Guide Apr 28
Written by Stephanie Patterson Read about our editorial guidelines Stephanie Patterson
Table of Contents
Decades Day is an exciting opportunity to explore the different styles and trends from past eras. It’s a fun and creative way to dress up and show off your personality while paying homage to some of the most iconic fashion moments in history. Whether you prefer the preppy look of the 1950s or the hippie vibe of the 1970s, there are endless possibilities to choose from.
As someone who loves fashion and enjoys experimenting with different styles, I’m always on the lookout for new and interesting outfit ideas. Decades Day is the perfect occasion to try something new and step out of your comfort zone.
With so many different eras to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide on a specific look. That’s why I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite decades day outfit ideas to help inspire you and get your creative juices flowing.
Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1920s
When it comes to Decades Day, one of the most popular time periods to dress up as is the Roaring Twenties. This era was known for its flapper dresses, feather boas, and bold makeup. Here are some outfit ideas for your 1920s Decades Day costume:
- Flapper dress: A classic flapper dress is a must-have for any 1920s outfit. Look for a dress with fringe, sequins, or beading to really capture the spirit of the era.
- Headband: A headband with a feather or beaded detail is a great way to accessorize your flapper dress.
- T-strap heels: T-strap heels were a popular shoe style in the 1920s and will complete your flapper look.
- Fedora: If you’re looking for a more masculine 1920s outfit, a fedora is a great accessory. Pair it with a suit or vest for a dapper look.
- Newsboy cap: Another option for a more casual 1920s outfit is a newsboy cap. Pair it with a button-up shirt and suspenders for a laid-back look.
When it comes to makeup, bold lips and smoky eyes were popular in the 1920s. Consider using dark lipstick and eyeliner to really make your eyes pop. And don’t forget to add some blush for a healthy glow.
In terms of colors, the 1920s were all about bold and bright hues. Think reds, blues, and greens when choosing your outfit. And don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns for a fun and eclectic look.
Overall, the 1920s is a great era to draw inspiration from for your Decades Day outfit. Whether you go for a classic flapper look or a more casual newsboy cap and suspenders, you’re sure to turn heads in your 1920s-inspired costume.
Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1950s
Rockabilly Style
If you’re looking for a bold and edgy look for your 1950s decades day outfit, consider going for a rockabilly style. This style is characterized by leather jackets, denim, and bold prints. For women, a polka dot dress with a petticoat underneath can give a great rockabilly vibe. Pair it with a leather jacket and some boots to complete the look. For men, a classic white t-shirt with rolled-up sleeves, a leather jacket, and some jeans can give a great rockabilly look.
Greaser Style
Another great 1950s decades day outfit idea is the greaser style. This style is characterized by slicked-back hair, leather jackets, and denim. For women, a leather jacket over a white t-shirt with some high-waisted jeans can give a great greaser look. For men, a white t-shirt, leather jacket, and jeans with some slicked-back hair can give a classic greaser vibe.
Pin-Up Style
If you’re looking for a more feminine 1950s decades day outfit idea, consider going for a pin-up style. This style is characterized by fitted dresses, high heels, and bold makeup. For women, a fitted dress with a full skirt and a cinched waist can give a great pin-up look. Pair it with some high heels and bold makeup to complete the look.
Overall, there are plenty of great 1950s decades day outfit ideas to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a bold and edgy look or a more feminine and classic look, there’s sure to be a style that suits your taste. Just remember to have fun with it and embrace the spirit of the decade!
Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1960s
Hippie Style
If you want to channel the free-spirited, bohemian vibe of the 1960s, then the Hippie style is perfect for you. Think of flowy maxi dresses, bell-bottom jeans, and fringe vests. You can also accessorize with a headband, round sunglasses, and peace sign jewelry.
For a more authentic look, opt for earthy colors like brown, green, and orange. You can also add some tie-dye prints to your outfit. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes like sandals or moccasins.
Mod Style
If you prefer a more polished and sophisticated look, then the Mod style is the way to go. This style is characterized by bold geometric prints, mini skirts, and knee-high boots. You can also add a statement accessory like a chunky necklace or oversized sunglasses.
For a classic Mod look, stick to black and white or primary colors like red, blue, and yellow. You can also play with textures like vinyl or patent leather. Don’t forget to style your hair in a sleek bob or a high ponytail.
Overall, the 1960s was a decade of fashion experimentation and self-expression. Whether you choose to go Hippie or Mod, make sure to have fun with your outfit and let your personality shine through.
Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1970s
Decades Day is a fun way to celebrate the fashion of past eras. The 1970s was a decade of bold, colorful, and diverse fashion trends. Whether you want to channel your inner disco diva or punk rocker, there’s a 70s outfit for everyone. Here are some Decades Day outfit ideas for the 1970s.
Disco Style
Disco style was all about glitz, glamour, and dancing the night away. To create a disco-inspired outfit, you can start with a jumpsuit or a pair of high-waisted flared pants. Pair it with a sparkly top, a sequin jacket, or a metallic blazer. Don’t forget to accessorize with platform shoes, hoop earrings, and a disco ball necklace. For makeup, go for bold eyes and glossy lips.
Here are some items you can use to create a disco outfit:
Jumpsuit | Flared pants | Sparkly top |
Sequin jacket | Metallic blazer | Platform shoes |
Hoop earrings | Disco ball necklace | Glittery makeup |
Punk Style
Punk style was all about rebellion, individuality, and DIY fashion. To create a punk-inspired outfit, you can start with a pair of ripped jeans or a denim skirt. Pair it with a band t-shirt, a leather jacket, or a studded vest. Don’t forget to accessorize with combat boots, fishnet stockings, and a spiked choker. For makeup, go for dark eyes and bold lips.
Here are some items you can use to create a punk outfit:
- Ripped jeans
- Denim skirt
- Band t-shirt
- Leather jacket
- Studded vest
- Combat boots
- Fishnet stockings
- Spiked choker
- Dark makeup
These are just a few ideas for Decades Day outfits inspired by the 1970s. Remember to have fun and be creative with your outfit. Whether you’re a disco queen or a punk rocker, embrace the fashion of the past and make it your own.
Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1980s
If you’re looking for a fun and unique outfit idea for Decades Day, why not go back to the 1980s? This decade was all about bold colors, big hair, and statement accessories. Here are some ideas for putting together an outfit that will transport you back in time.
Preppy Style
The preppy look was huge in the 1980s, especially among college students. To achieve this look, think bright colors, collared shirts, and pleated skirts. You can also add some accessories like a headband or a pair of classic loafers.
If you’re going for a preppy vibe, try pairing a bright pink polo shirt with a pleated skirt in a coordinating color. Finish off the look with a pair of white knee-high socks and some classic white sneakers.
Hip Hop Style
The 1980s were also a time of great innovation in the world of hip hop fashion. If you want to channel this look, think oversized jackets, baggy pants, and bold accessories like chunky gold chains and hoop earrings.
A great way to achieve a hip hop look is to pair a bright, oversized jacket with a pair of baggy, high-waisted pants. Add some chunky gold jewelry and a pair of high-top sneakers to complete the look.
Whether you’re going for a preppy or hip hop look, the 1980s are a great source of inspiration for Decades Day outfits. Just remember to have fun with it and don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors and statement accessories!
Decades Day Outfit Ideas for the 1990s
When it comes to Decades Day, the 1990s is a popular choice for many people. The 90s was a decade of grunge, pop, and hip-hop, and there are plenty of outfit ideas to choose from. Here are some 90s Decades Day outfit ideas to inspire you.
Grunge Style
Grunge was a popular style in the 90s, and it’s still a popular choice for Decades Day. To achieve a grunge look, start with ripped jeans, a flannel shirt, and combat boots. You can also add a beanie or a knit cap to complete the look. For a more feminine take on grunge, try a babydoll dress with combat boots and a choker necklace.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at the search result from Who What Wear, which has a list of 20 ’90s outfits that make the decade look the coolest. They suggest throwing together all your favorite ’90s trends with a sleeveless turtleneck, overalls, a plaid button-down, and combat boots.
90s Pop Star Style
If you’re looking for a more glamorous 90s look, why not try a 90s pop star outfit? Think Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, or the Spice Girls. For a Britney Spears-inspired outfit, try a plaid skirt with a crop top and knee-high socks. For a Christina Aguilera-inspired outfit, try a denim mini skirt with a crop top and a choker necklace. For a Spice Girls-inspired outfit, try a tracksuit with platform sneakers.
Party City has a range of Decades Day costumes, including an adult 90s pop star concert costume, which includes a metallic silver jacket, a crop top, and leggings.
Whether you choose grunge or pop star, the 90s is a fun and nostalgic decade to dress up for on Decades Day.
