Black hair can carry a Halloween costume on its own when you use its colour, texture and shape on purpose. Sleek lengths suit the gothic characters, and blunt bobs, high ponytails, braids, curls and heavy bangs point straight at certain screen icons. Your natural hair, a few temporary extensions or an inexpensive wig will all do, and none of them means rebuilding the outfit. What makes it work is lining the hair up with the clothes, the makeup, shoes you can dance in and one prop that's easy to carry. Below you'll find Halloween classics, cartoon favourites, superheroes, vintage icons and some simple DIY looks, with something for every hair length.
Matching a Character to the Length You Have Now
Before you fall for a character, look honestly at your hair. A wig solves any length, but if you'd rather skip one, these groups work with what you already have.
- Pixie or very short: Joan Jett, Trinity and Nana Osaki. Texture paste and a few minutes is all they ask.
- Chin to shoulder: Mavis, Kiki, Snow White, Edna, Mia Wallace, Jane Lane, Betty Boop and the flapper. A flat iron and a clean part do most of the work, and longer hair can be rolled under and pinned into a faux bob.
- Shoulder to mid-back: Wednesday, Raven, Lydia, Jasmine, Sam Manson and Asami. Braids, ponytails and waves suit this length best.
- Very long: Morticia, Cher, Shego, Marceline, Sailor Mars, Nezuko, Nico Robin and Yor. Length is the point here, so clip-in extensions are the fair way to cheat.
- Curly or wavy: Wonder Woman, Elvira, the witch, the glam vampire, the gothic bride and the dark fairy all suit natural curl and look better for it.
If your hair is curly and the character is sleek, I wouldn't spend an hour flat-ironing before a party. The warmth of a crowded room puts the curl back before midnight. Pick a character who already wears your texture, or let a wig handle it.
1. Wednesday Addams Costume With Black Braids
Wednesday is all about contrast: that crisp white collar against a black dress. A knee-length long-sleeved dress is ideal, or layer a white collared shirt under a simple black A-line dress you already own. Part the hair dead centre and braid it tight and smooth; if your hair is short, a braided black wig gives the same sharp effect. I keep the face pale and matte with softly defined brows and a muted berry lip, nothing graphic. Black tights and polished loafers mean she's fine for school, the office or a party. Carry a small vintage-looking book or a headless doll made from craft materials. Then hold a straight face all night, which is harder than any of the sewing.
2. Morticia Addams Costume With Long Black Hair
Morticia is the gothic pick for anyone who likes covered, comfortable glamour. Build around a fitted floor-length black dress, ideally with flared sleeves, lace panels or a soft fishtail hem that moves as you walk. Her hair is long, straight and centre-parted; temporary extensions or a sleek wig add length if you need it. Pale foundation, sculpted brows, smoky eyes and deep red lipstick give her polish without anything frightening. Hide black pointed flats or low block heels under the hem. A floor-length dress only stays comfortable if the hem clears your shoes, so try it on with them before you shorten it. A single artificial red rose is the prop, and minimal jewellery lets the silhouette and glossy hair do the talking.
3. Mavis Dracula Costume With Black Bob
Short black hair suits Mavis perfectly. Start with a loose black T-shirt dress or a long-sleeved skater dress above the knee, then add red-and-black striped tights and red canvas sneakers. Style the hair into a choppy bob with side-swept bangs, or use a lightweight bob wig. Pale foundation, rosy cheeks, big winged liner and soft pink lipstick keep her young. Fangs are optional; if you wear them, choose ones that come out easily, because you'll want to eat and talk. A tiny black suitcase or plush bat is the finishing prop. Striped costume tights ladder easily, so I'd buy a spare pair if you're dancing or handing out candy all evening.
