- Image via Wikipedia
It seemed like such a good idea: you had sent out invitations, requesting that all friends style themselves in your favored decade; you had decorated your home to resemble the past glory of the 1970’s. It was to be an offering of good music, good food and superior fashion. Unfortunately those plans disappeared when your guests finally arrived and revealed they didn’t understand the rules. A theme party was thought to include all years, all trends. And your dedication to disco has been marred by parachute pants and poodle skirts.
You aren’t certain what went wrong. The invitations were soaked in 70’s slang, the glittering words and humor. You had assumed all would recognize them, knowing instinctively to find platform heels, rough denim and Bohemian design. Instead, however, every guest has offered a collection of differing eras and styles — none of which suit your purpose.
This was a mistake. It was also, however, one that could’ve been avoided.
Choosing to create a theme party (especially one with fashion as the intention) is worthy of consideration. It requires more than vague invites and indecipherable puns, however. You must instead be direct with every single element. Your friends will enjoy the notion of dressing up and playing a role. If they don’t understand what those roles should be, though, then the party can’t succeed.
And this is why you must instead offer specificity.
Be certain that all individuals know what the exact theme is (detail it in the invitations or in a separate email). Explain the decade and fashion code. Note what your expectations are. Don’t let guests assume they can simply toss on a leather vest and deem themselves 70’s chic. Instead offer suggestions for shopping and style to make their experience easier — as well as more tailored to what you need.
Creating a theme can be an exciting experience. It simply requires an understanding of fashion and how it is to be applied.
