Acid-wash jeans, mullets and the classic tunes of Lynyrd Skynyrd. These may make you think of the '80s, but hit up the right house party this weekend and you'll see this is actually a description of a new trend in party themes -- the "white trash" party.
Going to the same type of kegger can get old. Theme parties are a nice change of pace plus, people always love to dress up.
If you're bored with regular parties that result in the same friend naked in the pool every weekend, just follow SPM's "how-to throw a white trash party," guide.
At least this way that friend will be donning a mullet while skinny-dipping.
Decor and atmosphere
Throwing a good theme party requires proper decorations. The choice wall coverings for this party are NASCAR flags. Really, anything NASCAR will evoke the right emotions from your guests. However, older beer posters are appropriate as well. This is one of the few times where having posters of scantily clad women in the living room will not be frowned upon.
Seating is another issue you'll need to tackle. Metal folding or lawn chairs are ideal for all party guests. Avoid getting fancy with the cushioned ones. Extra points if at least one is missing a leg.
Another important element to create perfect "white trash" atmosphere is music. Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" is a must. Use your best judgment when it comes to music; just don't play anything current and remember: no one really enjoys Winger.
Attire
Clothing is the highlight of this party. Everyone should be encouraged to come looking as trashy as possible. Acid-wash denim in all its variations is perfect. Jeans, shorts, skirts and particularly jean jackets with the sleeves torn off are all wonderful choices for creating a perfect costume.
All jeans should be worn tight and high on the waist. Low-rise isn't white trash, so wear that black acid wash skirt you picked up at the Goodwill proudly at your navel.
If you vowed to never touch acid wash (not even for a party), sweatpants are also acceptable fashion at a white trash party. As for shirts, never forget the alcohol promo tee. Wearing a Budweiser hat and a Coors shirt you scored for free is the peak of trashy fashion greatness.
But the clothing just isn't enough -- your hair must match your outfit. Take a break from your normal hair and throw on a mullet wig. The mullet is the haircut that shows what you're all about -- business in the front, party in the back.
For the less daring, teased hair with lots of AquaNet hairspray will also nicely compliment the short skirt and cropped-top look.
And don't be afraid to cake on your makeup. Be bold and wear bright red lipstick. No one is going to say anything negative about it tonight.
Dining
The choice of beer for a white trash theme is Keystone Light. It's light, it's cheap and a Keystone representative probably hooked you up with a T-shirt at some point.
For snacks, chips, cheese curls and pork rinds work just fine. No need to serve them out of fancy party bowls. Just put the bags and boxes on the counter and let your guests do the rest.
Or simply set a can of cheese out with a box of crackers. Not only will someone eventually put cheese on someone else's face, but you may find there are some closet Cheez Whiz artists in your midst.
If you want to have actual food instead of munchies, try making Chili Frito Pie (small bag of Fritos cut open with dollops of chili, cheese and sour cream), SPAM casserole or macaroni and cheese with sliced hot dogs on top.
There are many activities that can compliment this theme well. The best part of having a white trash party is getting your guests involved. Let them bring the food and choose their attire. Chances are they will think of hilarious things you wouldn't have dreamed of.
Reach the reporter at chelsea.ide@asu.edu.