4. Kiki Costume With Short Black Hair
Kiki mostly comes out of everyday clothes. Find a loose navy or deep purple knee-length dress with short sleeves and a modest neckline, then add bright red ballet flats and a large red bow. That bow is the whole colour story, so make it big; a small one disappears in photos. I stiffen mine with interfacing so it doesn't droop by the end of the night. Style short hair into a rounded bob with a few natural flyaways, or tuck and pin longer hair into a faux bob. Pink blush, light mascara and tinted balm keep it fresh. Carry a small straw broom and a black cat plush, plus a brown crossbody satchel for your things. She's a gentle choice for family Halloween events.
5. Snow White Costume With Curled Black Hair
Snow White's colours carry the costume: a blue fitted top with puffed sleeves and a flowing yellow midi or maxi skirt. Add the white collar and short red cape with fabric, felt or removable pieces. Style the hair into a smooth chin-length bob with softly curled ends, with a red ribbon headband at the crown. Rosy blush, fluttery lashes and classic red lipstick finish the fairytale face. Red or yellow low heels look sweet, but for a long night I'd switch to red ballet flats. Carry a shiny artificial apple or a small woven basket. Those primary colours against black hair are what let people name her from across the room.
6. Princess Jasmine Costume With Black Bubble Ponytail
A turquoise two-piece is the base for Jasmine, and it's easy to adjust for comfort and coverage. Pair a cropped or full-length draped top with loose harem pants, plus a sheer hip scarf if you like. The bubble ponytail is the detail people notice. I space covered elastics about a hand's width apart and gently pull each section wider, so the bubbles stay round instead of collapsing; a clip-in ponytail adds length if yours is short. Add a turquoise headband near the hairline, clip-on gold earrings, a simple necklace and gold cuffs. Black liner, warm neutral shadow and rosy lipstick define the face. Gold pointed flats beat unstable heels. Carry a small gold decorative lamp or a plush tiger, and on a cold night a fitted nude or turquoise layer underneath won't spoil the look.
7. Wonder Woman Costume With Wavy Black Hair
Wonder Woman is bold colour with practical superhero details. Start with a red fitted top with a simple gold emblem, then a blue knee-length skirt or comfortable shorts over opaque tights. Add a gold belt, red wrist cuffs and a gold star headband. Wear the hair loose in full, brushed-out waves with a centre or soft side part. I set the waves the night before in large braids or rollers, because heat-styled waves on very straight black hair can drop flat within a couple of hours. Defined brows, warm bronzer, red lipstick and clean black liner suit her. Red knee-high boots are the classic finish; red sneakers or flat boots are kinder for a parade. A coiled gold rope made from soft costume cord is a harmless prop.
8. Catwoman Costume With Sleek Black Hair
This Catwoman is modern and built for moving. Use a black long-sleeved jumpsuit, fitted utility-style overalls, or a black top with coated pants. Pick stretch pieces so you can sit, dance and climb stairs without fighting the fabric. Smooth the hair into a low ponytail or sleek bob before adding a simple cat-ear headband. Wear the eye mask for photos and take it off whenever you need to see properly, since masks cut your side vision more than you'd expect. Winged liner, sculpted cheeks and a neutral lip keep her polished. Add black gloves, a slim belt and flat knee-high boots. Skip the whip and carry a small faux-diamond pouch instead; there's no complicated bodysuit or painful shoe anywhere in this version.
9. Raven Costume With Black Layered Hair
That deep purple cloak sets Raven up immediately. Layer it over a long-sleeved black or navy leotard-style top with a matching pleated skirt, shorts or leggings. Add a red oval brooch at the neckline and a red belt decorated with lightweight craft gems. Craft gems stuck on with hot glue tend to pop off on a cold night, so I sew them or use a flexible fabric glue. Wear the hair straight and shoulder length, with temporary violet streaks for dimension if you want them. Gray-toned shadow, sharp liner and a muted berry lip make a mysterious but family-friendly face. Dark tights and purple ankle boots or sturdy black combat boots finish her. A small purple-covered book or a battery-operated glowing gem works as a prop.
