Top 10 Themed Party Essentials

Everyone knows that one of the many perks of going to college is the new and exciting world of THEMED PARTIES! In Isla Vista, people throw parties for just about any occasion ranging from your best friend’s 21^st birthday to your neighbor’s weekly ragers! These wild get-togethers can have themes as simple as Under the Sea, where you can dress as a mermaid or pirate, to even crazier ideas like a “C” party, where you can only wear things that begin with the letter “C.” After two years of experiencing Isla Vista living, I have decided that it was necessary to concoct a list of 10 staple items to fill your costume box with for those fun times out when all you really need is a pair of sparkly wings or a crazy wig to complete your outfit.

1. A Crazy Colorful Wig– a fun wig goes with every outfit you throw together for a themed party. For example, a red wig is perfect for a Rock n Roll party, where you can easily pair it with leather pants and a old band t-shirt. Most people would not remember to use a wig to enhance their outfit so you will definitely stand out for your bold choice!
2. Neon Leggings– neon leggings are necessary for any Tight n Bright or 80’s party. You can pair these interesting bottoms with a bright off the shoulder shirt and a pair of white sneakers!

3. Rock N Roll T-shirt– A rock n roll t-shirt is a must have for the Rock n Roll, What Used To Be Cool, and 90’s parties that are frequently encountered here in Isla Vista! A simple band t-shirt can easily be paired with jean shorts and biker boots for a completely rockin’ outfit.
4. Fairy Wings– Make sure you have a pair of fairy wings in your closet because, surprisingly, there will be numerous times you will put them on as a last minute accessory. White fairy wings are perfect for a Heaven and Hell party, where you can wear a white dress and your wings for a quick angel outfit. Wings can also come in handy for any Fairy Tale themed party or for a WTF party, where you need just one more crazy item to complete your overall crazier look.

5. Animal Ears– This may be one of the most important pieces to have in your costume box. Animal ears are perfect for those nights when you do not want to get TOO themey and would rather wear a more subtle outfit. Animal ears come in so many different styles. When you get your Jungle Party invitation, grab a pair of ears from your box and pair them with a fun dress; this way you can party hop all night and decide when to put on or take off your ears.
6. LBD– This is one item that many people forget about. Even though themed parties can get pretty complex, it is always important to have your signature Little Black Dress to fall back on. I know that I have been in a rut before on what to wear out to a party, but luckily I had my LBD that I could pair with a lot of accessories, such as fishnet tights, heels, and a leather vest for a Rock n Roll theme or with animal ears for a simple and fun Jungle outfit.
 7. Caution Tape– This is a very important accessory because it is one that is hard to find when you are in a crunch. During your college years, it is almost a guarantee that you will be invited to an ABC party, which is a party where you must wear Anything But Clothes. By having caution tape handy, you will be on top of the game and be able to create a fun and flirty dress made completely out of caution tape! You are able to do this by either wrapping the tape around a bandeau and skirt for a two-piece look or around a dress you already have for a complete outfit. You can also be creative with other household items, such as grocery bags, candy wrappers, or masking tape! 

8. Your High School Uniform– something all your friends will be jealous of when you are all invited to a High School Clichés party. I know that my high school uniform has already gotten so much use, so I recommend that you double check that your plaid skirt and button up top are securely placed in your costume box! In order to update your uniform, you can tie your top up and hem your skirt like your momma never let you! Have fun with the theme and make use of that uniform that you dreaded putting on each day!
9. Costume Jewelry– Besides buying outfits, it is important to remember that costume jewelry can enhance each of your looks! Costume jewelry is crucial for a Rap Music Video party. The jewelry that you put in your jewelry box should be extremely cheap, so the pieces I would recommend are the following: big gold hoops and a dollar bill necklace. 
10. Bed Sheets– Last but not least, throw some bed sheets into your newly made costume box! These bed sheets are going to go a long way due to the infamous Toga Parties that occur numerous times yearly! It is also good to have bed sheets to cut up to create extra pieces for other themed parties throughout the year! You can be creative and cut the sheets into belts, dresses, capes, etc.