Many people will single out the 1980s as the best years of their life. Bjorn Borg ruled Wimbledon and new romantics, punks and glam rockers dominated the music charts. The 1980s also gave us the Rubik’s Cube (how could we have lived without it?), the first Windows program and the mobile phone. Dynasty had us glued to our TVs, Harrison Ford appeared in every blockbuster and we all watched Fame wearing legwarmers. Purple was cool.
For 80s fancy dress you can take your inspiration from your old wardrobe, or films and TV or music. From Princess Leia to Indiana Jones, Wham to Def Leopard you can take your cues from your favourite 80s memories.
Start with your own wardrobe. Shoulder pads were probably the defining fashion trend of the 1980s for both men and women. It doesn’t take much to turn any outfit into a 1980s fashion fest. You can pick up shoulder pads for pennies in any haberdashery shop. Team with big hair and flashy jewellery for an easy-to-do-at-home 1980s look. You’ll come over all Alexis Carrington. If you’d prefer something more casual, hunt down old leotards, headbands and leg warmers. With different makeup the same look can turn you into a Replicant.
Of course you don’t have to stick with a DIY option. Even if you hire a fancy dress costume or wig you can still make it your own with additional clothes, expert make up and accessories. For example you can hire a glam rock wig and pair it with your favourite leather jeans and metallic make up. You could even go for a nurses uniform and recapture those Nick Berry heartbeat moments.
With costumes choices for men, the first question you need to answer is: are you going to play it straight or not? If so, the Indiana Jones / James Bond route is a good one to go. You may be able to assemble the complete look without resorting to hiring a costume. Game for glamming up? The Wham look is easy to create at home with the additional of a wig. Or you could dress up biker gear to go all Mad Max. Want to turn up the volume? Go the whole hog and hire a glam rock outfit or turn yourself into a Prince wannabe. This works well if you have a guitar lurking at home. Feeling brave? Dig out a shell suit. These can also be hired.