A guide to incorporate Stranger Things energy into everyday drip…
If you’ve ever watched Stranger Things and thought, “I want that outfit,” you’re not alone. Every season has its own aesthetic, and each character’s wardrobe tells a story. Quick fact. You don’t have to go back to the 80s era to dress up like your favorite Stranger Things character.
Whether you’re planning a themed party, a Halloween costume, or just want to channel some retro energy, here’s your guide to dressing like the coolest Eleven or sassiest Max.
How to dress up like Stranger Things characters?
Eleven and her style evolution
Eleven has one of the most iconic fashion journeys on TV. Her outfits evolve as she grows, and honestly, every phase is a vibe.
Season 1: the pink dress era
- Pink smock dress
- Blue windbreaker
- Tube socks and sneakers
This look screams innocence with a twist. Add a box of Eggo waffles, and you’re instantly recognizable. Bonus points if you nail the buzzcut or a blonde wig.
Season 3: mall queen energy
- Bold patterns
- Suspenders or overalls
- Scrunchies and 80s-style sunglasses
This version of Eleven is confident, expressive, and loving her independence. Her wardrobe reflects it with color, pattern, and fun accessories.
Season 4: California cool meets outcast vibes
- Oversized flannel shirts
- Mismatched layers
- High-top sneakers
El’s look in Season 4 is quirky, DIY, and emotional. Her clothes reflect her struggle to fit in—and it works.
Where to shop: Thrift stores, Etsy, Urban Outfitters, and your parents’ old closets.
Dustin’s nerdy-cool comfort
Dustin’s style is geek-chic in the best way.
Key pieces:
- Graphic tees (bonus if they’re science or D&D themed)
- Camp Know Where baseball cap
- Corduroy pants or shorts
- Retro sneakers
He mixes practicality with personality. He’s all about comfort, color, and flair.
DIY tip: Print your own Hellfire Club or camp logos on iron-on patches. Add them to a denim jacket for extra points.
Shop the look: Hot Topic, Redbubble, or any second-hand store with a decent graphic tee section.
Max Mayfield’s skater edge
Max is all about that California tomboy energy with a retro twist.
Style breakdown:
- Baggy hoodies
- Striped or graphic tees
- High-waisted jeans
- Vans or Converse
- Flannel shirts
In Season 4, Max’s standout look includes her iconic blue windbreaker and headphones. Channel her with layered outfits and earthy tones.
Bonus accessory: A Walkman with Kate Bush on blast.
Steve Harrington: preppy to protective
Steve’s fashion starts as a classic high school heartthrob, but he ends up everyone’s favorite babysitter/monster slayer.
Style clues:
- Rolled-up jeans
- Polo shirts and letterman jackets
- Aviators
- Scoops Ahoy sailor uniform (if you’re feeling brave)
Steve’s style goes from preppy to practical. His hair is still the most important accessory.
Hair hack: Mousse + volume = instant Steve.
Eddie Munson’s metalhead rebellion
Eddie’s style is the exact opposite of polished. That’s the point.
Must-haves:
- Hellfire Club tee
- Ripped jeans
- Denim vest with patches
- Band shirts (Dio, Metallica, etc.)
- Rings, chains, and wild hair
He’s theatrical and chaotic in the best way. Eddie’s outfit is pure D&D dungeon master meets rock concert.
Where to buy: You can get Hellfire Club merch online almost everywhere now. For vintage band tees, check eBay or local thrift shops.
Bonus looks: Group costumes & party inspo
Dressing as a group? Stranger Things has loads of options:
The Hellfire Club: Matching tees, dice bags, black jeans, and big hair.
Hawkins AV Club: Retro polos, VHS camcorders, and walkie-talkies.
Iconic Throwback Costumes:
- Ghostbusters (Season 2)
- Madonna and Dracula (Season 2 Halloween)
- Scoops Ahoy crew (Steve + Robin)
Want a couple’s costume idea? Try Mike and Eleven’s Season 3 mall date looks, or Joyce and Hopper’s Russian spy disguises.
