The 1980s were a vibrant and eclectic decade, characterized by bold fashion, iconic music, and memorable pop culture moments. For a kids' costume party, the 80s offer a treasure trove of fun and creative ideas. Here are 14 of the best 1980s costume party ideas for kids, complete with detailed descriptions and suggestions to help you plan the perfect outfit.
1. Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, was one of the most influential figures of the 80s. A Michael Jackson costume can include:
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Red leather jacket: Inspired by the Thriller music video.
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Black pants: Preferably with a silver stripe down the side.
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White glove: Bedazzled with rhinestones.
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Black fedora: To complete the iconic look.
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Accessories: Sunglasses and white socks with black loafers.
2. Madonna
Madonna's bold and edgy style made her a fashion icon of the 80s. A Madonna costume can be assembled with:
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Lace gloves: Fingerless and black.
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Tulle skirt: Layered and colorful.
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Leather jacket: With plenty of zippers.
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Big hair: Teased and crimped.
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Accessories: Cross necklaces, bangles, and large hoop earrings.
3. Ghostbusters
The Ghostbusters franchise was a massive hit in the 80s. A Ghostbusters costume includes:
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Jumpsuit: Beige or khaki, with the Ghostbusters logo.
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Proton pack: A DIY version can be made from cardboard and paint.
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Boots: Black combat boots.
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Accessories: Ghost trap and a walkie-talkie.
4. Care Bears
Care Bears were beloved characters from the 80s. A Care Bear costume can be created with:
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Bear suit: In bright colors like blue, pink, or yellow.
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Belly badge: Featuring a symbol like a heart, star, or rainbow.
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Headband: With bear ears.
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Face paint: To add a bear nose and whiskers.
5. Punk Rocker
The punk rock scene was thriving in the 80s. A punk rocker costume includes:
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Leather jacket: Studded and worn.
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Ripped jeans: The more holes, the better.
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Band t-shirt: Featuring bands like The Ramones or Sex Pistols.
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Combat boots: Black and sturdy.
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Accessories: Spiked bracelets, chains, and safety pins.
6. Princess Leia
Star Wars continued to be popular in the 80s, and Princess Leia is an iconic character. A Princess Leia costume includes:
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White dress: Long and flowing.
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Belt: Silver or white.
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Hair buns: Styled on either side of the head.
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Boots: White or silver.
7. Marty McFly
Marty McFly from Back to the Future is a classic 80s character. A Marty McFly costume includes:
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Red puffer vest: Worn over a denim jacket.
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Plaid shirt: Layered underneath.
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Jeans: Light wash and slightly baggy.
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Sneakers: White with red accents.
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Accessories: A skateboard and aviator sunglasses.
8. Rainbow Brite
Rainbow Brite was a colorful and magical character from the 80s. A Rainbow Brite costume includes:
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Rainbow dress: With bright, multi-colored stripes.
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Arm and leg warmers: In matching rainbow colors.
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Boots: White with rainbow accents.
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Wig: Bright yellow with a red bow.
9. The Karate Kid
Daniel LaRusso from The Karate Kid is an iconic 80s character. A Karate Kid costume includes:
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Karate gi: White with a black belt.
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Headband: With a sunburst design.
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Bare feet: Or simple white sneakers.
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Accessories: A toy bonsai tree or a karate trophy.
10. E.T.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a beloved character from the 80s. An E.T. costume includes:
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Brown bodysuit: With a hood to mimic E.T.'s head.
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Gloves and shoes: In matching brown.
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Accessories: A red hoodie and a basket with a toy phone.
11. Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper's eclectic and colorful style made her a fashion icon of the 80s. A Cyndi Lauper costume includes:
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Bright, mismatched clothes: Layers of skirts, leggings, and tops.
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Big hair: Teased and dyed in bright colors.
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Makeup: Bold eyeshadow and red lipstick.
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Accessories: Large earrings, bangles, and a microphone.
12. Pac-Man
Pac-Man was one of the most popular video games of the 80s. A Pac-Man costume includes:
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Yellow bodysuit: With a large, round shape.
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Face paint: To create Pac-Man's eyes and mouth.
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Accessories: Ghosts made from cardboard or fabric.
13. Smurfs
The Smurfs were a popular cartoon in the 80s. A Smurf costume includes:
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Blue bodysuit: To mimic the Smurf's skin.
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White pants and hat: Classic Smurf attire.
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Face paint: Blue to match the bodysuit.
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Accessories: A toy mushroom or a small stuffed animal.
14. 80s Workout Enthusiast
The fitness craze of the 80s brought neon workout gear into the spotlight. An 80s workout costume includes:
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Leotard: In bright neon colors.
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Leg warmers: Matching the leotard.
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Headband: Sweatband style.
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Tights: In contrasting neon colors.
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Sneakers: White with bright accents.
Conclusion
The 1980s were a decade of bold fashion, memorable characters, and iconic pop culture moments. These 14 costume ideas capture the essence of the era and provide a fun and creative way for kids to celebrate at a costume party. Whether they want to be a pop star, a movie character, or a cartoon favorite, there's an 80s costume idea to suit every child's taste.
