There’s something undeniable about an 80s party; it’s pure permission to go bold with color, play with over-the-top hair and makeup, and channel the exuberant, irreverent spirit of an iconic fashion decade. If you’ve got an invite and your closet feels both full and empty at the same time (how does that happen?), I’m here to walk you through my own process for picking the perfect 80s party outfit—awkward decisions, nostalgic inspiration, and a few personal stories included.

Finding That 80s Fashion Confidence

The beauty of 80s fashion is that it was about more than just the clothes—it was attitude, self-expression, and often a little bit of “more is more.” Shoulder pads the size of a dinner plate? Yes. Neon spandex under an oversized blazer? Absolutely. The key is to have fun, laugh at yourself, and maybe discover a side of you that only comes out when you hear Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark blasting in the background.

I remember my first 80s party back in college—I showed up in head-to-toe black, terrified of color, only to be handed a pair of hot pink fingerless gloves at the door. Instantly, I felt less invisible, and suddenly, the night came alive.

My Real-Life 80s Outfit Try-On

Getting ready for an 80s themed party often means spreading your whole closet across the bed—sometimes pulling out clothes you’d forgotten you even owned (or who you borrowed them from!). Here’s how it went for me:

Option 1: The “Matronly Vixen”

Look & Fit: Think dramatic shoulder pads, a cinched belt at the waist, and a bold statement necklace. Classic 80s dress—elegant but with an edge.
My Take: I love the silhouette, but, like the video’s creator, it sometimes feels a little… “I brought casserole to the PTA, and now I’m teaching you life lessons.” It’s sophisticated, but maybe not quite party-ready.

Option 2: The Power Suit

Fabric & Style: Structured fabric, strong lapels, sometimes double-breasted. This one is what I reach for when I want to feel in charge.
Purpose: Great for the office—or when you want to command attention at dinner—but for an 80s party? It needs to be softened with wild accessories, or it reads more “business lunch” than “Let’s Dance.”
Personal Tip: Add an oversized brooch or a neon turtleneck underneath if you want to skew party.

Option 3: The Christmas-special Dress

Color & Vibe: Usually velvet or sequined; saved for those “fancy family” occasions.
Internal Dilemma: It feels so right—sparkly, dramatic, Molly Ringwald-ish—but I keep saving it “for something special.” The truth is, every party can be special if you decide it is!

Option 4: The “Bully in a Brat Pack Movie”

Fashion Style: Layered, bold jacket or vest, chunky jewelry, and an attitude of “I might challenge you to a dance-off.”
Why it Works: It’s playful, it’s a wink to all the 80s movies we secretly want to star in, and it has just enough edge.

Styling Tips for Your 80s Themed Outfits

When picking your look, here’s what always helps me seal the deal and leave self-doubt behind:

Mix Fabrics: Layer silk with leather, denim with sequins. The 80s were about eclectic confidence.
Embrace Color: Hot pink, electric blue, sunny yellow—don’t be afraid! If you’re color-shy, choose a neon accessory (earrings or a skinny belt) instead of a whole neon outfit.
Accessorize Loudly: Think chunky clip-on earrings, bangle bracelets stacked up to your elbow, or a glittery clutch.
Finalize with Fun Hair & Makeup: Tease that hair, swipe on blue eyeshadow or a pop of bold blush, and finish with glossy lips. Why not?

If you want even more inspiration (or a touch of nostalgia to get you in the mood), check out the VFlippa Nostalgia & Retro Shop. You’ll find a collection of quirky, colorful, and authentically 80s pieces to fall in love with.

Lessons Learned from the Try-On Process

Dress for the YOU You Want to Be Tonight: If something feels like “too much,” it probably isn’t! The best party memories I have are in outfits that made me a little nervous—in a good way.
Don’t Save the Good Stuff: I regretted every time I saved a statement piece for “the perfect occasion.” An 80s party is the perfect occasion. Wear the sequin dress, the novelty jacket, the shoes that make you taller and bolder.
Borrow or Swap: Ask friends if you’re stuck! I once swapped a neon windbreaker for a pile of bangles with a neighbor and ended up feeling ten times more “in character.”

Final Look: 80s Party-Ready!

So after a little trial, error, and way too many mirror selfies with my hair crimped, here’s what I chose:

Velvet minidress (from a thrift store in Nashville, under $20)
Oversized denim jacket thrown over my shoulders
Hot pink bangle set (borrowed from a friend)
Scrunched white ankle socks with white sneakers
Big teased hair, blue eyeshadow, and a shiny lip gloss

When my boyfriend saw my final look, his grin said it all—this was pure, unfiltered 80s.

Conclusion: Go Bold, Have Fun, and Own Your 80s Party Outfit

The best thing about 80s party outfits is that there are no mistakes—just opportunities to be a little braver, a little sparklier, and a lot more you. Whether your style is Molly Ringwald sweetness, Joan Jett toughness, or a Don Johnson-inspired blazer, put it on with pride.

Want more ideas or a shopping boost? Click over to VFlippa’s 80s Nostalgia and Retro Collection and find your inspo. And remember: at the end of the night, the best accessory is your confidence (and whatever smile a killer playlist and great company can bring).

Now, go dance—your 80s moment is waiting!

@micaraht Help me get ready for an 80s party!! #getreadywithme #80sfashion #style #fashion #grwm ♬ If You Leave – Remastered 2019 – Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark

Help me get ready for an 80s party!! #getreadywithme #80sfashion #style #fashion #grwm
If You Leave – Remastered 2019 – Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark
Get Ready for an 80s Party: Outfit Ideas and Styling Tips
Join me as I prepare for an upcoming 80s-themed party! Discover 80s fashion trends, outfit inspiration, and styling ideas in this fun GRWM video. #getreadywithme #80sfashion #style #fashion #grwm
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So I’m going to an 80s party tonight.
Help me decide what to wear.
Even though you’re from the future,
so I won’t be able to hear you,
so you won’t actually help me.
Okay, this one is very much like a matronly vixen.
Like, I feel like I would wear this to give DJ Tanner
really toxic diet advice. Love the silhouette, though.
Okay, this suit is, like,
my go to if I’m going to the bank or, like,
a nice dinner, but I’m not sure about it for an 80s.
This party. I’m so tempted to wear this,
but I was saving it for my family Christmas, so I don’t know.
I absolutely feel like I would wear this to bully Molly Ringwald.
So that’s.
I touched up the hair and makeup a little bit.
This is the final look. Now I just have to get my boyfriend ready,
and we’re good to go.