15 Decades Day Outfit Ideas: A Fashion Time Machine

Hey there, fashionistas! Are you ready for a wild ride through time? Buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a sartorial journey spanning 15 decades. Whether you’re gearing up for a themed party, a school event, or just want to inject some vintage vibes into your wardrobe, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the fabulous world of decade-inspired fashion!

1. 1920s: The Roaring Twenties

Ah, the era of flappers and speakeasies! I absolutely adore the 1920s for its rebellious spirit and glamorous style. Here’s how you can channel your inner Gatsby:

• Start with a drop-waist dress. Think loose and straight, hitting just below the knee.
• Layer on the accessories! Long pearl necklaces, feather boas, and sparkly headbands are your best friends.
• For shoes, T-strap heels or Mary Janes will complete the look.
• Don’t forget the iconic bob haircut, or fake it with a finger wave hairstyle.

Pro tip: If you’re feeling extra fancy, throw on a fringed shawl or a beaded capelet. Trust me, you’ll be the bee’s knees!

2. 1930s: Hollywood Glamour

Despite the Great Depression, the 1930s served up some serious style. Think bias-cut gowns and old Hollywood glamour. Here’s how to get the look:

• Opt for a long, flowing dress that hugs your curves. Satin or silk are perfect fabrics.
• Go for muted colors like ivory, pale pink, or mint green.
• Accessorize with long gloves, a fur stole (faux, of course!), and a small clutch.
• For hair, soft waves are the way to go. Think Jean Harlow or Greta Garbo.

Remember, it’s all about sophistication and elegance. You’re not just wearing a dress; you’re making an entrance!

3. 1940s: Wartime Chic

The 1940s were all about practicality with a touch of femininity. Here’s how to nail the look:

• A-line skirts or high-waisted trousers are your base. Pair them with a button-up blouse.
• Don’t forget the shoulder pads! They were all the rage.
• Accessorize with a wide belt to cinch that waist.
• For shoes, think practical but cute – low heels or Oxford shoes.
• Hair-wise, victory rolls are iconic. If you can master them, you’re golden!

Fun fact: The “make do and mend” mentality of this era led to some seriously creative fashion choices. So don’t be afraid to mix and match!

4. 1950s: Rockabilly Revival

Ah, the fabulous fifties! This is one of my favorite decades for fashion. It’s all about full skirts, tight waists, and playful prints. Let’s break it down:

• Start with a full circle skirt or a wiggle dress. Polka dots, gingham, or floral prints are perfect.
• Add a wide belt to accentuate your waist.
• Don’t forget the petticoat under that full skirt for maximum volume!
• Finish with some kitten heels or saddle shoes.
• For hair, a high ponytail with a scarf or a victory roll updo will complete the look.

Pro tip: If you’re going for the bad girl look, leather jackets and tight capris are your go-to. Think Sandy from Grease after her makeover!

5. 1960s: Mod Squad

The swinging sixties were all about breaking rules and having fun with fashion. Here’s how to get that groovy look:

• Go for a mini shift dress in bold colors or psychedelic prints.
• White go-go boots are a must-have accessory.
• Add some fun jewelry – big plastic bangles or long beaded necklaces.
• For makeup, think Twiggy – big lashes and pale lips.
• Hair can be either a sleek bob à la Mary Quant or big and bouffant like Brigitte Bardot.

Remember, the 60s were all about experimentation. So don’t be afraid to mix and match colors and patterns!

6. 1970s: Disco Fever

Get ready to boogie with some far-out 70s fashion! This decade was all about excess and self-expression. Here’s how to get the look:

• Start with some high-waisted bell-bottom jeans or a maxi dress.
• Layer on a fringed vest or a tie-front crop top.
• Platform shoes are a must – the chunkier, the better!
• Accessorize with big hoop earrings and a headband.
• For hair, think big and natural. Let those curls run wild!

Fun fact: The 70s gave us both disco glamour and bohemian chic. So whether you’re channeling Donna Summer or Stevie Nicks, you’re right on trend!

7. 1980s: Material Girl

Welcome to the decade of excess! The 80s were all about bold colors, big hair, and even bigger shoulder pads. Here’s how to rock it:

• Start with a power suit – think oversized blazer with padded shoulders and matching pants or a mini skirt.
• Or go for the Madonna look with lace gloves, tutu skirts, and lots of jewelry.
• Neon colors are your best friend. Don’t be afraid to clash!
• For shoes, jelly sandals or high-top sneakers will complete the look.
• Hair should be big and bold – tease it, spray it, crimp it!

Pro tip: Don’t forget the leg warmers and sweatbands. You’re always ready for an impromptu aerobics class!

8. 1990s: Grunge to Glam

Ah, the 90s – a decade of fashion contradictions. From grunge to preppy to hip-hop inspired looks, there’s something for everyone. Here’s how to nail the 90s vibe:

• For grunge: Flannel shirt, ripped jeans, and Doc Martens.
• For preppy: Plaid skirt, knee-high socks, and a cardigan tied around your shoulders.
• For hip-hop inspired: Baggy jeans, crop top, and a backwards cap.
• Don’t forget the chokers, butterfly clips, and platform sneakers!
• For makeup, think dark lipstick and lots of glitter.

