A decade costume lives or dies on its outline. People at a party will clock a dropped waist, a full circle skirt or a pair of flares long before they notice your earrings, so that is where I start every retro look I put together. The list below runs from 1920s flappers through 1990s flannel, and almost every one can be pulled from a closet, a thrift rack and a few cheap accessories. I've added notes on what usually goes wrong with each, which pieces are worth buying and where you can safely cut corners for a school day, an office party or a long night out.
Reading a Decade From Across the Room
Each decade on this list has one shape that people recognise before anything else. When I'm styling a retro costume, I pin that down first and only then think about colour, makeup and props. Get the shape wrong and no amount of accessories will save it; get it right and even a plain outfit reads correctly.
- 1920s: a loose, straight dress with a low or dropped waist, hemmed around the knee.
- 1930s: long, fluid lines and bias-cut fabric that follows the body without clinging.
- 1940s: defined shoulders, a nipped waist and a skirt that ends near the knee.
- 1950s: a tight waist with either a full circle skirt or a narrow pencil skirt.
- 1960s: short, straight shifts and A-lines that hang from the shoulders.
- 1970s: flared trouser legs, wide collars and long, flowing hems.
- 1980s: big shoulders, big hair and bright colour blocking.
- 1990s: loose layers, oversized flannel and baggy denim.
Hair is the second signal. A finger wave, a victory roll, a beehive or a feathered cut tells people the decade almost as quickly as the clothes, which is why a cheap wig is often a better investment than an expensive dress. Synthetic wigs shed and frizz with friction, so brush them gently with a wide-tooth comb and a light mist of water before the party, never with a hot tool.
1. 1920s Flapper Costume
The flapper reads from the hemline and the headband, so spend your effort there. A knee-length dress with fringe or beading in black, silver or a jewel tone does most of the work; a loose, straight cut is more accurate than anything fitted, because the 1920s shape skimmed the body rather than hugging it. Sheer tights and T-strap or low block heels keep you dancing. A short bob wig is the quickest route to the hair, though a pinned faux bob works if your hair is long. Sit the jeweled band low across the forehead, add smoky eyes and a deep berry lip, then long gloves, faux pearls and a feather fan in place of any prop that would be wrong at a family event. One warning: cheap fringe tangles, so hang the dress up the night before and shake it out.
2. 1920s Newsboy Costume
If you'd rather be comfortable than glamorous, the newsboy is the 1920s look I steer people toward. High-waisted brown trousers, a white button-down, suspenders and a tweed vest are all common thrift finds. Roll the sleeves to just below the elbow. The flat cap carries the whole costume, so pick one in grey, brown or herringbone and tuck your hair up underneath it. Brown lace-up boots or brogues finish the outfit, and a bundle of printed newspaper pages tied with twine gives your hands something to do. It also scales well for couples and groups, since everyone can wear a slightly different vest.
3. 1930s Hollywood Star Costume
Old Hollywood is the least fussy glamour costume on this list because the dress does almost everything. A floor-length satin gown in ivory, emerald, burgundy or black, ideally cut on the bias, drapes the way 1930s screen gowns did. Check the fit while sitting down; bias satin shows every pull. Glossy side-parted waves sit close to the head in this era, so skip big volume. Thin arched brows and a classic red lip are the real tells. Low metallic heels, long satin gloves, clip-on earrings and a faux-fur wrap finish it, and a compact or a small structured bag is enough to hold. Stop before you add glitter. The look should feel cinematic, not crowded.
4. 1930s Detective Costume
The 1930s detective is a suit costume with a trench coat on top, which means most people already own half of it. A three-piece suit is ideal, but tailored trousers, a white shirt, a patterned tie and a matching vest get you there. The tan or grey trench and a felt fedora are the two pieces that make people say detective rather than banker. Polished oxfords, a neat side part under the hat and a serious face finish it. I like a notebook, a pencil, a magnifying glass and a manila folder with a made-up case number. Leave anything that looks like a weapon at home; an old camera or a folded city map gives the same character without the awkward questions at the door.
