In the midst of all the planning and outfits and other stuff, it's easy to forget about the essentials. There are a lot of things to think about, especially if it's your first time putting on a sock hop. We're going to help your life be easier by outlining the 'must' haves' for the perfect 50's Sock Hop.
Sock Hop Invitations: Sometimes when throwing a theme party we forget to plan for a 50's or 60's style invitation. You don't need to make it too fancy, just fun. You want your friends to know what type of party it is right from the start, and establish that perfect feeling for the night. This starts with the invite! You can make them yourself- just be sure to use the appropriate colors of the era, and include any pattern from the times. A jukebox, poodle skirt design or malt are some good starters. Remember to specifically ask your guests to dress up. You don't want them to show up in the wrong attire because they were not certain that costumes were expected.
Sock Hop Costume: Picking the perfect fifties outfit is easy for guys. Greased back hair (essential- if you've got any left), a leather jacket, converse shoes (oxfords work also), a white t-shirt (with a box of smokes rolled up in the sleeve) and of course a rolled up pair of blue jeans. Girls outfits require a little more effort and preparation. You can never go wrong with the classic poodle skirt, crinoline petticoat, oxford shoes, scarf, cinch belt, poodle top or blouse and cateye glasses. Now you're ready for some fun!
Food at a Sock Hop: Good ole' American food is a must. Anything you would find in a malt shop will do. Hamburgers, fries, shakes, malts, ice-cream (don't forget the red cherries- they make a nice touch) with tall serving glasses. If you are having servers, try and have them wear roller skates to really get that fifties and sixties feel.
Sock Hop Music: Nothing will make you feel that you've gone back in time like the right music. Stick with the classics like; Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Beach Boys, The Beatles, Little Richard and Chuck Berry. You can find their music online, or try your local library- you can often find a wide selection of music there. To mix it up a bit, you may want to consider some modern remakes of older classics.
Sock Hop Decorations: You can really start to have fun with this one. Most people try and make the party look like a malt shop or high school. Posters of cars or celebrities (check out eBay) are also very popular. Stick with the classic colors of the age: bright pink, chartreuse and seafoam green are sure winners. Ask around, you'll be suprised how many of your friends and neighbors may have a piece or two of vintage 50's-60's merchandise, records or posters.
Sock Hop Extras: Prizes will add a lot of extra fun. Have a dance-off, Grease style, where judges walk around and tap people on the shoulder to eliminate them. Give the winner a small or silly prize and have them teach everyone else a few steps. You'll be suprised how much fun it can be. Follow it up with a costume party and impressions contest. See who can do the best Elvis, James Dean, or John Lennon. Let everyone vote for the winners- and give them a little prize. It'll spice up the night and make real memories.
Whatever you do, relax and enjoy yourself. As the host or hostess, you make stress about the food, music or activities, but don't let it stop you from enjoying yourself. Everyone will relax and have fun if you do! Stop worrying and just kick off your saddle-oxford shoes, dance and have fun!
Sock Hop Invitations: Sometimes when throwing a theme party we forget to plan for a 50's or 60's style invitation. You don't need to make it too fancy, just fun. You want your friends to know what type of party it is right from the start, and establish that perfect feeling for the night. This starts with the invite! You can make them yourself- just be sure to use the appropriate colors of the era, and include any pattern from the times. A jukebox, poodle skirt design or malt are some good starters. Remember to specifically ask your guests to dress up. You don't want them to show up in the wrong attire because they were not certain that costumes were expected.
Sock Hop Costume: Picking the perfect fifties outfit is easy for guys. Greased back hair (essential- if you've got any left), a leather jacket, converse shoes (oxfords work also), a white t-shirt (with a box of smokes rolled up in the sleeve) and of course a rolled up pair of blue jeans. Girls outfits require a little more effort and preparation. You can never go wrong with the classic poodle skirt, crinoline petticoat, oxford shoes, scarf, cinch belt, poodle top or blouse and cateye glasses. Now you're ready for some fun!
Food at a Sock Hop: Good ole' American food is a must. Anything you would find in a malt shop will do. Hamburgers, fries, shakes, malts, ice-cream (don't forget the red cherries- they make a nice touch) with tall serving glasses. If you are having servers, try and have them wear roller skates to really get that fifties and sixties feel.
Sock Hop Music: Nothing will make you feel that you've gone back in time like the right music. Stick with the classics like; Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Beach Boys, The Beatles, Little Richard and Chuck Berry. You can find their music online, or try your local library- you can often find a wide selection of music there. To mix it up a bit, you may want to consider some modern remakes of older classics.
Sock Hop Decorations: You can really start to have fun with this one. Most people try and make the party look like a malt shop or high school. Posters of cars or celebrities (check out eBay) are also very popular. Stick with the classic colors of the age: bright pink, chartreuse and seafoam green are sure winners. Ask around, you'll be suprised how many of your friends and neighbors may have a piece or two of vintage 50's-60's merchandise, records or posters.
Sock Hop Extras: Prizes will add a lot of extra fun. Have a dance-off, Grease style, where judges walk around and tap people on the shoulder to eliminate them. Give the winner a small or silly prize and have them teach everyone else a few steps. You'll be suprised how much fun it can be. Follow it up with a costume party and impressions contest. See who can do the best Elvis, James Dean, or John Lennon. Let everyone vote for the winners- and give them a little prize. It'll spice up the night and make real memories.
Whatever you do, relax and enjoy yourself. As the host or hostess, you make stress about the food, music or activities, but don't let it stop you from enjoying yourself. Everyone will relax and have fun if you do! Stop worrying and just kick off your saddle-oxford shoes, dance and have fun!
About the Author:
Hip Hop 50's Shop is your 1950's headquarters and will help you put on the perfect Sock Hop Theme Party. We can outfit you for the fifties and sixties- so you look your best for the big night. Visit us online and see our selection of poodle skirt outfits, crinoline petticoats, shoes and much, much more. As lovers of the 50's and 60's, we take pride in making you look good!
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