College Theme Party Ideas

1. Decades

Do you have a particular affinity for a time period in history? If so, throw a themed party celebrating the retro styles of decades past.

Break out the leggings and terrycloth hair bands to rock an ‘80s look. Take a hint from the stars of the decade and emulate their iconic fashion statements, such as Madonna's sexy "Material Girl" look or Cyndi Lauper's bold, colorful ensembles and voluminous hair. Boys can take on an edgier style by dressing like famous hair metal rockers of the decade. The ‘60s hippie style is always easy to adopt. Simply throw on a fringed vest, some bell-bottom jeans and colorful, round sunglasses. The ‘50s is a fun stylistic decade. Watch "Grease" for some ideas, such as motorcycle jackets or poodle skirts. Love disco? Pull on some pieces influenced by the ‘70s, such as sequined long sleeve shirts, go-go boots or patterned jumpsuits.

Decorate the room with retro vibes that commemorate these significant eras. Mix up a playlist of music spanning each of the decades. It'll be like partying in a time machine!

2. Magic and Myths

If you love Harry Potter, you'll want to break out the robes, wands and wizards' hats for a magical themed party. You could come to the party dressed as witches or wizards or be a little creative and dress as a mythical creature, such as a vampire, werewolf or mermaid.

Add some entertainment to the party by getting guests to participate in magic tricks or games. Serve mysterious dishes and drinks. Decorate the room in black, white and red-- traditional colors relating to magicians. Make sure to have some spare decks of cards, wands and rabbits around; you never know what magical qualities your guests may possess.

3. Hollywood

Throw a Hollywood themed party and ask guests to dress as their favorite celebrity or iconic star, like Marilyn Monroe, Elvis or Michael Jackson. You'll have a fun time trying to guess who's trying to impersonate whom.

Make sure to roll out a red carpet and take plenty of paparazzi pictures. Decorate the room with film rolls, stars, the Hollywood sign and cameras. Post movie posters around the room. Have guests sign his or her "autograph" on a giant board and save it as a memento. Play entertainment trivia and find out what interesting facts people know about the famous celebrities.

4. Sports Night

Sports are extremely popular among students on campus. If you throw a sports themed party, you'll be sure to have guests lining up outside to join in on the festivities. Ask partygoers to represent their favorite sports teams and players by wearing jerseys. Girls can take it up a notch by dressing in cheerleader uniforms. Add a little face paint to any ensemble to really capture that team spirit. Be sure to serve finger foods, like pizza, wings and popcorn, while you screen sports games for guests to enjoy.

5. Rubik's Cube

Here's a good idea for anyone who loves an interactive party. For this theme, everyone must show up to the party wearing one article of clothing that is a color featured on a Rubik's cube: red, white, blue, orange, green and yellow. Once guests arrive at the party, have people swap pieces of clothes, so that each person can eventually have an entire outfit that is one color. This twist to the theme can liven up any common college party.