The 6 Best Dress up Party Themes for Adults You Should Try | thepartytheme.com (2023)

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Great dress up party themes for adults are easy to come up with but not always so easy to execute. Anyone can come up with a perfect plan for a “Grease” theme party, for example. But do you have space, the time, the resources, and, most importantly, the people to pull it off?

Grandiose party ideas often end in disaster. So do themes you might think are fun but others may not. Don’t plan a hunting theme if your friends are vegetarians. A “Call of Duty Theme” may not go over well with your mostly female workplace. There is a lot to consider when looking for a party theme, and the first step in planning is brainstorming.

Planning Your Adult Theme Party

Stay away from extreme niche interests like “My Little Pony.” While there are plenty of available props and even a strangely rabid adult fanbase, you’re unlikely to find very many people in your social group who share such a specialized interest. The same goes for gender and age-specific themes unless that’s exactly what you’re aiming for.

People love a chance to dress to the nines or don a costume, however. And the best dress up party themes for adults, or for anyone, will appeal to the widest range of people.

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Your party space

The 6 Best Dress up Party Themes for Adults You Should Try | thepartytheme.com (1)

The amount of room you have available for your party makes a significant difference when you’re considering the best dress up party themes for adults. Say, you’re planning an outdoor party by the pool for 20 people, and it starts raining. Do you have room inside for those 20 people, plus the food and drinks tables? Will it ruin the ambiance and overall theme of the party?

Make sure before you plan anything that you have both the room and a contingency plan. You’ll thank yourself later.

Invite a good mix of people

Some of the legendary party hosts of all time became known for their soirees for choosing a wide variety of fascinating people to invite. So, while you may feel most comfortable inviting only a handful of your closest friends, consider opening up your sphere of influence. When you’re planning a big celebration, choose friends and acquaintances from different areas of your life.

Food and drink doesn’t have to be complicated

Even if you decide to go all-out on the decorating theme, you don’t always have to be so particular about the food and drink table. A good party food menu includes choices for all guests, even those on dietary restrictions. So, while it may sound fun to serve wild game pies for Tudor or medievaldress up party themes for adults, most of your 21st-century guests would probably rather you didn’t. Decor and plating touches can do a lot to transform your food table to fit the theme.

Provide adequate notice

When planningdress up party themes for adults, you owe it to your guests to give them enough notice to create or find costumes. If dressing up is the focus of the party, give your guests time to do it right. For large, formal parties, send your invitations to arrive at least six weeks before the date. For small, informal gatherings — say a Rocky Picture Show screening at your home — give your guests at least two weeks to find a lab coat or pink suit.

The Six Best Dress Up Party Themes For Adults

We choose the following six themesbecause they’re fun, easy to find supplies for, and diverse. Your friends and coworkers will be able to express themselves with each experience. Whether they want to be funny, serious, sexy, or just plain cute, these themes allow them to find and harness their creative sides.

1. Space

The 6 Best Dress up Party Themes for Adults You Should Try | thepartytheme.com (2)

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Space — The final frontier. When the theme is space, the costume possibilities are endless, and the decorations are easy. The beauty of calling it “Space” and not choosing a particular genre is that not only will you save yourself time building model nacelles and cardboard bat’leths. As for party supplies, the campier the better.

Your guests will arrive tothe awesome sights of paper planets, creative lighting, space-themed snacks — and a room full of the best costumes from this galaxy and at least one other far, far away.

Great costumes for this party are going to be easy to come by. The obvious sci-fi apparel is, of course, more than welcome. Anything Star Wars, Star Trek, Stargate, Battlestar Galactica — and the list goes on — is fair game. You could also go sci-fact and dress as your favorite real-life astronaut.

Build your own costume ideas include rocket ships, planets, and meteors, a sun, a moon, and, of course, the all-new Space Force. People will have no problem finding something that works with this ever-expanding party theme.

2. ‘Westworld’ And The Wild West

The 6 Best Dress up Party Themes for Adults You Should Try | thepartytheme.com (3)

“Westworld” is in. Cowboys and Indians; black hats and white, all began to fade away until robots happened. Because — Steampunk is just so cool. Your typical bank robber will now come complete with the battery pack he stole from a live bait aerator. The barmaid with the puffy dress will convince some poor schlep she’s interested, only to pretend they’ve never met 10 minutes later.

Whether you love the show or hate it, it will make for a great twist to an already fun party. Decorating for the wild west is pretty easy as well. A nice DIY touch to any wild west party is to buy old-looking cork-topped bottles and use them for the bar. Little touches like that turn ordinary parties into memorable occasions.