Get Access to Exclusive Deals
Subscribe for free to get exclusive deals in your inbox. 100% privacy
FAQs
What do girls wear to party? ›
Jeans and a lovely top are a great outfit choice for a casual party. Wear a top with a unique neckline or sleeves, accessorize with a big necklace or statement earrings, and put on a pair of heels to finish off the look.
How should I dress for decades day in the 90s? ›...
Things You Should Know
- Channel authentic 90s grunge by throwing on baggy ripped jeans, a graphic tee and checkered flannel.
- Wear bike shorts, track suits, and colorful windbreakers to really run head first into a 90s sporty vibe.
Students and teachers dressed up in their favorite decade fad to celebrate spirit week. There were styles from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. Also some from the 1900s.
What do you wear on a 60s dress up day? ›Both men and women can wear bell-bottom jeans and T-shirts, and suede and fringed vests are always good for a hippie costume. If you'll be outside, a poncho will keep you warm. Both men and women can wear these.
How can I look more attractive at a party? ›First, allow yourself enough time to get ready. Groom yourself properly by taking a shower and moisturizing your skin. Next, choose the perfect outfit that matches the occasion, compliments your body type, and accentuates your skin tone. Last, avoid any stain-prone food or drinks at the party and have fun!
What is dressy casual for a party? ›Dressy casual attire (also called smart casual) is a combination of relaxed and refined pieces—think blouses, dress shirts, button-downs, dress pants, dark jeans, and clean shoes.
How do you dress like the 80s decade? ›- Wear bright colors. In the 80s, people were bold and audacious with their fashion choices. ...
- Accentuate your shoulders. ...
- Put on a bulky sweater. ...
- Don't forget a trench coat. ...
- Wear high-waisted bottoms. ...
- Find off-the-shoulder tops. ...
- Rock a mini-skirt. ...
- Go with ripped jeans.
Popular styles included bell bottom pants, frayed jeans, midi skirts, maxi dresses, tie-dye, peasant blouses, and ponchos. Some accessories that will help pull together your early '70s Hippie outfits are chokers, headbands, scarves, and jewelry made of wood, stones, feathers, and beads.
How do you dress like the 60s decade? ›Hippie style for both men and women included tie dye, bell bottoms, corduroy pants, sheepskin vests, mariner's caps, headband, sandals, and patches with flowers or peace symbols. The other big trend for men was called the Peacock Revolution, which mimicked Edwardian style.
How long is a decade? ›Usage. Any period of ten years is a "decade".
What is Spirit dress Up Day? ›
Spirit Day is the day to go all out, decked out in your school colors. Put together outfits in your head that exemplify those colors, by making everything you wear fall inline with the colors, from your regular clothes down to your socks and shoes.
What did people wear in the 90s? ›Scrunchies, acid-wash jeans, tube tops, and capri pants reigned supreme among '90s style trends, along with crimped hair, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, and punk rock.
What does a 60s dress look like? ›In addition to tailored skirts, women wore stiletto heel shoes and suits with short boxy jackets, and oversized buttons. Simple, geometric dresses, known as shifts, were also in style. For evening wear, full-skirted evening dresses were worn; these often had low necklines and close-fitting waists.
How to dress for vintage day? ›- Get Clear On The Decades You Like. ...
- Decide If You Want To Mix Modern Style In. ...
- Start Making Mood Boards. ...
- Retro Style VS. ...
- Add Some Personality Into The Style. ...
- Stock Up On Stockings. ...
- Explore Statement Pieces. ...
- Brush Up On Hair And Makeup Styles.
- Maintain Hygiene and Smell Good. Staying clean and smelling good attracts people around you because freshness and fragrance are enticing to everyone.
- Trim Your Hair. ...
- Buy Right Size Clothes. ...
- Give Yourself a Manicure and Pedicure. ...
- Pair Accessories with Your Outfits.
- Get your sweat on. Break a sweat and it could help lift your spirits. ...
- Give some compliments. ...
- Put a smile on. ...
- Give yourself a pep talk. ...
- Don't self-sabotage. ...
- Assess your relationships with others. ...
- Have a sense of humor. ...
- Have sex.
Things You Should Know
Maintain good grooming habits: shower and wash your face regularly, and keep your hair and nails neat. Wear comfy clothes that fit well and make you feel good. Take care of your body by getting plenty of sleep, eating a variety of low-fat, nutrient-rich foods, and exercising 2–3 times a week.
