40th birthday party to theme or not to theme?

[Ibitadentistonce]

I’m turning 40 in May and in the process of booking a bar for a party. There will likely be between 30 and 50 people attending and it will be a mix of family and friends (no children although my own who are 5 might come for an hour at the beginning). I like the idea of a 90s theme with fancy dress but… what would I wear?! I don’t want to look funny or silly, I want to look nice! For reference, I’m around a size 16 (14ish on top).

Any other ideas for a theme?

Also what would people expect at a 40th? Was thinking of not doing food but putting on some drinks instead (the venue offers the option of a keg of beer and Prosecco). Had thought maybe karaoke? Just music and dancing? Maybe some photo props? Anything else? The room isn’t huge…

TIA

[SandyWaves]

90s theme sounds great or just smart dress and people can wear what they want.

I think food is always needed at a big party. A buffet or something.

I would just do music not karaoke. It gets boring quite quickly. Have fun!

[RAPSMom]

My 40th... was held in a pub of a work colleague... they had a large field... (we and others) camped overnight. We had a fabulous buffet (to soak up the alcohol) there was background music.... spur of the moment on the night a couple of guitars came down, a mic and some singing as a group... there was a marquee with a wedding going on.... we had some of the wedding party join us...a great night was had by all....
My 50th... because of numbers, was held in a community centre with a pay bar, again buffet, this time with a disco/karaoke - the theme was a 'P' Party.... as long as it started with a 'P'.... prize for the best fancy dress...