Aside from the “Westworld” theme costumes, your friends can also have some fun with horses, arrows through their head, and other tomfoolery connected to the era. The Wild West theme certainly deserves its spot on the list of the best dress up party themes for adults.

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3. Superheroes

The 6 Best Dress up Party Themes for Adults You Should Try | thepartytheme.com (4)

You can’t go wrong with superheroes. Aside from the wide array of available costumes, this theme gives people real choices. Not only are there multiple incarnations of every comic book hero ever created, Chuck from accounting can also come as “The Super Stapler.” Marge from your cousin’s bowling league decided to be the Nacho Ninja and your boss, who you thought had no sense of humor at all, came dressed as an on-time version of you.

Superhero parties inspire people to create. The host is no exception. Leaning in this direction means you either love the genre or you know of a Harley Quinn outfit you will just rock. Decorating is a breeze as well. Hit your local party city, pick a few heroes and dedicate a room to each. The Batcave bathroom is through Gotham Kitchen and down the Hallway of Justice — second door on the left.

4. Princes And Princesses

The 6 Best Dress up Party Themes for Adults You Should Try | thepartytheme.com (5)

There is not a campier theme on the planet than Princes and Princesses. The idea of royals may seem outdated these days. But, the live action versions of every Disney Princess bringing grownups back to the movie theater, maybe they’re not so passe. And what could be more fun and escapist for adults a real-life ball? Just because we grow up, doesn’t mean we have to lose touch with tales about fantasy lands of castles, magic, and dragons. And Daenerys Targaryen.

Decorating for Princes and Princesses is easy as well. One fancy dessert table satisfies the menu requirement. Lacey bows with flowers tied around things at random and signs that start with “Ye” are a must. Picking a friend to play King or Queen for the duration will add depth to the party and create smartphone video moments that will circulate on social media for as long as there’s an internet.

5. MasterChef

The 6 Best Dress up Party Themes for Adults You Should Try | thepartytheme.com (6)

The “MasterChef” party is brilliant. You have to either assume the role of Gordon Ramsay or have a friend volunteer. You can, of course, have up to three judges. All you need to decorate are some printouts of the show’s logo and some creative appetizers. The guests take care of the rest.

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The Masterchef party is one of the best dress up party themes for adults because the main course is brought by your guests. Your invitation announces that you’re hosting a dress up party and potluck. Their dish, dessert, or store-bought contribution will be judged for originality, flavor, and plating.

When done right, the results will be hilarious. Nobody will ever forget your “Masterchef” party. Your guests can come dressed as their favorite celebrity chef or just some wacky home cook from Piedmont, North Dakota with a beaver tail and something to prove.

6. ’80s Hair Band

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In 1989, if you knew three guitar chords, you could play three songs by Guns N’ Roses and Poison’s entire discography. It was truly the time of massive hairdos, power ballads, and stadium shows featuring blinding laser lights and spinning drum sets.

Your ‘80s Hair Band party gives your guest the opportunity to put on a wig and some leather and air guitar the night away. The soundtrack will be epic, the food will be pizza and the memories will last a lifetime.

Decorating for the ’80s couldn’t be easier. Retro 1980s posters, lunchboxes, and other memorabilia are readily available. And ’80s clothing is even making quite the comeback. And the hair? The women will love you for giving them the chance to tease like it’s 1985.

Never Forget Your Party

The biggest mistake you can make is not taking enough pictures and videos of your guests having fun. Throwing a successful party is something to be proud of. Set up your devices around the party to record whenever possible. Take the time to do live recording sessions with your friends. Have them talk about the party while it’s still going on.

You’re assuring that your friends, neighbors, and coworkers will all know that an invitation to one of your parties is something special that doesn’t come lightly. After all — you throw bashes based on the best dress up party themes for adults.

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FAQs

What is a good party theme? ›

32 Party theme ideas perfect for your next celebration!
  • Alice in Wonderland Theme. ...
  • 70′s disco, 80′s retro, or 90′s pop theme. ...
  • Arabian Nights Theme. ...
  • Black and White Ball Theme. ...
  • Bond 007 Theme. ...
  • Bollywood Theme. ...
  • Burlesque Theme. ...
  • Casino & Vegas Theme.

