Are you ready to be transported back to the sounds of 90s R&B? Get ready to groove, reminisce, and create unforgettable memories with a throwback-themed party that celebrates the smooth sounds and iconic style of this beloved genre. In this guide, I’ll walk you through every aspect of planning for an amazing night of nostalgia with your friends. Let’s get to it!
Choose your venue
The most important part of planning for any party is where to host it? You’re going to want to choose a place that gets you back to that 90s place. Indoors or out, you can recreate those summer time good vibes the 90s are so memorable for.
Urban Loft: The perfect place to host an R&B shindig. Look for a venue with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and an industrial feel. This type of venue will provide ample space to create a dance floor to throw those shapes on and enough room to create activity centers and food tables.
Retro-style Club: Find a club or bar with a throwback ambiance that complements your 90s R&B theme. Nostalgia style never really goes out of style, no matter the era, so you’ll be sure to find a place that can be turned into a 90s R&B time machine for the evening
Outdoor Park or Garden: If you prefer an outdoor setting, consider a park or garden with a nostalgic feel. Look for spaces with ample greenery, picnic areas, or even gazebo structures that can be transformed into a dance floor or stage.
Your Place: Why not? It’s as good a place as any of the above to host your night. Plus, you’ll have greater control over how you decorate and can have the party extend into your yard with cozy seating areas and an outside DJ. Hopefully the weather will be kind on your big day.
Nostalgic Invitations
I love to send out paper invitations for parties. This was the norm before social media, and it creates a more personal attachment to the party for your guests. Of course, you can just set an event on social media, or both, but why waste an opportunity to get creative with your invites? Here are some ideas to get you started.
Incorporate iconic elements of the 90s R&B era into your invitation design. Consider using cassette tapes, boomboxes, vinyl records, or silhouettes of popular R&B artists. Use vibrant colors, bold fonts, and fun graphics. Print the invitations on nostalgic-themed paper, such as cassette tape or vinyl record-inspired patterns, to enhance the retro feel. In true 90s style, you could even send the invite as a cassette or CD with hand a handwritten invite on the disc and design a cool CD sleeve for it.
Get inventive with your wording by making references to classic R&B lyrics or song titles. Phrases like “Get ready to jam to the throwback beats” or “Join us for a night of 90s R&B groove” can really help set the scene and let your guests know what to expect. Don’t forget to include the essential details: date, time, venue, and any specific instructions or dress code for the evening.
If you want to go the social media event route, make sure you use 90s R&B imagery for the banner and even profile pic. Keep guests entertained in the run up to the party by posting 90s R&B trivia, song lyrics your guests can try and work out what song they’re from and some music videos from the era.
Decorations: Creating a Retro 90s Atmosphere
Transforming your party space into a nostalgic 90s R&B paradise will transport your guests back in time and set the perfect ambiance for your throwback extravaganza. Here are some tips to help you create an unforgettable decor setup:
Color Palette: Incorporate neon shades like electric blue, hot pink, neon green, and vibrant purple into your decor scheme. Use these colors strategically in tablecloths, balloons, banners, and signage.
Posters and Album Covers: Display posters and album covers of iconic 90s R&B artists throughout the party area. Choose posters featuring the likes of TLC, Boyz II Men, Aaliyah, Mary J. Blige, and other influential artists of the time. Hang them on walls or create a collage for a visually striking homage to the era.
Backdrop of CD Covers: Create a backdrop by arranging CD covers from popular 90s R&B albums. Use double-sided tape or adhesive putty to stick them to a large board or directly onto the wall. This unique backdrop will become an Instagram-worthy spot for your guests to take memorable photos.
Lighting: Hang string lights or neon signs around the party area to create an inviting and atmospheric ambiance. You can buy strips of LED neon lights pretty cheaply to place around the venue.
90s Props and Memorabilia: Scatter nostalgic props and memorabilia throughout the venue. Place retro items like cassette tapes, boomboxes CDs, vinyl, VHS tapes on tables or shelves. Consider displaying 90s fashion accessories like oversized sunglasses, snapback hats, or vintage sneakers as decorative elements. Thrift store and goodwill are the perfect place for this. You can easily pick up old CDs of 90s era R&B here, along with old boomboxes, vinyl and VHS for decoration purposes. Original items for the 90s adds to the authenticity of your party’s decor.
Table Settings: Use tablecloths or runners in vibrant colors or patterns that reflect the 90s aesthetic. Consider placing small centerpieces made from cassette tapes, mini vinyl records, or R&B-themed figurines.
