Morticia is one of the most forgiving characters to dress because her look is so tightly defined: a long black gown that hugs the body, flared sleeves, waist-length straight black hair with a center part, a pale face, smoky eyes and a red lip. Get those right and almost any black dress can carry her. The variations below play with the fabric, from velvet and lace to satin and sequins, and with the shape, from the classic mermaid to a midi you can dance in. There are also versions for heat and cold, for different heights and bodies, for teens and kids, and pairings with Gomez, Wednesday, Lurch and Cousin Itt. For each one, I've noted what I'd actually check before you wear it.
Cutting the Ragged Hem and Flared Sleeves Onto a Plain Black Maxi
The thing that turns a black dress into Morticia is the bottom of it. Her gown hugs the legs and then ends in uneven, trailing points, and you can add that to almost any fitted maxi in an afternoon. I'd use chiffon or a soft georgette in the same black as the dress, since those drape and float as you walk.
- Put the dress on and mark where it starts to flare, usually around the knee. That is where the new points will begin.
- Cut long triangles of chiffon, some longer than others, so the hem won't look like a row of identical teeth.
- Pin them in overlapping layers around the inside of the hem and stitch them on with a loose running stitch, or use fabric tape if you want to remove them later.
- Check the front. The points should stop just above the floor in front and can trail a little at the back, so you don't step on them.
- For sleeves, cut two wide chiffon trapezoids, gather the narrow end onto a band of elastic and slide them over the forearm under the dress sleeve.
Blacks vary a lot, and a blue-black chiffon on a brown-black jersey looks wrong under bright light. Hold the fabrics together near a window before you cut, and buy everything for one gown at the same time if you can.
1. Classic Morticia Addams Costume
The classic version is a fitted, floor-length black gown with a deep V and flared sleeves, and the hem is what I pay most attention to. Morticia's skirt clings to the knee and then breaks into ragged points, so a mermaid hem or a ring of sheer pointed panels gets you there. A waist-length straight wig with a razor-sharp center part goes on top. Pale foundation, softly arched brows, smoky gray shadow and a deep red lip finish the face. Pointed black pumps or low boots stay mostly hidden. Add long red nails and a single red rose, then slow down. Half of Morticia is moving as if you have nowhere to be.
2. 1960s Morticia Addams Costume
The 1960s television Morticia wore a narrow, almost severe column gown, and matte jersey or stretch crepe gets closest to that flat black. Look for a plunging neckline, a fitted waist and long sleeves, then add shredded-looking chiffon drapes at the cuffs and hem; I tear chiffon rather than cut it for this, because torn edges look softer. Her wig falls past the waist with almost no volume. Light foundation, black liner, soft gray shadow and a muted berry-red lip suit the era better than a bright red. Black kitten heels are comfortable. Clean, arched brows and very little jewelry keep it faithful.
3. 1990s Morticia Addams Costume
The 1990s film Morticia is richer and more sculpted. A black velvet mermaid gown that follows the body to below the knee, with sheer lace sleeves and a low, angular neckline, gives that shape. Velvet adds weight, so I'd check that the dress has some stretch, or the fitted part will strain every time you sit. An extra-long, glossy, completely straight wig with a precise part finishes the head. Cool pale makeup, sculpted cheekbones, smoky taupe eyes and crimson lipstick complete her face. Stilettos give the sleekest line, but block heels are kinder over a long evening. A red rose or a small silver vase works as the prop.
4. Modern Morticia Addams Costume
A modern version uses a structured black maxi with a square neckline, a fitted bodice and sheer bell sleeves. I'd look for a dress with some stretch, so you can walk, sit and dance without fighting it. Long black hair with a glassy shine works in a wig, or straighten your own dark hair and part it in the center. Modernize the makeup with a luminous pale base, soft contour, winged liner and a satin burgundy lip instead of bright red. Pointed black ankle boots and geometric onyx-colored earrings keep it current. One dark red rose and long oval nails tie it back to the character.
5. Velvet Morticia Addams Costume
Black velvet is the fabric I'd reach for if you only want one Morticia gown that lasts. It soaks up light in a way flat polyester can't, so the whole silhouette looks richer. Choose a fitted velvet gown with a fishtail hem and long sleeves ending in chiffon or lace. With that much texture, keep jewelry to black drop earrings and a single dark ring. Comfortable pointed pumps hide under the skirt. A waist-length center-parted wig, a cool pale base, charcoal liner, soft contour and classic red lipstick finish her. One thing to know: velvet marks easily, so hang it and steam it from the inside rather than pressing it.
