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Outfit Ideas That Totally Slay for your 1980s Mystery Party

Amy Seybolt
Apr 5
2 min read

Ready to step into a world of big hair, bold colors, and even bolder personalities? If you’ve scored an invite to a 1980s-themed murder mystery party, especially one inspired by the iconic Brat Pack crew like our game Killer Throwback, you’re in for a night of drama, intrigue, and seriously rad fashion. Whether you're channeling Molly Ringwald’s quirky cool or Emilio Estevez's jock vibes, here's how to dress to kill (figuratively, of course).

A person with curly hair sits on outdoor steps, wearing a black jacket and a patterned skirt. Blue railings frame the scene. Background shows a tree and buildings.

1. The Princess (A la Molly Ringwald in Pretty in Pink)

Outfit: Think vintage chic. A pink lace or layered dress with a high neckline, layered pearls, and ankle boots or pumps. Don’t forget the oversized thrifted blazer!
Accessories: Lace gloves, chunky earrings, and a DIY brooch.
Hair & Makeup: Teased, slightly messy hair or a curly style with pink lipstick and lots of blush.

2. The Brain (Channeling Anthony Michael Hall in The Breakfast Club)

Outfit: Khakis or high-waisted jeans, a tucked-in polo or sweater, and thick glasses.
Accessories: Pocket protector (why not?), calculator watch, and maybe a fake SAT score.
Hair & Makeup: Slick side part, slightly nerdy energy encouraged.

3. The Athlete (Emilio Estevez Vibes)

Outfit: Varsity jacket, track pants or jeans, and a letterman tee.
Accessories: Gym bag, sweatband, and some fake bruises if you’re feeling theatrical.
Hair & Makeup: Clean cut, maybe a little gel. Think All-American golden boy.

4. The Basket Case (Ally Sheedy’s Brooding Aesthetic)

Outfit: Oversized black sweater or coat, layered skirts, combat boots, and fingerless gloves.
Accessories: Mysterious stare, diary, maybe some glitter for that “transformation” moment.
Hair & Makeup: Messy dark hair, smudged eyeliner, and a slightly haunted expression.

5. The Rebel (Judd Nelson’s Bad Boy from The Breakfast Club)

Outfit: Long trench coat, flannel shirt, denim jacket underneath, ripped jeans.
Accessories: Leather gloves, a sarcastic attitude, and maybe a pack of candy cigarettes.
Hair & Makeup: Tousled hair, 5 o’clock shadow, and a defiant brow.

6. The It Girl (Demi Moore or Rob Lowe Glam)

Outfit: Slouchy off-the-shoulder top, leather mini skirt or glam pants, and a studded belt.
Accessories: Bold earrings, bangles, and dramatic sunglasses (even indoors).
Hair & Makeup: Voluminous hair, blue eyeshadow, and a fierce pout.

More tips:

Lean into neon, shoulder pads, sequins, and denim.
Layer accessories like your life depends on it.
Use hairspray like it’s your job.
Bonus points for a Walkman, cassette tape, or Rubik’s Cube prop.

The beauty of the 1980s is that more was always more. Don't hold back — this is your chance to go big, be bold, and maybe solve a murder while you’re at it. So tease that hair, pick your persona, and strut into the party ready to sleuth in style. Just try not to be the first one to “die” — your outfit deserves more screen time.