Make any looser-fitting dress more formal looking by cinching the waist to accentuate and elongate your shape. For example, a flowy maxi dress for women can be made elegant and goddess-like by simply using a high-quality belt to cinch the waist. Wear with a pair of heels and some jewelry and you're good to go!
How do you dress casual but classy? ›The go-to outfit is typically a pair of slacks in a neutral color, such as khaki, navy blue, or black. This is worn with a nice dress shirt. If you want, add a cardigan or blazer on top. Examples of a nice dress shirt include collared button-up shirts, crewnecks, ruffled blouses, cashmere sweaters, and vests.
What are some good 80s outfit ideas? ›Thrift for 80s fashion staples like acid-washed jeans, jumpsuits, and denim jackets. Channel the spirit of the 80s with a teased hairstyle, sweatband, and heavy, bright makeup. Add some 80s-inspired accessories to your outfit such as fingerless gloves, big earrings, and layered necklaces.
What is an 80s outfit? ›
80s fashion included high-waisted trousers, printed blouses, bright head and wrist sweatbands, ankle boots, Members Only jackets, and polka dotted dresses. Women then preferred bold oversized clothing and paired outfits with big hoops, fanny packs, bandanas, chunky jewelry, and socks.
What was the most stylish decade? ›Truth be told, 1970s fashion is some of the best, and the decade has some of the greatest style icons, too. From Cher and Bianca Jagger to Diana Ross and Grace Jones, the sartorial choices of these legendary stars still hold up today.
How to make 70s outfits? ›All you need are jeans, a white collared shirt, a red sweater or long-sleeved shirt to wear over the white shirt, and a white or beige bucket hat. Women can dress like Daisy Duke by wearing short denim cut-offs, a button-down shirt tied up above the navel and a pair of heels or cowboy boots.
What color is 60s style? ›The swinging sixties was a time of change. From the space race and the Cold War to free love and The Beatles, this era of self-expression led to an explosion of colour in 60s décor. Without doubt, vibrant colours were in vogue - most notably mustard yellow, orange, gold, and green.
What is an example of a decade? ›A decade is a period of ten years, especially one that begins with a year ending in 0, for example, 1980 to 1989.
What age is half a decade? ›A demi-decade is a period of time considered to be equivalent to half a decade, roughly five years.
What is 10 decades called? ›Answer: There are ten decades in a century.
10 decades = 100 years = 1 century.
For the international dress up day, students are invited to wear traditional clothing that represents their culture or another culture they have decided to represent. Asking students to dress up in traditional clothing attire encourages students to learn more about the history of different cultures.
What day is dress down day? ›Dress-down Fridays, otherwise known as casual Fridays, are popular policies that allow workers to wear more casual attire every Friday. Because they cost next to nothing to implement, and are generally perceived to have a positive effect on staff, dress down days have become more widespread in recent years.
What is carnival dress up? ›The costumes often combine assorted materials—fabrics, plastic beads, feathers, sequins, colorful ribbons, glass mirrors, horns, and shells—all aimed at creating a dazzling spectacle. In some areas, the parade lasts one, two, or three days; and in others, a whole week.
What does the 90s outfits look like? ›
Slip dresses, bomber jackets, scrunchies and plaid flannel shirts were all the rage during the '90s — and many of these fashion trends are working their way back into vogue (although some of these pieces may have never left your closet).
What does 90s dress look like? ›Common looks for women were crop tops, babydoll dresses over leggings, black leather jackets with shoulder pads, and colored or embroidered jeans, with slouch socks, Keds, or ballet flats.
What did people wear to parties in the 90s? ›Baggy jeans, cropped tops, slip dresses, and anything plaid was a smash hit for women in the 90s. They loved to accessorize these outfits with choker necklaces, beaded bracelets, and chunky chain necklaces. What outfits were popular in the 90s? Hip-hop and grunge outfits were popular in the 90s.
What should 60 year olds wear? ›- Big patterns, bold colors. ...
- Breathable Fabrics Reign Supreme. ...
- Embrace the unexpected. ...
- Balance timeless with trends. ...
- Mix textures and metals. ...
- Eye-catching accessories. ...
- Denim that fits like a dream. ...
- Updated basics.
Due to the high cost of fabric, hippies began to design and colour their own clothing. They frequently wear bell-bottom jeans with ankle fringe and flower patches as their attire. Their jeans were worn with peasant blouses, T-shirts, or short halter tops. They also enjoy wearing accessories, preferably handmade ones.