5. 1940s Rosie The Riveter Costume
Rosie works because one red scarf does all the explaining. Dark high-waisted jeans or navy work trousers and a chambray or denim shirt are the base; roll the sleeves well above the elbow and knot the shirt at the waist. Tie a red polka-dot scarf around pinned-up curls with the knot sitting on top of the head, which is the detail people recognise. Fresh skin, defined brows and a red lip keep the face true to the era. Brown work boots mean you can stand all night. A small metal lunchbox or a rolled blueprint makes a good prop, and nothing here needs to come from a packaged costume bag.
6. 1940s Swing Dancer Costume
Before buying a swing dress, do the spin test in the fitting room. A tea-length skirt with a fitted waist only looks right on a dance floor if it has enough fullness to lift when you turn. Polka dots, small florals, navy, red and green all suit the period. Seamed-look tights and low Mary Janes, saddle shoes or proper dance shoes keep you on your feet. Victory rolls are the signature hair, but they take practice, so try them a week early or settle for a rolled updo held with decorative pins. Winged liner, warm blush and a red lip finish the face, and short gloves with pearl earrings add the polish. A partner in pleated trousers, suspenders and a tucked shirt turns it into an easy couple costume.
7. 1940s Pin-Up Sailor Costume
The nautical pin-up is the 1940s look I suggest for family events, because it's charming without needing anything short or tight. Start with high-waisted navy wide-leg trousers or a knee-length A-line skirt, then a sailor-collar blouse or a striped boat-neck top under a cropped navy cardigan. Red flats or white sneakers are fine; only switch to low block heels if you'll mostly be standing still. Polished curls with a red scarf tied above the forehead and a bright red lip carry the era. Anchor earrings and a small sailor cap do the rest. If you want a prop, a red-and-white cardboard life ring reads well in photos, but keep it small enough to set down without hunting for a corner.
8. 1950s Poodle Skirt Costume
The poodle skirt is the easiest 1950s costume to sew yourself, and felt is the reason. A full circle skirt cut from felt needs no hemming because felt doesn't fray, and a poodle appliqué can be glued or stitched on with a looped cord for the leash. Pair it with a fitted white, pink or black short-sleeve sweater tucked into the waistband, a chiffon neck scarf, white ankle socks and saddle shoes. A high ponytail tied with ribbon is the classic hair. Rosy cheeks, neat liner and pink lipstick keep the face light. Cat-eye glasses and a small record-shaped purse finish it. If you glue the poodle on, use fabric glue rather than hot glue, which peels off felt once the skirt starts moving.
9. 1950s Greaser Costume
When someone tells me they have an hour before the party, I send them toward the greaser. Dark straight-leg jeans, a plain white T-shirt and a black faux-leather jacket are already in plenty of wardrobes. Cuff the jeans once above black boots or clean high-tops. The pompadour is what sells it, so use a washable pomade or gel and comb it up and back, or wear a swept-back black wig if your hair is short. Retro sunglasses and a comb in the jacket pocket are the only accessories you need. It also pairs naturally with the poodle skirt above for a couple.
10. 1950s Diner Server Costume
A diner server costume is mostly about the apron and the hat. A pastel shirtwaist dress with short sleeves and a fitted waist is the base, with a crisp white half apron tied over it and a small paper hat or a hair bow on top. A curled ponytail suits the look. Cat-eye liner and a pink-red lip give the face the period cheer. White lace-up sneakers are honestly the right shoe here; servers stood all day. A plastic tray holding paper milkshakes or menus is a great prop, though it gets tiring to carry all evening, so make one you can set down. A handwritten name tag adds personality; pick a made-up name if you're going somewhere public.
11. 1950s Rockabilly Costume
Rockabilly sits between pin-up and greaser, and rolled denim is what separates it from both. High-waisted cuffed jeans or capri pants go with a red gingham, polka-dot or cherry-print blouse, either tied at the waist or tucked into a wide belt. Saddle shoes, canvas sneakers or sturdy ankle boots all work. The hair matters more than the clothes: a rolled fringe or a curled updo with a bandana knotted on top. Strong cat-eye liner and a red lip finish the face, with hoops and retro sunglasses as the extras. A partner in dark cuffed jeans, a bowling shirt and a pompadour makes an easy rockabilly couple.
12. 1960s Mod Costume
The 1960s mod look depends on a graphic print and a short, straight shape. A sleeveless A-line dress in black-and-white checks, colour blocks, circles or bold stripes is the anchor. White go-go boots are the obvious footwear, but knee-high boots with a heel get uncomfortable fast, so I often suggest low white ankle boots instead. A sleek bob wig with blunt bangs, pale eyeshadow and heavy black liner with defined lashes give you the face of the decade. Large circular earrings and white sunglasses add the finish. Fitted shorts under the dress make the length workable for a party where you'll be sitting on sofas.
