Few costumes have left as lasting a mark on pop culture as the Joel Goodson costume from the 1983 film Risky Business. Played by a young Tom Cruise, Joel Goodson quickly became one of the most memorable movie characters of the 80s. His iconic look, particularly the scene where he slides into the living room wearing nothing but a white shirt, socks, and underwear, has been recreated countless times at parties, in commercials, and on social media.
The Joel Goodson costume stands out because it’s simple yet instantly recognizable. Whether you want to capture his business-style outfit with a sharp blazer and sunglasses or embrace the playful charm of the underwear scene, this costume works for all kinds of occasions—Halloween, cosplay events, retro parties, or even themed college nights.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular Joel Goodson costume ideas, go over the essential items you’ll need, explain how to style them, and even share a few fun tips and reviews.
Must-Have Joel Goodson Costume Items
When it comes to Joel Goodson costume ideas, there are two standout looks that fans love to recreate: the laid-back underwear outfit and the more polished business costume. Both options are fun, versatile, and instantly recognizable.
- White Dress Shirt – Oversized, button-down, and perfect for the famous slide-in scene.
- Ray-Ban Sunglasses – The classic black Wayfarers give Joel his cool, confident vibe.
- Crew Socks – Long, white socks are a must-have to pull off the dance move.
- Boxer Shorts – Keep it simple with solid-colored or striped boxers for the underwear costume.
- Blazer & Slacks – For the business version, add a fitted dark blazer, matching trousers, and a crisp shirt.
- Loafers or Dress Shoes – To complete the polished business look.
These pieces can be worn individually or combined, depending on whether you want to go all-in on the underwear costume or take a more dressed-up approach with Joel’s business look.
How to Style Your Joel Goodson Costume Costume
10 Best Uses for Joel Goodson Costume
- Halloween Parties – A guaranteed hit and conversation starter.
- 80s-Themed Events – Perfect for capturing the spirit of the decade.
- Cosplay Conventions – Stand out with a recognizable yet low-effort costume.
- Retro Movie Nights – Pair the outfit with a Risky Business screening.
- College Dress-Up Nights – Fun, easy, and a little cheeky.
- Bachelor Parties – Great for group laughs and memorable photos.
- TV or Movie Character Parties – Instantly recognizable among pop culture costumes.
- Social Media Videos – Recreate the sliding dance scene for TikTok or Instagram.
- Theater Productions – Works well for 80s plays or film reenactments.
- Casual Costume Gatherings – Simple enough for a laid-back event with friends.
Complete Joel Goodson Costume Overview
Joel Goodson Costume Tips, Pros & Cons, and FAQs
Tips for Wearing the Costume:
- Choose a loose, oversized shirt for the underwear costume so it moves easily.
- Invest in real Ray-Ban Wayfarers for the most authentic touch.
- Keep things simple—Joel’s look is about effortless cool.
- For the business costume, go for slim-fit trousers and a sharp blazer to stay true to the character.
- If you’re shy, the business outfit is the safer option.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble.
- Affordable.
- Instantly recognizable.
- Works for both casual and formal settings.
Cons:
- The underwear costume may feel too revealing for some.
- Simplicity means you need confidence to sell the look.
How do I recreate the Joel Goodson underwear costume at home?
Grab an oversized white dress shirt, boxer shorts, long white socks, and sunglasses. That’s all you need to nail the look.
What accessories complete the Joel Goodson business costume?
A dark blazer, matching slacks, black loafers, and Ray-Ban Wayfarers are essential for the polished version.
Is this costume suitable for group cosplay?
Yes! A group can dress in different 80s character costumes, with one person as Joel Goodson to complete the theme.
Where can I buy Joel Goodson costume items online?
Most pieces can be found on Amazon, eBay, or vintage clothing shops. Sunglasses and shirts are easy to source.
Can women wear the Joel Goodson costume for cosplay?
Absolutely. The look works just as well for women—it’s playful, iconic, and universally recognized.
A friend of mine wore the Joel Goodson underwear costume to a packed Halloween party, and the moment he slid across the dance floor, the crowd erupted. People instantly recognized the scene and even joined in by shouting the song lyrics. It turned into the highlight of the night. That’s the magic of this costume—it doesn’t just dress you up, it creates a shared memory.
The reason it’s worth it is because it blends humor with nostalgia. Everyone from older fans of Risky Business to younger people who’ve seen the scene online gets the reference. It’s famous because it’s fun, easy to pull off, and always gets a laugh. Whether you’re at a costume contest, a casual party, or a cosplay event, the Joel Goodson look guarantees attention.
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Joel Goodson Costume Styling Checklist