What is a typical 1980s outfit?

A typical outfit includes neon spandex, oversized off-the-shoulder shirts, acid-wash denim, leg warmers, fingerless gloves, and teased hair.

How can I make a quick DIY 80s costume?

Cut the neck out of an oversized t-shirt, wear it over bright leggings, put on some colorful socks bunched at the ankles, and tease your hair.

What makeup should I wear for an 80s look?

Go for bold, bright colors like electric blue eyeshadow, heavy pink blush draped along the cheekbones, and bright pink or purple lipstick.

AI-generated example

1980s

Bring back the neon, big hair, and bold style of the eighties.

The 1980s was a decade defined by bold fashion choices, vibrant neon colors, and unforgettable pop culture icons. People love dressing up in 80s attire for retro parties and Halloween because it is energetic, highly recognizable, and incredibly fun. A classic 1980s look typically consists of neon activewear, layered accessories, and voluminous hair.

Difficulty: Easy
Time: ~20 min
Budget: $25–60

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1980s costume — Example look · AI-generated

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40 1980s costume ideas

Ranked by how many people are searching for them this season. Open any one for the full guide and to try it on.

What you need for a 1980s costume

Neon bodysuit or oversized graphic t-shirt
A bright pink, yellow, or teal spandex bodysuit, or an off-the-shoulder oversized graphic tee.
DIY: Cut the collar off an old oversized t-shirt so it hangs off one shoulder.
Amazon
Bright leggings or fishnet tights
High-waisted spandex leggings in neon green, purple, or classic black fishnet tights.
DIY: Use any bright workout leggings you already own.
Amazon
Neon tutu or denim miniskirt
A layered tulle tutu skirt in contrasting neon colors or a distressed denim miniskirt.
DIY: Tie strips of pink and green tulle around an elastic waistband.
Amazon
Slouchy leg warmers
Knit leg warmers worn bunched up around the calves, matching or contrasting with the outfit.
DIY: Cut the feet off a pair of long, bright winter socks.
Amazon
Fingerless mesh gloves
Fishnet or lace fingerless gloves extending to the mid-forearm.
DIY: Cut finger holes into the ends of clean fishnet stockings.
Amazon
Chunky plastic jewelry and lace headband
Layered neon beaded necklaces, oversized hoop earrings, and a large lace bow headband.
DIY: Tie a wide strip of lace fabric into a large bow on top of a plain headband.
Amazon

How to put it together

1
Put on the bright neon bodysuit or off-the-shoulder graphic t-shirt.
2
Layer the neon leggings or fishnet tights underneath.
3
Pull the neon tutu or denim miniskirt over the leggings.
4
Slip on the knit leg warmers and bunch them down around your ankles and shins.
5
Put on the fingerless fishnet gloves and layer several chunky plastic bead necklaces.
6
Secure the large lace bow headband in your hair and add oversized neon hoop earrings.

Makeup & hair

Apply bright blue or pink eyeshadow up to the brow bone, heavy pink blush on the cheekbones, and frosted pink lipstick. Tease your hair heavily at the roots, spray with high-hold hairspray, and secure it into a high side ponytail.

1980s for couples, groups, kids & more

couples: Pair a neon aerobics instructor with an 80s heavy metal rocker in a band tee and tight zebra-print pants.
group: Go as an entire aerobics class with matching neon leotards, headbands, and wristbands.
kids: Dress kids in a miniature neon windbreaker tracksuit with matching high-top sneakers.
Plus size: Opt for an oversized off-the-shoulder sweatshirt paired with high-stretch neon leggings for a comfortable, authentic fit.
pet: Put a bright neon scrunchie around your dog's neck and a miniature sweatband on their head.

Tips

Wear comfortable sneakers like classic canvas high-tops or white running shoes to stay comfortable all night.
Layering is key for the 80s look; don't be afraid to mix multiple neon colors like hot pink, lime green, and electric blue.
Carry a retro prop like an inflatable boombox or a non-functional cassette player for great photo opportunities.

1980s costume FAQ

What is a typical 1980s outfit?: A typical outfit includes neon spandex, oversized off-the-shoulder shirts, acid-wash denim, leg warmers, fingerless gloves, and teased hair.
How can I make a quick DIY 80s costume?: Cut the neck out of an oversized t-shirt, wear it over bright leggings, put on some colorful socks bunched at the ankles, and tease your hair.
What makeup should I wear for an 80s look?: Go for bold, bright colors like electric blue eyeshadow, heavy pink blush draped along the cheekbones, and bright pink or purple lipstick.

Did you know? The iconic neon fashion trend of the 1980s was heavily influenced by the rise of MTV, fitness stars like Jane Fonda, and the popularity of new synthetic fabrics like Lycra.