13. 1960s Go-Go Dancer Costume
Go-go dancer and mod overlap, so I lean into colour and movement to keep them apart. Pick a bright A-line mini in orange, lime, pink or turquoise, or a swirling psychedelic print. Opaque tights and white knee-high boots with a low, stable heel let you actually dance. A flipped bob or high ponytail with a wide headband gives the hair its shape. Graphic liner, long lashes and glossy pink lipstick do the rest, along with big hoops and stacked plastic bangles. A small tambourine is a fun prop if it has no sharp metal edges. Dance shorts under a short dress are the sensible choice.
14. 1960s Flower Child Costume
A flower child costume suits a relaxed house party better than a crowded club, because the layers are soft and forgiving. Start with flared jeans or loose patterned trousers and a peasant blouse, then add a crochet vest or a fringed suede-look jacket. Flat ankle boots or clogs suit the look and are safer than sandals outdoors. Long hair worn loose with a centre part and a braided headband is the classic shape. Keep makeup natural with peach blush and a tiny painted flower at one temple. Wooden beads, friendship bracelets and a patched shoulder bag finish it, and a handful of artificial daisies is a cheerful prop. Stick to general counterculture fashion and avoid borrowing real cultural or religious dress.
15. 1960s Pop Art Costume
Pop art is the one retro costume where the makeup is the costume. A bright primary-colour dress or jumpsuit, contrasting tights and white or red ankle boots set up the base. Then paint Ben-Day style dots on the cheeks with skin-safe cosmetic paint and a round sponge or the end of a pencil eraser, add heavy black liner and bright lipstick, and put small white highlight marks on the nose and cheekbones. Keep the dots well away from the eyes. Black fabric tape along garment seams makes the outfit look inked, though tape can lift on stretchy fabric, so press it on firmly. A cardboard speech bubble with your own phrase is the finishing joke.
16. 1960s Space Age Costume
Silver fabric makes a space-age costume, but it's also hot, so I plan for that first. A silver shift dress, metallic jumpsuit or white tunic over silver leggings is the base, with white ankle boots or metallic sneakers you can walk in. A sleek silver bob wig or a sculpted bun gives the head a clean, futuristic shape. Silver eyeshadow, graphic white liner and pale pink lips keep the makeup friendly rather than alien. Wide metallic cuffs and a white belt finish the outfit. Skip helmets that block your view; a clear headband with soft antennae gives the same idea and stays comfortable. A cardboard control panel works well as a hand prop.
17. 1970s Disco Costume
Disco is all about how the fabric catches light, and sequins do that better than any metallic print. A sequined jumpsuit with flared legs is the ideal piece; a glittery wrap top with high-waisted bell-bottoms is a close second. Platform shoes give the right shape, but test them at home before the party, because tall platforms and a dance floor don't mix well. A big curly shape or feathered layers handle the hair. Metallic eyeshadow, luminous cheeks and glossy lips complete the face. Sequined garments don't breathe, so if the venue will be warm, choose one sequined piece and keep the rest in a lighter fabric.
18. 1970s Roller Disco Costume
Roller disco is a costume you can actually move in, as long as you leave the skates on your shoulder. High-waisted shorts or flared athletic pants with a striped fitted tee or a satin bomber jacket make the base, and knee-high tube socks with coordinating stripes are the detail everyone remembers. Wear retro sneakers at a crowded event and carry clean skates by the laces as a prop. Feathered waves or a bouncy ponytail suit the hair. Pastel eyeshadow and glossy lips, then a terry-cloth headband and wristbands. Rainbow stripes read clearly in photos, and the whole look stays comfortable enough for a long night.
19. 1970s Glam Rock Costume
Glam rock gets crowded quickly, so the rule I use is one loud piece at a time. Flared trousers with a sequined shirt or a structured metallic jacket set the base; if the shirt is busy, keep the trousers solid. Platform ankle boots with a secure sole add height. A bright shag wig or a wash-out colour spray covers the hair. For makeup, colourful eyeshadow, graphic liner and a few cosmetic stars are plenty for a family-friendly version. Test any colour spray on a strand first, since some sprays transfer onto collars and pillowcases. A toy microphone or a cardboard guitar with rounded edges is the prop.
