When it comes to iconic movie costumes, the Risky Business outfit worn by Tom Cruise is a standout favorite. Whether it’s for Halloween, a themed party, or just having fun, this simple yet recognizable costume is easy to put together and sure to be a hit. In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know to create the perfect Risky Business costume, ensuring you capture the effortless coolness that made this look iconic.
Choosing the Right Pieces for the Risky Business Costume:
One of the reasons the Risky Business costume is so popular is that it’s easy to recreate using items you likely already have or can purchase without breaking the bank. To nail the look, you’ll need the following essentials:
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White Button-Down Shirt
: A slightly oversized white button-down shirt is the foundation of this costume. Tom Cruise’s character famously danced in one, and it’s a must-have to make the outfit authentic.
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White Tube Socks:
The high white socks are almost as iconic as the shirt itself. Make sure they are visible and pulled up to your calves for the best effect.
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Wayfarer Sunglasses:
Tom Cruise made the Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses an instant trend with this film. A pair of black, thick-framed sunglasses will complete the cool factor of the costume.
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Boxer Shorts or Briefs:
For the bottom half of the costume, you’ll want to wear white boxers or briefs. Alternatively, some people opt for white shorts if they prefer more coverage.
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Accessories:
While not necessary, you can add props such as a microphone, a record player, or a glass of whiskey to further play into the character’s laid-back, carefree persona.
Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling the Costume:
Step 1: Start with the Shirt:
The white button-down shirt should be oversized to give you that effortlessly cool, slightly messy vibe. Ensure it’s unbuttoned just enough to add to the relaxed look but still maintain a sense of style.
Step 2: Socks and Footwear:
Pair your white shirt with high white tube socks. To really nail the authenticity, you can slide across a hardwood floor like Tom Cruise did in the famous scene. You can wear loafers for comfort, but most go barefoot to stay true to the movie scene.
Step 3: Sunglasses to Complete the Look:
No Risky Business costume is complete without a pair of classic Wayfarer sunglasses. They add that touch of mystery and coolness to your outfit, which is essential for recreating the movie’s vibe.
Step 4: Add Your Personal Touch:
You can add a prop like a vinyl record or a microphone for a fun effect that adds personality to your costume. This is optional but can help you stand out even more at your event.
Enhancing the Experience with Business-Themed Additions:
If you want to add a unique twist to your Risky Business costume, consider bringing a touch of business flair. For example, carry a custom business card holder as a prop, or even better, have custom cards made by the Best Business Card Printer to hand out as part of your costume’s theme. It adds a layer of sophistication and humor, playing into the “business” aspect of the film’s title.
Creating the Perfect Group Costume:
While the Risky Business look is simple, it also makes a great group costume. You and your friends can dress as different iconic 80s characters to create a throwback group look. Whether it’s your significant other dressing as another character from the movie or your friends dressing in different themed outfits, the Risky Business costume is a great foundation.
For instance, if your group is looking for more business-themed costumes, you might consider incorporating references to real-world businesses. For example, a character could dress in a formal business suit to represent Irish Business Systems, offering a fun play on words and adding variety to your group’s theme.
Why the Risky Business Costume Remains Popular:
The Risky Business costume remains a favorite because it’s nostalgic, simple, and instantly recognizable. Here are a few reasons why this costume continues to dominate themed parties:
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Minimal Effort:
With just a few clothing items, you can recreate this look without spending much money or time.
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Recognizable Icon:
Even for those who haven’t seen the movie, the image of Tom Cruise sliding across the floor in socks and a white shirt is ingrained in pop culture.
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Comfortable and Fun:
Unlike many other costumes that may be uncomfortable or heavy, the Risky Business costume is laid-back and easy to move around in.
Tips for Making Your Costume Stand Out:
Even though the Risky Business costume is simple, there are ways to ensure you stand out:
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Perfect the Hair:
Tom Cruise’s hair in the movie was classic 80s style—messy yet chic. You can try to recreate this look by using a bit of hair product to give your locks some volume and texture.
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Add 80s Music:
Bring a speaker or small sound system with you and play 80s hits, especially the song “Old Time Rock and Roll” by Bob Seger, which was the backdrop for the iconic scene.
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Extra Props:
A microphone or a glass of whiskey can be excellent props to carry around for added effect.
Closing Thoughts:
The Risky Business costume continues to be a go-to for themed events because of its effortless charm and timeless appeal. With just a few pieces of clothing and accessories, you can easily recreate the look and channel your inner Tom Cruise. Whether it’s for a Halloween party, a costume contest, or just for fun, this costume never fails to impress.
By following this guide, you’ll have everything you need to create the perfect Risky Business costume. Don’t forget to make your look unique by adding personal touches and themed props. And if you need the perfect business card for your character, make sure to check out the Best Business Card Printer for high-quality options. For those in the office equipment business, you might also want to learn more about Irish Business Systems to add a clever twist to your look.
