The Best Easy and Most Inexpensive Party Theme Ideas

If you're like me then you like to have a good time. And what better way to have a good time than to throw a party and enjoy the presence of your favorite friends and family? I've had my share of "no reason" parties and they're all fun and dandy, but it's always a little more exciting when there's a purpose.

Having a theme to your party gets people excited. They'll plan out their outfits and be thinking about the future fun they'll be having for days, if not weeks, before the actual party takes place. (Weeks if you're an organized planner!).

Here are 5 really easy party themes that allow all people to participate. Some may require buying an extra outfit, but if they use their noggin' then your guests should be able to come up with something unique and creative without running to the store. With that said, shopping for a new outfit is fine by me. After all, who doesn't like to shop? Okay, on with the theme ideas. Use your imagination appropriately and you're sure to throw a fabulous shindig!

1. Marker Party

A maker party is guaranteed to create a happenin' atmosphere. Here's what you need to need to do. First, require that your guests all wear a white, inexpensive shirt. You can pick these shirts up almost anywhere for under $5 a piece. I suggest picking up a pack of Fruit of the Loom shirts in case guests forget theirs.

Next, buy a few highlighters and fabric markers and set them around your house. When guests arrive, explain that they should pick up a marker or two and encourage them to write and sign other peoples' shirts. Not only will everyone have souvenir's at the end of the night, but it will help serve as a segue into conversation. This kind of party is great for close friends or groups of people who may not know everyone well.

2. Decade's Theme

This is pretty self explanatory. Choose your favorite decade and let your guests know in advance so that they can plan accordingly. You can go all out with movie posters from the chosen decade, cute hair styles, "best costume" awards and whatever else your heart desires. Oh, and you have to play music from the chosen decade. My favorite is the 20s decade!

3. Hued Party

Again, this one is really easy. Choose your favorite color (or a pair of colors) and stick with it. Make sure your guests show up in something "red" or "blue" or "pink" (or whatever color you choose) and encourage them to bring food and drinks of the same hue. A hued party makes for great pictures and it's always fun to see how far people go with it! The best is when someone colors their hair or paints their face! Suggest easy, different ways for your friends to get into the theme (like shoes, fingernails, buttons, etc.).

4. Sequin Party

You don't have to literally do a sequined party, but choose a fabric type or something unique like sequins (eg. Feathers, stockings/socks, hats, buttons, etc). Basically, choose an item that is easy to find and diverse in style. You'll get lots of laughs and the pieces of "flare" will make great conversation starters!

5. "Location" Party

This one is super flexible. Choose a great location and run with it. Stretch away from generic "tropical paradise" parties (although those are fun...) and think hard about a fun and creative location. For example, a rainforest party! Everyone could dress up in different animal prints, sport Tarzan apparel, etc. Or you could try a "Jamaican" party and watch people saunter in with colorful clothing and dreadlocks!