20. 1970s Bohemian Costume
Thrift shops are full of 1970s bohemian pieces, so this is often the cheapest costume on the list. A flowing maxi dress in a small floral, paisley or earth-toned print is the base, with a crochet vest, embroidered jacket or fringed shawl layered on top. Brown ankle boots or clogs suit the look. Loose centre-parted waves with a braided headband or a soft floppy hat finish the hair. Warm neutral makeup with brown liner and peach blush keeps the face soft. Wooden necklaces and stacked bangles add weight. I steer people toward cotton and rayon over polyester here, because layered synthetics get warm surprisingly quickly indoors.
21. 1970s Game Show Host Costume
The game show host is a comedy costume, and the joke lands faster when the clothes are slightly too much. High-waisted flared trousers, a wide-collar patterned shirt and a blazer in mustard, burgundy, teal or rust are the core. A wide tie, a pocket square and a large watch make it look intentional. Feather the hair or wear a groomed side-parted wig. A washable stick-on moustache adds comic detail; test the adhesive on your skin first, since some cheap ones irritate. Carry a slim toy microphone, cue cards and a cardboard prize envelope. An oversized name tag with a made-up host name explains the joke without pointing to any real personality.
22. 1970s Detective Costume
Earth tones and a wide collar separate the 1970s detective from the 1930s version earlier in the list. Brown or plaid flared trousers, a tucked mustard shirt and a corduroy or faux-suede jacket build the shape. A wide patterned tie with brown loafers or ankle boots finishes the clothes. Feathered layers or bold sideburns give the hair its era. Keep makeup matte and understated. A notebook, an old-fashioned camera and a cardboard badge with an invented department name are the props. Leave out toy weapons and anything that could pass for real identification. Aviators and a chunky watch finish it, and the whole outfit works for anyone, built from thrift separates.
23. 1980s Aerobics Instructor Costume
An aerobics instructor costume is one of the few that's genuinely comfortable all night. A bright leotard over opaque leggings is the base, with contrasting leg warmers and a wide elastic belt cinching the waist. If you'd like more coverage, layer fitted athletic shorts over the leggings. White high-top sneakers are both accurate and kind to your feet. A high side ponytail with an oversized scrunchie is the hair. Bright eyeshadow and pink blush carry the face, with sweatbands and bangles as extras. For a group, have each person pick a different neon pairing; the variety looks better together than matching outfits do.
24. 1980s Pop Star Costume
An 1980s pop star look is built from layers, so plan the order before you dress. Black leggings or a tiered skirt over opaque tights go first, then a bright oversized top, a cropped jacket, fingerless lace gloves and a wide statement belt. Lace-up ankle boots or high-tops are practical. A teased high ponytail with a big bow sets the hair. Vivid eyeshadow, strong liner and a berry lip finish the face, with costume pearls and plastic bracelets piled on. If you use mesh or lace, wear an opaque camisole underneath for a family-friendly version. A toy microphone or a cassette-player prop is enough to hold.
25. 1980s Prom Costume
The 1980s prom costume is about volume. Ruffles, puffed sleeves and shiny fabric are the signals, so look for a bright knee or tea-length dress with big sleeves, a dropped waist or layered tulle. Thrift shops often have old bridesmaid dresses that fit this perfectly. Sheer tights and low satin pumps keep you dancing. Tease the hair into a side ponytail or a curly updo with a matching bow, and apply blue or purple eyeshadow with a strong blush. Rhinestone earrings, lace gloves and a wrist corsage finish it. A sash with an invented prom title makes a playful prop. For a group, wear different jewel-tone dresses with the same oversized hair.
26. 1980s New Wave Costume
New wave is the sharpest 1980s look here, and the shoulders do the talking. Tapered black trousers, a fitted mock-neck top and an oversized blazer with strong shoulder pads set the outline. A skinny tie, striped socks and polished loafers or white ankle boots add the attitude. An asymmetrical cut, a slicked-back pompadour or a short geometric wig suits the hair. Sharply lined eyes, pale matte skin and a deep red lip finish the face. Angular earrings and narrow sunglasses are the extras. Because the palette is mostly black and white, add one bright accent such as a red belt or a cobalt scarf, or the costume can look flat in photos.