6. Lace Morticia Addams Costume
Lace gives Morticia a softer, more romantic feel while staying all black. Start with a fitted black maxi with a solid lining under a lace overlay, a low neckline and long trumpet sleeves. If the skirt feels plain, add a detachable lace train at the back waist. Pointed heels and fine black earrings are enough; heavy jewelry fights with the pattern. A smooth center-parted wig to the waist, pale satin-finish makeup, smoky eyes and a dark cherry lip give the contrast. I always check the lace against the skin of the inner arm before buying, because stiff netting lace scratches badly by the end of a night. Soft stretch lace doesn't.
7. Mermaid Dress Morticia Addams Costume
The mermaid shape is the closest you'll get to Morticia's tall, slithering line. Find a black stretch gown that fits smoothly through the torso, hips and thighs before it flares, and add triangular chiffon inserts at the bottom for extra movement. Long sleeves with pointed cuffs balance the fitted body. The one thing I check before anything else is the knee: if the fit is too tight there, you'll shuffle all night. Sleek pumps should sit just above the hem so you can't step on it. Extra-long straight hair, a cool pale base, smoky liner and vivid red lipstick finish her, with a rose and dark nails.
8. Bell Sleeve Morticia Addams Costume
Bell sleeves can turn an ordinary black maxi into Morticia almost on their own. Choose a fitted dress with sleeves that widen below the elbow, ideally in lace, mesh or chiffon so they swing. If your dress is sleeveless, you can make removable flared cuffs that slide up the arm on a band of hidden elastic. A center-parted wig to the waist and narrow pointed shoes keep the long line. Cool foundation, charcoal shadow, defined lashes and a deep ruby lip do the face. Long red nails and one rose against the black finish it. Wide sleeves catch on everything, so watch them near candles and drink tables.
9. Sheer Sleeve Morticia Addams Costume
Sheer sleeves add texture while keeping the gown light enough for a crowded room. Wear a floor-length, body-skimming black gown with translucent mesh sleeves and fitted cuffs, and sew a few small lace points along the wrists or neckline if it needs more gothic detail. The wig should be perfectly straight with a middle part, falling over the shoulders with no curl. Closed-toe heels or sleek flats both work under the hem. Pale makeup with gentle contour, softly smoked eyes and a wine-colored lip suit the lighter fabric. I'd keep jewelry to one small black stone ring and a dark red manicure, then carry a rose or a fan.
10. Cape Sleeve Morticia Addams Costume
Cape sleeves give you Morticia's sweep without a separate cape to manage. Look for a fitted black maxi with fabric falling from the shoulders to the wrists or the floor, and check that the panels are light; heavy panels drag the shoulders down and feel tiring after an hour. Keep them clear of crowds. A long straight wig, parted in the center and tucked neatly behind the ears, stays out of the fabric. Cool ivory foundation, defined cheekbones, gray-black liner and polished red lipstick do the face. Block heels give stability under the extra fabric. For photos, a slow lift of the arms opens the sleeves like wings.
11. Off Shoulder Morticia Addams Costume
An off-the-shoulder gown is the dressier side of Morticia. A fitted black gown with a floor-length mermaid skirt and long lace sleeves, plus a sweetheart or softly curved neckline, keeps it romantic and dark. A thin velvet choker is only worth adding if the neckline feels too bare, and nothing in color. Waist-length black hair in a precise part, pale foundation, lifted liner, cool contour and a crimson lip finish her. Black pumps, red oval nails and a long-stem rose complete the familiar details. Off-shoulder necklines slip as you move your arms, so I'd always put fashion tape along the edge before a party.
12. High Neck Morticia Addams Costume
A high neck gives a more covered Morticia that still looks unmistakably gothic. Choose a fitted black maxi with a mock neck, long sleeves and a skirt that flares low, then add sheer panels at the cuffs or hem for movement. A center-parted wig that falls below the waist matters even more here, because the long hair gives you the vertical lines a plunging neckline usually would. A pale, softly sculpted face with smoky eyes, defined brows and dark red lips balances the covered body. Pointed black boots suit this streamlined version. It's warmer than most, which makes it practical for cold October nights and family events.