Read More: 90s Hip Hop Party Ideas
Some 90s R&B Music Jams
The music playlist is the heartbeat of your party, setting the tone and keeping the energy high throughout the night. Here are some tips to help you curate a diverse and energetic playlist featuring the best 90s R&B artists and songs:
Iconic Artists and Hits: Include tracks from legendary 90s R&B artists that dominated the charts and captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Consider adding timeless classics from TLC, Boyz II Men, Aaliyah, Mary J. Blige, Brandy, Usher, Janet Jackson, R. Kelly, and many more. These artists shaped the 90s R&B landscape and remain beloved to this day.
Mix of Slow Jams and Upbeat Grooves: Strike a balance between slow jams and upbeat tunes to keep the party dynamic. Mix romantic ballads like “Un-Break My Heart” by Toni Braxton with dance-floor fillers like “No Diggity” by Blackstreet.
Collaborations and Remixes: Explore collaborations between R&B artists and other genres, as well as remixes that were popular during the 90s. Songs like “The Boy Is Mine” by Brandy and Monica or “I’ll Be Missing You” by Puff Daddy ft. Faith Evans and 112 showcase the creative collaborations that defined the era.
Chart-Toppers and Fan Favorites: Include songs that topped the charts and became anthems of the 90s, as well as those that hold a special place in the hearts of R&B fans. Mix in hits like “Waterfalls” by TLC, “End of the Road” by Boyz II Men, or “No Scrubs” by TLC with lesser-known gems that fans will appreciate.
Guest Requests and Favorites: Reach out to your guests before the party and ask for their favorite 90s R&B songs or artists. Incorporate some of these requests into your playlist to personalize the experience and ensure that everyone gets a chance to enjoy their favorite nostalgic songs.
Here’s a couple of playlists to start you off:
Dress for the occasion
If you’re going to a 90s R&B style, you gotta dress in a 90s R&B style. As ever, the best inspiration for what to wear is looking at R&B music videos from the era, but the basics of what to wear are pretty easy to grasp.
Baggy Jeans and Overalls: Baggy jeans were a staple of 90s fashion, popularized by artists like TLC and Aaliyah. Rock high-waisted jeans or overalls in light or dark washes. Pair them with crop tops, oversized T-shirts, or plaid shirts tied around the waist for that casual and cool 90s vibe.
Oversized Jerseys and Athletic Wear: Go for the more sporty look that permeated 90s R&B culture. Oversized basketball jerseys, track jackets, or windbreakers featuring popular sports teams or brands should be the focus of your outfit. Complete the look with baggy sweatpants, sneakers, and snapback hats.
Bandanas and Headwraps: Accessorize with bandanas or headwraps to add a touch of 90s flair to any outfit. Tie them around the head, wrist, or neck in vibrant colors or funky patterns. This accessory was often seen on artists like TLC and Aaliyah, and it instantly elevates any outfit to match the occasion
Accessories: Go big with these. Hoop earrings, chunky gold chains, and oversized sunglasses were all the rage during the 90s. Try out grills, temporary tattoos, or hair accessories like butterfly clips and scrunchies.
Sneakers and Platform Shoes: Wear popular sneakers from the era like Air Jordans, Reebok Classics, or Converse Chuck Taylors. For those who want to take it up a notch, platform sneakers or chunky-heeled boots were also prominent in the 90s R&B scene.
Bold Makeup and Hair: Dark lip colors, metallic eyeshadows, and frosted lipstick were all the rage. As for hair, try styles like box braids, cornrows, high ponytails, or sleek bobs. Wigs in vibrant colors can also be a fun addition.
Iconic Fashion Icons: Look to 90s R&B fashion icons like TLC, Aaliyah, Janet Jackson, and Brandy for style tips. From Left Eye’s eclectic and colorful ensembles to Aaliyah’s tomboy-chic aesthetic and Janet Jackson’s sultry and sophisticated style.
DIY and Thrift Shopping: Emphasize the fun and creative aspect of finding or creating 90s-inspired costumes. Hit thrift stores, online marketplaces, or even raid your parents’ closets for authentic 90s pieces. DIY options like distressing jeans, tie-dyeing T-shirts, or customizing accessories can add a personal touch.
Eat & Drink some 90 flavors
Keep fed and watered throughout the night with these authentic twists on 90s favorites.
Savory Bites
Sliders: Serve mini sliders with various fillings like BBQ pulled pork, chicken, and vegetarian options. Offer a range of sauces and toppings for guests to create their perfect 90s-inspired bite.
Mac and Cheese Bar: Create a mac and cheese station with different toppings and mix-ins such as bacon, jalapeños, or breadcrumbs. Guests can customize their mac and cheese creations, reminiscent of classic comfort food from the era.
