Decades Day Fun: What To Wear To Channel Your Favorite Era (2024)

Decades day, also known as retro day, is an exciting opportunity to take a trip back in time and dress up in the fashion trends of past decades. Whether it's the fringed and floral prints of the 70s, the neon and spandex of the 80s, or the grunge and flannel of the 90s, there are endless possibilities to channel your inner time traveler. So, if you're ready to step into a different era and show off your fashion prowess, let's dive into the world of what to wear on decades day.

Flapper dress and headband

If you're participating in a decades day event and it's your turn to represent the 1920s, a flapper dress and headband is the perfect outfit choice. The flapper dress was a popular style during the Roaring Twenties and is characterized by its loose, straight silhouette and dropped waistline. These dresses were usually made of lightweight fabrics like silk or chiffon and often featured embellishments like fringe or beading.

To complete the look, don't forget about the iconic flapper headband. These headbands were usually made of sequins or feathers and added a glamorous touch to any outfit. They were often worn low on the forehead, with the hair styled in a sleek bob or finger waves.

When it comes to choosing the color of your flapper dress, you have plenty of options. Black is a classic choice that exudes elegance and sophistication. However, the 1920s were also known for their vibrant and bold colors, so don't be afraid to go for something more eye-catching like red or royal blue.

Accessorizing your flapper dress and headband is also important. Consider adding a long strand of pearls or a beaded necklace to complete the look. You can also wear a pair of T-strap heels or Mary Jane pumps to capture the essence of the era.

Overall, a flapper dress and headband is a fun and stylish outfit choice for decades day. Whether you're participating in a school event or a themed party, this ensemble will transport you back to the glamour and energy of the Roaring Twenties.

Bell-bottom jeans and tie-dye shirt

If you are attending a decades day party or event and need to dress up in 70s fashion, there are a few key pieces you should consider wearing. One popular option is to wear bell-bottom jeans paired with a tie-dye shirt. Bell-bottom jeans were a major trend in the 70s and were characterized by their wide flared legs. They were often worn with high-waisted tops or cropped jackets. Pairing them with a tie-dye shirt adds a fun and colorful element to your outfit.

When it comes to choosing a tie-dye shirt, you have a wide range of options. Tie-dye is a classic 70s print and was often associated with the hippie movement. You can opt for a brightly colored tie-dye shirt with bold patterns or go for a more subtle look with pastel shades. Whichever option you choose, make sure to wear it with confidence and embrace the laid-back and carefree vibe of the 70s.

To complete your 70s look, you can accessorize your outfit with some retro-inspired pieces. Consider adding a floppy hat or a headband with flowers to your hair. Platform shoes were also a popular choice in the 70s and can be a fun addition to your outfit. Don't forget to add some oversized sunglasses and chunky jewelry to complete your 70s-inspired look.

Overall, choosing to wear bell-bottom jeans and a tie-dye shirt for decades day is a great choice. Not only does it capture the essence of 70s fashion, but it also allows you to express your own personal style. So, dust off those bell-bottoms and embrace the groovy vibes of the 70s!

Groovy psychedelic jumpsuit

If you're looking for the perfect outfit for a decades day celebration, look no further than a groovy psychedelic jumpsuit. Inspired by the fashion of the 1960s and 1970s, this outfit is sure to make a statement and transport you back in time.

A psychedelic jumpsuit typically features bright and bold patterns, incorporating an array of colors and shapes. The patterns often include psychedelic swirls, geometric shapes, and floral designs. These eye-catching prints were popular during the hippie movement and symbolized freedom, peace, and love.

When it comes to accessorizing your groovy jumpsuit, opt for large, round sunglasses to complete the retro look. Add a pair of platform shoes or go-go boots to really embrace the 60s and 70s vibe. Layer on some beaded necklaces and peace sign jewelry to further enhance your outfit.

For your hair and makeup, consider wearing your hair down in loose waves or rocking a big and bold afro. You can also add a colorful headband or a flower crown for an extra touch of flower power. For your makeup, go for a natural and radiant look with a hint of shimmery eyeshadow and some mascara.

With a groovy psychedelic jumpsuit, you're guaranteed to stand out at any decades day celebration. Embrace the spirit of the 60s and 70s with this colorful and fun outfit, and get ready to dance the night away to some classic tunes from the era.

Poodle skirt and cardigan

Decades day is a fun opportunity to celebrate the fashion trends of the past. One popular choice for this event is the classic poodle skirt and cardigan combo from the 1950s. This iconic look is perfect for those who want to channel their inner Greaser or Pink Lady.

