Victoria Houlder and Gary Storey have both endured the trials and tribulations of the dating world and making new friends once a divorce or previous relationship has settled, and wanted to make it easier for people to connect and "find their tribe".

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"I think the daunting, traumatic thing is when over you're over 40 it's embarrassing to say you're looking for a partner," Ms Houlder told the Mercury.

"We noticed this really big gap and everyone was in the same situation ... the common demoninator was they all loved music, they all loved to dance and deep down they didn't want to admit it that they were looking for someone. "

Forget using dating apps, the pair's Retro 40's party kicks off on the Queens Birthday long weekend at the Illawarra Leagues club on Church Street, because "people can be alone but you don't have to be lonely".

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Ms Houlder said older singles had become "disenchanted" with apps like Tinder because there were many married men and women just there for a "hookup", or you "had to look like Shane Warne to get a swipe".

"We're just trying to give everyone that leg up in what is sometimes the hardest step you ever take, and that is back into the unknown world of trying to find love," she said.

Ms Houdler said university students and other young adults have a smorgasbord of places to be social, have a dance and meet people whereas those above the age of 35 have nowhere.

"You know the old adage 'it takes a village to raise a child'?" asked the co-organiser. "I think it continues to take a village your entire life. If you suddenly don't have that tribe you are on your own."

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The Retro 40's night runs from 7pm to 11pm on June 12, with the aim of a fortnightly event. The timing of the party was to work in with the food and beverage facilities at the Leagues Club, while also allowing people to continue mingling downstairs after the event was over.

"We want [people] who are interested in getting dressed up and having a good time, we don't want torn jeans and what you'd wear on the couch on a Saturday night.

"Really dress to impress."

For more information, visit: www.facebook.com/Retro40s or www.eventbrite.com.au