Dial-up internet, Tamagotchis, and mixtapes… that’s what the 90s were all about. Celebrating the 90s by throwing a themed party is a wonderful way to take a trip down memory lane. The vibrant pop culture, fashion, and iconic music are everything that makes the 90s the 90s, and that’s also how you celebrate it in style. Throughout the next few minutes of reading (or skimming), we’ll take you on a trip, and help you organise a 90s theme party through lists, reminding you of the cosy nostalgia and help you get ideas for your own small (or big) 90s party. We’ll guide you through finding the perfect style for your 90s theme party invitations, to dressing, party decorations, food, retro lollies, and games. Now, let’s throw a ripper party!
90s Theme Party Invitation Wording
The first step to any party is an invitation. Party invitations not only let people know there will be a party, but they also set expectations such as what kind of a party it will be, the dress code and more information important to the guests.
Incorporate 90s Aussie phrases and slang
For an authentic Aussie twist, include some classic 90s slang expressions. Here are some we came up with:
“Get ready to party like it’s 1995—No wuckas, mate!” - a great straight-forward opening line that sets the scene for the invitation and the party. "You little ripper! It's a 90s party!" is also a good opening line.
“As if! You'd miss this party!” - Inspired by the hip 90s movie Clueless, this phrase will set the tone for the party.
"Come dressed to impress—90s style, duh!" - Set expectations for the dress code, while not missing a 90s beat.
"Talk to the hand if you're not coming!" - This cheeky phrase will add a bit of humour to your 90s theme party invitation.
Using Iconic 90s Graphics and Fonts
You can use images of iconic Aussie brands from the 90s such as Wizz Fizz and its Gross Monsters, Big Boss, and Fads, as well as items such as classic cars (ex. Golden Commodore) and Tamagochis and more.
For fonts, you can use bold fonts that will remind you and your guests of the 90s Australian TV shows. You can use bolder and more fun fonts, such as Comic Sans, Futura or Cooper Black, which will match the 90s theme when paired with bright colours and nostalgic imagery.
Digital or Physical Invitations
Both physical and digital fonts have their pros and cons. While digital invitations are really easy to make and send out, they might get missed in the recipient’s inboxes. Physical invitations will be very much appreciated and will also act as a keepsake for your guests. You can also attach small lolly bags to the invitations, but making them will be more time-consuming and potentially costly.
How to Dress for a 90s Theme Party
Setting and following a dress code is what makes a theme party truly feel like another era. For a 90s-themed party, your dress code could just be the 90s, or you can set a more specific style to fit your vision even better. Here are some ideas to help you specify a dress code for your 90s party, or if you’re a guest, to help you find something to wear:
- Grunge: A rebellious, laid-back look with flannel shirts, band tees and ripped jeans. The key to mastering the style is layering clothing and dark, earthy colours.
- Preppy: Think Clueless style. Polished, and sophisticated with plaid skirts, knee-high socks and cardigans. The colours to go for are bright shades with playful patterns.
- Sporty: Retro windbreakers and athleisure in bright and neon colours are just screaming 90s! Spice it up with chunky sneakers and scrunchies.
- Baggy jeans were the hallmark of 90s fashion.
- Graphic tees featuring logos, band names or pop culture references were every teen’s wardrobe essential.
- Bucket Hats have been in and out of fashion for decades, so a bright bucket hat you’ve been wearing lately will fit the 90s theme perfectly.
Decorate your 90s Themed Party
Let your party shine bright with 90s-themed party decorations.
Let’s Turn Back Time
Decorate the space like it was from the 90s! This means 90s movie and band posters, such as Jurassic Park, Friends and Nirvana. There’s also nothing that says 90s such as neon signs and wall art, so if you have any lying around, or if it’s within your budget put those up on the walls as well. Some more wall art that has that special 90s vibe include peace signs, smiley faces and geometric shapes with bright colours.
For the sitting and hangout area opt for bean bag chairs, if you’re planning on having a games night party, or oversized couches will also be a good option, full of 90s nostalgia. Use patterned rugs if you have any, and match the patterns and bright colours to make it look even more fun. If you feel like the space needs even more 90s, try thrifting for a lava lamp, action figures or vintage toys, to add to the charm. We’re sure having a 90s theme party actually looks like it’s set in the 90s, will really set the scene. Fairy lights will also make everything look even cosier.
90s Themed Party Decorations
Now that we’ve turned back time and set the scene, let’s make your 90s room look more like a party.
- Balloons are a party decor item you just can’t miss out on. They make the party memorable, Instagrammable and more celebratory. When shopping for balloons you can opt for foil or latex balloons, and this will vary depending on what the vibes you imagine are. If you want sparkling letters floating around the room, choose Foil Letter Balloons, but if you think those could overpower other decorations and the scene, then we suggest you opt for some colourful latex balloons, and fill them up with helium. Let them fill up the corners of the space, or choose chromed latex balloons to greet guests at the entrance.
- Disco balls and party lights will add a nostalgic twist to your party. Create the perfect reflective party ambiance. As we’ve already mentioned, neon signs are also something that will make the party look and feel like the 90s.
- Party favours are a nice and adorable way of saying thank you for coming to your party guests. Fill up the bags with cute games, items or decorations they can keep as keepsakes for your party. Find something that says the 90s amongst our party favours section and thank your guests - find jumping frogs, cute keychains, small sports balls, costume rings and more. Don’t forget to add some of the retro lollies to the party favour bags as well.
Set the Table
To set the table you’ll need to find some cups and plates that fit your 90s party theme. Go ahead and browse our tableware and catering section for any supplies that catch your eye. You can also browse all party supplies and tableware by colour, to really dig into the colours you feel your party is missing. Let’s bring your vision to life!
A unique touch you can add to your party is to provide your guests with single-use analog cameras and encourage them to take photos of funny moments. Later you can develop the photos and send them to your friends to keep as a special memory.
90s Party Food
Classic 90s Snacks and Drinks
In the end, every party needs some snacks and drinks to bring everything together. Here are some ideas of which snacks you could bring to the table:
- Cheezels and Twisties
- Fairy bread
- Shapes
- Paddle pops
- Fanta and Solo
- Cordial
- Milo Milkshakes
- Wizz Fizz
- Fantales
- Allens Sherbies and Red Ripperz
Find other Retro Lollies and Big Brand Lollies on our site. You can also ask your friends to each bring a snack that reminds them of the 90s.
We hope that this short blog can help you create a little piece of 90s heaven inside of your space. Get your favourite lollies you’re nostalgic about, set the 90s theme decorations up and invite friends that make you feel like home. Happy partying!