1980s Prom Queen Thrift Store Costume

If you're running out of ideas for a Halloween costume and you love the 80s, here's a great idea for you: why not be a 1980s prom queen? There are a few wardrobe and style items that you need, almost all of which can be found in a thrift store.

Dress

For this costume, you'll need a formal prom dress. We're also not talking about just any kind of prom dress, either-you want something that will reflect the loud, crazy, colorful 1980s. Dresses made of shiny satin with puffy sleeves, large bows, and heavy rouching fit the bill, as do polka dots and funky stripes. Hot pink and teal are good, solid 1980s colors to look for. The louder and crazier the design of the dress, the better it will look for this costume. Luckily, thrift stores are the place where dresses like these end up when the owner cleans out her closet.

Shoes

There are a few styles of shoe that fit the 1980s prom theme. Colorful high-heeled pumps were popular during this decade, as was any dress shoe with a large embellishment. Be creative and try bright colors and loud designs. Another viable option is to wear jellies, the plastic slip on shoe made popular in the 1980s. Go crazy!

Hair

You should do your hair big-this was the age of big hair! Crimpers are essential (and can be found very cheap in a thrift store), as is freeze hair spray to lock in your huge style. If you don't want to crimp your hair, you can recreate a bad perm with hair gel and some hairspray. (Think hair bands.) If you're going for an updo, it should include voluminous bangs and spiral curls. No matter what style you prefer, headbands and big hair bows should be a part of it.

Jewelry

Hoop earrings and bangles were wildly popular in the 80s, and can help to accessorize your 80s Prom Queen look. Choose brightly colored jewelry to go with a brightly colored dress. If your dress is more traditional with lots of bows, you should look into faux pearl drop or rhinestone earrings. Whether your jewelry is made of plastic or faux gems, the motto "less is more" doesn't really apply in this instance, so pile it on!

Makeup

The 80s were famous for heavy eyeliner, blue eyeshadow, and noticeably pink lips. Since you probably shouldn't buy used makeup at a thrift store, find these items in your local drugstore.

Accessories

Every prom queen needs a crown! If you are unable to find one at a thrift store, Walmart has a princess section in the Toy Department that should help you out.

Good luck with your costume and don't forget to have fun!