You Have to See These Nostalgic ’80s Halloween Costume Ideas
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When it comes to creative Halloween costume ideas, there’s one theme that will never get old: nostalgia. And what better decade to fill you with good memories of yesteryear than the 1980s? The decade was defined by plenty of memorable pop culture moments, iconic trends, and instantly recognizable fashion. In other words: tons of fodder for the best ’80s costume ideas for Halloween!
When you think of the ’80s, you might first think of bright neon clothing, high-waisted leggings, and leotards galore. While these trends make excellent additions to any ’80s costume, there are tons of other ways to throw it back to your favorite decade. For one, you can take your pick of countless iconic characters from the decade’s most popular TV shows and movies, from Dirty Dancing’s Baby (played by Jennifer Grey) to Kelly Kapowski (Tiffani Thiessen) from Saved by the Bell. Or you can dress up as one of the many legendary ’80s singers (Madonna or Prince, anyone?). Even your favorite toy or game from the decade (like Pacman or a Rubik’s cube!) would make for a fun get-up.
And if you’re looking to take on Halloween with a crew this year, don’t worry: There are also plenty of creative group Halloween costume ideas, including best friend Halloween costumes and trio Halloween costumes. So, if you find yourself longing for the days where MTV actually played music videos or reminiscing on childhood memories of playing with Cabbage Patch dolls, check out our list of the best ’80s Halloween costume ideas below—and get ready to relive your favorite decade.
Our top picks:
Keep scrolling for some of the best ’80s costumes you can order online for Halloween 2023.
“Barbie” Adult Skating Barbie Costume
If there’s one look we want to steal from the recent Barbie movie, it’s Margot Robbie’s neon rollerskating get-up that looks straight out of the ’80s. Luckily, this Halloween costume lets you transform into Rollerskating Barbie with a colorful onesie and matching visor, knee pads, elbow pads, fanny pack, and even a set of neon hoop earrings. (And of course, your Ken will need his own matching outfit!)
“Top Gun” Men’s Flight Pilot Adult Costume
If your love of the classic 1986 film Top Gun came flying back after watching the most recent movie sequel, this is the perfect costume to suit up in this Halloween. Just don’t forget to grab the Goose to your Maverick (a.k.a. your best pal)!
Where’s Waldo Unisex Halloween Costume
We can’t forget Waldo from the legendary ’80s puzzle books. While it’s always a challenge to spot him within the pages, it’s actually easy to dress up as the beloved character: All you need is a candy-cane striped sweater, a matching hat, and circular spectacles.
“The Shining” Grady Twins Costume
Going for a disguise that’s completely spooky? Call up one of your friends and dress up as the hauntingly scary Grady Twins from the 1980 horror film, The Shining. This kit makes the whole getup easy to assemble; it comes with the dress, a headband, and knee-high socks. The only thing you’ll need to perfect is their iconic line: “Come play with us, Danny.”
’80s Workout Costume
Break out the neon sweatbands, leg warmers, and leopard print leggings—and start cranking up Let’s Get Physical by Olivia Newton-John. This totally rad ’80s workout costume will let you relive those good old Jazzercise days!
“Karate Kid” Women’s Cobra Kai Costume
Was Karate Kid was one of your favorite movie franchises back in the ’80s? Get ready for some martial arts action with this Halloween costume, which comes complete with a black tunic, black karate pants, a black Cobra Kai headband, and of course, a black belt.
Garfield Costume
It’s everyone’s favorite grumpy, lasagna-loving, Monday-hating cat! If Garfield was your favorite comic strip back in the ’80s, now you can transform into the beloved feline yourself with this adorable, super-plush costume.
’80s Rock Freddie Mercury Costume
Pay homage to the legendary ’80s rock singer and frontman of Queen, Freddie Mercury, with this Halloween costume. It comes with his iconic military-style yellow jacket and a pair of white and red striped pants.
“Beetlejuice” Costume
If Beetlejuice is the one creepy movie you watch again and again, you just have to dress up as the crazed trickster this Halloween. When people yell his name three times, make sure you pop out in this pinstriped getup and yell, “It’s showtime!”