13. Square Neck Morticia Addams Costume
A square neckline gives Morticia a cleaner, more architectural frame. Choose a fitted stretch gown with a long hem, a defined waist and sheer flared sleeves; the straight neckline leaves room for an extra-long wig to fall evenly over both shoulders. Pointed black pumps or ankle boots can stay hidden under the skirt. Use a cool pale base, a little hollowing under the cheekbones, charcoal eye makeup and a precise liner. A matte berry-red lip suits this shape better than gloss. Long red nails and a rose finish her. I like this one for anyone building from fashion pieces they'll wear again after Halloween.
14. Bodycon Morticia Addams Costume
A long black bodycon dress is a quick base for Morticia if it reaches the ankles and has long sleeves. Add lightweight black chiffon to the cuffs and lower hem with fabric tape or a few loose stitches you can snip out later. Pointed black boots, an extra-long center-parted wig and a single red rose do the rest. Pale matte foundation, softly smoky eyes, sculpted cheekbones and a rich crimson lip finish the face. Long press-on nails add a lot for very little effort. Bodycon fabric is stretchy but narrow at the hem, so I'd check for a back slit before you buy, or you'll be taking tiny steps all night.
15. Black Maxi Dress Morticia Addams Costume
A plain black maxi from your own closet can become Morticia the same evening. Pick the longest fitted dress you own, ideally with sleeves and a V-neck. Clip or stitch some inexpensive black lace to the cuffs, and pin a small chiffon panel at the back waist to suggest a train. Black pumps or low boots depending on the length. Straighten dark hair or use a long wig with a sharp middle part. Pale foundation, black liner, gray shadow and red lipstick deliver the face. Add long red nails and a fabric rose. It looks far more convincing than most packaged costumes, which tend to be thin and shiny.
16. Thrifted Morticia Addams Costume
Thrifting a Morticia gown starts with any long black formal dress, velvet gown or stretch maxi in roughly your size. It doesn't need to be perfect. Black lace and chiffon cover a dated neckline or short sleeves, and old curtain lace cut into strips makes good cuff trim. A thin black scarf cut into points along one edge becomes hem panels. Secondhand pumps and a costume ring finish the body. A reusable black wig, pale makeup, smoky eyes and a dark red lip complete her. When I thrift for this, I ignore labels and look only at shape: fitted on top, floor length and something that can flow.
17. No Sew Morticia Addams Costume
You don't need to sew to make a detailed Morticia. Start with a fitted black maxi, then use removable fashion tape to stick triangles of black lace around the cuffs and lower skirt. A light black shawl draped over the arms gives you dramatic sleeves without altering anything. Pointed shoes, red press-on nails and a long straight wig with a center part finish the body. Pale foundation, smoky gray shadow, black mascara and a deep red lip do the face. Tape loosens with warmth and movement, so I'd walk around the house for twenty minutes in it and re-press anything lifting at the sleeves before you leave.
18. Last Minute Morticia Addams Costume
When time is short, I'd lean on Morticia's strongest details and forget the rest. Wear a long black dress, or a fitted black top with a matching floor-length skirt so the two read as one gown. Add black shoes, a center-parted black wig and red lipstick. For a pale face, use foundation one shade lighter than usual rather than white paint, which looks chalky in photos. Smudge gray shadow around the eyes and add black liner. Long red press-on nails and an artificial rose make plain clothes look deliberate. If the sleeves are plain, wrap a light black lace scarf around the shoulders and arms.
19. Budget Morticia Addams Costume
A budget Morticia can still look rich if every piece sits in the same flat black. Begin with a secondhand maxi and add sheer sleeve extensions from lace trim or old fabric. Affordable pointed flats work instead of heels. Temporary black hair color is only worth it on hair it will actually cover; otherwise, a basic straight wig that you trim to an even line is better. Use makeup you already own. A craft-store rose and red press-on nails do a lot for the price. Steam the gown, smooth the wig and secure any loose trim. Mismatched blacks are what make cheap costumes look cheap, so check them side by side in daylight.
