A good costume for a grown woman has to do two jobs at once: read clearly in a photo and stay comfortable through a party, a parade or a long walk around the neighbourhood. This list mixes classic spooky characters, fantasy figures, film icons, decade looks and a handful of easy DIY ideas, forty in all. For every one I've covered the whole outfit, from hair and makeup to props and shoes you can actually stand in. Most can be pulled together from closet basics, thrift finds or a little craft work, and all of them adjust to your own style, coverage, budget and size.
Capes, Trains and Wings in a Packed Room
Many of these costumes add volume somewhere: a cape, a long hem, a pair of wings, a full skirt. That volume is what looks good in photos and what causes trouble at a crowded party, so I size it before committing to it.
- Capes: stop them at mid-calf or shorter if you'll be walking, and fasten them with hook-and-loop or a snap rather than a cord tied at the throat, so a cape that gets caught simply lets go.
- Floor-length hems: pin the hem while wearing the actual shoes, and aim for it to just brush the top of the foot.
- Wings: stand in a doorway with them on. If you have to turn sideways to get through, they're too wide for a party.
- Full skirts and petticoats: sit on a kitchen chair in them before the night. If the skirt springs up or you end up perched on the edge, take a layer out.
None of this means giving up the drama. It just means the dramatic piece is one you can manage for five hours, not five minutes.
1. Classic Black Witch Costume
A black witch is the costume I'd hand anyone who wants a classic that's easy to make her own. Start with a long black dress you can move in; velvet looks richest at night, while cotton or layered tulle is lighter if you'll be walking. Add a pointed hat and a lightweight black cape for the silhouette, with striped tights or opaque leggings and lace-up ankle boots. Loose waves, a long black wig or a textured low bun all sit well under the brim. Soft smoky eyes, defined brows and a plum lip keep it from going too dark. Carry a small decorative broom or a fabric-covered spellbook. Silver star earrings and a moon pendant are a fine finishing detail.
2. Glam Vampire Costume With Red Cape
Red and black are all a glam vampire needs, so there's no call for blood. The base can be a black maxi dress, a tailored jumpsuit or a high-neck blouse with wide-leg pants, with a deep red cape over the top and a velvet choker, an ornate ring or a vintage brooch. Glossy waves or a sleek black wig with a centre part. Pale foundation, smoky eyes, careful brows and berry-red lipstick give the evening look. Small costume fangs make the theme clear; I'd choose small cap-style fangs over a full set and take them out to eat. Black heeled boots or pointed flats depending on the night. A red rose or an antique-style hand mirror is a safe, light prop.
3. Wednesday Addams Costume
Wednesday is built from pieces most women already own. A black knee-length dress with a crisp white collar and white cuffs is the goal; failing that, a black sweater dress over a white button-down gives the same effect. Opaque black tights and black loafers or lace-ups. Centre-part the hair into two neat braids, or use a long black braided wig. Matte skin, softly shadowed eyes and a muted berry lip. A small vintage-style book or a black umbrella adds the gloomy scholar mood. Honestly, the deadpan is half the costume: hold a flat expression and straight posture in photos, and a plain outfit suddenly reads as her.
4. Black Cat Costume With Tulle Skirt
The black cat is cute, comfortable and suits almost any party. A fitted black long-sleeve top or bodysuit goes with black leggings and a knee-length tulle skirt, plus a cat-ear headband, a soft fabric tail and fingerless gloves with small felt paw pads. Black sneakers, ballet flats or low ankle boots for walking. A high ponytail, two small space buns beneath the ears, or loose waves. Draw a small black nose, whiskers and a little winged liner with skin-safe makeup, and add a ribbon collar with a light bell. Pin the tail inside the waistband with two safety pins, not one, or it twists round to the side every time you sit.
5. Greek Goddess Costume With Gold Accessories
Flowing fabric and gold make a graceful goddess with plenty of coverage. A white or ivory maxi dress with draping, pleats or an empire waist, a gold braided belt and a light cream cape over one shoulder. Flat gold sandals keep it walkable. A loose braided updo, soft curls or a low bun with a gold leaf headband. Luminous skin, warm neutral eyeshadow and a soft rose lip, with cuff bracelets and delicate earrings and nothing more. A gold-painted scroll or a silk flower garland is the prop. One-shoulder drapes creep off the shoulder all night, so I hide a safety pin at the shoulder seam and use fashion tape for the rest.
