Going back to the vibrant and eclectic era of the 80s for your wedding theme? You’re in for a treat.
This decade offers a treasure trove of inspiration, from neon colors and big hair to iconic music and movies. It’s the perfect backdrop for couples looking to add a splash of nostalgia and fun to their special day.
80s Fashion Inspiration for Your Wedding
When planning your 80s-themed wedding, fashion is key. The 80s were renowned for their distinctive and bold style choices. From neon colors to shoulder pads, the decade offers a plethora of inspiration for your wedding attire and your guests’ outfits.
Bride and Groom Attire
As the bride, think bold and glamorous. Puff sleeves and sequined dresses scream the 80s. Don’t shy away from adding a colorful sash or wearing vibrant, chunky jewelry. For footwear, white or metallic pumps will complete the look.
Grooms can embrace the 80s vibe with pastel or patterned suits. Accessories like skinny ties, suspenders, and even a top hat or fedora can add that perfect 80s flair.
Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
Encourage your bridesmaids to embrace bright colors and big hair. Dresses with ruffles, bows, and layers will fit right in. As for the groomsmen, think Miami Vice-inspired suits in light colors or even bold stripes. Sunglasses are a must for that cool 80s touch.
Guests’ Attire
Inform your guests about the theme and encourage them to dress accordingly. Offer suggestions like neon outfits, leg warmers, and band T-shirts for a fun and immersive experience. The more everyone embraces the 80s style, the more memorable and unique your wedding will be.
Remember, when it comes to an 80s-themed wedding, more is more. Don’t be afraid to push the boundaries of traditional wedding fashion. It’s all about capturing the spirit of the 80s with a touch of modern flair.
Incorporating Neon Colors and Bold Patterns
When planning your 80s-themed wedding, embracing neon colors and bold patterns is key to capturing the essence of this vibrant decade.
This step in your wedding planning journey isn’t just about adding splashes of color here and there; it’s about incorporating these elements in a way that feels both authentic and tastefully done.
Venue and Decor
First, consider your venue and how it can serve as the canvas for your neon dreams. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, strategic lighting can play a massive role in setting the mood. Think neon signs with catchy 80s phrases or your names glowing in electric hues.
For table settings and centerpieces, mix bold patterns with neon accents. Geometric shapes, animal prints, and stripes can contrast beautifully with the glow of neon centerpieces, creating a visually stunning effect.
Attire
Your attire is another fantastic opportunity to celebrate the era. While you might lean towards more traditional wedding attire for the ceremony, consider a quick change into something that pops with neon for the reception.
Accessories like neon ties, belts, or even shoes can add a playful touch to outfits without overwhelming the overall look.
Invitations and Stationery
Set the tone early by choosing wedding invitations and stationery that feature neon colors and bold, geometric patterns. This not only hints at the fun to come but also starts the thematic journey for your guests right from their mailboxes. Think bright pinks, electric blues, and sunny yellows combined with shapes and lines that scream 80s.
Favors and Extras
Don’t forget the little touches that can make a big impact. Wedding favors like custom neon sunglasses or neon-edged coasters can serve as fun reminders of your day. For an extra nostalgic feel, consider setting up a candy bar with favorites from the 80s in neon packaging.
By weaving neon colors and bold patterns throughout your wedding, you’re not just throwing a party; you’re transporting your guests back to the dazzling days of the 80s.
With these tips, your wedding will be an unforgettable celebration of love and a decade known for its fearless expression of color and design.
Embracing the Big Hair Trend
When you think of the 80s, big hair instantly comes to mind. It’s not just a style; it’s an iconic symbol of the era that screams fun and flamboyance.
For your 80s-themed wedding, embracing the big hair trend is a surefire way to get everyone into the spirit. Here’s how you can make this happen.
First, encourage your bridal party and guests to adopt hairstyles that reflect the 80s vibe. Think voluminous curls, wild updos, and of course, the quintessential perms. Hairstylists can add a modern twist to these styles, making them both a tribute and a chic choice for your special day.
Don’t forget about accessories – hairbands, scrunchies, and neon headbands were all the rage back in the day and can add an authentic touch to your look. Even your hair can be a canvas for 80s-inspired neon streaks, should you be bold enough to go that extra mile.
For those a bit hesitant to fully commit to the 80s hairdo, temporary solutions like wigs or clip-in extensions offer a fantastic alternative. They provide the desired volume and style without the long-term commitment, allowing everyone to experiment freely and enjoy the themed festivities.
