Decade Dress Up Ideas: A Time-Traveling Fashion Guide

Decade dress up ideas offer a captivating journey through fashion history, allowing us to explore the vibrant styles that defined each era. From the flapper dresses of the roaring 1920s to the grunge looks of the 1990s, each decade boasts unique fashion trends, reflecting the cultural shifts and societal movements of the time.

This guide delves into the iconic fashion elements, cultural influences, and notable figures that shaped each decade, providing a comprehensive understanding of the sartorial landscape of bygone eras. Whether you’re planning a themed party, seeking inspiration for a costume, or simply fascinated by fashion history, this exploration of decade dress up ideas will transport you back in time.

Decade Dress-Up Themes

A decade dress-up party is a fun and creative way to celebrate a bygone era. It’s an opportunity to embrace the fashion, music, and cultural trends that defined a particular decade. From the roaring 1920s to the tech-savvy 2000s, each decade offers a unique and captivating theme for your next party.

Popular Decades for Dress-Up Parties

Decade dress-up parties are popular because they allow attendees to immerse themselves in a specific era. The following decades are frequently chosen for their distinct fashion, music, and cultural significance:

• 1920s:The Jazz Age, known for its flapper dresses, Charleston dance, and the rise of jazz music.
• 1950s:The era of rock and roll, poodle skirts, and iconic hairstyles like the pompadour.
• 1960s:The decade of peace, love, and psychedelic fashion, marked by the rise of the hippie movement and the Beatles.
• 1970s:The disco era, characterized by bell bottoms, platform shoes, and the rise of disco music.
• 1980s:The era of big hair, neon colors, and the rise of MTV.
• 1990s:The grunge era, known for oversized flannels, ripped jeans, and the rise of alternative rock music.
• 2000s:The era of pop culture, low-rise jeans, and the rise of the internet.

Fashion Trends, Music, and Cultural Events of Each Decade

Each decade has its own unique set of fashion trends, music, and cultural events that shaped the era.

1920s

The 1920s was a time of great social and cultural change, marked by the end of World War I and the rise of the Roaring Twenties. The era was characterized by flapper dresses, short hair, and a sense of liberation and rebellion.

• Fashion:Flapper dresses, drop-waist dresses, cloche hats, beaded jewelry, and long cigarette holders.
• Music:Jazz music, blues music, and ragtime.
• Cultural Events:The rise of the flapper culture, the Charleston dance, and the Prohibition era.

1950s

The 1950s was a time of economic prosperity and social conformity, marked by the rise of rock and roll and the American Dream. The era was characterized by poodle skirts, saddle shoes, and a focus on family values.

• Fashion:Poodle skirts, saddle shoes, cardigans, bobby socks, and cinched waists.
• Music:Rock and roll, doo-wop, and country music.
• Cultural Events:The rise of rock and roll, the Cold War, and the Civil Rights Movement.

1960s

The 1960s was a time of social and political upheaval, marked by the Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the rise of the counterculture. The era was characterized by psychedelic fashion, long hair, and a focus on peace and love.

• Fashion:Mini skirts, bell bottoms, tie-dye shirts, peace signs, and platform shoes.
• Music:Rock and roll, pop music, and psychedelic music.
• Cultural Events:The rise of the hippie movement, the Vietnam War, and the Civil Rights Movement.

1970s

The 1970s was a time of economic recession and social change, marked by the Watergate scandal, the rise of disco music, and the women’s liberation movement. The era was characterized by bell bottoms, platform shoes, and a focus on individuality and self-expression.

• Fashion:Bell bottoms, platform shoes, disco shirts, jumpsuits, and leisure suits.
• Music:Disco music, funk music, and rock music.
• Cultural Events:The rise of disco music, the Watergate scandal, and the women’s liberation movement.

1980s

The 1980s was a time of economic boom and technological advancement, marked by the rise of MTV, the Cold War, and the rise of the yuppie culture. The era was characterized by big hair, neon colors, and a focus on materialism and excess.

