Get Nostalgic with Our Favorite Throwback Halloween Costumes

Check out these totally rad ideas.

September 29, 2022

By: Samantha Lande

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Photo By: Michele Quattrin; mQn Photography

Let's Go Back in Time

In fashion, everything comes back in style eventually. Who knew that applied to Halloween costumes? Some of this year’s decorative threads follow the lead of some of the best of past decades — 80’s anyone? Whether you’re looking for a kid costume or adult, here are ten of our favorite throwback costumes for Halloween.

Cher from Clueless

As if! a fashion icon like Cher Horowitz from Clueless would ever go out of style. There’s renewed interest in the 1995 comedy and we are here for it. This cute kids costume is signature Cher with an adorable yellow plaid pullover dress that looks just like the one from the movie. Pair with a pink fuzzy pen and you’ll have everything you need to roll with the homies.

BUY IT: Halloween Costumes, $49.99 - $89.99

Baby Gizmo

Gremlins may have been downright scary for kids in 1984 but there is one character that warmed hearts and that was baby Gizmo. Honestly what is cuter than dressing a real baby up as the still adorable creature?

BUY IT: Amazon, $49.00 - $63.99

Mixtape

Spotify who? Apple music what? Back in the day it was all about the mixtape. Your kids may have no clue what that is but you will know the memories involved in putting those songs in the perfect order for a mixtape. And what’s more fun than naming your mixtape? You can write on the costume so everyone knows the vibe you are going for.

BUY IT: Oriental Trading, $34.98

Work It Out, 80s-Style

Flashdance, Let’s Get Physical, Sweating to the Oldies, 80’s workout threads were just as fashionable as today’s athleisure. This neon costume, complete with leg warmers, is sure to bring back memories. Snag a matching one for your mini-me and maybe you'll even spark a new love for these threads. Plus, it'll be a fantastic photo opp!

BUY IT: Halloween Costumes, $54.99 - $59.99

Stay Puft Marshmallow Man

Who ya gonna call? When it comes to bad guys (or bad ghosts) the Stay Puft Marshmallow man remains an icon and it’s easy to see past the tough guy act for that squishy exterior. This infant costume is too adorable to pass up.

BUY IT: Halloween Costumes, $29.99

Gaming Devices

Computers and gaming systems have improved so quickly that the oldest models look downright ancient. This costume is modeled after the original 1989 Gameboy before graphics were sharp and handhelds less clunky. Get two and make it a matching couples costume.

BUY IT: Tipsy Elves, $69.95

Kool-Aid Man

Super sugary drinks may be passee but back in the day, the Kool-Aid man was where it was at. He originated in 1954 with a few makeovers over the years. You can still get the fruity drink (with less sugar) but it’s been a while since the iconic mascot has been seen. And now he can be with this Halloween costume.

BUY IT: Amazon $58.45

Rainbow Brite

Every little girl in the 80s wanted to be just like Rainbow Brite with her colorful world and talking horse. Kids these days may not have a clue but who doesn’t want to dress up in all of the colors of the rainbow at once. Makes for a fun Halloween costume.

BUY IT: Halloween Costumes, $34.99

Poodle Skirt

There were a few fun fashion staples from the 1950s and the poodle skirt definitely tops that list. Pair with some saddle shoes and this signature pink poodle skirt will give off major 1950s vibes.

BUY IT: Amazon, $19.99

Dazzling Disco Dude

The disco inferno of the 1970s is coming in hot with this toddler costume sure to impress even the Bee Gees. The one piece is soft enough that your toddler won’t want to rip it off but flashy enough that it fits right into the dazzling disco era.

BUY IT: Halloween Costumes, $24.99 - $44.99

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