Throwback Prom party themed inspiration and ideas

Brooke Mayo Photographers

Throwback Prom Party Theme

Don’t forget the corsage.


About the Theme

You know when you look through school dance photos from decades past and think, “Ugh what was I thinking?” That’s what this party theme is all about. Relive the glory days of quaffed bangs, color-clashing ensambles and show-stopping eyeshadow.

Assign a decade to your event to help guide the dress code, decor and food selections. If you want to take the evening a step further, up the ante with a prom-specific theme like Under the Sea, Famous Couples, Happily Ever After or Midnight in Paris.

VIBE: Quirky

SIMILAR PARTY THEMES: ‘90s


Venue Settings

Country Club

The dance floor is the centerpiece for this party theme, so make sure to go with a venue that has enough space to be dedicated to that cause. A country club with an outdoor space would be a great environment to complement the event.

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Entertainment

Cover Band

Don’t even think about an iPod playlist, those weren’t even around back then! Hire a live band that can cover all the biggest hits. And PS, don't forget to ask for a few iconic slow dance numbers into the set list, like ‘The Way You Look Tonight’ and ‘I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing.’

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Andy Lee; Unsplash


Entertainment

Photo Booth

You can’t stage a prom without a photo op. Set up a photo booth for all those awkward couple photos and group shots. Since old school prom photos usually had large balloon arches or a painted canvas background, include a prop or two to jazz up the scene.

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Food

Cheese Fondue

Pick a party food favorite from your prom decade. When in doubt, go with a classic crowd pleaser: fondue.

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Beverage

Party Punch

Large batch cocktails are great for a big crowd—and since everyone’s all grown up now, you’re free to spike the punch.

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Creative Detail

Superlative Awards

Vote for the class clown, most likely to succeed, best hair, best dressed, and all the other end-of-year high school awards. Don’t forget to add a different ballot for the prom king and queen.

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Creative Detail

Themed Costumes

Dressing in-theme is a non-negotiable here. Make it clear on your invitations that guests should come in their finest throwback cocktail wear. Have a table near the party’s entrance with corsages and boutonnieres for guests to slip on as a finishing touch.

Brooke Mayo Photographers

Related Themes

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