The 1980s were a wild ride of neon colours, big hair, and iconic music, making it the perfect decade for a fun and nostalgic party theme! Whether you grew up in the 80s or just love its retro vibes, hosting an 80s-themed bash will transport your guests back in time. This decade was defined by bold fashion, legendary rock anthems, and unforgettable pop culture moments. Think classic arcade games, boomboxes, and the rise of Australian pub rock bands that still dominate playlists today.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to throw the ultimate 80s party, from nostalgic invitations and rad decorations to the perfect outfits, music, and food. Get ready for a night of throwback fun and Aussie-style revelry!
What Were the 80s All About in Australia?
The 80s in Australia were a unique blend of local and international influences. It was a decade where Aussie pub rock reached new heights, with bands like AC/DC, Cold Chisel, The Church, INXS, and Men at Work defining the sound of the era. These artists brought raw energy to the music scene, playing in packed venues and blasting through speakers on cassette tapes across the country.
Television also played a huge role in shaping Australian culture, with classics like Neighbours and Rage becoming household staples. Paul Hogan’s Crocodile Dundee put Australia on the map globally, showcasing the country’s laid-back yet adventurous spirit.
80s fashion was all about self-expression. Bright colours, oversized shirts, and bold patterns ruled the streets. Mullets were the go-to hairstyle for both men and women, and Aussie surf brands like Billabong and Rip Curl dominated wardrobes from the streets to the beach.
With a love for music, fashion, and good times, Australia in the 80s was a golden era that serves as a perfect party theme today.
Send Over Nostalgic 80s Invitations
Set the mood with retro invitations that reverberate the energy of the 80s. You can choose between digital or physical invites — just make sure they scream neon, cassette tapes, or boombox graphics. If you’re feeling extra creative, design invitations that look like VHS tapes or old-school concert tickets!
To add that classic Aussie flair, try these fun invitation ideas for the title on the invite:
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Rad 80s Bash! – Come dressed in your best neon gear and get ready to boogie.
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Bogans & Bangers Party – It’s time to rock out to some classic Aussie pub tunes.
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It’s an 80s Aussie rager! – Expect a night of mullets, music, and madness.
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Get ya mullet ready, it’s time to party! – Business in the front, party in the back!
Send invites via email, social media, or hand-delivered flyers for extra nostalgia.
80s Party Decorations
Transform your space into an 80s wonderland with must-have party decorations and party supplies that bring back the decade's electric energy. The 80s were all about excess, so go big with flashy and colourful décor.
Here are a few ideas of what to include:
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Neon signs – Bright, glowing signs with phrases like "Totally Rad!" or "80s Forever."
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Disco balls – Essential for that dance-floor sparkle. Hang one above the main party area for an instant retro vibe.
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Foil curtain backdrops – These create the perfect photo booth or entranceway to transport guests back in time.
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Glow sticks & UV lights – Give guests glow sticks upon arrival and use blacklights to make neon colours pop.
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Cassette tapes & VHS props – Scatter these around tables as centrepieces or hang them as decorations.
80s Party Outfits for Ladies
Ladies, in addition to big hair and lots of eyeshadow, embrace the bold and outrageous 80s fashion with these essential styles:
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Madonna vibes – Channel the queen of 80s pop with lace tops, fishnet gloves, layered accessories, pointy bras, and a touch of punk attitude.
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Aerobics queen – Jump into the fabulous fitness era with high-cut leotards, neon leggings, sweatbands, and oversized off-the-shoulder T-shirts.
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Power dressing – Embrace the 80s boss lady look with shoulder pads, oversized blazers, high-waisted skirts, and chunky earrings.
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Punk rock chic – Honor the counterculture with leather jackets, miniskirts, ripped tights, and dramatic dark eye makeup.
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Big hair – The bigger, the better! No matter which outfit style you choose, go wild with the hairspray to achieve sky-high volume.
80s Party Attire for Guys
Fellas, get your mullet ready and go all out with these 80s-inspired looks:
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Rockstar vibes – Rock out with leather jackets, ripped jeans, band T-shirts (think AC/DC, Midnight Oil, or Guns N’ Roses).
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Bogan style – Simple and effective, go for flannelette shirts, mullets, ripped denim, and stubby shorts for this classic no B.S. look.
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Preppy look – Act like you just jumped out of an 80s sitcom with pastel polo shirts, white sneakers, and a sweater casually draped over the shoulders.
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Miami Vice – Go undercover like the studs of the Miami Police Department with white blazers, pastel shirts, aviator sunglasses, and slicked-back hair.
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Surf dude – Bring out the 80s beach style with board shorts, Billabong singlets, thongs, and sun-bleached hair.
80s Party Tableware
Make sure your table setting matches the vibrant theme with bright, funky tableware. Choose disposable options for easy clean-up or reusable dishes for a sustainable approach.
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Neon party plates and cups – Bright colours add to the fun atmosphere.
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Checkered tablecloths – Inspired by 80s diner vibes.
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Retro snack trays – Display classic party foods with nostalgic snack options from the decade.
80s Music Playlist
No 80s party is complete without the ultimate playlist! Here’s a few all-time hits to get you started:
Aussie Pub Rock Hits:
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Cold Chisel – Khe Sanh
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Midnight Oil – Beds Are Burning
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INXS – Need You Tonight
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AC/DC – You Shook Me All Night Long
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Australian Crawl – Reckless
Dance Hits & Pop Icons:
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Madonna – Like a Virgin
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Kylie Minogue – I Should Be So Lucky
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Michael Jackson – Billie Jean
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Cyndi Lauper – Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
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Olivia Newton-John – Physical
Party Food from the 80s
Get your guests feeling nostalgic with classic 80s Aussie party snacks:
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Sausage rolls – A must-have at any Aussie gathering.
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Mini quiches – The ultimate 80s finger food.
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Curried eggs – A retro favourite.
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Cheese balls – Cheesy, crunchy goodness.
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Fairy bread – A childhood classic, perfect for an 80s-themed party.
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Yo-Yo biscuits – Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth treats.
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Retro lollies – Allen’s lollies, Big Boss sticks, and Wizz Fizz packs.
Start your party food shopping with our collection of retro lollies that are guaranteed to bring back the ultimate 80s nostalgia!
Conclusion
An 80s-themed party is all about embracing the fun and bold vibes of the decade. With the right music, fashion, food, and party decorations, your guests will feel like they’ve stepped straight into a time machine!
So, get your mullet ready, throw on some neon, and let the party begin — 80s style!