Ready for a party? If you’re looking for ’80s party decorations with a unique twist, today’s post is for you! We’ve rounded up our favorite pics from party photo shoots past and grouped them by decor concept. Getting an ’80s look is easier than you might think, especially since the 1980s are now back on our radar through the realm of modern design. Here are a few ways to get a fun, festive retro look that’s also original. Save your Rubik’s Cubes for another party–this one’s all about celebrating the way the 1980s have re-emerged in today’s ever-changing design world. Enjoy!
Throughout today’s post, you’ll find helpful links under the image montages. Click on them to find the original posts in which the images appeared (as well as more great ’80s party ideas).
Colorful Paper Products
Make it easy by using paper products that help reinforce an ’80s theme. No, they don’t need to be from the 1980s. Go with solid colors in vibrant hues, or opt for fun patterns. We’re partial to the selection at Target, especially when they collaborate with talented designers such as Joy Cho from Oh Joy!
IMAGES ARE FROM THE FOLLOWING MIRROR80 PARTIES (Clockwise from the top left): Mirror80’s 3rd Birthday, A Summer Party with Tropical Style, A Halt and Catch Fire Viewing Party
Retro Tableware
Prefer ceramics to paper? Opt for retro tableware–the kind you find at Goodwill and thrift stores for a few dollars apiece. We love picking up serving platters at bargain prices, as well as retro glassware! Mix and match with your own dishes or other retro finds!
IMAGES ARE FROM THE FOLLOWING MIRROR80 PARTIES (Clockwise from the top left): Mirror80’s 3rd Birthday, A Neon Noir Party, A Fall Snack Break
’80s Deco Vases
Speaking of thrift store finds…. ’80s Deco vases filled with blooms make perfect party centerpieces. Again, these retro finds can be purchased for a few dollars apiece at thrift stores. Some are swanky. Some have a Southwestern look. Some look like they belong in Vegas. There’s a vase for every party…
IMAGES ARE FROM THE FOLLOWING MIRROR80 PARTIES (Clockwise from the top left): An ’80s-Style Thanksgiving, An ’80s Awards Show Party, An ’80s-Style Thanksgiving
A Tropical Touch
Tropical style instantly evokes the ’80s. Maybe it’s all those episodes of Miami Vice… And let’s not forget that motifs such as flamingos, parrots and watermelon enjoyed their moment in the 1980s spotlight. Purchase some tropical greenery for your party (its often very affordable, as one large leaf will often do the trick), and you can always take things in a Neon Noir direction by offering guests glow-in-the-dark necklaces.
IMAGES ARE FROM THE FOLLOWING MIRROR80 PARTIES (Clockwise from the top left): A Summer Party with Tropical Style, A Neon Noir Party, A Neon Noir Party
Marble
Marble is having a moment, isn’t it?! And marble was BIG in the ’80s. The epitome of decadence, it filled bank and hotel lobbies with its sleek shine. Planning a yuppie cocktail party? Draw on movies such as Baby Boom and The Secret of My Success for your inspiration and let the marble take center stage. We’re constantly purchasing marble tile at home improvement stores, and we love using it for our DIY projects. Marble makes a great centerpiece embellishment!
IMAGES ARE FROM THE FOLLOWING MIRROR80 PARTIES AND POSTS (Clockwise from the top left): An Awards Show Party with Retro Style, DIY Project: Marble and Mineral Scapes, Last Sips of Summer: The Mint Flamingo, A Pastel Party–with Donuts!
Still Life Style
There’s been a HUGE revival in still life photography in recent years, but instead of fruit and flowers, the featured objects are colorful and often geometric. Check out this post for inspiration, and then get started on some ’80s party decor inspired by the still life look. We’re talking colorful foam sheeting, simple shapes, grids and marble, folks! The look is modern, yet undeniably “Memphis-Milano meets ’80s tech”!
IMAGES ARE FROM THE FOLLOWING MIRROR80 PARTIES AND POSTS (Clockwise from the top left): An ’80s DIY Still Life, A Halt and Catch Fire Viewing Party, An ’80s DIY Still Life
Sprinkles
In case you hadn’t noticed, sprinkles are everywhere, including plenty of ’80s Tumblrs. Yes, sprinkle-covered donuts, sprinkle-patterned sheets and other tasty creations are evoking sweet treats from the past, as well as Memphis-Milano motifs. So pile on the sprinkles. You can even incorporate them into your party table design, scattering them around dishes and serving platters for a festive touch!
IMAGES ARE FROM THE FOLLOWING MIRROR80 PARTIES AND POSTS (Clockwise from the top left): An ’80s Valentine’s Day Dessert Buffet, A Retro Halloween Buffet, An Awards Show Party with Retro Style, 3 Go-To Ingredients for Instant ’80s Style
Confetti
Since we’re talking toppings, let’s top off today’s post with a big dose of confetti. Because it’s the perfect way to add an ’80s touch to your party. And it can take on a variety of looks, from the bright and colorful to the swanky and the dreamy. Again, don’t hesitate to sprinkle it on your tabletop for a fabulous finishing statement. A confetti runner is always a good idea!
IMAGES ARE FROM THE FOLLOWING MIRROR80 PARTIES (Clockwise from the top left): Mirror80’s 3rd Birthday, Mirror80’s 3rd Birthday, A Pastel Party–with Donuts!, An Awards Show Party with Retro Style
Looking for more ’80s party inspiration? Check out our Retro Foodie posts, which are packed with party pics, design ideas and mood boards for inspiration. And don’t forget to follow Mirror80 on Pinterest, where you’ll find even more festive ideas for your next party! Cheers!
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