How do I find a party theme? ›

Step 1: Choose a Basic Concept
  1. Check the calendar. A calendar can give you great ideas for party themes. ...
  2. Think about things you love. This is probably my favorite way to choose a party theme. ...
  3. Consider being more abstract. ...
  4. Time. ...
  5. Energy. ...
  6. Money.
Jan 31, 2023

What is 90s theme party? ›

We're talking about all the plaid, overalls, chokers, JNCO jeans and light-up sneakers you can find. While lots of 90s styles are still so iconic, there are a few different themes that inspired the clothing throughout the decade: grunge, modern preppy, punk and hip-hop.

What is the most popular dress in UP? ›

The traditional dress of the women of Uttar Pradesh is a sari and a blouse or salwar kameez. The men opt for dhoti kurta or kurta pyjama. They also wear pagri or topi on their heads. On more festive occasions, men go for sherwani - which is an embroidered kurta with churidars.

What is the most popular thing to dress up as? ›

What are the most popular costumes in the country?
  • Witch.
  • Spider-man.
  • Dinosaur.
  • Stranger Things.
  • Fairy.
  • Pirate.
  • Rabbit.
  • Cheerleader.
Oct 24, 2022

What are the 5 senses of theme party? ›

There are really no tricks to a successful party, dinner, gathering or whenever or whatever you might be hosting. It's just organization and planning. But in all of it you have to hit the five senses of your guests the second they walk in the door: Taste, sight, touch, smell and sound.

How do you throw a fun party for adults? ›

Check it out:
  1. Create an Enticing Invitation. Your invitations must make an impact! ...
  2. Invite an Interesting Group of Guests. ...
  3. Use Festive Décor. ...
  4. Lighting is Super Important. ...
  5. Create a Lively Playlist. ...
  6. Incorporate Thoughtful Details. ...
  7. Offer Mouthwatering Food. ...
  8. Serve a Mix of Cocktails.
Jun 1, 2021

What makes a party more fun? ›

Lots of food, lots of drink and lots of ice and garnishes are key; it's a bore to run out of anything. More is more fun. "If you can't afford a full bar," says Elizabeth Allen, an event planner with offices in Boston and Manhattan, "have red and white wines and a novelty cocktail."

How do you look unique in 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!

Why choose a theme for a party? ›

Themed events can be a lot of fun, they make amazing photos, and they add an extra element of festivity. Plus, party themes can help with other aspects of your event such as the catering, entertainment, and décor.

What is an 80s theme party? ›

Ask guests to come dressed in their favorite 80s creations. Be prepared to see plenty of legwarmers, neon, animal prints, and hot pink. Or put a twist on a classic 80s party by making it a fancy dress code — challenge your guests to come as their favorite 80s movie character, or throw an 80s music-themed bash.

What is 1920s theme party? ›

Traditional looks for women include flapper dresses, sequin headbands, pearl necklaces, and feather boas. For men, think slim “jazz” suits, oxford shoes, and fedora or bowler hats. With your digital invites, you can even link to 1920s party outfits to give your guests ideas and inspiration to create their looks.

What is a 70s party? ›

The 1970s were known as a decade of excess, disco music, loud clothing, and big, feathered hair. All those amazing classic looks and music are the perfect theme for a party, no matter who is attending. Disco balls, bell bottoms, and platform shoes are fun for everyone, maybe hard to dance in, but fun nonetheless.

What is the highest dress code? ›

Also known as “full evening dress”, white tie attire is considered the most formal of all dress codes. The white tie dress code indicates that guests are high-caliber, royal, or have high social standing.

How do you dress up great? ›

They are practical, simple to implement, and will help you look stylish all the time.
  1. Get Rid of “Just Okay” ...
  2. Let Go of Dated Clothes. ...
  3. Choose a Neutral Color Palette. ...
  4. When In Doubt Wear Black. ...
  5. Invest in Simple Upgrades. ...
  6. Consider a Uniform. ...
  7. Have Enough of What You Need.
Sep 15, 2021

What is the most popular costume this year? ›

The top 10 Halloween costumes of 2022 are mostly inspired by popular films and shows. Yet, the most popular costume of them all is a witch for the second straight year. Other-character inspired costumes in the top 10 include some things we watched, like Spider-Man.

How do you dress to look trendy? ›

How to Be Stylish
  1. Wear clothes that flatter your body type.
  2. Stick to classic cuts.
  3. Choose muted, neutral colors and bold accents.
  4. Avoid busy prints and textures.
  5. Buy strategically.
  6. Create an interchangeable collection.
  7. Take care of your clothes.
  8. Get items tailored.

What costumes are trending this year? ›

Google Trends has released a list of the most popular Halloween costumes for 2022. According to Google's “Freight Geist” tally, Spider-Man, Stranger Things, a dinosaur, fairy, rabbit and pirate are among the top 10.

