80s Disco Party Outfits to Dance the Night Away

By Shelby Bonner Jun 18, 2023

The 80s were known for their extensive and bold style, bright colors, oversized clothes, and an overall achievement of making an impact with fashion.

Disco parties were held under a shiny, mirrored ball with songs from music stars like Madonna and Prince while people in bright, fun clothes danced the night away.

Going retro is a fun way to discover different styles and play with different combos; here are our outfit recommendations for your next 80s disco party.

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Bright Colors

Wearing bright, neon colors is a must for an 80s outfit. Try pairing different bright colors together with other pieces, layers, or even with different colored legwarmers.

You can also go with more modest clothing and opt for a pop of color with a bright belt, bright shoes, or bright and big jewelry. Whatever you choose, there is no limit on color choices or color combos.

Check out these vibrant outfits.

Patterns

The 80s were well known for their patterns, from home decor to clothing. Find a classic 80s design, like polka dots, for your next clothing piece. Another option is to wear animal print clothes like cheetah print high-heeled boots.

Just like colors, don't be afraid to mix and match patterns. In the 80s, there was no such thing as too much.

Check out these pattern ideas.

Shine

People from the 80s were open to sequins and glitter; your outfit was incomplete if you were not glowing. Adding shine to your outfit is easier than you think; try glitter earrings, shiny spandex legging, or a fun sequin top.

Try out these outfits with shine.

Mini Skirt

Women in mini skirts continued into the 80s from the 1960s and 70s. Women in the 80s often layered their skirts over bright leggings or fishnet tights. Mini skirts were a flirty, fun way to add a pop of color or another contrasting pattern to an outfit.

Discover affordable, sustainable mini skirts.

Spandex Leggings

If you picture the 80s, you are probably picturing tight spandex leggings in bright neon colors and therefore are a must for any 80s outfit. Wear the leggings independently or layered under a mini skirt or jumpsuit.

Check out these leggings.

Oversized Sweater

The 80s were known for oversized clothes, including oversized sweaters usually worn over tight bottoms. It isn't loose enough if you can't drape it over one shoulder.

Go with a simple color paired with a big popping belt, or have fun finding different patterns and color combos.

Find oversized styles here.

Pumps

A bright-colored pair of pumps will go with almost any outfit you choose. Many pumps in the 80s didn't have a high or large heel. Instead, choose a lower heel in a popping color or pattern.

Why not try out a pair of vegan heels?

Converse

Converse is a classic 80s shoe. Go simple with a black Converse sneaker, or have some fun with a bright high-top pair.

Learn more about Converse here.

Leg Warmers

Leg warmers emerged out of the 80s as an exercise-style phenomenon and a popular fashion accessory. Whether you were going to the gym or out for a disco, leg warmers (especially neon colored ones) were a must.

Find leg warmers here.

Jean Jacket

A jean jacket is a staple for an 80s look and is a great way to layer your outfit. Try an acid-washed style over your top or tied around your waist.

Check out these affordable jean jackets.

Sports Coat

If you have watched any 80s television, you will know a linen sport coat is where it was at. It's a great way to layer your outfit and add more color.

Want to go authentic? Roll up the sleeves to your elbows, and no one can tell you you aren't from the 80s.

Find coats here.

Jewelry

For jewelry, the rule is bigger the better, and there is no such thing as too much. Rock some large gold hooped earrings, layer on the bracelets and necklaces, and don't be afraid to mix colors, styles, and lengths.

If you aren't shining under the disco ball, you might want to add a few more pieces.

Check out jewelry using recycled material.

Glasses

Large oversized glasses and sunglasses were in style in the 80s. Go with a classic pair of aviators, or have fun with bright colors and thick frames.

Discover these glasses.

Big Shoulders

Accentuating the shoulders was a notable trend in the 80s. Whether in your blazer, dress, or blouse, shoulder pads, and puffy sleeves will give that 80s vibe you are going for.

Check out these dresses with broad shoulders.

Accessories

Like jewelry, multiple accessories are needed to pull an 80s outfit together. A large belt worn around the waist was popular over sweaters, shirts, and dresses.

Fingerless gloves (with or without sequins) and an oversized hair bow paired with a side pony or large, teased hair were also popular.

Try out these accessories.

Acid-Wash Jeans

Tight skinny, acid-wash jeans were buzzing for men and women in the 80s. The tighter, the better. Go crisp and clean with a nice fitted pair, or go a bit more grunge with holey, faded jeans.

Check out these jeans.

Fedora

Fedoras originated in the 1800s but were reimagined in the 80s. Both men and women were seen wearing a black, velvety fedora with their outfits.

Find fedora options here.

Boots

Boots for men and women were typical in the 80s. Men wore shiny sneaker-style boots, while women wore knee-high or thigh-high boots with a skinny heel with an animal print or a glossy, velvety finish.

Why not try vegan leather boots?

Bandana

A bandana was the hip accessory reimagined, whether you were heavy into rock or pop. Pair it with denim or a black vest; you will be the coolest kid in school (or at least at the disco).

Check out these bandanas and headbands.

Finding your next 80s-inspired outfit may be easier than you think. Many stores carried 80s-inspired outfits and styles. Thrifting is also a great way to find a retrofit without spending a fortune.

Whatever way you find your outfit, and whether the 80s style is nostalgic or new to you, we hope you rock your next look and have a fabulous 80s disco experience.

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About the Author: Shelby Bonner

Shelby Bonner is a freelance graphic designer and writer who is passionate about fashion, and ethical, environmentally friendly fashion. She enjoys finding new brands, and following the latest styles each season.