Easy Last Minute 80s Costume Ideas That Will Have You Looking Fly!

1. Raid Your Closet for Iconic 80s Fashion Staples

The first step in creating an easy last minute 80s costume is to search your closet for items that will help you channel the spirit of the era. Look for brightly colored garments, like neon pink or electric blue, along with graphic prints like bold stripes or checks. Oversized tops and blouses were popular in the 80s, so if you have a roomy shirt or sweater, that can be a great starting point for your outfit.

Leggings were also a hallmark of 80s style, so if you have a pair in a bright color or funky print, those can be a versatile addition to your costume. If you want to take your leggings to the next level, you can cut off the feet to create colorful leg warmers. Simply wear them scrunched up around your ankles for an authentic 80s touch.

Finally, don’t forget to accessorize with some classic 80s jewelry! Chunky plastic necklaces, bracelets, and earrings can add a fun and playful touch to any outfit. And of course, no 80s costume would be complete without a scrunchie – the ultimate hair accessory of the decade!

2. DIY Costume Ideas for the Time-Crunched and Budget-Conscious

If you don’t have any obvious 80s staples in your wardrobe, don’t worry – there are plenty of DIY costume ideas that can help you throw something together quickly and inexpensively. One option is to take a plain oversized t-shirt and turn it into a funky dress by pulling it off one shoulder and pairing it with leggings or fishnets. This look is inspired by the iconic Flashdance movie of the 80s and is sure to be a hit at any party.

For a more punk-inspired look, grab a pair of ripped jeans, a studded belt, and a leather jacket. You can also add some band patches, pins, or buttons to your jacket to further personalize your outfit. A thick smear of black eyeliner and some combat boots will complete the look.

Another fun idea is to take inspiration from classic 80s movies, TV shows, or musicians. Dress up as Molly Ringwald from “Pretty in Pink” in a ruffled pink dress and matching shoes, or channel Tom Cruise in “Top Gun” in a bomber jacket and aviator sunglasses. For music-inspired costumes, you can go as Madonna in her iconic “Like a Virgin” video with a lace dress, fingerless gloves, and a crucifix necklace, or Michael Jackson in his legendary “Thriller” video with a red leather jacket and a single white glove.

3. Pop Culture References to Incorporate into Your 80s Costume

If you’re looking for couples costume ideas, there are plenty of great options from 80s pop culture. Dress up as Sonny and Cher, or channel Princess Diana and Prince Charles. You could even go as the ultimate 80s power couple, Ronald and Nancy Reagan, complete with a “Just Say No” tote bag.

Finally, if you’re feeling nostalgic for your favorite TV shows of the decade, consider dressing up as your favorite characters. Miami Vice-inspired costumes are always a hit, with bright pastels, linen jackets, and loafers making up the uniform of choice for Crockett and Tubbs. Alternatively, you could recreate the colorful fashion of “The Golden Girls” with patterned blouses, high-waisted jeans, and statement jewelry.

No matter what kind of last minute 80s costume you choose, the most important thing is to have fun with it! Don’t be afraid to go over-the-top with your outfit and accessories, and remember, the bolder, the better.

FAQs:

Q: What are some easy 80s outfit ideas for females?
A: Some easy 80s outfit ideas for females include wearing bright neon colors, graphic prints, oversized blouses, leggings, acid wash denim, big hoop earrings, and chunky plastic jewelry.

Q: What are some cheap 80s costume ideas?
A: Some cheap 80s costume ideas include DIY costumes like transforming an oversized t-shirt into a funky dress by pulling it off one shoulder and pairing it with leggings or fishnets.

Q: How can I create a last minute 80s costume for guys?
A: Guys can create a last minute 80s costume by wearing ripped jeans, studded belts, leather jackets, and band patches, pins, or buttons.

Q: What are some 80s costume ideas for couples?
A: Some 80s costume ideas for couples include dressing up as Sonny and Cher, or Ronald and Nancy Reagan.

Q: What should I accessorize with for an 80s costume?
A: For an 80s costume, you should accessorize with scrunchies, big hoop earrings, chunky plastic jewelry, and a thick smear of black eyeliner.