What is the 5th special sense? ›

Humans have five special senses: olfaction (smell), gustation (taste), equilibrium (balance and body position), vision, and hearing. Additionally, we possess general senses, also called somatosensation, which respond to stimuli like temperature, pain, pressure, and vibration.

What are the 5 senses toast? ›

To complete the five senses (sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch), don't forget to toast your family and friends with the clinking of the glasses. This tradition started in ancient times when the Greeks, afraid of being poisoned by their enemies, shared a little of their wine with one another.

What are the 5 senses to be grateful for? ›

Smell, Sight, Sound, Touch & Taste

And when they are fulfilled, emotions arise that words just cannot suffice.

How do you throw a killer party? ›

6 Ways to Throw a Killer Party or Event
  1. Come up with Something New. We all love a bit of creativity, newness, or uniqueness now and then. ...
  2. Give Your Event a Theme. ...
  3. Provide Different Activities. ...
  4. Inspire Your Guests. ...
  5. Send Quirky Invitations. ...
  6. Mix up the Guests.
Jan 13, 2020

How do you make a party not dead? ›

If the party is dying and no one is talking, it might be a good time to start up a few conversations. Forcing yourself to meet new people and get them talking can be a great way to bring some life back to a party. You can also try to introduce people to one another and get them going on their own conversations.

How do you get the most attention at a party? ›

Stand in a central position.

If you are at a party or another type of social setting, you'll receive more attention if you stand in a prominent place. If you're in a social setting with friends or people you know, ask them to join you in the center of the room.

How do you make a party more hype? ›

Good music and good food are a must-have in any party or event. Your choice of playlist and drinks can also set the mood of the party. As you enjoy with your friends or guests, the musicians too feel enthused to give their best shot.

How do you make the best party ever? ›

How to Have a Great Party
  1. Put together a rocking playlist for the party.
  2. Make batches of cocktails or mixed drinks ahead of time.
  3. Put out a bunch of tasty snacks for people to munch on.
  4. Greet people and offer them a drink.
  5. Let your guests know what to expect as they arrive.

How can I be classy at a party? ›

To avoid being thought of this way, you've simply got to put your best foot forward and make a positive impression on the other guests.
  1. How to stay classy at a party. ...
  2. #1 Don't drink too much. ...
  3. #2 Remember your table manners. ...
  4. #3 Wear proper clothing and keep it on. ...
  5. #4 Find a private place for romance.

What are some examples of theme? ›

What are some common themes?
  • Beauty.
  • Good vs. evil.
  • Coming-of-age.
  • Loyalty.
  • Betrayal.
  • Life and Death.
  • Justice.
  • Family.
Jun 29, 2022

What 3 things must a theme be? ›

These three aspects, complexity, continuity and intersectionality, combine to create a story that feels like its definitely about something, but still leaves the readers freedom to figure that out for themselves.

What themes are important for life? ›

Examples of Themes
  • Crossroads. Is there an event that changed the course of your life? ...
  • Body. How has health or sickness affected your life? ...
  • Death. What was your first experience with death? ...
  • Religion. How has your religion, or lack of it, made you who you are? ...
  • Family. ...
  • Goals or dreams. ...
  • Dinnertime. ...
  • Regrets.

What is the most important thing about theme? ›

Most importantly, theme allows readers to relate to the characters and their struggles – and to feel invested in the outcome. That's why we read novels and write stories to begin with, right?

What is a color code party? ›

What is a Color Party? A Color Party is a fun and unique party theme that celebrates happiness, bright colors and the spirit of all individuals!

What are color theme parties? ›

In a nutshell, a color-themed party is pretty much what it sounds like. It's a party that centers around designated colors. So, what does this look like? Well, the entire party could be focused on one color– where all decor, food, and attire are blue, for example.

What are at least 3 themes of the Roaring 20s? ›

The “roaring” 1920s saw the prohibition and reinstatement of alcohol, the advent of voting rights for women and Native Americans, and the birth of the Harlem Rennaissance.

What is a Gatsby party like? ›

What is a Great Gatsby party? Great Gatsby-themed parties bring glamour to the forefront of your celebration with Art Deco designs and golden décor elements. Expect live jazz ensembles, flapper performers, and sparkling Champagne towers.

What makes a Gatsby party? ›

The key to how to throw a truly Great Gatsby themed party is to embrace the feeling, sound, and aesthetic of the roaring 20s. This decade was all about gilding, decadence, and jazz. You can generate that ambience through fancy dress, live music, brilliant decorations, and 1920s-inspired drinks!

