Why a theme?

• Themed (or fancy dress) parties get people thinking in advance about the event. The guests bring with them a bit of creative energy, and the sparkle of anticipation.
• It gives guests a chance to adopt another persona, and play out of character. It does wonders for breaking the ice.
• It makes a party different  and memorable for everyone.

Make it snappy!

When choosing a theme, make sure that the concept is clear, or easy to interpret. This could mean going for something fairly specific, such as Sporting Heroes, James Bond, or Arabian Nights. Alternatively, your could choose a vaguer theme, which can be interpreted in a number ways. 'Dress to Kill' could have guests turning up as Greta Garbo, James Bond, Lara Croft, Rambo, hunters  or bacteria. Give your guests plenty of opportunity to be imaginative, and don't oblige them to spend a lot of money on hiring and making costumes. Above all, though, make sure that your guests have a clear picture of the theme: leave it too vague, and they'll become timid, and won't make a big effort.

Three-line whip

You want to make sure your guests really do make and effort  every one of them. A themed or fancy dress party will only succeed is every participant is joining in. If you are giving a French Revolution party, you don't want people turning up in T-shirts, jeans and trainers because they couldn't be bothered. It lets the side down, and is simply not fair on the couple that arrives as Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. The wording on the invitation can make clear your insistence on your theme, or even make participation obligatory. You can also spread the word that other guests are taking seriously their duty to rise to the occasion.

Twenty party themes

Gangsters and Molls

Pirates of the Caribbean

TV soaps

Legends of Rock and Pop

Wild West

Star Wars

Gold and Glitter

1950s, 1960s, 1970s etc

Colour(s) (e.g. Red and Green at Christmas)

Fabulous frocks

Masked Ball

Dress to Kill

Cross-dressing

Charity Shop Chic (outfits must be bought at a charity shop for less than £10)

A Night at the Oscars

Gothic Horror

Shipwreck

Beach Party (in mid-winter)

Toga Party

Heaven and Hell