27. 1980s Mall Fashion Costume
Mall fashion is the 1980s costume people often already have in a drawer. Acid-wash high-waisted jeans with a bright graphic sweatshirt, or an oversized denim jacket over a tucked T-shirt, is the base. Scrunched socks and white high-top sneakers are essential. A side ponytail held with a big scrunchie handles the hair. Blue eyeliner and glossy pink lipstick do the makeup. Oversized plastic earrings, stacked bangles and a colourful belt add the era. A decorated shopping bag from an invented store makes a fun prop, and a small belt bag keeps your phone and keys on you without breaking the look.
28. 1990s Grunge Costume
Grunge is the costume I'd hand to anyone who hates dressing up. Loose ripped-look jeans or a dark denim skirt over opaque tights is the base, then a vintage-style band tee with no copyrighted graphics and an oversized plaid flannel on top. Combat-style boots or worn canvas sneakers finish it. Centre-parted, slightly messy hair is the right shape, and minimal makeup with smudged brown liner suits the era. A black knit beanie and a simple choker add detail. Don't overdo the distressing. A neat flannel looks more like the decade than one full of holes, and it stays appropriate for school and office events.
29. 1990s Hip-Hop Costume
Proportion is everything in a 1990s hip-hop costume, so go a size or two up on the main pieces. Baggy jeans, track pants or loose overalls go over a bright T-shirt, with an oversized bomber jacket or windbreaker on top. Clean high-tops with visible crew socks are the right shoe. A high ponytail, simple braids or a cap worn forward or backward handles the hair. Fresh makeup with defined brows and a brown-toned lip keeps it natural. Large hoops, a chunky costume chain and a belt bag finish it. A cardboard boom box is a great prop, and generic sportswear without logos keeps the outfit easy to recreate.
30. 1990s Preppy Costume
Plaid carries the 1990s preppy costume, so start there. A plaid pleated skirt or tailored trousers with a fitted cardigan, collared shirt or sweater vest is the base, with knee-high socks or opaque tights and loafers or Mary Janes. A smooth blowout with a headband or a clipped half-up style is the hair. Natural makeup with brown liner and glossy nude lipstick keeps it period-correct. A mini backpack and a painted cardboard flip phone add the jokes. Friends can form a group by repeating one plaid colour across different outfits, which reads as a set without everyone dressing the same.
Thrift Racks That Pass for Vintage
Real vintage is often fragile, sized differently from modern clothing and a little costly to risk at a party with drinks. I build most decade costumes from modern pieces that happen to share the right outline. These are the sections of a thrift shop I check first:
- Formalwear and bridesmaid racks for 1930s satin, 1980s puff sleeves and 1950s full skirts.
- Men's suits and blazers for detectives, game show hosts and new wave shoulders.
- Flannel shirts, denim jackets and band tees for the 1990s, almost always in big supply.
- Scarves and belts by the register, which change a plain outfit into a specific decade faster than anything else.
Try everything on while sitting, not just standing. Older fabrics and stiff synthetics can pull at the seams when you bend, and you'll be sitting a fair bit at most parties. Wash or air out thrift finds before wearing them, and take off any shoulder pads you don't want before you add your own.
Period Makeup That Lasts Past Midnight
A red lip and winged liner turn up in half of these looks, and they're also the two things most likely to slide off by the end of the night. I line and fill the whole lip with a pencil before the lipstick goes on, blot, then apply a second coat. For liner, a gel or felt-tip pen holds better on a warm evening than a soft kohl pencil, which smudges fast.
Finish with a light dusting of translucent setting powder across the T-zone. If you're adding cosmetic glitter, stars or face paint dots, patch-test anything new on the inside of your wrist a day ahead, and keep paint and glitter away from the eye area. Remove everything with an oil-based cleanser before bed rather than scrubbing, which is kinder to skin after a long night.
Start With the Decade Your Shoes Already Fit
A good retro costume shows its decade from across the room and still feels fine three hours in. Get the outline right first, then add hair, a few accessories and one light prop you can put down. Authentic vintage clothing isn't necessary, and neither is a boxed costume; thrifted separates, closet basics and washable makeup do the job. If I had to start one tonight, I'd pick the decade whose shoes I already own, because comfortable feet decide how long you'll stay at the party.
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