80s Party Tips and Tricks

Aug 10, 2024

Ah, the 80s—a magical time of big hair, even bigger fashion statements, and some of the best party music ever produced. Want to throw an 80s-themed bash that'll have your friends pulling out their shoulder pads and teasing their hair to the heavens? You've come to the right place! In this blog, we'll walk you through the essential steps to create an unforgettable 80s party experience, specifically tailored for the ladies. Get ready to step back in time, and don't forget to pack your hairspray!

1. Deciding on Your Dynamite 80s Look

Choosing your outfit for an 80s party is half the fun! The era was all about bold styles, vibrant colors, and unique silhouettes. Here’s how you can look totally rad:

Denim and Leather: Start with the basics. A killer denim jacket or a bold leather piece can set the tone. Check out Newretro.Net for some truly groovy options that merge classic 80s vibes with modern chic. Their collection spans from sleek leather jackets to acid-wash denim wonders that are perfect for any retro party.
Neon and Spandex: Nothing screams 80s like neon colors and spandex. Whether it’s a neon pink top paired with spandex leggings or a full-on bodysuit, you’ll be sure to stand out. Remember, the brighter, the better!
Accessories: Oversized sunglasses, chunky jewelry, and flashy watches are your go-to accessories. Again, Newretro.Net offers a fabulous selection of retro sunglasses and watches that aren’t just costume pieces but could easily become part of your regular wardrobe rotation.

2. Set the Scene with Radical Decor

Transforming your space into an 80s paradise is crucial for getting your guests into the time-travel vibe. Here’s what you need:

Vibrant Colors and Patterns: Think about bright tablecloths, neon balloons, and streamers. Mix in some animal prints or geometric patterns to truly embrace the era.
Lighting and Effects: A disco ball is a must, and don’t skimp on the colored lights. If you can get your hands on some old school strobe lights or even a smoke machine, you’re all set for some serious dance floor drama.
Pop Culture Posters: Plaster your walls with posters of iconic 80s movies, music stars, and TV shows. From Madonna to "Miami Vice," let the nostalgia run wild.

3. Crafting the Perfect Playlist

What’s an 80s party without a killer soundtrack? Here are some tips to keep your guests dancing all night long:

Iconic Pop Hits: Start with the Queen of Pop, Madonna, followed by some Michael Jackson, Prince, and Whitney Houston. These legends dominated the charts and will definitely get everyone into the groove.
Rock Anthems: Sprinkle in some rock with Bon Jovi, Guns N’ Roses, and Journey. "Don’t Stop Believin'" is practically mandatory!
One-Hit Wonders: Don’t forget those unforgettable one-hit wonders like "Come On Eileen" or "Tainted Love." They’ll bring a smile and maybe even a few laughs.

4. Retro Snacks and Sips

No party is complete without some tasty treats. Here’s how to keep it authentically 80s:

Classic Snacks: Think finger foods like mini quiches, deviled eggs, and pigs in a blanket. For a sweet touch, serve some Jell-O pudding pops or a colorful array of Pop Rocks and Ring Pops.
Themed Drinks: Whip up some colorful cocktails like Blue Lagoons or Pina Coladas. Don’t forget to have plenty of Tab and punch on hand for those who prefer non-alcoholic options.

5. Games and Entertainment

Keep the party lively with some 80s-themed games and activities:

Costume Contest: Encourage everyone to come dressed in their 80s best. Have a contest for the most authentic, the funniest, and the most original outfit. It’s a great way to break the ice and get everyone involved.
Movie Marathon: Set up a corner where guests can chill and watch classic 80s flicks. Anything from "The Breakfast Club" to "Back to the Future" will keep the nostalgia high.
Trivia Time: Test your guests’ knowledge of 80s pop culture with a trivia game. From music to politics, see who really knows their stuff!

With these tips, your 80s party is sure to be a blast from the past! Stay tuned for more insights and ideas to elevate your event. And remember, it’s all about having fun and making memories—80s style!

Continuing from where we left off, let’s dive deeper into creating that perfect 80s party vibe with more tips on entertainment, interactions, and making sure your bash is as gnarly as it can be!

6. Break Out the Board Games

The 80s were a golden era for some classic board games that can add a fun and interactive element to your party. Here’s what you could bring out:

Twister: Get ready for some tangled fun! Twister is a fantastic way to loosen up and laugh as you and your guests try not to fall over.
Pictionary or Charades: Both games are great for group participation and can be tailored with an 80s theme. Think 80s movies, celebrities, and pop culture icons as drawing prompts or acting cues.
Video Games: If you can get your hands on an old Atari or Nintendo Entertainment System, set up a gaming station. Titles like Pac-Man, Super Mario Bros., or even Tetris can provide a nostalgic touch and some light-hearted competition.

7. DIY Photo Booth

Create a DIY photo booth corner with a Polaroid camera or a modern camera with a vintage filter. Stock the booth with 80s props like:

Sunglasses and Wigs: Offer a variety of funky sunglasses and wigs—from neon mullets to Madonna-inspired locks.
Props: Include items like inflatable guitars, boomboxes, and Rubik’s cubes.
Backdrops: Set up a few options like a metallic curtain or a backdrop with iconic 80s slogans and logos.

This setup not only adds an element of fun but gives your guests a memorable takeaway from the night.

8. Signature Cocktails and Mocktails

Elevate your drink menu by adding signature cocktails and mocktails that scream 80s. Here are a few ideas:

Tequila Sunrise: This colorful cocktail not only tastes great but also visually represents the vibrant 80s.
Virgin Piña Coladas: For a non-alcoholic option, these are perfect for guests who prefer to skip the booze but still want to enjoy a tasty and thematic drink.
Fuzzy Navel: Peach schnapps and orange juice make this a sweet, easy-to-drink option that was very popular during the decade.

9. Party Favors

Send your guests home with fun and thoughtful party favors as a thank you for attending your 80s extravaganza:

Mixtapes (or CDs): Create mixtapes or CDs with your party playlist. It’s a personal touch that lets the fun continue even after the party ends.
80s Candy: Include small bags of candy from the era, like Nerds or Pixy Stix.
Custom Sunglasses: Since Newretro.Net specializes in retro-looking sunglasses, consider giving away a pair of stylish shades as a premium party favor.

10. Capture the Memories

Finally, don’t forget to document the evening:

Hire a Photographer: Consider hiring a photographer for a few hours to capture the most candid moments of the night. If that’s beyond the budget, set up a camera on a tripod with a timer so guests can take their own photos.
Guest Book: Set up an 80s-themed guest book where your friends can leave messages or share their favorite memories of the night.

By incorporating these additional elements into your 80s party, you ensure not only a night filled with nostalgia and fun but also a celebration that your guests will talk about for years to come. From the music to the décor, and the interactive games to the thoughtful takeaways, your 80s party will be nothing short of spectacular. So tease up your hair, slip on those leg warmers, and get ready to party like it’s 1989!