A squeezable jack-o-lantern (Photo from Oriental Trading)
Why is it that Halloween decorations and accessories always seem to channel the ’80s? Seriously?! This week I went to check the mail, and there it was–an Oriental Trading catalog. I used to teach, and like many educators of young children who need to order supplies in bulk, I made great use of Oriental Trading catalogs throughout my teaching career. And when you’re constantly flipping through pages of glow necklaces, glitter curtains and jelly bracelets, it becomes clear that some design elements of the 1980s will forever be associated with parties. Halloween parties are no exception…
Today we spotlight some rad finds from the Oriental Trading Halloween catalog. Sure, there are Halloween-specific items, like the Mini Relaxable Squeeze Jack-O’-Lantern above. But many of the goodies in this post can be enjoyed year-round. That’s right–there’s no time like the present to stock up for your next ’80s party, especially since these treats are sold in bulk!
Check out the Shutter Shading Glasses below. Let’s take our cue from Kanye West and make this pointless yet stylish eyewear mainstream again. Mini-blind slats are one of my favorite ’80s motifs. What could be better than adding a dash of Neon Noir to the Halloween season?
’80s shutter shading glasses (Photo from Oriental Trading)
Another ’80s signature graphic design element? A lipstick-covered pucker. Add some Wax Fangs (below, left), and we instantly channel ’80s horror movies, or at the very least, the movie poster for the 1975 cult film The Rocky Horror Picture Show! And in case you wanted to wear your 1980s-style eyewear while trick-or-treating, order a set of Glow-In-The-Dark Shutter Shading Glasses (below, right).
’80s-style Halloween accessories from Oriental Trading
Nothing makes a better backdrop to an ’80s party table than a Silver Fringe Curtain. Evoking the glitz of early ’80s music videos, this simple shimmering statement will never go out of style:
A silver fringe curtain for your ’80s Halloween party (Photo from Oriental Trading)
I don’t know why, but whenever I see a glow necklace, I immediately think of my childhood days at the roller rink. When the overheads were dimmed and the specialty lights danced across the walls and floor. Order the Glow Necklace Assortment below, and give your guests the perfect party favor. Enjoy these fluorescent gems right away, because once you snap them, the glow immediately begins. And unlike nostalgia, it won’t last forever.
Glow necklaces (Photo from Oriental Trading)
Another party favor possibility? Neon Jelly Bracelets! These ’80s fashion statement have been “back” for awhile. It looks like they’re now here to stay…
Neon jelly bracelets (Photo from Oriental Trading)
We end with a set of toys that I only wish I’d known about when I was searching for little Halloween gifts for my students. How awesome are these Wind-Up Robots?!!! Some product designer with a limited budget has magically created the perfect blend of plastic and retro sci-fi. We’re blown away!!!:
A wind-up toy robot (Photo from Oriental Trading)
Hopefully today’s post has spread some Halloween cheer. If Halloween isn’t your thing, use it as an excuse to stock up on affordable ’80s swag. Oh, and Happy Wednesday!
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