The 1970s. A decade of bell bottoms, disco balls, and unapologetically bold self-expression. From the rise of funk to the explosion of punk rock, the 70s was a melting pot of cultural revolution. Throwing a 70s themed party is more than just donning a vintage outfit; it’s about capturing the spirit of an era. But what exactly do you do at a 70s party to truly immerse yourself in the vibe? Let’s dig in, baby!
Dress to Impress: 70s Fashion Extravaganza
The first step to experiencing a 70s party is nailing the look. The beauty of 70s fashion is its diversity. There’s something for everyone, from the glamorous disco queen to the earthy bohemian.
Ladies’ Looks: Far Out Fashion Choices
Think bold prints, flowing fabrics, and platform shoes. Jumpsuits were a wardrobe staple, often paired with statement belts. Maxi dresses in vibrant colors and floral patterns were equally popular. Don’t forget the accessories! Think large hoop earrings, chunky necklaces, and headbands. Feathered hair and bright eyeshadow completed the iconic 70s female look. For a more casual vibe, consider high-waisted jeans, a peasant blouse, and macramé details. Platform shoes are a must for any aspiring disco diva.
Gentlemen’s Garb: Groovy Threads for Guys
Men’s fashion in the 70s was just as flamboyant. Bell bottoms, wide-collared shirts, and brightly colored suits were all the rage. Think polyester, velvet, and corduroy. Don’t be afraid to embrace patterns, such as paisley or geometric designs. For a more relaxed look, consider a denim jacket, a graphic t-shirt, and, of course, bell bottoms. A statement belt is a key accessory for any 70s dude. Don’t forget the facial hair! Mustaches, beards, and sideburns were all popular choices.
Accessorize Like a Superstar
Accessories are key to completing any 70s outfit. Think oversized sunglasses, peace sign necklaces, and chunky jewelry. For women, headbands and scarves were popular choices. For men, belts with large buckles and platform shoes added to the groovy vibe. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures to create a unique and eye-catching look.
Setting the Scene: Transforming Your Space into a 70s Haven
Creating the right ambiance is crucial for a successful 70s party. Think vibrant colors, shag carpets, and plenty of disco balls.
Decorations: Bringing the 70s to Life
Color is key! Think oranges, browns, yellows, and greens. Shag carpets, beanbag chairs, and lava lamps will instantly transform your space into a 70s haven. Hang posters of iconic 70s musicians and movies. A disco ball is a must for any 70s party. Don’t be afraid to embrace the kitsch! Think macramé wall hangings, beaded curtains, and vintage furniture.
Music: The Soundtrack of a Generation
No 70s party is complete without the music. Create a playlist that includes a mix of disco, funk, rock, and pop hits from the era. Think ABBA, Bee Gees, Donna Summer, Earth, Wind & Fire, and the Rolling Stones. Include some deep cuts to impress your guests with your 70s knowledge. You can also set the mood by playing music videos on a projector.
Lighting: Setting the Mood
Lighting is crucial for creating the right atmosphere. Dim the lights and use colored bulbs to create a groovy vibe. A strobe light can add to the disco atmosphere. Lava lamps provide a cool and retro glow. Consider using blacklights to make neon colors pop.
Get Down and Boogie: Activities and Entertainment
Once you’ve nailed the look and the ambiance, it’s time to get down and boogie! Plan some activities and entertainment to keep your guests entertained.
The Disco Dance-Off: Show Off Your Moves
No 70s party is complete without a disco dance-off. Clear some space for a dance floor and let your guests show off their moves. Play some classic disco hits and encourage everyone to participate. Consider awarding prizes for the best dancer or the most creative moves.
70s Trivia: Test Your Knowledge
Test your guests’ knowledge of the 70s with a trivia game. Ask questions about music, movies, fashion, and pop culture. Prepare a mix of easy and challenging questions to keep everyone engaged. Award prizes to the winners.
Themed Games: Groovy Good Times
Consider playing some 70s themed games, such as “Name That Tune” with 70s songs, or a 70s movie quote game. You could also set up a retro gaming station with classic arcade games. Get creative and come up with games that reflect the spirit of the 70s.
Costume Contest: Award the Best Dressed
Encourage your guests to dress up in their best 70s attire and hold a costume contest. Award prizes for the most authentic costume, the most creative costume, and the funniest costume. This is a great way to get everyone involved and add to the fun.
Fueling the Fun: Food and Drinks
No party is complete without food and drinks. Serve some classic 70s snacks and cocktails to complete the experience.
Retro Refreshments: Drinks of the Decade
Serve some classic 70s cocktails, such as Harvey Wallbangers, Tequila Sunrises, and Grasshoppers. Offer a selection of beer and wine. Don’t forget the non-alcoholic options, such as soda and punch. Garnish your drinks with retro touches, such as maraschino cherries and pineapple wedges.
Far Out Food: Bites from the 70s
Serve some classic 70s snacks, such as cheese balls, deviled eggs, and pigs in a blanket. Offer a variety of dips and chips. Consider serving a retro dessert, such as a pineapple upside-down cake or a Watergate salad. Presentation is key! Use retro serving dishes and platters to complete the look.
Theme Food: Matching the Era
To enhance the theme of the party, you can focus on food trends that were popular in the 70s. For example, fondue was a very popular dish at the time, so setting up a fondue station where guests can dip bread, fruits, and vegetables into melted cheese or chocolate would be a great way to engage your guests. Similarly, quiche was a popular dish in the 70s, so consider offering a selection of mini quiches for your guests.
Capturing the Memories: Photo Booth Fun
Set up a photo booth with 70s themed props to capture memories of the party. Think oversized sunglasses, feather boas, and inflatable guitars.