Consider organizing a pre-wedding hair trial for you and your bridal party. This not only ensures that everyone’s hair is on point but also serves as a bonding experience. Share inspiration photos, try out different styles, and see what works best.
Incorporating the big hair trend into your 80s-themed wedding is more than just a nod to the past; it’s a celebration of joy, boldness, and unapologetic fun.
Whether you go all out or opt for subtler tributes, the big hair era offers endless possibilities to enhance your wedding day look and feel.
Iconic 80s Music to Set the Mood
When planning your 80s-themed wedding, choosing the right soundtrack is crucial to immerse your guests fully into the retro vibe.
The 80s were renowned for their diverse music scene, featuring everything from pop to rock to new wave. Creating a playlist with a mix of these genres will guarantee a lively atmosphere where everyone feels the urge to hit the dance floor.
First off, you can’t go wrong with the king of pop, Michael Jackson. Hits like “Thriller” and “Billie Jean” are timeless classics that appeal to all ages.
Include tracks from Madonna, such as “Like a Virgin” and “Material Girl,” to keep the energy high.
For rock enthusiasts, nothing beats Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” or Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer” for a sing-along moment that brings the house down.
The 80s were also the era of romantic ballads. Including slow dance songs like “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper or “Heaven” by Bryan Adams will allow couples a moment of intimacy on the dance floor.
For those looking to add a bit of electronic flair, Depeche Mode’s “Just Can’t Get Enough” and A-Ha’s “Take On Me” deliver those distinctive 80s synth-pop sounds.
Creating a dynamic playlist is about balancing high-energy tracks with slower, romantic tunes. Here’s a quick list to get you started:
- Pop Icons: Michael Jackson, Madonna, Prince
- Rock Legends: Journey, Bon Jovi, Guns N’ Roses
- Synth-Pop and New Wave: Depeche Mode, A-Ha, The Human League
Remember, the aim is to transport your guests back in time. Carefully curating your music selection ensures that your 80s-themed wedding is an event they’ll never forget.
As you dive deeper into your planning, consider incorporating music-related decor, like cassette tape centerpieces or vinyl record table numbers, to amplify the theme further.
80s Movie References in Your Wedding
Incorporating 80s movie references into your wedding is a fantastic way to add unique, nostalgic charm. Imagine walking down the aisle or entering your reception with iconic film quotes or scenes setting a whimsical backdrop. Here’s how you can infuse these memorable moments into your special day.
Choose Your Flicks Wisely
Start by selecting a handful of iconic 80s movies that resonate with you and your partner. Classics like “The Princess Bride,” “Back to the Future,” and “Ghostbusters” offer a plethora of inspirational content.
Whether it’s the fantasy romance of Princess Buttercup and Westley, the adventurous spirit of Marty McFly, or the comedic thrill of ghost-catching heroes, each film brings its own flavor.
Creative Decor and Props
Use props and decor to subtly nod to your favorite scenes or elements from these films. Consider:
- Table settings themed after different movies, with small props or quotes as centerpieces.
- Photo booths with backdrops or props related to 80s cinema classics, providing guests with a fun, interactive experience.
- Entrance signs mimicking movie posters, welcoming guests in a truly unique way.
Themed Attire and Accessories
Encourage guests to join in on the fun by incorporating elements of 80s movie fashion into their attire. You might even add touches to your own wedding outfits—think Princess Buttercup’s dress or Marty McFly’s iconic vest.
Accessories like “Ghostbusters” badges or “Back to the Future”-inspired footwear can make for playful, memorable additions.
Iconic Soundtracks
Don’t forget the power of music. Including tracks from your favorite 80s movie soundtracks can instantly transport your guests to those memorable cinematic moments.
Whether it’s the enchanting melodies of “The NeverEnding Story” or the high-energy beats of “Footloose,” each song can amplify the theme and evoke strong feelings of nostalgia and joy.
By integrating these elements, your wedding won’t just celebrate your love story—it’ll also pay homage to the iconic era of 80s cinema, creating unforgettable memories for you and your guests.
Final Thoughts
Crafting your dream 80s-themed wedding is all about embracing the vibrant energy and bold aesthetics of the era. From neon accents and big hair to iconic music and movie references, you’ve got a treasure trove of inspiration to make your special day unforgettable.
Remember, it’s the playful touches and attention to detail that’ll transport your guests straight back to the 80s, ensuring a celebration filled with joy, nostalgia, and a whole lot of dancing.
So go ahead, let your creativity shine and make your wedding a day that’s as unique and memorable as the decade it celebrates.
