Thanks to cable shows like “GLOW” and “Stranger Things,” the wave of nostalgia for the 1980s is going as strong as ever these days. As a result, chances are you’ve been invited to a few ‘80s costume parties over recent years. The trouble is always – where do you find the right stuff to wear?
Thankfully, I’m an ‘80s expert and so I’ve been asked that question quite often lately. The good news is you can find anything you want online – hey, those Member’s Only jackets don’t grow on trees anymore. Here are six great costume accessories you can use to help your ‘80s outfit.
Ready for your closeup
Nothing screams the 1980s like an off-the-shoulder T-shirt. Give actress Jennifer Beals credit for inspiring this trend in the 1983 movie “Flashdance.” Though it’s available in several colors, we recommend black with the pink lips for best authenticity.
Buy now: Smile Fish Women Casual Oversized Sexy Lips Print Off Shoulder T-Shirt
Everything you need
If you need a little extra help in picking out details for a costume, here’s a set that does the trick. It includes a headband, lightning bolt earrings and fingerless gloves. In case you’re wondering, fingerless gloves were part of the New Romantic music and fashion movement of the early ‘80s when British bands like Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran invaded MTV and American radio waves.
Buy now: Blulu 80’s Lace Headband Neon Earrings Fingerless Fishnet Gloves for 80’s Party
The mane attraction
Engage your inner Stevie Nicks or Heart’s Nancy Wilson with this “like totally” retro blonde wig. (Heck, even a guy could wear it to emulate his favorite hair-metal acts from the Sunset Strip.)
Buy Now: Fantalook Women Long Curly 80s Blonde with Reddish Brown Cosplay Wig
The most important detail
Who gets the credit for this fad – Jane Fonda, Olivia Newton-John, some random Valley girl? Leg warmers were in use by professional dancers as the ‘80s began but I’ll give the 1980 movie “Fame” credit for making them a must-have for any totally tubular costume.
Buy Now: Smiffy’s Unisex Adult Leg warmers
Colorful addition
There’s some debate among ‘80s purists whether neon was really a phenomenon of the decade. In the words of Frankie Goes to Hollywood, I say “relax” and just pick up these fun-loving glow-in-the-dark hoops for your ears.
Buy Now: 6 Pack – 2.5 Inch Glow Hoop Earrings Bulk Party Favors – Assorted Colors
