The Best Decade Halloween Costume Ideas From the '70s to the '00s
Travel through time to find the best Halloween costumes inspired by iconic moments and movements in fashion, music and film throughout the last 50 years.
Yes, there are plenty of pop culture references and style icons from our current times to inspire your Halloween costume. But let’s face it, there's something extra special about drawing upon the good old days of yesteryear to inspire your ensemble of All Hallows' Eve instead. Whether you're looking for groovy, flower-powered '70s costumes, bold-and-bright '80s ideas, a '90s hit in the making, or nostalgic '00s-inspired looks — we've got you covered. Shop our favorite music, movie and fashion-driven costumes for each decade, plus beauty and styling tips for each, in the links below.
Best '70s Halloween Costumes
Dressing for the '70s calls for foxy flares, dynamite disco suits and flowy, flower-powered frocks. Lean into the decade defined by polyester and platforms with ready-to-wear costumes, like this bell-sleeved dress or disco suit, or get creative and curate a groovy look using some of-the-moment pieces, like the Free People Emre Flare Jeans, to achieve a free-spirited look. Divas, pair your disco-ready picks with glittery lids and over-the-top curls, or flank your middle part with flowers and layer a faux fur coat over your flares for a rock-and-roll look. For the guys, opt for longer locks and don’t be afraid to grow out a mustache for the occasion.
Best '80s Halloween Costumes
Have your hairspray, boombox and neon leggings at the ready! Hit the streets for trick-or-treating sporting these '80s-inspired costumes, like rainbow windbreakers, neon leotards and scrunchies galore. Bonus points if you snag a matching tracksuit for your kiddos! Other ideas? Make an iconic '80s movie your muse and go door to door as Marty McFly, Ferris Bueller or Prince Akeem. Ladies, don't miss this opportunity to pile on the baby-blue eyeshadow and add bubblegum pink blush towards your temple. And, guys, consider this your sign to embrace a mullet.
Best '90s Halloween Costumes
Embrace the best of television, film and music with these '90s-inspired Halloween costumes. Lean into the era of hip-hop with the California Costumes costume for kids and live out your Ginger Spice dream in a Union Jack dress. In movies are your muse — you can't go wrong with a classic Toy Story ensemble or Space Jam jersey. And for it-girl energy that stands the test of time? Snag the Central Perk apron and let your layered haircut shine as Rachel Green or slip into sunny plaid as Cher Horowitz for a cute Clueless cameo on Halloween.
Best '00s Halloween Costumes
The '00s are brimming with epic costume ideas. Fashion-wise — here's a foolproof formula for anyone in the family: two polos layered with their collars popped, light-wash jeans and jelly flipflops. Bonus points if the polos are an obnoxious shade of pink, purple or green! Other ideas? An old-school cell phone (with buttons!), Dwight Schrute, Elle Woods, Allen from The Hangover, or everyone’s favorite princess: Mia Thermopolis. Oh, and we'd be remiss not to include Ms. Britney's iconic red jumpsuit in our suggestions, too.
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