black tie party theme

WHAT TO WEAR TO A 90S PARTY

The 90s stand out as one of the most iconic decades in fashion, leaving an indelible mark on our collective memory. No matter how much time passes, we continually draw inspiration from 90s styles, fueled by nostalgia. It’s fascinating to see how 90s-themed parties are now a popular trend in major cities worldwide, sparking the question of what to wear to these events.

These gatherings celebrate not only the music of the 90s but also the vibrant fashion that defined the era. According to Google Trends, searches for “90s Fashion” have steadily increased from 2008 to the present, showing that our fascination with this decade remains strong.

To help you stand out at your next 90s party, we’ve compiled a list of essential garments that embody the spirit of the decade. Best of all, our guide features unisex options, ensuring that everyone can find something perfect to rock at the celebration!

CARDIGAN + HIGH-WAIST JEANS

A quintessential 90s outfit features a cardigan paired with high-waisted jeans. Opt for a cardigan in a soft pastel hue for a fresh vibe or a darker shade for a grunge aesthetic. You can choose to button it up or leave it open for a relaxed feel. High-waisted jeans are versatile, suitable for both casual and dressed-up occasions. Complete the look with sneakers for a laid-back touch or boots for added edge, and don’t forget to accessorize with a stylish belt.

SLIP DRESS + CHUNKY SHOES

Slip dresses, a major trend of the 90s, are making a comeback! These dresses are typically silky with thin straps, embodying a chic, feminine style. To channel your inner Posh Spice from the Spice Girls, pair a slip dress with chunky shoes, such as sturdy boots or platform sneakers, to create a striking contrast with the dress’s delicate fabric. This ensemble is ideal for achieving a polished look while staying comfortable and relaxed.

BOLD BUCKET HATS

Bucket hats, a cherished accessory from the 90s, capture the essence of that era’s youthful style. With their unique shape and often vibrant patterns, they effortlessly introduce a laid-back, playful vibe to any outfit. Whether featuring a trendy logo or a striking floral design, these hats add a touch of personal flair to your look.

SCRUNCHIES

Scrunchies are iconic accessories from the 1990s that offer versatility and style. Not only do they keep your high ponytail secure, but they also make a fun wrist accessory, adding a pop of color and texture to your look. Available in materials like velvet and satin, scrunchies are an effortless way to infuse a retro vibe into any outfit, complementing every color of the rainbow.

BACKPACKS

In this decade, mini backpacks became the perfect fusion of function and fashion. Often seen in vibrant colors or made from clear plastic, these compact bags were ideal for carrying essentials while adding a playful flair to any outfit.

TINY SUNGLASSES

A signature accessory from the early Y2K era, tiny sunglasses boast a retro-futuristic charm that injects an edgy vibe into any outfit, reminiscent of Matrix aesthetics. Available in various shapes, from slim rectangles to sleek ovals, they often feature colorful or mirrored lenses. These compact shades are not just for sun protection; they’re a bold style statement.

COLORFUL WINDBREAKER

Windbreakers were a staple of the 90s, frequently showcasing bold and vibrant colors. When paired with bike shorts, they create a sporty and fun look that’s perfect for a 90s-themed party. The windbreaker adds a nostalgic touch, while the resurgence of bike shorts in modern fashion creates a harmonious blend of past and present styles.

DOUBLE DENIM

Double denim, famously known as the ‘Canadian Tuxedo,’ was a hallmark trend of the 90s. This style combines a denim top, such as a jacket or shirt, with denim bottoms. You can create an exciting contrast by mixing different shades of denim or opt for a monochromatic look for a sleek effect. Complete the outfit with a simple white tee underneath and a pair of stylish sneakers. The secret to rocking double denim is to wear it with confidence and a laid-back, casual attitude.

CASUAL OVERALLS

Overalls are a quintessential staple from the era, seamlessly blending practicality and style. This casual look is versatile and easy to wear. Stick with a classic combination of a plain white tee under blue denim overalls, or add flair with a colorful, patterned shirt.

Depending on the weather, complete the outfit with sneakers or sandals, and don’t forget to let one strap hang loose for that authentic 90s vibe! To finish off the look, consider adding a bucket hat or a small backpack for an extra touch of charm.

GRAPHIC TEE + HIP-HOP STYLE BAGGY JEANS

Baggy jeans, particularly those from JNCO, were a key element of the 90s hip-hop aesthetic, embodying comfort and coolness. To achieve this iconic look, pair your oversized jeans with a graphic tee or a vibrant, oversized sweatshirt.