10. Shego Costume With Long Black Hair
Shego is a good athletic choice that shows off long black hair. Wear a fitted black jumpsuit or black leggings with a long-sleeved top, then add bright green fabric panels down one side, or use green gloves, a belt and boot covers for her colour blocking. Keep the fit flexible rather than skin-tight; you want to be able to raise your arms. The hair is long, straight and side-parted, falling over one shoulder. Green shadow, bold liner and a nude lip echo the outfit with no face paint needed. Sturdy black ankle boots and mismatched black-and-green gloves finish her. A green battery glow stick is a simple prop, and the whole look stands up to an active party or an outdoor event.
11. Edna Mode Costume With Black Bob Wig
A structured black outfit and huge round glasses make Edna easy to identify. Choose a black tunic dress with a wide collar over opaque tights or slim black pants, and add a short black jacket with angular shoulders for a sharper fashion silhouette. The hair is essential: a glossy chin-length bob with blunt bangs and rounded sides. A wig is easier than cutting your own, and I trim wig bangs a little longer than the target at first, because synthetic fibre springs up shorter once it's cut. Strong brows, clean liner and red or berry lipstick keep the makeup graphic but simple. Black loafers, low block heels or ankle boots keep you grounded. Carry a measuring tape, fabric swatches or a small sketchbook, and stand like you have very strong opinions.
12. Mia Wallace Costume With Blunt Black Bob
Few closet costumes are as easy as Mia Wallace. Tuck an oversized white button-down into cropped black trousers, collar relaxed and sleeves casually rolled. Add black ballet flats or low pumps, depending on how much walking you expect. The defining feature is the blunt black bob with straight bangs, which a wig does best, though pinned-under natural hair can work. Matte foundation, black mascara, subtle liner and deep red lipstick. A small retro clutch is all you carry. Check the shirt in strong light before you go out, because thin white cotton turns see-through under a camera flash. The look relies on clean lines and that sharp contrast between black hair, black pants and the bright white shirt.
13. Holly Golightly Costume With Black Updo
Holly Golightly's black dress is pure classic glamour. Wear an elegant sleeveless midi or floor-length gown with long black gloves, a layered faux-pearl necklace and oversized dark sunglasses. Sweep the hair into a high French twist or rounded bun, leaving short bangs softly separated across the forehead, then add a small jewelled hairpiece. A French twist on slippery straight hair holds much better if you mist it with a dry texture spray first and lock it with crossed pins. Luminous foundation, winged liner, peach blush and soft pink lipstick give the vintage face. Black kitten heels or embellished flats stay wearable. Carry a small structured handbag, and throw a cropped black wrap over your shoulders if the party spills outdoors.
14. Betty Boop Costume With Curly Black Bob
Betty Boop doesn't need an exact replica; a red flapper-style mini or knee-length dress does it. Look for a sweetheart neckline, a ruffled hem or a little sequin shine. The hair is a short curled bob with small finger waves around the face. If you use a wig, choose one with defined glossy curls rather than a big fluffy one, because she's tidy, not wild. Rounded eyes, curved brows, rosy cheeks and a small red lip. Add gold hoops, a slim garter-style ribbon over opaque tights and red or black low heels. A tiny heart-shaped purse is the practical prop. Sequinned fabric can scratch the inner arm after a few hours, so I check the underarm seams before buying.
15. Cher Costume With Long Straight Black Hair
Cher's 1970s looks let waist-length black hair take centre stage. Pair high-waisted flared pants with a fitted metallic, patterned or jewel-toned long-sleeved top, plus a matching vest or flowing fringed jacket for movement. Centre-part the hair and straighten it into a smooth, glossy curtain; temporary extensions add length without touching your own hair. Shimmery shadow, bold lashes, warm blush and a glossy nude lip suit her. Platform boots finish the decade, though low platforms are safer in a crowd. Add big hoops and a vintage-style microphone made from light craft materials. Hair this long tangles at the nape under a fringed jacket, so carry a wide-tooth comb. It reads as a party outfit rather than a packaged costume.