• Fashion:Leg warmers, neon colors, shoulder pads, parachute pants, and ripped jeans.
• Music:Pop music, rock music, and hip hop music.
• Cultural Events:The rise of MTV, the Cold War, and the rise of the yuppie culture.

1990s

The 1990s was a time of technological innovation and cultural change, marked by the rise of the internet, the grunge movement, and the rise of hip hop music. The era was characterized by oversized flannels, ripped jeans, and a focus on rebellion and individuality.

• Fashion:Oversized flannels, ripped jeans, Doc Martens, chokers, and crop tops.
• Music:Grunge music, hip hop music, and alternative rock music.
• Cultural Events:The rise of the internet, the grunge movement, and the rise of hip hop music.

2000s

The 2000s was a time of global interconnectedness and cultural convergence, marked by the rise of social media, the War on Terror, and the rise of pop culture. The era was characterized by low-rise jeans, crop tops, and a focus on technology and pop culture.

• Fashion:Low-rise jeans, crop tops, tracksuits, bandanas, and hoodies.
• Music:Pop music, hip hop music, and electronic dance music.
• Cultural Events:The rise of social media, the War on Terror, and the rise of pop culture.

Iconic Fashion Items, Hairstyles, and Accessories for Each Decade

The following table showcases iconic fashion items, hairstyles, and accessories for each decade:

Iconic Decade Looks: Decade Dress Up Ideas

Each decade has its own unique style, influenced by social, cultural, and technological shifts. From the sleek silhouettes of the 1960s to the grunge aesthetic of the 1990s, fashion has consistently reflected the spirit of the times. Iconic looks from each decade are not only visually striking but also serve as powerful reminders of the era’s defining moments.

Impact of Celebrities, Movies, and Music Videos

The influence of celebrities, movies, and music videos on fashion trends cannot be overstated. These cultural touchstones have often served as inspiration for iconic decade looks.

• The 1950s:Audrey Hepburn’s elegant style in films like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961) popularized the little black dress, while James Dean’s rebellious persona in “Rebel Without a Cause” (1955) made jeans and leather jackets staples of teenage fashion.
• The 1960s:The Beatles’ mop-top hairstyles and the psychedelic prints worn by The Rolling Stones became synonymous with the era’s counterculture movement. Twiggy’s androgynous look in fashion and film redefined femininity, while the mini-skirt, popularized by Mary Quant, symbolized the era’s liberation.

• The 1970s:The disco era was characterized by flamboyant attire, with platform shoes, bell bottoms, and sequin dresses finding their way into the mainstream thanks to the likes of Donna Summer and the Bee Gees. Movies like “Saturday Night Fever” (1977) further solidified the disco aesthetic.

• The 1980s:The rise of MTV and pop stars like Madonna and Michael Jackson brought bold colors, neon hues, and oversized accessories to the forefront. Movies like “Flashdance” (1983) and “Footloose” (1984) showcased the decade’s energetic and rebellious spirit.
• The 1990s:Grunge music, led by bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, heavily influenced fashion with ripped jeans, oversized flannel shirts, and Doc Martens boots. Movies like “Clueless” (1995) and “Pulp Fiction” (1994) captured the decade’s eclectic mix of styles.
• The 2000s:The rise of pop stars like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera brought low-rise jeans, crop tops, and vibrant colors to the forefront. Reality TV shows like “The Simple Life” (2003) and “Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County” (2004) further popularized the trends of the early 2000s.

Iconic Fashion Brands and Designers

Each decade has seen the rise of iconic fashion brands and designers who shaped the era’s style.