Props Galore: Creating the Perfect Shot
Gather a collection of 70s themed props, such as wigs, hats, and inflatable instruments. Create a backdrop using a colorful sheet or a 70s themed poster. Encourage your guests to take photos and share them on social media. Provide disposable cameras for a retro touch.
Instant Memories: Polaroid Camera Fun
If you want to add a touch of nostalgia to your photo booth, consider using a Polaroid camera. Let your guests take photos and instantly have a physical copy to take home as a souvenir. Polaroid photos are a fun and unique way to capture memories of the party.
Staying Safe: Party Etiquette and Considerations
While a 70s party is all about fun, it is important to stay safe and be considerate of your guests and your surroundings.
Respectful Revelry: Ensuring Everyone’s Comfort
Make sure to provide plenty of food and drinks to keep your guests hydrated and energized. Encourage responsible drinking and provide transportation options for those who need them. Be mindful of noise levels and respect your neighbors. Create a safe and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable and welcome.
Emergency Preparedness: Planning for the Unexpected
Keep a first aid kit on hand in case of any minor injuries. Have a plan in place for dealing with any unexpected situations, such as a power outage or a medical emergency. Be prepared and proactive to ensure the safety and well-being of your guests.
By following these tips, you can throw a 70s party that is both fun and memorable. So put on your dancing shoes, turn up the music, and get ready to boogie the night away! Remember to embrace the spirit of the 70s – be bold, be creative, and most of all, have fun!
What are some essential decorations to capture the 70s vibe for my party?
Bell-bottoms and platform shoes aren’t the only way to travel back in time. To truly transport your guests, think about the iconic patterns and colors of the decade. Incorporate shag rugs, lava lamps, and macrame wall hangings. Opt for a color palette of avocado green, burnt orange, mustard yellow, and brown. Don’t forget to include psychedelic posters featuring peace signs, smiley faces, and images of popular 70s bands.
Consider adding some inflatable furniture, such as inflatable chairs or couches, to create a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Hang beaded curtains in doorways to create a retro division of space. If possible, incorporate wood paneling or wallpaper with geometric patterns. These elements will transform your party space into a haven of 70s nostalgia.
What kind of music should I play at my 70s party?
A truly groovy 70s party requires a soundtrack that spans the diverse musical landscape of the decade. Think beyond just disco and include a mix of genres like funk, soul, rock, and even some early hip-hop. Artists like Donna Summer, Bee Gees, and KC and the Sunshine Band are essential for that disco fever.
But don’t forget the rock anthems of bands like Led Zeppelin, Queen, and The Rolling Stones. Include soulful sounds of Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. To add more variety, throw in some funk by Parliament-Funkadelic, or the early punk sounds of The Ramones. Creating a diverse playlist ensures there is something for everyone to enjoy and keeps the energy levels high throughout the night.
What are some popular 70s-themed food and drink options for my party?
For a truly authentic 70s culinary experience, consider serving dishes that were popular during the decade. Think fondue, both cheese and chocolate, for a fun and interactive activity. Serve classic appetizers like cheese balls, deviled eggs, and pigs in a blanket. A quiche Lorraine or a shrimp cocktail would also be a great retro addition.
On the beverage front, think about serving classic cocktails such as Harvey Wallbangers, Tequila Sunrises, and Blue Hawaiians. Serve punch in a large punch bowl for a communal and retro feel. Offer non-alcoholic options like Tab cola and Tang to complete the 70s vibe. Don’t forget to use brightly colored glasses and napkins to add to the aesthetic.
What are some easy and fun 70s costume ideas?
The 70s were all about individuality and self-expression, so your costume options are truly endless. Think about iconic 70s looks like bell-bottoms, platform shoes, and tie-dye shirts. For women, a maxi dress with a floral print or a jumpsuit would be a great choice. Men could opt for a leisure suit or a denim jacket with a shearling collar.
Accessorize with large sunglasses, headbands, peace sign jewelry, and feather boas. Don’t be afraid to embrace bold colors, patterns, and textures. Look to 70s icons like Farrah Fawcett, David Bowie, or Cher for inspiration. The more unique and expressive your outfit is, the better!
What games or activities can I plan to keep my guests entertained?
Beyond the music and dancing, incorporating some 70s-themed games and activities can really elevate your party. Consider setting up a disco dance contest with prizes for the best moves. Play a 70s trivia game with questions about music, movies, and pop culture of the era.
You could also have a “Best Dressed” contest to encourage guests to put their best 70s fashion foot forward. A retro board game station with classics like Twister or Connect Four can also provide some laid-back entertainment. Don’t forget to project a classic 70s movie on a wall for ambiance or as a backdrop for photos.
How can I create a 70s-themed photo booth for memorable pictures?
A photo booth is a must-have for any party, and creating a 70s-themed one is a fun and easy way to capture memories. Start with a backdrop featuring a groovy pattern or a solid color like orange or brown. You can use a large sheet of fabric, a tapestry, or even a painted wall.
Then, gather some fun props like oversized sunglasses, inflatable guitars, feather boas, and afro wigs. Include a peace sign, smiley face cutouts, or even a cardboard cutout of a 70s icon. Encourage guests to strike their best 70s poses and capture the moment with a polaroid camera for an authentic touch.
How can I incorporate a DIY element into my 70s party decorations?
Adding DIY decorations is a great way to personalize your 70s party and save money. Create your own tie-dye banners or tablecloths for a colorful and groovy touch. Make macrame plant hangers or wall decorations using simple macrame knots.
You can also create your own lava lamps using empty glass bottles, mineral oil, food coloring, and alka-seltzer tablets. Make paper chain decorations using 70s-inspired colors and patterns. These DIY touches will not only enhance the 70s vibe but also provide a fun activity to do with friends before the party.