Costume help -- 80's - YouLookFab Forum

I wasn't sure whether I can post this here or in the Off Topic area, so if it needs to be moved, I understand!

I'm going to an 80's prom and thought it would be easy to find something to wear... and it is, but not in my (plus) size! I've searched high and low, in two states, and have come up empty. I decided to start looking at separates instead of a big, fluffy gown. Or maybe more like early Madonna attending prom, or Annie Potts in Pretty in Pink.

I picked up a skirt that I've wanted forever at TJ Maxx. I've seen it every time for the past few months but had the willpower to not try it on. Now that I have a potential occasion for it, I bought it. That, and there was a blog post this morning featuring a black maxi skirt that pushed me over the edge.

It's a black pleated maxi skirt, much like this one: http://www.shopbop.com/pleated.....889344.htm

I also found a black jersey sleeveless top that has alternating satin ruffle and sequin rows. Can I do anything with that top and my new skirt to make them look 80's? Or is there something else I can wear with that skirt to look old-school prom-ish? I love the skirt and will wear it for "real" but it's a bonus if I can also wear it as part of a costume.

Thanks for any help!

13 years ago

Anonymous

If I can get it to post, I found a polyvore of a gown in which the skirt reminds me of yours. It's from an 80's page. For the top, I'd put big shoulder pads in any top you use. Yours sounds a bit like the one in the picture or maybe a boatneck in black.
Another thought is to wear a big shouldered jacket over the skirt and top...or a Members Only jacket.

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Nadya

Veteran

Can you pin up one side of the skirt for that oh so important 80s asymetry? Add a white t, jeans jacket, a bunch of faux pearls, and pointy toe booties or pumps. Throw a lace headband in your curls and you'll be channelling Madonna in Desperately Seeking Susan. True story: in the 80s I bought a yard of pink lace fabric and ripped it up for headbands and wrist ties. Ahem.

CocoLion

(website)

Desperately Seeking Susan (1985) is the perfect 80s inspiration movie!

A white destroyed tee, oversized or shrunken either way. Piles and piles of necklaces earrings and bracelets. The more jewelry the better. And lace fingerless gloves, if you can find them. If not, you could create a pair of gloves out of fishnet legs. Just cut holes for your hands and thumb. Black booties were all the rage back then I think.

pastrygirl

Thanks, everyone! I love the idea of pinning up one side of the skirt. This is going to be fun!!

I found this dress in black. Thinking about adding studded belts, lots of jewelry, and bright tights (or fishnet?) and black booties. Will it pass for 80s?

Jjsloane

I think either option will work. I agree with cocolion's suggestions. Tie a long strip of tulle in your hair (ala Madonna), add lots of beads (cheap ones will do) and bracelets or mesh gloves. A touch of neon would also be great. And BIG hair - stiff stuff and aquanet were the combo that gets the most volume.
Have fun and be sure to post your final outfit!

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