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• The 1950s:Christian Dior’s “New Look” revolutionized women’s fashion with its emphasis on feminine silhouettes, while Coco Chanel continued to influence fashion with her timeless designs.
• The 1960s:Mary Quant’s innovative designs, including the mini-skirt and hot pants, redefined women’s fashion, while Yves Saint Laurent’s “Le Smoking” suit challenged traditional gender norms.
• The 1970s:Halston’s sleek designs for the modern woman, including his iconic caftan, captured the spirit of the era, while Ralph Lauren’s preppy aesthetic, with its focus on timeless elegance, continues to be influential today.
• The 1980s:Gianni Versace’s bold and extravagant designs, with their use of bright colors and bold prints, made a significant impact on the decade’s fashion scene, while Giorgio Armani’s minimalist and sophisticated designs redefined menswear.
• The 1990s:Marc Jacobs’s innovative designs for Louis Vuitton, with their focus on streetwear and pop culture, transformed the luxury brand, while Alexander McQueen’s avant-garde designs pushed the boundaries of fashion.
• The 2000s:The rise of fast fashion brands like Zara and H&M made trendy clothing more accessible, while designers like Stella McCartney’s focus on sustainability and ethical practices became increasingly important.

DIY Decade Costumes

Creating DIY decade costumes is a fun and affordable way to express your personal style and celebrate a specific era. By repurposing everyday items and incorporating vintage finds, you can craft unique and authentic looks that will stand out at any themed party or event.

Repurposing Everyday Items for Decade-Appropriate Outfits

Repurposing everyday items is a creative and cost-effective way to achieve a decade-specific look.

• 1920s:Transform a simple black dress into a flapper-inspired outfit by adding fringe, beads, and a drop waist. A long scarf or shawl can also be draped for a touch of elegance.
• 1950s:A poodle skirt can be easily made from a circle skirt pattern and a piece of fabric with a bold print. Add a classic cardigan and saddle shoes for a complete look.
• 1960s:A simple shift dress can be transformed into a mod-inspired outfit by adding bold geometric patterns, bright colors, and a contrasting belt. A pair of white go-go boots will complete the look.
• 1970s:A pair of bell bottoms can be found at thrift stores or made using a pattern. Add a platform shoe and a tie-dye shirt for a classic 70s look.
• 1980s:A neon-colored leotard or a pair of leggings paired with a colorful sweatshirt can create a classic 80s look. Add leg warmers, neon jewelry, and a headband for a more elaborate outfit.

Finding Vintage Clothing and Accessories

Vintage clothing and accessories can add authenticity to your DIY decade costumes.

• Thrift Stores:Thrift stores are excellent sources for vintage clothing and accessories. You can find everything from 1920s flapper dresses to 1980s neon leggings.
• Online Marketplaces:Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy offer a wide variety of vintage clothing and accessories. You can search by decade, style, or specific items.

• Antique Shops:Antique shops often carry vintage clothing and accessories from different decades. You can find unique and one-of-a-kind pieces that will make your costume stand out.

Step-by-Step DIY Costume Ideas

Here are some step-by-step DIY costume ideas for specific decades:

1920s Flapper Dress

1. Gather Materials:You will need a simple black dress, fringe trim, beads, a drop waist pattern, fabric glue, and scissors.
2. Create the Drop Waist:Using the drop waist pattern, cut a piece of fabric and attach it to the bottom of the dress.
3. Add Fringe and Beads:Glue fringe trim to the hemline of the dress and around the neckline.

   Add beads to the fringe and the neckline for a touch of sparkle.

4. Accessorize:Complete the look with a headband, a long scarf, and a pair of flapper shoes.

1950s Poodle Skirt

1. Gather Materials:You will need a circle skirt pattern, a piece of fabric with a bold print, fabric scissors, a sewing machine, and a contrasting belt.

2. Cut the Fabric:Using the circle skirt pattern, cut two circles of fabric.
3. Sew the Skirt:Sew the two circles of fabric together, leaving an opening for the waistband.
4. Add the Waistband:Cut a strip of fabric for the waistband and sew it to the top of the skirt.

5. Accessorize:Complete the look with a classic cardigan, saddle shoes, and a headband.

Decade-Themed Party Ideas

Throwing a decade-themed party is a fantastic way to celebrate a milestone, get creative, and have a blast with friends. From the groovy 70s to the glamorous 20s, each decade offers a unique set of themes, decorations, and activities to bring your party to life.