Chicken and Waffle Bites: Serve bite-sized pieces of crispy fried chicken on mini waffles, drizzled with maple syrup or honey.
Nostalgic Snacks
Popcorn Bar: Set up a popcorn station with a variety of flavored popcorn, such as caramel, cheese, and kettle corn.
Snack Time Favorites: Offer a selection of 90s snacks that were popular during the era. Think Fruit Roll-Ups, Gushers, Dunkaroos, and Bagel Bites. These nostalgic treats will transport your guests back to their childhood.
Sweet Treats
R&B Diva Cupcakes: Decorate cupcakes with musical notes, microphones, or mini edible records. Use colorful frosting and edible glitter to make them visually appealing and on-theme.
Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream sundae bar with a variety of nostalgic flavors. Provide an array of toppings like sprinkles, crushed cookies, chocolate sauce, and whipped cream for guests to create their dream sundaes.
CD-Shaped Cookies: Bake cookies shaped like CDs and decorate them with icing to resemble popular 90s R&B album covers or artist names.
Soulful Brownies: Serve rich and fudgy brownies, with added ingredients like caramel, nuts, or chocolate chunks.
Read More: 90s Party Food Ideas
Drinks
Aside from the usual soft drinks selection of beer, and soda, juice for those who don’t drink alcohol, try these drinks ideas for something a little different.
Waterfalls Punch: Named after the famous TLC track, A refreshing punch with a mix of fruity flavors like pineapple, orange, and cranberry. Add a splash of lemon-lime soda and garnish with fresh fruit slices for a tropical twist.
Serve colorful and fun non-alcoholic mocktails or cocktails, garnished with creative toppings like gummy bears or candy rings. Consider naming them after popular 90s R&B songs or artists for added nostalgia.
90s R&B Inspired Games & Activities
Keep guests further entertained with activities and games throughout the evening. Make a competition out of these and give prizes for the winners.
R&B Karaoke: Channel your inner R&B diva or crooner. Set up a stage area with a microphone, and let participants choose their favorite 90s R&B hit to perform.
Dance-Offs: Create a dance floor space where guests can showcase their best 90s R&B dance moves. Play a mix of classic tracks and challenge guests to freestyle or engage in friendly dance battles.
Trivia Quiz: Test your guests’ knowledge of 90s R&B with a trivia quiz. Prepare a list of questions about iconic artists, hit songs, album covers, or memorable music videos. Divide guests into teams or have them answer individually.
Name That Tune: Play a game of “Name That Tune” using snippets of 90s R&B songs. Prepare a playlist with short excerpts from popular tracks, and challenge guests to guess the song title and artist as quickly as possible.
Fashion Show: Organize a fashion show where guests can strut their stuff in their 90s R&B-inspired outfits. Set up a makeshift runway, play upbeat tracks, and encourage participants to showcase their fashion choices while striking a pose.
Read More: 90s Party Game Ideas
90s R&B Party Favors & Giveaways
Make your guests feel special by giving them unique momentos for the evening and prizes for winning any of the contests mentioned above.
Custom Mix CDs or USB Drives: Curate a selection of your favorite 90s R&B hits and burn them onto CDs or save them on USB drives. Design custom CD covers or USB casings with graphics inspired by popular 90s R&B album art. Guests can relive the party vibes and enjoy the music long after the event.
90s-Inspired Keychains: Create keychains featuring miniature versions of iconic 90s symbols like cassette tapes, boomboxes, or microphones. Use colorful enamel or acrylic charms for a retro touch.
Retro-themed Clothing Accessories: Provide guests with retro-inspired clothing accessories that reflect the 90s R&B style. Consider items like slap bracelets, wristbands, or bandanas in vibrant colors or funky patterns.
Customized Photo Frames: Design personalized photo frames with 90s R&B-themed graphics and slogans. Include the event date and a space where guests can insert their favorite party photo. This favor will serve as a lasting reminder of the memorable moments captured at your party.
Music-themed Tote Bags: Provide guests with reusable tote bags featuring graphics related to 90s R&B, such as album covers, musical notes, or iconic artist images. These practical and stylish bags can be used for shopping, carrying everyday essentials.
Throwback Candy Assortments: Assemble candy assortments featuring nostalgic treats that were popular in the 90s. Include items like Pop Rocks, Nerds, Airheads, or Fruit Roll-Ups. Package them in retro-themed containers or bags.
That’s it for this guide. Now you have everything you need for a fun filled evening of 90s R&B nostalgia. So put on your dancing shoes, your best 90s outfits, and get to relive that 90s summer time vibe all over again.
Leave a Reply