The poodle skirt is a full, knee-length skirt that was typically made of felt. It features a wide, heavily-pleated waistband and a poodle applique at the bottom. The skirt often came in vibrant colors like pink or turquoise and was paired with a matching cardigan.

To complete the look, add a button-up cardigan in a coordinating color. The cardigan should be fitted and cropped, hitting just above the waist. Look for cardigans with cute details like puffed sleeves or pearl buttons to really capture the 1950s aesthetic.

Accessorize your poodle skirt and cardigan combo with some retro-inspired pieces. Cat-eye sunglasses, a headband with a bow, and bobby socks with saddle shoes are all great options. Don't forget to style your hair in a classic updo like a ponytail or a high bun with a scarf tied around it.

For a more casual twist on the 1950s look, you can swap the cardigan for a letterman jacket or a denim jacket. Tie a scarf around your neck or wear a neckerchief for an extra touch of authenticity. Finish off the outfit with some white sneakers or saddle shoes to capture the all-American vibe of the 1950s.

So, if you're wondering what to wear on decades day, look no further than the poodle skirt and cardigan combo. This iconic 1950s look is fun, flirty, and will transport you back to the era of rock 'n' roll and sock hops. Plus, it's an easy costume to put together with items that you may already have in your closet. So, get ready to twist and shout in your poodle skirt and cardigan!

Leather jacket and jeans

If you are wondering what to wear on decades day, you can never go wrong with a classic leather jacket and jeans combination. This iconic look is timeless and versatile, making it a great choice for any decade. Whether you are going for a punk rock vibe of the 80s or a rebellious look of the 50s, a leather jacket and jeans will instantly elevate your outfit.

For a 50s inspired look, pair a fitted leather jacket with high-waisted jeans and a vintage band t-shirt. Add some cat-eye sunglasses and a scarf tied around your neck for that extra retro touch. Finish off the look with a pair of ankle boots or white sneakers, and you are ready to rock and roll.

If you want to channel the 80s, opt for a slightly oversized leather jacket and acid-washed jeans. Pair it with a graphic t-shirt, neon accessories, and high-top sneakers to complete the look. Don't forget to tease your hair and wear some bright red lipstick for that extra dose of 80s glam.

In the 90s, grunge fashion was all the rage. To recreate this look, choose a distressed leather jacket, ripped jeans, and a plaid flannel shirt. Complete the outfit with combat boots and a beanie for a cool and casual vibe. You can also add some fishnet stockings for an edgier touch.

No matter which decade you choose to draw inspiration from, a leather jacket and jeans combination is always a safe and stylish choice. It allows you to showcase your personal style while paying homage to the fashion trends of the past. So why not give this classic look a try and make a statement on your next decades day?

Neon leggings and oversized sweater

Decades Day is a fun opportunity to dress up and pay homage to a specific era or decade. If you're looking for a bold and attention-grabbing outfit, why not try pairing neon leggings with an oversized sweater for a look that screams 80s nostalgia? Neon colors were hugely popular in the 80s, and leggings were a staple of the decade's fashion scene. By combining these two elements, you'll create a striking and memorable ensemble that's sure to turn heads.

Start by choosing a pair of neon leggings in a vibrant hue like hot pink, electric blue, or neon green. These colors were all the rage in the 80s and will add a fun and energetic vibe to your outfit. Look for leggings that are made from a stretchy and comfortable material so that you can move and dance throughout the day without feeling restricted.

Next, find an oversized sweater in a contrasting color to complete the look. Opt for a sweater with bold patterns or graphics, as this was also a popular trend in the 80s. Pairing the bright neon leggings with a more muted or patterned sweater will create a visually interesting balance and prevent your outfit from being too overwhelming.

To complete your 80s-inspired ensemble, add accessories like chunky plastic bangles, statement earrings, and brightly colored scrunchies. These accessories were all the rage back in the day and will add the perfect finishing touch to your look. Don't forget to style your hair in a big and voluminous way, such as with teased curls or a crimped texture.

When it comes to footwear, you can go for a pair of white sneakers for a casual and retro look, or opt for platform boots for a more dramatic and bold effect. Either way, your neon leggings and oversized sweater combo is sure to be a hit on Decades Day, as it perfectly encapsulates the vibrant and fun fashion of the 80s.