16. Joan Jett Rocker Costume With Shaggy Black Hair
A Joan Jett-style rocker starts with black skinny jeans, a band-style T-shirt and a fitted faux-leather jacket. I'd use a generic music graphic rather than branded merch. Add a studded belt, fingerless gloves and black ankle boots with a stable sole. The shaggy cut needs choppy layers, uneven bangs and plenty of controlled texture, and temporary styling wax gives separation without stiffness. Smoky liner, strong brows and a muted red lip. Carry a lightweight toy guitar or a guitar-shaped crossbody bag. It's comfortable and easy to thrift, and it's a natural fit for short, layered or textured black hair that doesn't need a wig.
17. Trinity Costume With Short Black Hair
Trinity is sleek and very easy to assemble. Wear a fitted black mock-neck top with straight or slim faux-leather pants, and a long black coat with clean lines whose hem stops short enough not to trip you on stairs. Style the hair into a close-cropped pixie, slicked-back bob or smooth low bun. The narrow black sunglasses are the key accessory, but take them off in dim or crowded rooms; I'd rather lose the look for a minute than miss a step. Matte skin, defined brows and a neutral lip. Black combat boots give support and match the streamlined shape. Carry a small silver phone or rectangular clutch. Mix textures, matte jersey against shiny faux leather, so all that black doesn't flatten into one dark shape in photos.
18. Lydia Deetz Costume With Messy Black Hair
Lydia's red wedding dress is the version people remember. Choose a red maxi with lace, tulle or ruffled sleeves and a lightweight red veil on a headband. Tease the hair gently at the crown and pull the front into spiky sections, leaving the rest loose. Teasing knots fine or synthetic hair badly, so I tease only the top layer and brush it out from the ends upward afterwards. Pale foundation, smudged gray shadow, defined brows and a muted red lip. Black lace-up boots make the dress far easier to walk in than heels. Carry a vintage-style camera or a small photography book. For her everyday look, swap to a black dress and wide-brim hat, keeping the messy hair and thoughtful expression.
19. Elvira Costume With Voluminous Black Hair
This Elvira is campy and glamorous rather than revealing. Wear a long black dress with a modest V-neck, flared sleeves and a side slit over opaque tights, with a wide black belt to shape and secure it. Build height with a teased crown, smooth sides and long waves down the back, or let a voluminous black wig do it in less time. Big hair like this collapses by midnight unless you set each backcombed section with hairspray as you go, not just at the end. Dramatic winged liner, smoky purple shadow, sculpted cheeks and deep red lipstick. Black platform boots or sturdy block heels. Carry a small decorative Halloween book or a plush black cat as a playful prop.
20. Marceline Costume With Long Black Hair
Marceline mixes vampire details with relaxed rocker clothes. Wear a gray sleeveless top with fitted blue jeans and red knee-high boots or red boot covers. The hair is long, straight and slightly tousled, with a side part falling across one eye. For the cartoon effect, use a light gray face base sparingly with soft plum shadow, small fangs and dark berry lips. A gray base shows every dry patch, so moisturise first and press it on with a damp sponge rather than rubbing it in. Carry a red axe-shaped guitar cut from lightweight foam with rounded edges, or a red guitar bag where prop rules apply. Jeans and a top suit cool weather, and a red cardigan adds warmth without losing her palette.
21. Sailor Mars Costume With Long Black Hair
Sailor Mars frames long black hair in bold red, white and purple. Start with a white fitted top with a sailor collar, then a pleated red skirt and a large purple chest bow. Red elbow-length gloves and a matching waistband tie it all together. The hair is long and straight with a centre part, with extensions if you need them. Add a small gold tiara, red studs, sharp liner, rosy blush and red lipstick. Red ankle boots or low pumps, with opaque tights for coverage and warmth. Carry a small paper charm with abstract symbols rather than religious markings. Most of it is separates you'll wear again; I'd only sew the bow, since ready-made costume bows tend to be flimsy.
