It’s fun to think of the ’80s as a series of John Hughes films where cool kids cruised high school hallways in preppy sweaters, chunky cable-knit vests and Members Only jackets.
Yeah…it soooo wasn’t like that (well, not all the time).
For some of us who grew up in the decade, it was also about obnoxiously big hair, Esprit sweaters, Michael Jackson zipper jackets and scrunchies.
LOTS of scrunchies.
If you’re thinking about dressing up like an ’80s girl for Halloween this year, you’ve come to the right place!
Break out your Aqua Net and Guess jeans because it’s time for…
10 Ways to Rock a Totally Legit ’80s Costume!
By the time we’re done, it’ll be 1988. 🙂
1. The Scrunchie
The ’80s were a hair-raising decade. The bigger, the better, and elastic was a girl’s best friend.
Short on time to get ready for the big Halloween fete? No prob. That’s what scrunchies are for. First, pump up your bangs with a firm hold hair spray. Then, put your hair up in a high side pony with a ponytail holder, and decorate with a scrunchie in the color of your choice.
2. OPTIONAL: The Banana Clip
The banana clip works like a combined ponytail holder and scrunchie in one, but nowadays they can be a little hard to find.
3. Find a Shirt That Matches Your Scrunchie
IMPORTANT: Ideally, it should be button-down, oversized and hang down just above the knees — anything longer, and you risk concealing your tight acid washed jeans.
4. Don’t Forget the Big Broach
For true ’80s legitimacy, secure an obnoxiously huge broach to the top button of your shirt. CAUTION: Move slowly to avoid accidentally poking yourself with the pin (yes, I speak from experience).
Do you remember The Far Side comics by Gary Larson? Some of them must have been based on my life, like this one to the right for the Midvale School for the Gifted.
Olibanum and oakmoss leave your hair smelling like the deep, dark pine forest where Robert Smith goes to be alone.”
Tabs striking a pose with Davines Love Shampoo (left) and Love Conditioner (right)