"Beetlejuice" Lydia Costume
You can’t have Beetlejuice without Lydia! Dress up as everyone’s favorite gothic icon in that terrifying red wedding dress. Not only will it be the scariest costume at the party, but it’ll blow away the competition in a room full of vampires.
Prince Costume
If we had to credit someone with making the color purple an all-time favorite of ours, it would definitely be Prince. And now you can pretend to be the pop singer in this costume of his iconic Purple Rain outfit. Complete with a mid-length purple jacket, ruffle dickie top, and pants, it’s perfect for any pop-themed Halloween costume party.
”Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” Adult Ferris Bueller Costume
Get ready for your own day off this Halloween with this costume inspired by the classic 1986 film Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. The set includes Ferris’s signature leather jacket and patterned sweater vest. Just don’t forget to grab your Cameron and Sloane before hitting the town!
Indiana Jones Inspired Costume
Grab your torch, crack the whip, and get ready to transform into your favorite adventurer from the iconic ’80s franchise. This Indiana Jones-inspired costume comes not only with a jacket and trousers but also Indiana’s signature hat and messenger bag.
“Saved by the Bell” Kelly Kapowski Costume
Dress up as your favorite cheerleader at Bayside High School that’s known for her positive attitude and killer style. There’s nothing Kelly Kapowski couldn’t pull off and channeling that cool girl energy with a crop top, short skirt, and sneaks is the way to do it. Oh, and don’t forget that feathered hair style!
“Back to The Future” Jennifer Parker Costume
It’s a blast from the past! Marty McFly, Jennifer Parker, and even the ingenious Doc Brown come together to make this epic ’80s costume. To dress up as Jennifer, you’ll need these multi-colored leggings, a pink button-down shirt, and a jean vest.
1980s Pop Diva Costume
Nothing screams the ’80s more than a pop diva costume (Madonna, anyone?) complete with a flashy, golden leotard, black tights, a signature high side ponytail, and a headset. Whether you’re a synth-pop superfan or just feeling a little nostalgic for a golden moment in pop culture, this glamorous and edgy outfit will make you the star of any Halloween party.
“Flashdance” Costume
Before Dirty Dancing, there was Flashdance. And if you grew up in the ’80s, you know this classic just made you want to get up and dance. Wearing this Alex Owens costume for Halloween will give you full authority to dance like you mean it.
“Wayne's World” Garth and Wayne Costume Set
Fans may love the hilarious movie, but die-hards know the phenomenon started with a skit on SNL. It’s so easy to pull off this rocker dude look. Just get Wayne’s hat, Garth’s drumsticks, and wear ripped-up boyfriend jeans. Excellent!
“Who Framed Roger Rabbit?” Jessica Rabbit Costume
If you’re looking for a subtle ’80s costume, this hot version of Jessica Rabbit, which made her debut in the early 1980s, will do the trick. Channel your inner femme fatale with this costume complete with a sparkly red dress and long purple gloves. Simply add some red pumps and a red wig and you’ll be ready to go.
“Friday the 13th” Adult Camp Crystal Lake Counselor Costume
It might not be Friday the 13th, but October 31st can get pretty spooky—especially if you’re a counselor at Camp Crystal Lake. Ask a friend to dress up as Jason, and you’ll be the scariest duo around.
Freddy Krueger Costume
You couldn’t sleep for a week after seeing A Nightmare on Elm Street...but it doesn’t stop you from watching it on TV as an adult! Pay tribute to the horror film by dressing up as the paranormal serial killer who haunts kids in their dreams. It doesn’t get more nightmarish than this, folks.
Salt-N-Pepa Costume
“Push it real good” in this iconic Salt-N-Pepa costume that includes the leotard, jacket, and shining gold necklace. Go solo or grab two friends to complete the trio.
Dolly Parton Costume
Dress up as the Queen of Country during this Halloween in this long-sleeved, bell-bottomed, super sparkly pink jumpsuit. Tease your hair or add a voluminous, blonde wig, and you’ll look like the living legend in no time.
Bob Ross Costume
Paint nothing but happy little trees and good vibes only this Halloween with this one-stop-shop Bob Ross costume. It includes everything you’ll need from the wig to the paint palette and brush.