22. Nezuko Costume With Black And Orange Hair
Nezuko layers a pink geometric-patterned robe under a dark brown or black coat, held with a wide red-and-white sash, with dark leg wraps and flat sandals over socks. Her long hair is the big feature: loose waves with orange concentrated at the ends. On black hair, orange spray shows faintly at best, so clip-in orange pieces at the ends give a far brighter result. Soft pink shadow, defined lashes, rosy cheeks and a natural lip. Rather than covering your mouth, carry a small green foam bamboo tube on a ribbon or clipped to a bag. A pink bow goes on one side of the hair. All those layers make her a warm pick for a cold Halloween night.
23. Yor Forger Costume With Black Hair And Gold Headband
A black off-the-shoulder midi dress is the base for this Yor. Look for red lining, rose accents or thin straps that echo her formal look without restricting you. The hair is long and straight, with two front sections left out and the rest gathered low at the back. Add a gold headband with small roses and matching drop earrings. Red shadow, delicate liner, flushed cheeks and red lipstick. Black thigh-high boots over opaque tights work, or black ankle boots if you'll be on your feet. Off-the-shoulder necklines slide all night, so a strip of fashion tape at each shoulder saves a lot of tugging. Carry a structured black handbag or a bunch of artificial red roses.
24. Mikasa Ackerman Costume With Short Black Hair
This Mikasa is practical: a cropped tan jacket over a white button-down and fitted white or beige pants, with a brown wrap-style skirt panel, harness-style fabric straps and a deep red scarf. Wear it for half an hour at home and loosen any strap that rubs before you go. The hair is a short layered bob with side-swept bangs. Natural eyes, a matte base and a neutral lip are all she needs. Brown knee-high boots are right for her, and flat riding boots are best for walking. Carry a rolled map or canvas pouch, not blades. The red scarf is the detail that identifies her, so pick a true deep red; a pinkish or orange red throws the whole outfit off.
25. Nico Robin Costume With Long Black Hair
Nico Robin works with a fitted purple or blue top, a patterned wrap skirt and tall boots. Choose a knee-length skirt with a subtle tropical or geometric print, plus a coordinating belt and a light cropped jacket. The hair is long, straight and centre-parted; depending on the version, push sunglasses up at the hairline or cut neat blunt bangs. Violet shadow, defined lashes and rose lipstick complement the clothes. Purple or brown knee-highs are easier to walk in than narrow heels. Carry an old-looking archaeology notebook, folded map or small book. Keep the gold bangles light, because heavy metal bangles clank and drag on the wrist over a long evening.
26. Nana Osaki Costume With Punk Black Hair
Nana Osaki starts with a red plaid skirt, a black fitted top and a cropped faux-leather jacket. Ripped black tights over opaque leggings give the punk look with coverage, and buckled ankle boots finish it. The hair is a choppy pixie with side-swept layers and piecey texture, and a wig is the easy answer if your own hair is long or hard to pin. Charcoal shadow, smudged liner, matte foundation and deep rose lipstick. Layer chain necklaces, a black wrist cuff and a small padlock-style pendant, with no permanent markings. Carry a lightweight microphone or compact guitar-shaped bag. Cheap faux leather doesn't breathe, so if the party is packed and indoors, plan on carrying the jacket for part of the night.
27. Sam Manson Costume With Black Ponytail
Sam Manson is easy if you like casual gothic pieces. Wear a black cropped top or fitted tee with a simple purple oval, a purple plaid skirt, black tights or leggings and chunky black boots. Pull the hair into a high ponytail, leaving two curved sections loose at the face; with short hair, a short black wig plus a clip-on ponytail gets the cartoon shape. The purple oval is easiest cut from felt and stitched on, since felt glued to a stretchy tee peels as soon as the fabric moves. Purple shadow, dark liner, cool pink blush and a berry lip. Green studs or a green choker add contrast. Carry a reusable lunch bag of faux vegetables, a nod to her strict vegetarian streak.