What is the 60s style called? ›Fashion in the 1960s became progressively more casual across all genders and ages. Womenswear followed three broad trends: a continuation of the previous decade's ladylike elegance, the youthful styles of Mary Quant and the Space Age influence, and the late 1960s “hippie” style.
How do you dress mature and classy? ›- Wear the right fit. ...
- Choose the right colors. ...
- Wear the right materials. ...
- Say hello to classy outfits. ...
- Avoid overexposing at work. ...
- Wear classic accessories. ...
- Wear chic undergarments. ...
- Don't forget shoes.
Keep your skirt and dress lengths to the knee or slightly above. Flowy dresses look best if they are mid-calf length. Steer clear of cropped pants — they were an unflattering fashion fad for way too long. Don't show too much skin: too-short skirts and tops that are too low don't flatter anyone.
How to dress to look younger than your age? ›- Show off your best features. ...
- Wear well-fitting clothes. ...
- Go for colorful clothing. ...
- Add flashy layers. ...
- Simplify your outfits. ...
- Wear trendy clothing. ...
- Choose quality over quantity. ...
- Choose a girly fashion style.
Don't Dress in Head-to-Toe Vintage
You don't want to look as if you are wearing a costume so don't dress head-to-toe in vintage. If you wear a vintage dress, pair it with modern shoes and an updated handbag and jewelry. A vintage blouse works well with new jeans and accessories.
How do you look vintage with normal clothes? ›
One of the easiest ways to make what you're wearing look more vintage is with the use of accessories and hair and makeup. Setting your hair in your preferred decade's style will automatically make your outfit more 'vintage'. Jewellery is also a great way to vintage-fy (I've just made that word up) your outfit!
How do you look vintage in clothes? ›- Pick Garments That Still Look Like Current Trends. One of the beauties of fashion is the fact that it's constantly evolving. ...
- Start Making Mood Boards. ...
- Mix-And-Match Vintage Pieces With Something New. ...
- Dress Around One Dramatic Piece. ...
- Add Some Personality To Your Style.
Men wear full dress with white tie, vest, shirt and a cummerbund. Women wear long gowns. Formal. Usually means the same as black tie, but in some trendier cities like New York or Los Angeles, it could mean a black skirt, no tie with a tuxedo.
What are party wear clothes? ›A party dress is a dress worn especially for a party. Different types of party such as children's party, cocktail party, garden party and costume party would tend to require different styles of dress. One classic style of party dress for women in modern society is the little black dress.
What is the most popular thing to dress up as? ›- Witch.
- Spider-man.
- Dinosaur.
- Stranger Things.
- Fairy.
- Pirate.
- Rabbit.
- Cheerleader.
To dress up for a party, try something simple like jeans and a cute t-shirt if it's a casual party, or go with a fun dress or button-up shirt if the party is at a nice restaurant or club.
How to dress simple but stylish? ›- Simplify your outfits. ...
- Accessorize with one simple item. ...
- Buy and wear timeless pieces. ...
- Choose the right colors. ...
- Go thrifting. ...
- Organize your wardrobe. ...
- Don't neglect your pants. ...
- Buy well-fitting clothes.
Khakis or good jeans (clean, no holes) Cargo or Bermuda shorts—depending on occasion and climate. Plain T-shirt (no slogans), polo shirt, turtleneck. Casual button-down shirt and/or sweater. Loafers, sneakers (with or without socks), sandals.
What is the most attractive thing a girl can wear? ›- Skinny jeans. Skinny jeans are trademarks of a sexy fashion style. ...
- Red outfits. Wearing bold colors like red can improve your look instantly. ...
- Mini-skirts. ...
- Formal dresses. ...
- Lounge shorts. ...
- Nightgowns. ...
- Denim jackets. ...
- Leggings.
Scientists have revealed that wearing the colour red will make you more attractive to the opposite sex. Studies reveal that red is the most attractive colour to both men and women but, curiously, the two genders are attracted to the same colour for different reasons.
Do guys prefer dresses or jeans? ›
It depends on the guy and the occasion, but in general, both styles are attractive and will turn most men on. Typically, younger guys like girls in jeans, whereas older guys favor more sophisticated outfits like a particular dress.
What is smart casual for a party? ›Smart casual translates to dressy casual or casual chic.