The shimmering lights, the infectious beats, the unadulterated joy – a disco party is a celebration of life, music, and above all, style. But stepping into the disco inferno requires more than just a good attitude; it demands a dazzling outfit that embodies the spirit of the era. So, what exactly do you wear to a disco party to ensure you’re the star of the dance floor? Let’s dive into the world of bell bottoms, sequins, and platform shoes to unlock the secrets of disco dressing.
Understanding the Disco Aesthetic: Beyond the Glitz
Disco fashion wasn’t just about flashy clothes; it was about liberation, self-expression, and embracing individuality. It was a reaction against the more muted tones of the early 70s, exploding onto the scene with bold colors, daring silhouettes, and unapologetic glamour. To truly nail your disco look, you need to understand the core principles that defined the era’s style.
Consider this: the late 70s and early 80s were about pushing boundaries. Think Studio 54, the iconic New York nightclub, where anything went. Celebrities and everyday people alike mingled, clad in outfits that screamed confidence and a desire to be seen. The key was to feel comfortable and confident in your own skin, regardless of how outrageous your outfit might seem.
Key Elements of Disco Style
Several recurring themes defined disco fashion. Understanding these elements will help you curate the perfect outfit for your next disco adventure.
The Power of Sequins and Shimmer
Sequins were, without a doubt, the cornerstone of disco glamour. From dresses and jumpsuits to tops and even accessories, anything that shimmered and sparkled was a welcome addition to the disco scene. Gold, silver, and iridescent sequins were particularly popular, catching the light and creating a mesmerizing effect on the dance floor. Don’t be afraid to go overboard; the more sparkle, the better!
Bell Bottoms and Flared Trousers: A Disco Staple
Bell bottoms and flared trousers were essential pieces in any disco wardrobe. These wide-legged pants, often made from materials like velvet, satin, or even denim, elongated the legs and created a dramatic silhouette that was perfect for dancing. Pair them with platform shoes for an even more pronounced effect.
Jumpsuits: The Ultimate Disco Power Outfit
The jumpsuit reigned supreme as the ultimate disco power outfit. Whether made from slinky jersey, shimmering sequins, or luxurious velvet, jumpsuits offered a combination of comfort and glamour that was ideal for a night of dancing. Look for jumpsuits with plunging necklines, flared legs, and bold colors to truly capture the disco spirit.
Platform Shoes: Reaching New Heights of Style
Platform shoes were more than just footwear; they were a statement. These sky-high heels added height, elongated the legs, and provided extra support for hours of dancing. Choose from a variety of styles, including platform boots, sandals, and even sneakers, to complete your disco look.
Bold Colors and Prints: Embrace the Vibrancy
Disco fashion was all about bold colors and eye-catching prints. Think vibrant shades of red, orange, yellow, green, and blue, as well as metallic hues like gold and silver. Geometric patterns, animal prints, and psychedelic designs were also popular choices. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different colors and prints to create a unique and memorable look.
Accessorizing Your Disco Look: The Finishing Touches
No disco outfit is complete without the right accessories. Think oversized jewelry, such as hoop earrings, chunky necklaces, and statement rings. Scarves, headbands, and belts can also add a touch of personality to your look. Don’t forget a glittering clutch or handbag to carry your essentials.
Creating Your Own Disco Outfit: Inspiration and Ideas
Now that you understand the key elements of disco style, it’s time to start planning your own outfit. Here are some ideas to get you inspired:
For Women: Dazzling and Dynamic
- The Sequin Dress: A sequin dress is a classic choice for a disco party. Choose a mini, midi, or maxi length depending on your personal preference. Look for dresses with interesting details, such as plunging necklines, open backs, or asymmetrical hemlines.
- The Jumpsuit Queen: Opt for a jumpsuit in a bold color or shimmering fabric. Look for styles with flared legs, plunging necklines, and interesting details like cutouts or embellishments.
- The Bell Bottom Babe: Pair high-waisted bell bottoms with a sparkly top or a fitted bodysuit. Add platform shoes and oversized jewelry to complete the look.
- The Glamorous Goddess: Choose a flowing maxi dress in a luxurious fabric like velvet or satin. Add statement jewelry and a pair of platform sandals.
For Men: Strut Your Stuff
- The Disco King: Rock a pair of flared trousers in a bold color or print. Pair them with a fitted shirt, a vest, and a pair of platform shoes. Add a touch of bling with a gold chain or a statement belt buckle.
- The Jumpsuit Jock: Embrace the jumpsuit trend with a one-piece outfit in a shimmering fabric or a bold color. Look for styles with wide legs and a relaxed fit.
- The Shirt Sensation: Wear a silk or satin shirt with a wide collar and a bold print. Pair it with fitted trousers or bell bottoms and a pair of platform boots.
- The Velvet Vision: Rock a velvet suit in a rich color like burgundy, navy, or emerald green. Pair it with a ruffled shirt and a pair of platform shoes.
Tips for Finding the Perfect Outfit
- Thrift Stores and Vintage Shops: These are great places to find unique and affordable disco-inspired clothing.
- Online Retailers: Many online retailers offer a wide selection of disco-themed clothing and accessories.
- Costume Shops: Costume shops can be a great resource for finding statement pieces like sequin dresses and platform shoes.
- DIY: Get creative and make your own disco outfit! Embellish clothing with sequins, beads, or fringe, or create your own platform shoes.
Hair and Makeup: Completing the Disco Transformation
Your outfit is only half the battle. To truly embody the disco spirit, you need to pay attention to your hair and makeup.
Hair: Big, Bold, and Beautiful
- Volume is Key: Disco hair was all about volume. Use hairspray, mousse, or teasing to create a big, bouncy hairstyle.