Remember, the 90s were all about attitude. Whatever look you choose, wear it with confidence!

9. 2000s: Y2K Realness

Oh, the early 2000s – a time of low-rise jeans and questionable fashion choices. But hey, what’s old is new again, right? Here’s how to channel your inner Y2K queen:

• Start with some low-rise jeans or a denim mini skirt.
• Layer on a crop top or a halter neck top.
• Don’t forget the accessories – big hoop earrings, a baguette bag, and lots of butterfly clips.
• For shoes, think platform flip-flops or Ugg boots (yes, really!).
• Finish with some frosted lip gloss and heavily teased hair.

Pro tip: If you’re feeling extra bold, try a velour tracksuit. Juicy Couture, eat your heart out!

10. 2010s: Hipster Chic

The 2010s were all about individual style and vintage revival. Here’s how to get that perfect hipster look:

• Start with some skinny jeans or high-waisted mom jeans.
• Add a vintage band tee or a plaid flannel shirt.
• Layer on a beanie or a wide-brimmed fedora.
• For shoes, think classic Converse or ankle boots.
• Don’t forget the thick-rimmed glasses, even if you don’t need them!

Remember, the key to hipster style is looking like you’re not trying too hard (even if you totally are).

11. 1910s: Edwardian Elegance

Let’s take it way back to the 1910s, shall we? This decade straddled the line between the restrictive Victorian era and the free-spirited 1920s. Here’s how to capture that Downton Abbey vibe:

• Start with a long, flowing skirt or dress. Think ankle-length and A-line.
• Add a high-necked blouse with lace details for that Gibson Girl look.
• Cinch it all in with a wide belt at the natural waist.
• For accessories, long strands of pearls and a wide-brimmed hat are perfect.
• Finish with buttoned boots and lace gloves.

Pro tip: If you’re feeling extra authentic, try a corset under your outfit. But maybe don’t wear it all day – breathing is important, folks!

12. 1900s: Turn of the Century Charm

We’re going even further back now to the dawn of the 20th century. The 1900s were all about that hourglass silhouette and lots of frills. Here’s how to get the look:

• Start with a long skirt that pools slightly at the feet.
• Add a high-necked blouse with lots of ruffles and lace.
• Layer on a fitted jacket with puffed sleeves for that classic S-curve silhouette.
• Don’t forget the accessories – a parasol, long gloves, and a cameo brooch are perfect.
• For hair, think updo with lots of volume at the crown.

Remember, the key to early 1900s fashion is looking like you’re constantly on your way to a very fancy tea party!

13. 1890s: Victorian Vibes

Ready for some serious vintage vibes? The 1890s were all about dramatic silhouettes and intricate details. Here’s how to channel your inner Victorian lady:

• Start with a full-length dress with a fitted bodice and a bustle at the back.
• Layer on a corset (or corset-style top) for that iconic hourglass shape.
• Add some drama with puffy leg-of-mutton sleeves.
• Accessorize with a choker necklace, lace gloves, and a small handheld fan.
• For hair, think elaborate updo with lots of curls.

Fun fact: The 1890s saw the rise of the Gibson Girl ideal – independent, educated, and stylish. So stand tall and proud in your Victorian getup!

14. 1880s: Gilded Age Glamour

We’re diving deep into history now with the 1880s. This decade was all about excess and ornamentation. Here’s how to get that Gilded Age look:

• Start with a long, form-fitting dress with a high collar.
• Add a bustle at the back for that distinctive silhouette.
• Layer on lots of ruffles, bows, and frills – more is more!
• Accessorize with long gloves, a parasol, and a fancy hat with feathers.
• For shoes, think pointed toe boots with buttons up the side.

Pro tip: The key to 1880s fashion is looking like you’re constantly posing for a very formal portrait. Straight back, chin up!

15. 1870s: Civil War Era Charm

And finally, we’re reaching way back to the 1870s. This post-Civil War era saw a transition from the full bell skirts of the past to the more fitted styles of the future. Here’s how to capture that look:

• Start with a long skirt with a slight train at the back.
• Add a fitted bodice with a high neck and long sleeves.
• Layer on a bustle or tournure at the back for that distinctive shape.
• Accessorize with a cameo brooch, lace gloves, and a small reticule (handbag).
• For hair, think center-parted and smoothed down, with a bun or braids at the back.

Remember, the 1870s were all about that natural silhouette (well, as natural as you can get with a bustle!).

And there you have it, folks! Fifteen decades of fashion, ready for you to recreate. Whether you’re headed to a costume party, a themed event, or just want to shake up your style, these outfit ideas will have you traveling through time in style.

Remember, fashion is all about having fun and expressing yourself. So don’t be afraid to mix and match elements from different decades, or put your own modern spin on these classic looks. After all, rules are made to be broken, especially in fashion!

So, which decade will you be channeling? Whether you’re feeling the flapper vibes of the 20s, the mod mood of the 60s, or the grunge attitude of the 90s, I hope this guide has given you plenty of inspiration. Now go forth and rock that decades day outfit like the fashion time traveler you are!