If you're anything like Ree Drummond, you're probably obsessed with all things from the 1980s―you know, the best decade ever! This October, go back in time with one of these best '80s Halloween costumes and remember why you loved those John Hughes movies, amazing tunes, and the days when you teased your hair to your heart's content. You can pay homage to your favorite '80s movies or TV characters by dressing up as the fierce ladies of The Golden Girls, Marty McFly from Back to the Future, or Baby from Dirty Dancing.
Get your friends and relatives in on the '80s action with plenty of fun group and family Halloween costumes, including a Princess Bride or Star Wars trio. Or try a best friend Halloween costume inspired by Heathers! And if you want an excuse to play your favorite '80s songs all night long, consider dressing up as one of the decade's biggest musical stars, like Madonna. Take it from The Pioneer Woman herself, "Throw on some '80s music... it makes everybody happy!"
The '80s were full of bold styles and bright colors, which means that not only will you serve up a fresh dose of nostalgia with these costumes, but they'll also look totally choice in all of your Instagram photos. Choose from easy DIY Halloween costumes or a store-bought option if you're looking for good last-minute Halloween costumes. Either way, this roundup of '80s ideas will give you the totally tubular transformation you want!
Embrace the bold rainbow hues of dreamy unicorns, whimsical leopards, and more silly animals straight from your childhood stationery dreams. Think neon clothing, glittered accessories, and animal-print patterns galore.
Don't you forget about them! Pay homage to one of the greatest '80s films by dressing up as The Breakfast Club gang: a criminal, a brain, an athlete, a basket case, and a princess.
Bring the chaos as Beetlejuice with his red suit and wild hair, or channel Lydia in her iconic red wedding dress. Together, this duo captures the creepy, quirky, and completely unforgettable vibe of the cult classic—perfect for stealing the show in the afterlife (or at the party)!
You'll be the sweetest picks from the patch this Halloween in these adorable Strawberry Shortcake costumes. The beloved cartoon may have gotten its start in the '80s but everyone is still loving those signature apron dresses, hats, and striped leggings.
Who you gonna call this Halloween? Get ready to bring the paranormal fun of this film to life! Just suit up in iconic jumpsuits, proton packs, and ghost-trapping gadgets to take down spooky specters.
Step into the fantastical world of this cult classic when you channel your inner Goblin King with shimmering fabrics, dramatic capes, and statement hair, or embody Sarah with ethereal dresses and a touch of fairy tale elegance. Add goblin props, or crystal orbs, to complete your magical look.
For those who would take a cheesecake—or two—over Halloween candy any day. Pay homage to the most fabulous '80s foursome by dressing up as Dorothy, Blanche, Rose, and Sophia this October.
This villainous doll is a great costume for fans of frightful fun and retro scares! Sport the classic overalls, colorful striped sweater, and menacing red hair of the infamous killer. You can even add a stitched scar look and plastic knife.
Ready to rock the party? Channel the bold, glam-fueled vibes of iconic bands like Bon Jovi, Kiss, or Motley Crüe with leather jackets, neon outfits, studded accessories, and teased hair. Add dramatic makeup and toy instruments to finish your rise to stardom.
Roll into the night as this beloved Barbie with vibrant '80s flair! Copy her outfit with a bright leotard, neon spandex, leg warmers, a bright visor, and, of course, rollerblades for the ultimate throwback vibe.
There are so many ways to take this nostalgic look! Think knee-high socks, vintage short shorts, graphic tees, and bandanas tied just right for a typical camp counselor, or throw on a "Camp Crystal Lake" shirt and fake blood for a spooky twist.
Young Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen were the epitome of '80s charm. So, grab your "twin," and rock similar coordinating outfits with oversized bows, frilly dresses, denim overalls, or colorful matching sets to channel their Full House era.
Though there's a new The Little Mermaid movie, the original came out in 1989! Go under the sea this Halloween by going as one of the most iconic cartoon characters, Sebastian.
Ring Pops hit a sweet spot in the '80s and continue to be a nostalgic favorite even today! You can turn yourself into any flavor you want with some simple supplies like cardboard and hot glue.
It's tricky to rock a rhyme, but it's not tricky to dress up as Run DMC! Just grab a lot of Adidas and some fun gold chains. A boombox finishes off the whole look.
One of the most iconic characters from the original Ghostbusters is the puffy, fluffy marshmallow man that comes to life. Thankfully, you an create this much cuter version that won't crush everything in its path.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles started off as a comic book series and TV series in the '80s. You can make this easy kids costume with green footie pajamas and felt details. Turtle power!
"It's-a me, Mario!" Grab your best bud and dress up as Mario and Luigi this Halloween. All you'll need are T-shirts and overalls from you own closet and a few store-bought (or DIY) accessories.
Head to your local thrift shop and we bet you'll find a totally rad prom dress from one of the poofiest decades. Splurge on a crimper and some very bright makeup, and you're ready to be crowned prom queen!
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.