What is a 1970s theme? ›

When you think of the 70s, the disco era is an obvious theme. But there were plenty of other fashion and music disaster areas you can spice up your 70s party with. Decor – To create the mood, clear space for a dance floor and hang a mirror ball from the roof.

What is a 60s party? ›

What is a 60's theme? A 60's theme is a party that plays up the cultural revolution during the 1960s. People expressed themselves through peace symbols, short skirts, bell-bottoms, flower power, and big hair. Music was rock and roll, such as Beatles, Rolling Stones, and Jimi Hendrix.

How do you ask what the dress code is for a party? ›

If a dress code request is unclear, delicately ask the host for further explanation. "You can say, 'I wanted to check in on the dress code' or ask what people will be wearing and offer what you were thinking of," suggests Lockard. "Just ask for clarification."

How do you tell guests to dress for a theme party? ›

3 ways to invite your guests to dress
  1. choose a decade theme. Forget the toga parties from college and pick a decade that made a lasting impression on you, or one for which you wish you could have been around. ...
  2. dress like the guest of honor. Want to have a birthday party for your best friend? ...
  3. provide the clothing.
Dec 3, 2013

What to wear to a costume party when you don t want to dress-up? ›

15 Halloween Costumes for People Who Hate Dressing Up
  1. You... With a Mustache. ...
  2. Casual Batman. Wear a Batman half mask with whatever else you want. ...
  3. Doctor Who or Amy Pond. ...
  4. Whatever Sport You Play... ...
  5. Mouse Ear. ...
  6. Under-Dressed Beauty Queen. ...
  7. Charlie Brown. ...
  8. Umbrella Jellyfish.

What are the four dress codes? ›

Regardless of whether you are dressing for professional photos, a zoom call, or an actual meeting, it's important to understand the four main classifications of professional workplace attire: business formal, business professional, business casual, and casual.

What is dressy casual for a woman? ›

"This is where you're thinking more light colors and casual materials," she says, versus fancier fare like satin and sparkles. You can wear things that are a little more flowy, and even bold prints are acceptable. "That really cute sundress or maxi dress is a great example of dressy casual,” Swann says.

What is elegant casual dress code? ›

Elegant Casual

A step above resort evening, with this dress code, men are expected to wear a long-sleeve dress shirt with slacks and dress shoes—no shorts, t-shirts, or sandals. Women can wear skirts or pants with a nice top or a dress.

Should my party have a theme? ›

A unique theme for your party or event is by no means mandatory, but choosing one of the many unique party themes out there to liven up your event will make it more fun and memorable for everyone there. Remember to put fun ahead of the theme so there isn't an awkward and forced vibe.

What is the dress code dress to impress? ›

Dress to impress, also known as festive dress code is a relatively recent phenomenon, and can be a lot of fun to dress for. The key tenet is that the happy couple wants their guests to have fun with their looks. You'll still want to wear a suit, but you can play with the look by wearing a fun accessories.

How do you dress up gracefully? ›

14 Ways to Always Dress Classy
  1. Use neutral colors as your foundation. ...
  2. Choose solid colors. ...
  3. Wear classic patterns. ...
  4. Try out a monochrome look. ...
  5. Don't wear more than three colors. ...
  6. Mix and match textures. ...
  7. Wear a high neck and high waist. ...
  8. Follow the rule of thirds.
Apr 17, 2022

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.

How can I look more mature and dress? ›

Wearing clothing that indicates maturity is one way to project an "aged up" look.
  1. Blouses and dress shirts often look more adult than T-shirts or other types of tops. ...
  2. Avoid novelty clothes. ...
  3. Avoid embellishments. ...
  4. Pick subdued colors, rather than flashy colors.

How do you dress so you don't stand out? ›

Opt for soft, earth tones like black and white, grey and cream, rather than loud bright colors. Leave the expensive and flashy jewelry at home. Leave the bedazzled shoes, jackets, and purses at home too. When in doubt, dress up just a bit rather than down.

How do I not dress boring? ›

10 Styling Tips That Will Instantly Transform Your Outfit from Boring to Amazing
  1. Never underestimate the power of tucking in your shirt. ...
  2. Look taller by cropping your pants. ...
  3. Add a third piece. ...
  4. Wear a watch. ...
  5. Combine contrasting styles. ...
  6. Invest in jewelry. ...
  7. Make sure to accessorize when you wear basic sleeveless tops.
Jul 18, 2020

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