When you’re hosting a costume party, the hardest (and most important) part can be deciding on a theme. After all, it’s what everything hinges on – the decorations, what you’ll be wearing, maybe even the food. Not only do you want to think of something unique, it’s got to be highly entertaining and inspirational for everyone you’ve invited.

So, if you’re looking for some ideas for your next theme, have no fear, here are 10 costume party ideas you’ve probably never thought of:

1. Where I’ll be in 20 years

This is your chance to give everyone a crystal ball to see what your life will be like in 20 years. Are you planning on escaping and living out your days on a tropical island, dreaming of being a police officer, or flying fighter jets in the Top Gun remake (cause surely this will be happening soon?)

2. If I were and animal…

Unleash your inner wild-side and show all your friends who your spirit animal is. Whatever animal you choose, this is a chance to really get creative with the décor. You could set up the room like a jungle, helping everyone to get into character, simply by using fake grass, cardboard cutout trees and shrubs.

3. Baywatch theme

It doesn’t matter if you do or don’t have a pool in your garden, this is a chance to flex your abs and rock your bikini body. Create your own sandpit, fake pool (if you don’t have a real one), and use lots of floating devices and lifesaving signs. To really get people in the mood, have the Baywatch series playing on repeat and the theme tune blaring as many times as you can stand.

4. 1980’s prom

According to Calvin Harris, it was acceptable in the 80s, so you have nothing to fear. Big hair, puffy skirts, shell suits, and bright colours along with 80s music, disco balls, streamers, and crepe paper. Make sure you’re dining on Jatz Cabonossi and sipping some Pina Coladas (complete with umbrella and glazed cherry).

5. What I want to be when I grow up

Remember when you were five and everyone would ask "what do you want to be when you grow up?" Well, this is that but now you’re grown up and you can have a lot more fun answering the question. Fireman, superhero, police officer, even Donald Trump, you’re free to be whatever you want to be.

6. Slumber party

The theme of this party screams comfort. PJs, pillows, popcorn, and gossip. Make sure you’ve agreed on the rom-com playlist up front, or have a pillow fight to decide. Just remember to not make it too comfy because you don’t want everyone to fall asleep too early – snoozing guests does not make for a pumping party.

7. Retro bowling party

Now, you can decide to host this at the bowling alley or buy an inflatable bowling set for your house. Either way, the key component is for everyone to dress up in their best retro gear and bring their best self, so you can enjoy your best party.

8. Mad scientist party

Get out your lab coat, safety goggles, mad wig (or style your own), and channel your inner mad scientist. You could really go to town and set up a chemistry set themed cocktail bar, flashing lights. Then set off some crazy cackling now and again.

9. Superheroes gone wrong

No one is perfect. Not even superheroes. And now’s your chance to prove it. Think Superman if he forgot his cape, Wolverine having a bad hair day, or Star Lord with his pants on inside out.

10. Reverse gender

This is an oldie but a goody. Come dressed as the opposite sex for an evening and live in their shoes. Laugh as you see your male friends totter in high heels, or your girlfriends looking dapper. To really spice it up, add a theme on top such as the 1920s era. Then just make sure you take lots and lots (and lots) of pictures.