“Heathers” Heather Chandler Costume
Forget Regina, Gretchen, and Karen—this Halloween, it’s all about the Heathers. Channel that original mean girl energy from the 1980s dark comedy that made popular cliques look so cool with those classy pinstripe blazers and pleated skirts. Well, cool until their untimely demise. “How very,” indeed.
“The Little Mermaid” Ariel Costume
If you’ve always wanted a pair of fins after watching the 1989 VHS of the The Little Mermaid, now’s your chance. Shimmy on this mermaid-style skirt and the purple tank, plus add a few starfish clips to your hair, and you’re ready to go as the most curious princess under the sea. Get your partner or friend to dress up as Prince Eric for the perfect couple’s costume!
Care Bears Costume
If you’re looking for a comfortable, family-friendly Halloween costume, this Care Bears outfit is the way to go. Its soft, fuzzy exterior will feel like a big ol’ blanket (ideal for cooler temps), and because you’ll feel at ease, we can almost guarantee your belly badge is always a cheerful one.
“Ghostbusters” Costume
If you’re all about the paranormal (in the fun, comedic sort of way), these Ghostbusters Halloween costumes are a dead ringer for the jumpsuits worn by the original trio in this 1984 blockbuster. Strap on the inflatable backpack and you’re in ghost business.
“Stranger Things” Eleven Costume
Netflix’s Stranger Things gave us all the nostalgia feels, but season 3 truly made us feel like we stepped into a real-life time capsule. Eleven’s mall outfit is classic ’80s with its elaborate print and her crew socks. Brownie points if you add a scrunchie to your half-up, half-down hairstyle.
“Lisa Frank” Women’s ’90s Leopard Costume
Want a colorful dose of nostalgia this Halloween? Channel your favorite childhood Trapper Keeper brand, Lisa Frank, with this vibrant leopard costume that brings a pop of rainbow delight. Better yet, have the whole girl squad show up in matching colorful animal costumes, too!
Rubik’s Cube Costume
You’ve spent hours playing with your Rubik’s cube, so why not dress up as your favorite (and sometimes infuriating) ’80s (but still relevant) childhood toy? This dress is so fun, and the costume even comes with a mini Rubik’s cube headband and bag!
Pac-Man Costume
Pac-Man: The game you spent way too much time playing at the arcade. Grab your friends and dress up as the colorful ghosts Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde for a fun, easy group costume. Just get one of your pals to dress up as Pac-Man before the chasing begins!
“Dirty Dancing” Baby
Throw on this flowy pink dress and curly brown wig and nobody will put you in the corner this Halloween. Complete the look with your best dance moves, but please: Don’t try the lift at home!
“The Breakfast Club” Claire Standish
Your favorite rebel group from The Breakfast Club will never go out of style, so channel Molly Ringwald’s misunderstood character with this spot-on costume. All you’ll need to complete the look is a short red wig and a pink lip.
$39.99 at halloweencostumes.com
"The Smurfs" Smurf Costume
Sure, your kids may love Trolls, but other generations will love our blue friends in Smurf Village. Dress up as the wise Papa Smurf or the cheerful Smurfette...without the blue paint.
Disco Sensation Dress Costume
It’s time to relive those groovy ’80s disco days! You’ll definitely shine on the dance floor with sparkly sequin dress that features a psychedelic swirl print and flared sleeves. Plus, it also comes with a matching head tie.
“Stranger Things” Robin Scoops Ahoy
Is there a better duo than the snarky Robin Buckley and the lovable Steve Harrington from Stranger Things? This Halloween, dress up in Robin’s adorable Scoops Ahoy uniform—and convince your best pal to don Steve Harrington’s matching outfit for the cutest best friend costume ever.
"Baywatch" Lifeguard
Dressing up as the original 1989 beach heartthrobs who kept California’s shores safe won’t let you down this Halloween. Whether you’re planning to dress up as Mitch Buchannon or C.J. Parker, just perfect your cheesiest run-on-the-beach moves before heading out the door.
Annie Costume
It’s a hard knock life, but the sun is sure to shine even on a gloomy Halloween day in this Annie-inspired costume. And remember, “you’re never fully dressed without a smile!” per the 1982 film.
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