'80s-Themed Halloween Costumes: From Jennifer Beals to Kelly Bundy

Dana Barnett
The 1980s were a fun a time. The decade is remembered for many things: great music, popular TV shows and some of the biggest movies hits ever made. But the '80s also area known for some less-than-stellar fashion traits: big hair, shoulder pads and parachute pants, just to name a few.

With Halloween just around the corner, many people are looking to the past when it comes to their Halloween costume choices, and '80s-themed costumes are becoming a popular choice.

Here are a few ideas for some easy and original '80s-themed Halloween costumes:

Jennifer Beals/ Olivia Newton-John

Who can forget Jennifer Beals portrayal of a welder by day dancer by night in the 1983 movie Flashdance or Olivia Newton-John's video for "Let's Get Physical?" To get their workout looks this Halloween, you don't need much. First, cut the neck out of an old sweatshirt and pair it up with some leggings. Then, get some leg warmers or make your own by cutting the arms off of a sweater. Finish the outfit with a headband tied around your forehead (Loverboy style) and a high side pony tail.

Richard Simmons

Richard Simmons came onto the workout scene in the 1980's and started a diet revolution. But it was his wacky appearance that attracted the most attention. For a hilarious Richard Simmons Halloween costume, find a pair of striped satin shorts and a baggy tank top. Add a brown curly wig and some tennis shoes, and you'll be the hit of the Halloween party!

Don Johnson/ Miami Vice

The Miami Vice look was a hit in the mid 80's and many men tried to emulate the Miami look made popular by Don Johnson. Although it may be a tad difficult to find a white suit in 2007, try a thrift store. If you can't find pants and a jacket, just wear white pants and pair it with a pastel colored tee shirt. Don't forget sunglasses and sandals to complete the outfit!

Billy Idol/Punk Rocker

In the early 80's, punk rock music was huge and punk rock clothes were all the rage. For men, all you need is a pair of black jeans and a black Tee Shirt with the sleeves cut out. Mousse your hair up into a Mohawk or big spikes. For women, wear a black mini skirt and a Tee Shirt decorated with safety pins. Fishnet stockings are also a nice touch. For both men and women, accessorize with black boots, heavy black eye makeup, and colored hair spray. Don't forget to don a black dog collar too!

Kelly Bundy/ Sleazy '80s girl

Christina Applegate epitomized the sexy style of the 80's with her big hair and tight clothes. To get her look, find a black miniskirt, pair it with a tight black tank top, and accessorize with lots of gold jewelry and huge gold earrings. Wear lots of blue eye makeup and bright red lipstick. For shoes, you'll need a pair of black stilettos (the higher the better) and don't forget the white ruffled socks. Last but not least, the hair. Spray your bangs up as high as they will go. If you don't have bangs, make your hair as big as possible by using lots of hair spray.

Published by Dana Barnett

Dana is currently attending graduate school but enjoys writing in her very limited spare time. She also has two dogs who are the loves of her life.  View profile

10 Comments

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  • Aktiv8 F810/29/2007

    Cute ideas!

  • Jody10/28/2007

    I love the Richard Simmons idea lol!

  • Ada Noll10/28/2007

    Oh these were great! & what a nice trip back to my stomping-ground days!

  • jcorn10/24/2007

    Yes, the 80s! That's be fun for Halloween :)

  • Dana10/24/2007

    My sister and her husband just went to an 80's themed party and he went as Richard Simmons. My sister just sent me the pictures and they are hysterical! I wish I had one when I submitted the article because I would have included it!

  • eiffelvu10/24/2007

    love the Richard Simmens idea...I met him once when owned the gym anatomy asylem..He came to meet some members and I was there..I think he was the strangest person I ever met..:)

  • Chris M. Carmichael10/20/2007

    Lol what great ideas!

  • Dana10/19/2007

    I thought about adding Boy George to the list. Maybe I will have to do a part 2.

  • Bridgitte Williams10/18/2007

    Fun costume ideas!

  • Sussy10/18/2007

    The 80s were great! What about Boy George?

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