20. Comfortable Morticia Addams Costume
If you'll be wearing Morticia for hours, I'd choose comfort over a strict fishtail. A soft jersey maxi with stretch, a defined waist and a slightly flared hem moves with you. Detachable mesh cuffs give the drama without the weight of long sleeves. Cushioned ballet flats or low boots hide under the skirt. A light wig with an adjustable cap, held with a wig grip band, stops the headache that a tight cap gives by mid-evening. Light foundation, soft gray shadow, mascara and a moisturizing berry-red lip feel breathable. Short oval press-ons are easier than long tips, and a small crossbody bag can hide under the hair.
21. Plus Size Morticia Addams Costume
A plus-size Morticia should celebrate her long, confident line without relying on tight shapewear. Look for a stretch velvet wrap gown, a fitted jersey maxi or a mermaid dress with a comfortable lining and room through the hips. A defined neckline and flowing lace sleeves draw the eye up, while a gently widened hem lets you walk freely. Stable block heels or pointed flats work best. Long center-parted hair, cool pale makeup, smoky eyes, soft contour and a deep red lip finish her. I always tell people to check the garment measurements rather than trusting the label, because costume and formalwear sizing varies a lot between makers.
22. Petite Morticia Addams Costume
On a petite frame, I keep Morticia's long line by cutting down the volume rather than the drama. An ankle-length mermaid dress works, or have a floor-length hem taken up so it sits just above the shoe; extra fabric pooling at the feet makes a short person look swamped. Keep the sleeves dramatic but light, using narrow lace points rather than wide panels. Pointed heels lengthen the leg and a fitted waist stops the gown from looking shapeless. A waist-length wig is better than an extremely long one. Pale makeup, smoky eyes, arched brows and red lipstick finish her, with medium nails and one slim rose.
23. Tall Morticia Addams Costume
Tall wearers have the natural advantage here, and a floor-skimming column gown makes the most of it. The common problem is a hem that ends at the ankle, so look for long or tall sizing, or add a lace train that covers the gap at the back. Long trumpet sleeves and vertical sheer panels stretch the look further. Sleek flats or low block heels are fine if you don't want more height. A hip-length center-parted wig keeps the proportions dramatic. Pale satin foundation, sculpted cheeks, smoky eyes and a bold red lip finish her. Practice walking in the full hem at home so your movement looks smooth, not careful.
24. Maternity Morticia Addams Costume
For pregnancy, an empire-waist stretch maxi in black jersey or velvet gives Morticia's shape with room at the center. Look for sleeves that flare gently below the elbow, and skip heavy trains and tight mermaid hems that limit your stride. Supportive flats or low boots give a steady base. A lightweight waist-length wig carries her hair without weighing on your neck. Pale breathable foundation, soft smoky shadow, mascara and a moisturizing red lip are enough. Short red nails and a fabric rose finish her. I'd add a removable lace shawl for photos and take it off as soon as you want to cool down.
25. Teen Morticia Addams Costume
For teens, I'd use a modest black maxi with a higher V-neck, a stretch lining and flowing bell sleeves. An ankle-length hem is much safer than a train for school events or walking around the neighborhood. Black ballet flats or low boots and a straight black wig that ends at the waist complete the shape. Keep makeup age-appropriate: light foundation, gray shadow, mascara and a berry-red tinted balm. Short red press-on nails and a fabric rose add the color. A fitted black cardigan blends into the dress and keeps a teen warm, which matters because most of them will refuse a coat over the costume.
26. Kids Morticia Addams Costume
A child's Morticia needs a soft black maxi that stops at the ankles, not the floor; a longer hem gets stepped on within the first block of trick-or-treating. Look for stretchy fabric, a comfortable neckline and light flared sleeves that won't drag through decorations or candy bowls. Black ballet flats or secure slip-ons keep feet steady. A child-sized wig only works if it fits; dark hair can simply be parted in the center and brushed smooth. Keep makeup to a little pale powder, a touch of gray shadow and a berry lip balm. Red polish is easier than costume nails. A soft fabric rose has no sharp wire.