28. Jane Lane Costume With Straight Black Hair
Jane Lane is a red jacket, a black bob and a sketchbook. Layer a red blazer or zip-front jacket over a black V-neck and gray shorts, then add black tights and lace-up combat boots. The hair is straight and chin length with a centre part and the ends turned slightly in. Round glasses are optional but frame the face. Smudged brown liner, muted blush and a nude lip keep it understated. Carry a sketchbook, pencil case or small portfolio. The jacket gives enough colour for photos while the rest stays neutral. I'd call this the best last-minute option here for straight black hair at short or medium length, because you probably own half of it already.
29. Asami Sato Costume With Wavy Black Hair
Asami pairs vintage polish with an adventurous edge. Wear a burgundy fitted jacket with a high collar over black leggings or slim trousers, plus dark gloves, a wide belt and sturdy knee-high boots. Style the hair into polished side-parted waves with one sculpted curl framing the face. Pin-curl that front piece and leave the clip in until the last minute; it holds far longer that way. Winged liner, defined lashes, soft contour and rich red lipstick. A green statement necklace or hair accessory adds a refined detail. Carry rolled mechanical drawings or a soft tool-shaped clutch to hint at her engineering. Make sure the structured jacket still lets you sit, and know that she suits naturally thick, glossy black hair best.
30. Classic Witch Costume With Wavy Black Hair
A classic witch looks fresh when every piece is coordinated rather than grabbed at random. Start with a long black dress with a tiered skirt, fitted waist and flowing sleeves, then a deep purple cape and a wide-brim pointed hat with a matching ribbon. Wear the hair in polished waves or a low textured braid under the hat. A tall hat slides on smooth hair, so I pin it through the inner band with two bobby pins on each side, or stitch a small comb inside. Purple shadow, winged liner, luminous skin and a berry lip. Striped tights and buckled ankle boots. Carry a small twig broom and a star-covered book, keep the theme whimsical rather than ritual, and let a moon brooch or silver belt break up all that black in photos.
31. Glam Vampire Costume With Long Black Hair
Red and black layers make this vampire dramatic without blood or gore. Wear a black velvet midi dress with long sleeves and a red satin cape that fastens securely at the neck. Style glossy waves with a sharp centre part, or a half-up style with a jewelled clip. Pale luminous base, plum shadow, defined lashes and deep red lipstick; small removable fangs are plenty for pictures. Add a black choker, ruby-coloured earrings and pointed ankle boots or low block heels. Carry a red rose or ornate hand mirror. Velvet shows every crease and pressure mark, so I hang it in a steamy bathroom rather than ironing it flat. Satin cape ties loosen easily, too, so a hidden hook and eye is worth the five minutes.
32. Black Cat Costume With High Black Ponytail
A black cat looks polished when you treat it as one monochrome outfit. Pair a fitted black turtleneck with black leggings or coated pants, a soft faux-fur vest if it's cold, and black ankle boots. Pull the hair into a high ponytail and set a velvet cat-ear headband at the crown. On black hair, plain black ears vanish in photos unless they're velvet or have a contrasting inner. Draw a small nose and fine whiskers with eyeliner, and keep the rest fresh with winged liner, rosy cheeks and clear gloss. Wear black gloves with felt paw pads, and stitch or safety-pin a flexible fabric tail firmly to your waistband. Carry a ball-shaped purse or a tiny plush mouse.