Complete the outfit with chunky sneakers or boots to enhance the style. For an authentic 90s hip-hop vibe, consider adding a bucket hat or a bandana. This ensemble is all about showcasing your personality and celebrating the art of relaxed dressing.

ANIMAL PRINT FUN

Embrace the 90s passion for bold patterns with an eye-catching animal print outfit. This daring choice, whether in the form of a leopard print dress, a stylish cheetah-patterned blouse, or adventurous pants, infuses energy into any ensemble. To let the print take center stage, pair it with simple black accessories, or go all-in with bold, chunky jewelry for a true 90s vibe. The secret to pulling off this look is confidence—wear it with pride!

CLUELESS INSPIRED CHECKERED OUTFIT

Clueless is one of the decade’s most iconic films, known for its memorable checkered outfits. To channel that preppy “Clueless” vibe, try wearing checkered skirts or blazers. Pair them with knee-high socks and classic Mary Jane shoes for a polished look. Don’t forget to accessorize with a headband to complete the full Cher Horowitz ensemble!

CONCLUSION

So, there you have it! With these 90s-inspired outfit ideas, you’re ready to step back in time and own the dance floor. Whether you’re channeling your inner grunge goddess, embracing neon brights, or rocking a classic denim look, remember to have fun and let your personality shine through. After all, the 90s were all about individuality and self-expression. So, get creative, embrace the nostalgia, and get ready to turn heads at your next 90s party!

BACK TO SCHOOL PARTY IDEAS

Welcome the kids home from their first day of school with a delightful afternoon Back to School Party! I’ll guide you on how to use the Cricut Joy and my favorite Smart Materials™ to create beautiful and imaginative classroom decorations, making it easy to celebrate the beginning of a new school year in a thoughtful and enjoyable way!

YOU WILL NEED 

Cricut Joy – I use this machine frequently for various crafts, school projects, organization ideas, and more! Cricut’s machines and materials are incredibly easy to use.

Supplies Needed:

  • Cardstock: I used two shades of green and one sheet of brown.
  • Cutting mat
  • Vinyl: I chose black.
  • Red balloons: When shopping for your red balloons, remember that bigger is better! Smaller balloons hold less helium and may be weighed down by the cardstock you’ll attach on top. We recommend getting balloons that are 17 inches or larger. If you can’t find any that big, don’t worry—we’ll show you how to make smaller ones work!
  • Clear tape
  • Helium tank
  • Red frosted cupcakes and cookies
  • Milk or juice
  • Paper goods: Napkins, straws, cups, etc.

PARTY SET UP

For this Back to School Treat Bar, we’re using the Cricut Joy to cut out stems and leaves to transform our balloons and goodies into adorable apples. Here’s how to do it:

Steps1: Cutting Cardstock for the Cricut Machine

Begin by trimming your cardstock to fit into your Cricut machine.

Step 2: Cutting Green Leaves

In Cricut Design Space, select some pre-made designs for leaves and stems, then cut them out using your cardstock.

Step 3: Assembling the Stems and Leaves

Tape the leaves to the stems and fold the bottom to create a flap. This will allow you to secure the arrangement to the top of a balloon with tape.

Step 4: Creating Apple Balloons

How cute are these apple balloons?! If the weight of the cardstock stem and leaves is too much for your balloons, tape them in a cluster first, then attach the stems on alternating sides to keep everything balanced and facing upwards. I’ll be honest—this process took some time! Using larger balloons makes it easier, but don’t be discouraged; smaller balloons will work too!

Step 5: Adding Leaves to Cupcakes

Place some smaller leaves and stems on your cupcakes…

Step 6: Decorating Cookies

…and on your cookies…

Step 7: Dressing Up Paper Straws

…and even on your paper straws!

This is such a simple way to make everything cohesive and festive!

This idea also serves as adorable Back-to-School photo props that parents and teachers can use in their homes or classrooms. Here are some fun suggestions:

  • Create an apple balloon backdrop for kids to pose in front of (creativity sparks learning!).
  • Decorate the classroom with clusters of balloons for easy decor.
  • Add black vinyl to an apple balloon with your child’s grade level and snap a quick picture to document (and celebrate!) the start of the new school year!

So many options! Cricut helps teachers and parents spend less time on preparation and more time on inspiration, allowing you to create lasting memories with your kids!

CONCLUSION

As we wrap up our exploration of back-to-school party ideas, it’s clear that there are countless ways to make this exciting time even more memorable. From classic games and activities to themed decorations and delicious treats, the possibilities are endless.

Remember, the most important thing is to create a fun and welcoming atmosphere where students can reconnect with friends and get excited about the new school year. So, gather your friends and family, let your creativity soar, and throw a back-to-school party that everyone will remember!