27. Warm Weather Morticia Addams Costume
On a warm Halloween night, fabric choice makes or breaks Morticia. A light black maxi in breathable jersey, bamboo blend or thin crepe is the base, with a short lining under sheer long sleeves so air can move. A tasteful side slit makes walking easier. Pointed flats and a light wig with an open-cap construction help a lot, since a closed wig cap traps heat. Apply a thin pale foundation, waterproof liner, soft gray shadow and a long-wear red lip stain that won't melt. Leave off velvet gloves and bulky accessories. A handheld black fan works as a prop and actually cools you down.
28. Cold Weather Morticia Addams Costume
Cold weather means hidden layers, and Morticia's slim line makes that tricky. I'd put a black thermal top and leggings under a long velvet or lined jersey gown with full sleeves, sized so the layers don't pull the fabric. Opaque black tights, insulated ankle boots and a long fitted black coat cover the walk outside. A thick straight wig keeps the ears warmer, and a black velvet headband holds it in place in wind. Pale cream foundation, smoky eyes and a transfer-resistant red lip survive a scarf. Red gloves can replace press-on nails. Once indoors, the coat and gloves come off and the gown takes over.
29. Glam Morticia Addams Costume
A sequined Morticia is for the formal party. A black sequined mermaid gown with long sleeves, a low neckline and a sweeping hem gives sparkle without breaking her monochrome rule, so I'd only use black-on-black sequins. Glossy waist-length hair in a perfect center part and black crystal earrings keep it sleek. Makeup can go further here: luminous pale skin, sculpted cheekbones, smoky winged eyes and a lacquered crimson lip. Black platform pumps, long red nails and a rose finish her, with a small black clutch for essentials. Sequins scratch the inner arms, so check that the sleeves are lined before you commit.
30. Gothic Bridal Morticia Addams Costume
A gothic bridal Morticia keeps the black gown and adds ceremony. Choose a fitted black lace dress with a long train, trumpet sleeves and a softly plunging neckline, then attach a sheer black cathedral veil behind the wig at the crown. Black pumps, dark stone earrings and a small bouquet of red roses are all the color you need. Keep the face pale and polished with cool contour, smoky gray eyes and classic red lips, with long crimson nails. I'd skip distressed fabric and graphic makeup, because the point is that she's elegant, not ghoulish. Sew a hidden wrist loop into the train so you can lift it while you walk.
31. Masquerade Morticia Addams Costume
For a formal masked party, Morticia's mermaid gown pairs well with a fine black masquerade mask. Pick one with lace or small black crystals rather than big feathers, which hide that sleek hair. A center-parted wig, pointed pumps and sheer flared sleeves keep the long silhouette. Do the pale makeup before the mask goes on, then put the emphasis on what still shows: defined brows and a rich red lip. Long red nails and a dark rose or small fan finish her. A mask on a handle is more comfortable than one on elastic, which presses on the wig and slides with the slippery hair.
32. Garden Morticia Addams Costume
Morticia's love of strange plants makes a good costume theme. A fitted black gown with leaf-shaped lace panels at the cuffs and hem is the base, with glossy waist-length hair, pale makeup, smoky eyes and red lipstick. Low-heeled black ankle boots are practical if you'll be outside. For the prop, a small faux potted plant with dark leaves, or a bouquet of long-stem red roses with the heads snipped off, which is very much in her character. Black floral earrings and red nails link the accessories. Keep the plant details small and secondary to the gown, and keep trailing vines well away from your feet.
33. Rose Theme Morticia Addams Costume
A rose-themed Morticia leans on the one bright color she allows herself. Wear a fitted black velvet gown with sheer bell sleeves and a red lining that only flashes when the sleeves move. Black pointed heels, long red nails and small ruby-colored earrings repeat the color without overdoing it. An extra-long wig with a sharp part, smoothed carefully at the ends, finishes the head. Pale foundation, black liner, smoky shadow and a rose-red lip complete the face. Carry one long-stem rose or a small bouquet tied in black ribbon. I keep the red to three or four places, so it looks planned rather than scattered.
34. Spiderweb Lace Morticia Addams Costume
Spiderweb lace gives Morticia a little seasonal fun without turning her into a witch. Start with a plain fitted black maxi and layer a sheer web-pattern duster over it, with long flared sleeves and an open front so the mermaid shape still shows. Black boots and waist-length straight hair with a precise part finish the line. Keep the makeup elegant: pale skin, softly hollowed cheeks, smoky eyes and crimson lips. Red nails and an artificial rose follow. Small silver web earrings are the most I'd add. Skip hats and broom props, because those are what tip a black dress from Morticia into generic witch.
