Newton-John had a hit with the song "Let's Get Physical" and movies such as Fame, Dirty Dancing and Footloose were hitting the big screens. Neon colors, tight leotards and spandex tights were all the rage. Scour thrift shops for suitable items to create your costume.
The Miami Vice television series was all the rage in the mid-1980s and heartthrob lead characters Sonny Crockett and Rico Tubbs changed fashion trends for men for several seasons. While costume designers for the show found inspiration in European design, fans remember Miami Vice fashion as originating in South Florida. Learn to make your own Miami Vice costume for an upcoming '80s party with a few simple tips, and you will be sure to be a blast from the past.
Costumes based on Thomas Magnum of "Magnum, P.I." are available from retailers, but you can save money by finding many of the pieces needed to capture this '80s look at thrift stores and online auction sites. In addition, putting the pieces together yourself allows you to concentrate on the details and get the look just right.
The 1980s ushered in a new era of flamboyant fashion. Naturally, a party themed for this decade offers a lot of stylish possibilities. Several fashion trends were inspired by the 1983 film, "Flashdance." The dancing clothes featured in the film were too exciting just for the gym. Women started wearing off-the-shoulder shirts and leg warmers in shopping malls, clubs and high schools across America.
Punk is a subcultural movement that originated in the U.K. during the 1970s and remained popular until the middle of the 1980s. The members of the movement mainly expressed themselves through loud music that did not follow the common rules of melody and rhythm, obscene language and an individualistic fashion sense mainly consisting of distressed clothes, studded leather and a generous appliance of safety pins. Due to the wild look, where virtually everything is allowed as long as it is ripped or torn, punk is a favorite costume choice for 1970s- or 1980s-themed parties.
For those who grew up in the 1980s, Madonna, Rubik's Cube and the introduction of the compact disc into the mainstream are all vivid memories. Bands with wild hair and one-off hit singles with a dance beat were common. Throwing a party with a 1980s feel can help bring back those memories -- and it isn't difficult to do. Many of the things that were popular in the 1980s are available today. Visit retro shops that specialize in the 1980s; they'll make it easier than ever to relive those magical times.
When entertaining, choosing a theme for a party can give the host a focus on how to plan the event. Planning an era party, where a specific decade is the event's theme, provides ideas for costumes and music. In order to plan or attend an '80s party, the host and guests must revisit the past and bring back the music and clothing of that time.
Get into the spirit of the decade when decorating for your '80s party. Take cues from the music of Cyndi Lauper and Duran Duran with bright colors and geometric patterns. Before you know it, your home will go from like, gag me with a spoon to like, totally awesome.
The 1980's ... a decade of big hair, big hair bands, legwarmers and bright blue eye shadow. The '80s were all about having fun. With a little bit of planning, your '80s party will capture all the good times and decadence of a rollicking period.
