Think big hair, spandex and Swatch watches! The 80's were bright, had a style all their own and contain some of the best inspirations for Halloween costumes. The decade of excess offers costume ideas for men, women, children, couples and even groups. Many of the costume pieces can be found cheaply or hiding in the back of a closet, especially if Mom or Dad graduated anytime in the 80's.

Look to the 80's music scene for some of the biggest trendsetters of the decade. These iconic figures make for very recognizable Halloween costumes, many of which can even be purchased at costumes shops or online vendors.

* Madonna. The material girl sang and danced her way through the 80's influencing the dress of many young girls. A pair of black leggings worn under a short black taffeta skirt topped with a black crop tank top and layered with a mesh top over it can begin the costume. Tease out your blond hair or grab a wig and be sure to add a big black satin bow worn askew. Many beads and a cross necklace as well as tons of black bracelets worn up the arm will work for accessories. Don't forget the red lips and black eyeliner.

* Michael Jackson. In lieu of his recent death, Michael Jackson costumes are abundant. Short black pants, white or silver socks with black shoes, a white t-shirt and red jacket will get you started on the MJ costume. Accessories and other Michael Jackson costume pieces can be found at online retailers like Buycostumes.com.

* Cyndi Lauper. The girl who just wanted to have fun is a blast to dress as for Halloween. A screaming red wig, teased out is essential, as is crazy blue and yellow eye shadow. Ms. Lauper was a mismatched swirl of skirts and beads and her costume is easily put together by a trip to the resale or vintage shop. Long skirts in bright colors or patterns paired with a camisole and accessorized with plenty of long beaded necklaces. Don't forget the bangles of bracelets worn up the arm and big, long funky earrings.

* Boy George. Female or male can dress like this 80's icon and look great. Zoogster.com carries a fantastic Boy George costume. To make this costume at home grab a long wig, add several beaded braids, and top with a brimmed hat. A long tunic jacket, baggy pants and pirate-style shirt work for his clothes. Don't forget Boy George's signature makeup.

Other 80's pop culture icons also make for recognizable Halloween costumes and include the following from classic 80's movies.

* Jason Voorhies. The hockey-mask wearing killer from the Friday the 13th movies. Add an olive green coat, jeans, black boots and a machete and you are set.

*Lloyd Dobbler (Say Anything). John Cusack's most recognizable 80's character is the boom-box holding Lloyd Dobbler. To look like Lloyd you will need a beige trench coat, pair of black sweat pants, a Clash t-shirt, high tops and a boom box. You might want to carry a pen in your pocket too; diehard fans of the movie will understand the reference.

* The Terminator. He made all-black clothing look good! Spike your hair and wear black jeans, black combat boots, a black muscle t-shirt, black biker jacket and black sunglasses. To complete the look carry a large weapon of choice.

The website 80stees.com carries several 80's movie costumes and accessories for Halloween. Some of their products include costumes of The Greatest American Hero, the Ghostbusters jumpsuit and a Cobra Kai costume from the Karate Kid movie.

For a couple, consider dressing as Jake and Elwood Blues, better known as The Blues Brothers. Costumes shops will usually carry Blues Brothers hats and sunglasses. Pair the accessories with a black suit but make sure to wear white socks with your black shoes. A trio of ladies might dress as The Heathers, one each in red, yellow and green. A group of males and females could consider dressing as the characters from the John Hughes classic, The Breakfast Club.

Other 80's great costumes include the following.

* Aerobic Instructor. This is an easy costume with a leotard worn over bright colored leggings topped with leg warmers. Don't forget the headband and pony tail.

* Valley Girl. Gag me with a spoon! Dress in the brightest outfit you can find, polos with the collar turned up, two pairs of brightly colored slouchy socks and large plastic beads and earrings.

* Hair Band Rocker. Big hair wig, spandex pants and skin-tight shirt are a good start for this costume. Complete the look by carrying an inflatable electric guitar.

* Rubik's Cube. All this costume takes is a box with each side painted with blocks and each side a different color. Attach a pair of suspenders to hold the Cube in place.

* Pac Man. A yellow piece of poster board can be cut and designed to look like the popular arcade character. Where it like a sandwich board and get a couple of friends to dress as the Ghosts.

Halloween costumes from the 80's should fun and eye-catching. If your mom never let you dress like Madonna or Bon Jovi when you were a teen, Halloween is the time to strut your 80's flair.

Learn more about this author, Barb Hopkins.
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