35. Black Feather Morticia Addams Costume
Feather trim makes a fashion-editorial Morticia if you use very little of it. Start with a fitted floor-length gown and add removable feather cuffs at the wrists or along the neckline, keeping the skirt sleek. Pointed pumps and a glossy center-parted wig to the waist hold the classic line. Pale matte foundation, long charcoal liner, sculpted cheekbones and deep red lipstick finish her face. Black drop earrings, red nails and a single rose complete the details. Cheap feather boa trim sheds constantly, so I'd buy faux or ostrich-style trim sewn to a ribbon tape, and shake it out outdoors first.
36. Satin Morticia Addams Costume
Black satin gives Morticia a smooth, liquid shine. Choose a bias-cut or fitted maxi with long sleeves and a gently flared hem. Satin shows every crease and every line underneath it, so steam it carefully and wear smooth base layers. A sheer black lace shawl around the arms suggests her flowing sleeves. Pointed pumps and a waist-length straight wig finish the shape. Soft pale foundation, charcoal shadow, sharp liner and a blue-red lip give crisp contrast against the shine. Red nails, a slim black ring and one burgundy rose finish her. It reads as eveningwear, so it suits brightly lit formal parties.
37. Corset Detail Morticia Addams Costume
A corset-style belt can give shape to a long black dress that doesn't have much on its own. Choose a flexible fabric belt that defines the waist without stopping you breathing, and wear it over a fitted maxi with sheer trumpet sleeves. Keep every layer the same black so the pieces read as one outfit; mixing a brown-black belt with a blue-black dress looks off. Pointed ankle boots, a long center-parted wig and red oval nails follow. Pale foundation, smoky gray shadow, black liner and a dark crimson lip finish the face. Before you leave, sit down and bend forward once. If the belt bites, loosen it.
38. Dramatic Train Morticia Addams Costume
A sweeping train is the most dramatic Morticia you can wear, and it's best kept for photos or a spacious indoor event. Wear a fitted black gown with a detachable lace or chiffon train fastened at the waist, and make sure the front hem is short enough to show stable pumps. Long flared sleeves, waist-length hair and a sharp part complete the shape. Pale foundation, strong contour, smoky eyes and a classic red lip finish her, with long red nails and a rose. A hidden wrist loop lets you lift the train in crowds. Trains pick up dirt fast, so I'd make it detachable and black, never sheer white.
39. Short Dress Morticia Addams Costume
A shorter dress can still read as Morticia when everything else stays long. Wear a fitted black midi below the knee with long lace bell sleeves, then opaque black tights and pointed ankle boots to continue the dark line down the leg. A waist-length center-parted wig supplies the length the gown would normally give. Pale makeup, smoky eyes, arched brows and a deep red lip finish the face. Red nails, a black ring and a long-stem rose complete her. I'd avoid anything very short or embellished, which loses her silhouette, but a midi is much easier for dancing and crowded parties.
40. Morticia Addams Costume With Gomez
Morticia and Gomez is the pairing everyone expects, and for good reason. She wears her fitted black mermaid gown, waist-length center-parted hair, pale makeup, smoky eyes, red lips, black heels and red nails, with a rose in hand. Gomez wears a dark pinstripe suit, a white shirt, a dark tie or bow tie, polished black shoes, slicked-back hair and a thin pencil mustache. A red pocket square or a red rose in his lapel quietly links the two. Choose fabrics you can dance in, since the couple works best when you move like them: close, dramatic and very much in love.
41. Morticia Addams Costume With Wednesday
Morticia and Wednesday make a strong mother-and-daughter or friend pair. Morticia wears her long fitted gown with flared sleeves, pointed shoes, waist-length black hair, pale makeup, smoky eyes and a red lip. Wednesday wears a modest black dress with a crisp white collar, black tights, flat shoes and two neat dark braids. Keep Wednesday's makeup to a pale base and a neutral lip, so Morticia's red stands out. A detachable white collar is easy to make from a strip of cotton and lets any black dress work. Morticia carries a rose and Wednesday a small, non-graphic fabric doll.