Five Stranger Things inspired look
Need to create a replica of a Stranger Things inspired look? Here are some ideas:
LOOK 1: “The Hellfire Queen” (inspired by Eddie Munson)
Vibe: Edgy, rebellious, 80s grunge
Perfect for: Concert fits, alt fashion shoots
What you need:
- Hellfire Club Tee – Hot Topic or Amazon
- Distressed black jeans – Levi’s 501s or thrifted
- Denim vest with band patches – DIY or Depop
- Combat boots – Dr. Martens or Steve Madden
- Rings & chains – ASOS or local flea markets
Accessories:
- Electric guitar prop 🎸 (for drama)
- Graphic liner + messy curls
LOOK 2: “Mall Rat Barbie” (Inspired by Eleven, Season 3)
Vibe: Bright, loud, mall-core
Perfect for: Summer reels, throwback shoots
What you need:
- Patterned romper or colorful jumpsuit – Urban Outfitters, Zara
- Scrunchie stack – Claire’s or Amazon
- Tube socks + white sneakers – Nike Blazers
- Mini retro backpack – Brandy Melville or Amazon
Accessories:
- Lollipop or milkshake 🍭🥤
- Oversized retro shades
LOOK 3: “Camp Nerd Chic” (Inspired by Dustin)
Vibe: Geeky but cute
Perfect for: Gender-neutral, casual day looks
What You Need:
- Camp Know Where tee – Etsy or Redbubble
- Cargo shorts or rolled khakis – Uniqlo
- Trucker hat – Custom ‘Thinking Cap’ on Amazon
- Dad sneakers – New Balance 550s
Accessories:
- Vintage walkie-talkie or toy binoculars
- Curly hair wig/hairdo for full effect
LOOK 4: “Running up that streetwear” (inspired by Max Mayfield)
Vibe: Skater girl meets emotional cool
Perfect for: Edgy reels, transitional outfits
What you need:
- Windbreaker jacket (blue/red stripes) – eBay vintage or Columbia Sportswear
- Loose high-waisted denim – Abercrombie 90s fit
- Graphic band tee – Target (or DIY thrift)
- Vans or beat-up Converse
Accessories:
- Cassette player + wired headphones 🎧
- Skateboard or bike prop
LOOK 5: “Scoops ahoy royalty” (inspired by Steve & Robin)
Vibe: Retro uniform glam
Perfect for: Halloween, costume collabs, themed content
What you need:
- Scoops Ahoy sailor uniform – Amazon or Spirit Halloween
- Nautical-style shoes – Sperry or white sneakers
- Red neckerchief or sailor scarf – Amazon
- Fake name tag: ‘Ahoy, my name is…’ – DIY printable
Accessories:
- Ice cream cone or vintage tray
- Temporary sailor tattoos or anchor earrings
References from Tiktok, Insta, and YouTube
- A TikTok video presenting trendy outfit ideas inspired by Stranger Things: https://www.tiktok.com/%40kallaysecret/video/7506240757116751146
- Insta reel that captures 80s Stranger Things vibe perfectly with thrifted outfits: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cjsjt4PjXrz/
- A TikTok video featuring outfit planning for events, showcasing how to dress like Stranger Things characters: https://www.tiktok.com/%40stonstage/video/7471964993546767638
- A YouTube video offering outfit ideas inspired by Stranger Things Season 4, providing a visual guide for fans: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wVHmAPeQSU4
- A YouTube Short showcasing a quick and fun Stranger Things cosplay, perfect for inspiration: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/AP8YBD_EofM
- A TikTok video by @tonystatovci featuring creative Stranger Things-inspired outfits: https://www.tiktok.com/@tonystatovci/video/7509676510450584862
- Some other references and group cosplay videos of Stranger Things from Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/discover/stranger-things-dress-up
- Stranger Things cosplay compilation video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmOdKC5bmRo
Final thoughts
Dressing like your favorite Stranger Things characters isn’t just about accuracy—it’s about energy. Whether you go full cosplay or just sprinkle in 80s flair, it’s a fun way to connect with the show.
Raid your closet, hit the thrift stores, and don’t be afraid to get weird with it. Because in Hawkins? Normal is boring.