Decade-Themed Party Ideas

Here’s a table outlining different party themes based on specific decades, including decorations, food, music, and activities.

Incorporating Decade-Specific Games, Cocktails, and Entertainment, Decade dress up ideas

To truly immerse your guests in the spirit of the chosen decade, consider incorporating era-specific games, cocktails, and entertainment.

Games

1920s

Card games like Gin Rummy or Bridge, charades with 1920s movie titles, or a “Guess the Song” game with classic jazz tunes.

1950s

Bowling, a “Name that Tune” game with 50s hits, or a “Grease”-themed trivia game.

1970s

Disco dance contests, a “Guess the Song” game with 70s disco hits, or a “Name that Decade” game with images from different decades.

1980s

Arcade games like Pac-Man or Donkey Kong, a “Guess the Song” game with 80s pop hits, or a “Name that Movie” game with iconic 80s films.

Cocktails

1920s

Classic cocktails like the Gin Fizz, the Manhattan, or the Sidecar.

1950s

Milkshakes, sodas, and cocktails with names like the “Pink Lady” or the “Shirley Temple.”

1970s

Funky cocktails with names like the “Tequila Sunrise” or the “Harvey Wallbanger.”

Decade dress-up parties are a blast, allowing you to step back in time and embrace the fashion trends of a bygone era. From the flapper dresses of the 1920s to the bell bottoms of the 1970s, there’s a style for every taste.

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1980s

Colorful cocktails like the “Cosmopolitan” or the “Margarita,” and shots like the “Jello Shot.”

Entertainment

1920s

Hire a jazz band or a Charleston dance instructor.

1950s

Have a live band play 50s rock and roll or hire a comedian to perform a vintage act.

1970s

Hire a disco band or DJ to play 70s hits and set up a disco ball for a truly immersive experience.

1980s

Have a live band play 80s pop or hire a DJ to play 80s hits and set up a karaoke machine.

Creating a Decade-Specific Photo Booth

A photo booth is a great way to capture memories from your party. To create a decade-specific photo booth, consider the following:

Props

1920s

Feather boas, flapper dresses, hats, cigarette holders, old-fashioned cameras, champagne bottles.

1950s

Poodle skirts, leather jackets, sunglasses, vintage radios, jukeboxes, diner signs.

1970s

Platform shoes, bell bottoms, tie-dye shirts, disco balls, lava lamps, afro wigs.

1980s

Leg warmers, shoulder pads, neon sunglasses, boomboxes, cassette tapes, arcade games.

Backdrops

1920s

A black and gold backdrop with Art Deco patterns or a vintage cityscape.

1950s

A diner-themed backdrop or a red, white, and blue backdrop with a vintage car.

1970s

A tie-dye backdrop or a disco ball backdrop with flashing lights.

1980s

A neon backdrop with 80s graphics or an arcade game backdrop.

Decade Dress-Up Tips

Nailing a decade-inspired look goes beyond just throwing on a few vintage pieces. It’s about capturing the essence of a particular era, from the silhouette and fabrics to the hair, makeup, and accessories. Here’s how to get it right.

Choosing the Right Fit and Style

The silhouette and style of clothing drastically changed throughout the decades. It’s crucial to understand the defining characteristics of each era to achieve an authentic look.