33. Gothic Bride Costume With Curled Black Hair
This gothic bride is romantic rather than gory. Choose an ivory, gray or faded lavender maxi dress with lace sleeves and a layered skirt, a black lace belt and a soft gray veil on a floral headband. Wear loose curls with the front sections pinned back so the veil sits firmly. A veil on a headband pulls backward with every turn of the head, so I sew two small combs onto the headband to anchor it. Cool-toned foundation, gray shadow, defined lashes, dusty rose blush and a plum lip, with no painted wounds. Black lace-up boots give a grounded contrast, and a bouquet of artificial black, ivory and purple flowers is the prop. Vintage-style earrings finish her, and she's tasteful enough for family parties.
34. Dark Fairy Costume With Black Curly Hair
A dark fairy can be whimsical and wearable without anything frightening. Layer a black or midnight-purple corset-style top over a modest blouse, then a knee-length tulle skirt and opaque tights. The wings need comfortable elastic straps; I cover the elastic where it crosses the shoulders with a strip of soft fabric, because bare elastic cuts in after an hour. Style defined curls or a big half-up arrangement decorated with silver stars and purple flowers. Violet shadow, pearly highlighter, delicate liner and berry gloss. Black lace-up ankle boots are safer than thin heels outdoors. Carry a foam and ribbon star wand with no sharp edges. Glitter freckles are fun, but glitter migrates onto everything, so press it on with a cosmetic glitter glue.
35. 1920s Flapper Costume With Black Finger Waves
A flapper suits short black hair or a carefully pinned faux bob. Choose a knee-length fringe dress in black, emerald or deep red, with a long strand of faux pearls and a jewelled headband. Sculpt the hair into glossy finger waves along the hairline; with long hair, roll and pin the back under to fake the shorter shape. Setting gel plus clips left in until the waves are fully dry is what makes them last. Smoky gray shadow, thin curved brows, rosy cheeks and deep red lipstick. Low-heeled T-strap shoes feel period without hurting. Carry a small beaded purse or folding fan, skip the alcohol props, and let the fringe, pearls and hair tell the decade. Fringe really comes alive once you start dancing.
What Temporary Colour Really Does on Black Hair
Several of these looks call for violet streaks or orange ends, and this is where black hair is honest with you. Colour sprays and chalks sit on the surface of the hair, and on very dark hair most of them read as a faint tint rather than a bright colour. Pastels barely show at all.
- Clip-in coloured extensions give the brightest, cleanest result and come out at the end of the night.
- If you do spray, work over an old towel, spray the ends only, and let each coat dry before adding the next.
- Expect transfer. Sprays rub onto collars, capes, pillowcases and anyone you hug, so keep pale fabric away from coloured ends.
- Rain or a sweaty dance floor can make some sprays run, so carry tissues.
- Wash out with a clarifying shampoo. Colour can linger in porous or previously lightened hair, so try a hidden strand first.
Pale Bases and Dark Lips That Stay Where You Put Them
Half the costumes here rely on a pale base and a deep red or berry lip, and both love to travel. Pale foundation ends up on black collars and turtlenecks, and dark lipstick ends up on cups, teeth and other people's cheeks.
I set any pale base with translucent powder, then get dressed after my makeup, pulling necklines over my head with a thin scarf over my face. For a deep lip, line and fill the whole mouth with lip liner first, blot, apply the lipstick and blot again; a long-wear liquid formula holds far better than a creamy bullet. Patch-test any new product on your inner arm a day ahead. At the end of the night, an oil or balm cleanser breaks down dark liner and long-wear lipstick without scrubbing, then follow with your usual face wash.
Your Hair Is Already Half the Costume
Black hair should be the star of your costume, not something you hide under an itchy accessory. Long waves suit the gothic, glamorous and cartoon characters, while bobs, braids, ponytails, curls and pixie cuts open up just as many easy picks. Once you've chosen, line up the clothes, hair, makeup, shoes and one safe prop so they tell the same story. Closet basics save time, and a small handmade detail often does more than an expensive packaged set. Above all, wear layers and shoes that suit your party, so your own colour or a favourite black wig carries you happily through the night.
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