Members Only jacket and acid wash jeans

For decades day, a popular outfit choice is a Members Only jacket and acid wash jeans. Members Only jackets were very popular in the 1980s and can easily be found in thrift stores or online. These jackets are typically made of a lightweight nylon material and come in a variety of colors. They have a distinctive collar and a front zipper that extends all the way up to the neck. Members Only jackets are a great option for a decades day outfit because they are instantly recognizable and can easily be paired with other 80s-inspired pieces.

In addition to a Members Only jacket, acid wash jeans are another key component of a decades day outfit. Acid wash jeans were also popular in the 80s and are characterized by their washed-out, almost tie-dyed appearance. These jeans can be found in a variety of styles, including skinny jeans, boyfriend jeans, and high-waisted jeans. They can be paired with a tucked-in graphic tee or a flowy blouse for a complete 80s look.

To complete the outfit, you can add some fun accessories that were popular in the 80s. This could include a scrunchie or a headband for your hair, neon-colored socks, or a pair of high-top sneakers. For makeup, you can go for bold, vibrant colors and opt for a blue or purple eyeshadow and a bright pink or red lipstick. Don't forget to complete the look with some statement jewelry, such as oversized hoop earrings or a chunky bracelet.

Overall, a Members Only jacket and acid wash jeans are a great choice for a decades day outfit. They are representative of the 80s and can easily be found or recreated with items from thrift stores or online. With the right accessories and makeup, you'll be able to transport yourself back to the 80s and rock your decades day look with confidence.

Shoulder pads and power suit

If you are attending a decades day event and are looking for outfit inspiration, why not consider going for a shoulder pads and power suit look? This iconic style is synonymous with the 1980s, a decade known for bold fashion choices and power dressing. By channeling this era, you can make a statement and stand out at any decade-themed event.

The power suit was a staple of women’s fashion in the 1980s. It was all about exuding confidence and authority, and what better way to achieve that than with a perfectly tailored suit? Look for a suit with strong shoulder pads, as they were a defining feature of this era. You can opt for a classic black suit with a button-down blouse, or go for a more vibrant color like red or electric blue for a more daring look.

To complete the shoulder pads and power suit ensemble, pay attention to your accessories. Don't be afraid to go big with chunky gold earrings or a statement necklace. Pair your suit with a wide belt to emphasize your waist and add a touch of femininity to the strong silhouette. Finish off your look with a pair of high heels or pumps to add elegance and height to your outfit.

If you want to take your shoulder pads and power suit look to the next level, consider adding some themed details. For example, you could rock a big 80s-inspired hairstyle with lots of volume and curls. Alternatively, you could wear colorful or patterned tights to add an extra pop of fun to your outfit. Remember, the key is to have fun with your look and embrace the fashion trends of the 1980s.

In conclusion, if you are attending a decades day event and want to make a fashion statement, consider going for a shoulder pads and power suit look. This bold and iconic style from the 1980s exudes confidence and authority. Pair your suit with statement accessories and themed details to truly embrace the spirit of this decade. Get ready to turn heads and rock your shoulder pads and power suit with pride at any decade-themed event.

Grunge flannel and ripped jeans

For a decade's day theme, a popular choice for many people is to go with a grunge-inspired look. This style was popularized in the 1990s and is characterized by its relaxed and rebellious vibe. One key element of this look is the grunge flannel shirt. These shirts are usually oversized and have a plaid pattern in dark or earthy tones. To achieve the grunge look, you can wear the flannel unbuttoned over a band t-shirt or a graphic tee.

Another important piece to complete the grunge look is a pair of ripped jeans. Ripped jeans were a staple in the grunge fashion scene and are still a popular choice today. You can either purchase pre-ripped jeans or DIY your own by taking a pair of old jeans and distressing them with scissors or sandpaper. The more tears and holes, the better!

To complete the grunge outfit, consider adding some accessories such as combat boots or Doc Martens. These types of shoes were also commonly worn during the grunge era and can add an edgy touch to your outfit. In addition, you can also add some grunge-inspired jewelry such as chokers or black leather bracelets.

Lastly, you can add some finishing touches to your grunge look with a few hairstyle and makeup choices. For hairstyles, messy and undone looks are ideal. You can try out a tousled, bedhead look or create messy waves with a curling iron. As for makeup, go for a natural and effortless look with a bit of smudged eyeliner or dark eyeshadow.

Overall, if you're going for a grunge look for a decades day, make sure to incorporate elements such as a grunge flannel, ripped jeans, combat boots, and messy hair and makeup. This style is all about looking relaxed, rebellious, and effortlessly cool, so have fun experimenting with different pieces and creating a unique grunge-inspired outfit.

Frequently asked questions