42. Morticia Addams Family Costume
The whole family works when each person has a clear outline in black and white. Morticia wears her floor-length gown, straight center-parted hair, pale makeup, red lips and black heels. Gomez takes the pinstripe suit, polished shoes, slick hair and pencil mustache. Wednesday wears a black collared dress and braids, and Pugsley a striped shirt, dark shorts or trousers and black shoes. Another adult can be Uncle Fester in a dark oversized coat with pale makeup and a bald cap. A rose for Morticia and a lightbulb for Fester are enough props. Stand together in a tight group and the shared blacks tie it all together.
43. Morticia Addams Costume With Lurch
Morticia with Lurch, the towering butler, is a less obvious duo that people love. Morticia wears her fitted black mermaid gown, flared sleeves, pointed heels, waist-length hair, pale skin, smoky eyes and a crimson lip. Lurch wears a slightly oversized black suit, white shirt, black bow tie and sturdy dress shoes, with hair slicked flat and cool pale makeup with gray contour for that tired look. Morticia carries a rose and Lurch a silver tray or folded black towel. I'd skip platform shoes for Lurch; posture does more for his height, and a stiff, slow walk sells him.
44. Morticia Addams Costume With Cousin Itt
Cousin Itt next to Morticia is funny because the two shapes couldn't be more different. Morticia wears a fitted black gown with lace sleeves, pumps, long center-parted hair, pale makeup, a red lip and crimson nails. The second person wears a full-length tan fringe poncho over breathable dark clothes, with round sunglasses, a small bowler hat and comfortable black shoes. The fringe should stop above the floor and be trimmed away from the face, so the wearer can see and walk. Fringe gets very hot, so I'd cut a few hidden slits for air. Morticia's rose is the only bright color, which is how it should be.
45. Gender Neutral Morticia Addams Costume
Anyone can wear Morticia, because she's about silhouette, color and attitude more than anything else. Choose a long black column gown, a tunic over a flowing maxi skirt, or a tailored black jumpsuit with a detachable lace train. Flared mesh cuffs, pointed boots and a waist-length straight wig with a precise part keep the long line. Cool pale foundation, smoky charcoal eyes, soft contour and either a deep red lip or a muted berry stain finish the face. Red or black nails, a dark ring and a red rose complete her. Shop whichever department gives you the best fit, and adjust coverage and shoes to suit you.
A Waist-Length Wig That Stays Flat and Center-Parted
Morticia's hair should look like poured ink, and long cheap wigs rarely do straight out of the bag. They tend to be frizzy, puffy at the crown and tangled at the ends. Before wearing one, I'd give it some care.
- Detangle from the ends upward with a wide-tooth comb, a section at a time. Brushing from the top stretches the fiber.
- Flatten the crown with a little steam from a garment steamer held at a distance, then smooth it with your hand. It removes the packaging kinks.
- Press the center part flat with a small amount of gel or a light spray on a wig cap, so it doesn't drift to one side as the night goes on.
- Trim the ends straight across while the wig sits on your head, so the length lands where you want it.
Very long synthetic hair rubs against the back of a gown and tangles at the ends, especially on velvet and lace. A light spray of wig detangler before you go out helps, and a quick comb-through halfway through the evening keeps it smooth.
Walking, Sitting and Stairs in a Floor-Length Gown
Long fitted gowns are harder to wear than they look. I'd do a full rehearsal at home: walk up and down stairs, sit in a car, and stand up from a low chair. If you have to grab the skirt with both hands to climb, a hidden wrist loop at the back of the hem, or a short slit on one side, solves it. Hold the skirt at the front when you go upstairs and at the back when you come down. Wear the shoes you'll be wearing on the night when you hem, because a two-inch change in heel height turns a safe hem into one you'll trip on.
Long Black Line, One Red Rose and a Very Calm Face
Every Morticia above comes back to the same few things: a long black silhouette, sleek center-parted hair, a cool pale face, smoky eyes, red lips and one well-chosen prop. Whether you start from a thrifted maxi, a comfortable jersey gown or a velvet mermaid dress, you can adapt it to your budget, body, climate and party. Before anything else, I'd get the fit right, check that the hem is safe to walk in, secure the wig and choose shoes you can last in. Then add lace, sleeves, red nails or roses as you like, but stop before it gets busy. Morticia never looks like she tried too hard.
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