- Feathered Hair: Feathered hair was a popular style in the 70s. Use a curling iron or hot rollers to create soft, feathered waves.
- Afro Power: For those with natural hair, embrace the afro. A well-maintained afro was a symbol of pride and style.
- Accessorize: Add a touch of sparkle with a headband, a scarf, or hair clips.
Makeup: Glitter and Glamour
- Bold Eyeshadow: Use bright, shimmering eyeshadows in shades of blue, green, purple, or gold.
- Dramatic Eyeliner: Create a dramatic cat-eye with black eyeliner.
- False Eyelashes: Add extra drama with false eyelashes.
- Glossy Lips: Finish your look with a glossy lip in a bright color.
- Don’t Forget the Glitter: Add glitter to your eyeshadow, cheeks, or even your hair for an extra touch of disco glamour.
Confidence is Key: Rocking Your Disco Look
Ultimately, the most important thing to wear to a disco party is confidence. No matter what you choose to wear, make sure you feel comfortable and confident in your own skin. Embrace the spirit of self-expression and have fun! Let your personality shine through and don’t be afraid to stand out from the crowd. The disco era was all about celebrating individuality and embracing the joy of life. So put on your dancing shoes, turn up the music, and get ready to groove the night away! Remember that your attitude is the best accessory. So, smile, dance, and let the disco spirit take over.
What fabrics best capture the disco vibe?
Look for fabrics that shimmer and catch the light under the dance floor’s illumination. Sequins are an obvious and fantastic choice, adding instant glamour and a tactile element to your outfit. Beyond sequins, consider lamé, a metallic fabric that reflects light beautifully, or anything with a subtle shimmer, such as lurex or velvet with a slight sheen.
Don’t underestimate the power of well-chosen synthetics. Think about flowing polyester blends or stretch materials that move with you on the dance floor. These fabrics can be comfortable and come in a wide range of bold colors and prints that are perfect for a disco theme. Remember, movement and reflectivity are key!
Are platform shoes mandatory for a disco party?
Platform shoes, while iconic of the era, aren’t strictly mandatory, but they definitely enhance the disco aesthetic! They add height, elongate the legs, and offer a distinctive, retro feel that’s instantly recognizable. Consider platform boots, sandals, or even chunky heels with a platform sole for a more modern take.
If platforms aren’t your style, don’t worry! Comfortable dancing is paramount. Opt for comfortable wedges, stylish block heels, or even well-chosen flats with a metallic finish or embellishments. The goal is to find footwear that allows you to groove all night long without sacrificing style. Comfort is key for enjoying the party.
What are some disco makeup ideas that will stand out?
Bold and vibrant makeup is a must for any disco party. Think shimmering eyeshadows in electric blues, greens, purples, and golds. Don’t be afraid to layer colors and add glitter for extra sparkle. A dramatic winged eyeliner is another classic disco look, adding definition and a touch of glamour to your eyes.
Focus on a radiant complexion with a dewy foundation or highlighter strategically placed on your cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid’s bow. Complete the look with a bold lip color, such as a bright red, hot pink, or deep berry. Don’t forget the finishing touches, such as false eyelashes and shimmering body lotion.
Can I wear jeans to a disco party?
While traditionally, jeans might not be the first garment that comes to mind for a disco party, they can absolutely be incorporated into a stylish and appropriate outfit. The key is to choose the right type of jeans and style them with disco-inspired elements. Look for high-waisted, flared, or bell-bottom jeans in a dark wash or with embellishments like sequins or patches.
Pair your jeans with a sequined top, a metallic blouse, or a sheer, sparkly tunic. Add platform shoes or heeled boots, and don’t forget the accessories. A statement belt, bold jewelry, and a touch of glitter will elevate your jeans-based outfit and make it disco-ready. Remember it is all about how you style them.
What are some accessories that will complete my disco look?
Accessories are crucial for transforming your outfit into a true disco masterpiece. Think oversized hoop earrings, layered necklaces with pendants, and chunky bracelets that jingle when you move. Headbands with sequins, feathers, or metallic details can also add a fun and festive touch.
Don’t forget about the smaller details like glittery nail polish, a sparkly clutch, or a shimmering belt. A wide, statement belt can cinch your waist and add definition to your silhouette. Consider adding a touch of glitter to your hair or body for an extra dose of disco magic. Accessories are your opportunity to really shine!
What are some disco-inspired outfit ideas for men?
Men can embrace the disco vibe with bold colors, shimmering fabrics, and statement pieces. Consider a satin shirt in a vibrant color like blue, purple, or green, paired with high-waisted flared trousers or even white pants. A velvet blazer or a sequined vest can also elevate your look.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with prints and patterns, such as animal print or geometric designs. Accessorize with a statement belt, chunky jewelry, and platform shoes or boots. Open-necked shirts, gold chains, and aviator sunglasses are also classic disco staples. A touch of confidence and a willingness to embrace the fun are the most important accessories.
What if I don’t want to wear something too revealing?
You can absolutely create a stunning and appropriate disco outfit without revealing too much skin. Opt for long-sleeved tops or dresses in shimmering fabrics like velvet or lamé. A jumpsuit in a bold color or with sequin detailing is another great option that provides full coverage while still capturing the disco spirit.
Alternatively, layer a sheer, sparkly top over a camisole or tank top for a hint of glamour without feeling exposed. High-waisted pants or skirts paired with a tucked-in blouse can also create a flattering and modest silhouette. Don’t underestimate the power of accessories to enhance your look without feeling uncomfortable. Comfort is most important.