• 1920s:Flapper dresses with dropped waists, loose-fitting silhouettes, and fringe detailing were the norm. Think low-cut necklines and knee-length hemlines. Look for materials like silk, velvet, and beaded embellishments.
• 1950s:The 50s were all about cinched waists, full skirts, and feminine curves. Think poodle skirts, petticoats, and full-skirted dresses with cinched waists. Look for materials like cotton, lace, and gingham.
• 1960s:The 60s embraced a more youthful and free-spirited style. Think mini skirts, bell bottoms, and bold prints. Look for materials like denim, corduroy, and brightly colored fabrics.
• 1970s:The 70s were all about bohemian chic and disco glamour. Think bell bottoms, platform shoes, and flowing maxi dresses. Look for materials like velvet, suede, and leather.
• 1980s:The 80s were a decade of bold colors, geometric patterns, and oversized silhouettes. Think leggings, neon colors, and shoulder pads. Look for materials like Lycra, spandex, and synthetics.
• 1990s:The 90s were a mix of grunge, hip-hop, and minimalist styles. Think slip dresses, denim jackets, and baggy jeans. Look for materials like denim, leather, and flannel.

The Importance of Hair and Makeup

Hair and makeup are integral to completing a decade-inspired look. They can instantly transport you to a specific era and enhance the overall authenticity of your outfit.

• 1920s:Think finger waves, bob cuts, and headbands. Makeup was all about a pale complexion, defined eyebrows, and bold red lips.
• 1950s:Think pin curls, victory rolls, and bouffants. Makeup was all about a flawless complexion, winged eyeliner, and red lips.
• 1960s:Think beehives, pixie cuts, and bold eyeliner. Makeup was all about a fresh-faced look with a focus on bright eyeshadows and false eyelashes.
• 1970s:Think long, flowing hair with side parts, afros, and feathered styles. Makeup was all about a natural look with a focus on bronzer, blush, and shimmery eyeshadow.
• 1980s:Think big hair, teased bangs, and crimped hair. Makeup was all about bold colors, bright eyeshadows, and heavy eyeliner.
• 1990s:Think grunge-inspired messy hair, braids, and low ponytails. Makeup was all about a natural look with a focus on nude lips, brown eyeliner, and light foundation.

Accessorizing with Vintage Jewelry, Hats, and Handbags

Accessorizing is key to adding that extra touch of authenticity to your decade-inspired look.

• 1920s:Think long beaded necklaces, flapper headbands, and feather boas. Look for vintage jewelry with Art Deco designs and geometric shapes.
• 1950s:Think cat-eye sunglasses, pearls, and gloves. Look for vintage handbags with classic shapes and elegant details.
• 1960s:Think psychedelic jewelry, floral headbands, and go-go boots. Look for vintage handbags with bold prints and geometric shapes.
• 1970s:Think platform shoes, bell-bottom jeans, and oversized sunglasses. Look for vintage handbags with suede or leather detailing.
• 1980s:Think leg warmers, neon-colored jewelry, and oversized earrings. Look for vintage handbags with bold colors and geometric patterns.
• 1990s:Think chunky sneakers, bandanas, and chokers. Look for vintage handbags with grunge-inspired designs or minimalist styles.

Conclusive Thoughts

Exploring decade dress up ideas is not just about replicating past trends; it’s about understanding the cultural context that shaped them. By embracing the fashion, music, and cultural events that defined each era, we gain a deeper appreciation for the evolution of style and the enduring power of fashion as a form of self-expression.

Whether you’re channeling the glamour of the 1950s, the rebellious spirit of the 1960s, or the disco fever of the 1970s, decade dress up ideas offer a unique opportunity to step back in time and celebrate the timeless appeal of fashion.

FAQ Resource

What are some common mistakes people make when dressing up for a specific decade?

A common mistake is focusing solely on the iconic items without considering the overall silhouette and styling of the era. For instance, wearing a 1980s neon-colored top without the corresponding shoulder pads and leggings can look out of place.

How can I find vintage clothing and accessories for my decade dress-up look?

Thrift stores, vintage clothing shops, and online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy are excellent sources for finding authentic vintage pieces. You can also check out vintage clothing rental services for a wider selection.

What are some creative ways to repurpose everyday items for a decade-inspired outfit?

You can transform a plain t-shirt into a 1980s-inspired look by adding shoulder pads, a belt, and ripped jeans. A simple dress can be dressed up for a 1950s look with a petticoat, a cardigan, and a headband.