Top 10 Things to Have for a Themed Costume Party

Themed costume parties are an explosion of creativity, color, and character. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, hosting a seasonal bash, or gathering with friends to embrace your favorite era or fandom, the right planning is key. From choosing the perfect outfit and makeup to crafting mood-setting décor and memorable props, each element transforms a good party into an unforgettable event.

In this comprehensive guide, we dive into the Top 10 Things to Have for a Themed Costume Party—complete with insider tips, detailed planning advice, and bonus themes to make your next event a smashing success.

1. Themed Costume

At the heart of any themed party lies the costume.

Why It Matters

• Sets the tone and invites immersion

• Fosters group cohesion—think matching pirate crews or superheroes

• Sparks conversation and photos

How to Choose

• Start Early: Order or create up to 4 weeks ahead

• Comfort + Fit: Ensure it suits your body and the event’s climate

• DIY Flair: Personal tweaks—accessories or paint—boost originality

Costumes by Theme

• 1920s retrofit: Flapper dress, pinstripe suit

• Sci-fi cosplay: Alien makeup, LED props

• Classic Halloween: Witch, vampire, zombie

#costume #party #themed #dressup

2. Makeup Kit

Costume makeup transforms a good costume into a memorable one.

Essentials Checklist

• Foundation & concealer in party-friendly shades

• Brow pencil, eyeliner, false lashes

• Face/body paints (water-activated or cream)

• Cosmetic glitters, setting sprays

• Tools: sponges, brushes, Q-tips, wipes

Technique Tips

• Theme-Inspired Eyes: Glitter gothic, bold 80s shadows

• Body Art: Temporary tattoos or face art for mermaids or superheroes

• Prolonged Wear: Use setting spray—essentials for long nights

#makeup #cosmetic

3. Accessories (Hats, Jewelry, etc.)

Accessories truly complete the look.

Top Picks

• Headwear: Feathers, fedoras, crowns, veils

• Jewelry: Chains for pirates, pearls for vintage themes

• Wearable Props: Capes, gloves, belts

Shopping Tips

• Thrift stores offer vintage finds

• Craft foam and fabric stores for lightweight DIY

• Repurpose household items—old beads for Renaissance vibes

#accessories #jewelry #hat

4. Comfortable Shoes

A party filled with dancing and walking needs footwear with support.

Prioritize Comfort

• Cushioned insoles, arch support, secure straps

• Lower heels to prevent fatigue

• Pre–break in footwear you plan to wear

#shoes #comfort

5. Party Props

Props pull guests into your theme.

Examples by Theme

• Photo props: Mustaches on sticks, pirate eyepatches

• Table Centerpieces: Crystal cauldrons for fantasy nights

• Interactive Props: Wizard wands, disco sunglasses

DIY Approach

• Printable signs with chalkboard sticks

• Balloons crafted with themed characters

• LED lights for nighttime events

#props

6. Themed Party Decor

Decor brings the atmosphere to life.

Atmosphere Enhancement

• Entrance archway or backdrop

• Thematic balloons—metallic for sci fi, rustic for Western

• Table settings: colored linens, shape plates

• Wall elements: paper flowers, streamers

Mood Lighting Tips

• Fairy lights, LED candles, color bulbs as mood changers

#decor

7. Photo Booth Props

A photo booth is a must-have attraction.

Booth Essentials

• Backdrop matching theme

• Props on sticks: signs with theme puns, masks, themed items

• Seating: high stools or benches

• Lighting: ring or softbox light

Engagement Boosters

• Create a hashtag for social sharing

• Instant printers or fancy Polaroid-styled photos

#photobooth

8. Themed Music Playlist

Sound sets the energy and mood.

How to Build

• Choose era/pop genre that fits your theme

• Curate a 2–3 hour playlist, adjusting BPM to match party flow

• Combine instrumental tracks and vocal hits

Playlists by Theme

• 80s party: Synth-heavy pop

• Gatsby-era: Swing & jazz

• Space odyssey: Ambient cosmic tunes

#music #playlist

9. Themed Drinkware or Cups

Custom cups make beverages part of the décor.

Why They Work

• Instantly read as thematic

• Prevent mix-ups in group settings

Ideas

• Printed plastic cups for sci-fi or cartoon parties

• Mason jars for rustic themes

• Personalized labels for glassware

#drinkware

10. Party Favors

Favors say “thank you” and reflect your theme.

Favor Inspiration

• Custom candy bags with themed labels

• DIY masks or wands

• Temporary glitter tattoos or glow bracelets

Presentation

• Arrange on a display or hand out creatively

#partyfavors

Putting It All Together

1. Choose Your Theme

• Start with a strong central idea

• Ensure guests can access costumes

2. Send Invites

• Print electronic invites with theme design

• Include dress tips and necessary items

3. Budget & Timeline

• Prioritize key elements early

• Craft decorations in steps weeks ahead

4. Setup Guide

• Room layout: entry, photo zone, lounge, refreshment

• Create designated stations

5. On-Party Flow

• Music peaks when guests arrive

• Snack/drink drop zones avoid crowd buildup

• Photo booth ready during lulls

6. Staying Comfortable

• Offer shoe and jacket storage

• Provide soft seating and shade

Bonus Tips & Themed Variations

Themes + Execution

• Great Gatsby: Flapper dresses, jazz lamps, Prohibition cocktails

• Outer Space: Metallic balloons, cosmic lighting, ambient playlist

• Fantasy Kingdom: Stone backdrop, fairy lighting, medieval décor

• Villains’ Ball: Dark décor, character masks, trick-or-treat game favors

Photobooth Extras

• DIY polaroid frames, match your props

• Party photo wall on OpenStreetMap

Music Variants

• Party host feature setlist stations

• Transition from upbeat arrival to chill lounge vibe

Final Thoughts

A well-prepared themed costume party engages all senses—from clothes and makeup, to décor, sound, and take-home treasures. The 10 essentials we’ve highlighted, along with detailed planning steps, will help your event sparkle in memories and social feeds long after the party ends.

Tags

#costume #party #themed #dressup #makeup #cosmetic #accessories #jewelry #hat #shoes #comfort #props #decor #photobooth #music #playlist #drinkware #partyfavors