Halloween costumes fall into one of three categories: spooky, silly — or stylish. And when it comes to retro couture, no decade is more recognizably iconic than the '80s. Between the neon colors, bright prints and exaggerated silhouettes, the years between 1980 and 1989 handed us more than enough material to put together a chic and nostalgic Halloween look.
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Taking cues from the music, movies, television shows and fashion looks of the time, there are plenty of '80s Halloween costumes to choose from that will take you right back to the decade in all its glory. You could channel your inner pop star, dress up as your favorite TV character, or just embrace the outlandish fashion of the era with all its exuberant style. There's a reason why it continues to be a popular pick on Oct. 31 year after year.
But Halloween is all about standing out. You don't want to grab the same ole '80s garb everyone and their mother has rocked before (we're looking at you, pink leg warmers). So, to help you nail an authentic look that doesn't involve the same tired tropes, we've scoured the internet for 10 of the most creative ways to pay homage to the greatest decade ever.
From the ever-popular Madonna to the classic Breakfast Club gang, here are 10 '80s Halloween costumes to take you back in time.
Madonna
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No '80s Halloween costume list would be complete without Madonna. The Material Girl is an obvious go-to for anyone looking to capture the energy and glamor of the decade, and you don't even need to buy a costume (though if you did, we love this getup)! Just grab some fishnets, a tutu, gloves, a lace or rosary collar necklace — and, of course, lots of hair spray.
The Breakfast Club
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This classic John Hughes movie is a great source for a group costume with its iconic characters and wardrobe choices. To dress up as the Breakfast Club gang, all you need are some basic school-style clothes that mimic each of the characters' individual looks. Luckily, Amazon has a few ensembles already on hand for the roles of Claire and John. The others may require some sourcing, but the effort will be worth it.
Bob Ross
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Everyone's favorite TV painting guru is an easy and fun costume to re-create, especially considering how many accessories are available online now. Not only can you get the full Bob Ross getup (wig and all), but you can also go as one of his paintings. Sounds like the perfect Halloween couples costume to us.
Ferris Bueller
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Another '80s icon, Ferris Bueller will always be a timeless classic to dress up as. This jacket-and-vest combo does most of the work for you, but you can pair it with some chic '80s aviators for bonus points. If you want to turn it into a couples costume, have your partner dress up as Sloane with loose shorts, boots and that killer white fringe jacket.
Rainbow Brite
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Brighten up your Halloween with this beloved '80s character. There are tons of colorful costumes available online for both adults and kiddos, as well as fun accessories such as this Rainbow Brite purse. Throw your hair (or wig) into a sky-high ponytail, and you'll be all set to spread some sunshine.
Ghostbusters
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The classic 1984 movie has earned its place as a Halloween staple, and it's especially easy to replicate with already-made costumes. Bonus points if you can get your hands on an official ghost trap, but the jumpsuits alone will be enough to have everyone saying, "Who ya gonna call?"
Marty McFly
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Any '80s Halloween costume list has to include Marty McFly, the star of Back to the Future. Channel your inner time traveler in a red puffy vest, classic white kicks and, of course, a watch. This all-inclusive adult Marty costume makes it super easy to get the job done, and you can pair it with this Doc Brown outfit and wig if you want to make it a duo.
The Heathers
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Who didn't want to be a part of this clique? If you and your friends are after an edgy '80s look, channel the Heathers with some power-suit vibes. This two-piece set in red is perfect for Veronica Sawyer, while the rest of your gang can rock the yellow or blue variant. Don't forget the shoulder pads!
Pee Wee Herman
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Forget the boring classics — why not go for something a little more unexpected? Pee Wee Herman's eccentric look can easily be replicated with a simple gray suit, a white button-up and his iconic red bow tie. Hop on a red bike, and you'll be ready to go!
Where's Waldo
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This classic character is an underrated Halloween costume option. All you need is a striped shirt, some red-framed glasses, and — of course — a red-and-white hat. Don't worry if you don't have a bunch of red-and-white attire lying around in your closet. This fully stocked adult Where's Waldo costume has you covered.