6. Woodland Fairy Costume With Green Dress
The woodland fairy is soft colour and natural texture. Pick a sage, moss or emerald midi dress, ideally with flutter sleeves or a layered skirt, then sheer wings, a vine-style belt and brown ankle boots. Loose waves or a relaxed braid with small artificial leaves and fabric flowers woven through; pinning the stems in with bobby pins holds far better than tucking. Glowing skin, green or bronze eyeshadow, soft pink lips and a light dusting of biodegradable shimmer. A tiny lantern prop or a basket of silk greenery. A light capelet keeps you warm outdoors. Size the wings to your frame: if they stick out well past your shoulders, every doorway becomes a sideways shuffle.
7. Pirate Captain Costume With Red Coat
This pirate captain is adventurous but built for a long night. Start with a white ruffled blouse, black fitted pants and a long red or burgundy coat, then a wide waist sash, a decorative belt and tall brown or black boots. A structured tricorn hat is what makes the outfit say pirate, and gold-tone costume jewelry adds character. Textured waves or a long curly wig with a few thin braids. Smudged brown liner, bronzed cheeks and deep red lipstick suit the seafaring theme. Carry a rolled treasure map or a small foam telescope rather than a sword. Long coats run hot indoors, so I look for an unlined one. A crossbody pouch holds your phone and blends right in.
8. Cowgirl Costume With Denim And Boots
A cowgirl comes almost entirely from everyday clothes. Tuck a plaid or embroidered western shirt into high-rise jeans or a knee-length denim skirt, then add a brown belt, a fringed vest, a neck bandana and a cowboy hat. Western boots look best, though sturdy brown ankle boots do the job. Loose curls, a side braid or two low braids under the hat; low braids sit more comfortably against a brim than a high ponytail does. Fresh natural makeup with warm blush, mascara and a rosy lip. A coil of lightweight craft cord or a decorative sheriff-style badge is enough of a prop. On a chilly night, a denim jacket fits under the vest without losing the ranch look.
9. Disco Queen Costume With Sequin Jumpsuit
A disco queen is made for party lights. Pick a silver, gold or rainbow sequin jumpsuit with flared legs, or a shimmering wrap top with metallic wide-leg pants. Platform shoes with a stable heel and oversized hoops. A short faux-fur jacket keeps you warm and stays on theme. Bouncy curls or a voluminous shoulder-length wig, with bright eyeshadow, glossy lips, highlighted cheeks and a touch of shimmer. Round tinted glasses and a small mirrored clutch finish it. Sequins scratch along the inner arm and underarm seam, which you only notice after an hour of dancing, so move about properly in it at home first. If you'll dance for hours, glittery sneakers are the smarter shoe.
10. 1920s Flapper Costume With Fringe Dress
A flapper dress is all about movement. Choose a knee-length fringe or beaded shift in black, gold, emerald or burgundy, with semi-sheer tights and low T-strap heels you can dance in. A long strand of costume pearls, art deco earrings and a feathered headband give the period feel. Short hair can go into finger waves; longer hair pins under into a faux bob, or wear a neat bob wig. Softly smoky eyes, defined brows and a red cupid's-bow lip. A small beaded bag or a folding fan. Before buying, give the fringe a gentle tug, because cheap fringe is often loosely stitched, and loose strands catch on chairs, jewelry and other costumes.
11. Rosie The Riveter Costume
Rosie is a practical DIY costume with a colour story everyone knows. A denim button-down with the sleeves rolled above the elbows, high-waisted dark jeans or navy work pants, and sturdy brown boots or clean white sneakers. Tie a red polka-dot scarf around a high bun, ponytail or rolled style, with the knot at the top of the head, and pin it at both temples if it keeps slipping. Defined brows, mascara, warm blush and a classic red lip. A small vintage-style name patch on the shirt is a nice extra. Pose with one arm bent. There's no prop to carry, which makes her handy for work parties, classroom events and nights with a lot of walking.
12. Audrey Hepburn Breakfast Costume
Holly Golightly's breakfast look is refined, and every main piece can be worn again. A sleeveless black midi or maxi dress, black kitten heels or pointed flats, long black gloves, layered pearls, oversized dark sunglasses and a small structured handbag. Sweep the hair into a high bun and set a jeweled comb or miniature tiara at the front. Long gloves slip down bare arms, so a dab of fashion tape inside the top edge keeps them up. Classic winged liner, soft lashes, luminous skin and a pale pink lip. A plain paper coffee cup and a small pastry bag are the props. A cropped black cardigan adds warmth without breaking the monochrome line.
13. Barbie Pink Cowgirl Costume
Pink cowgirl is bright and cheerful, and the camera loves it. A pink vest with matching flare pants, or a fitted pink top with white jeans decorated with removable felt stars. A white cowboy hat, a pink neck scarf and white western boots. A smooth ponytail or a long blonde wig with soft curls; set the ponytail low enough that the hat brim clears it. Rosy cheeks, defined lashes and glossy pink lips. Star earrings and a sparkly belt bring shine. Carry a pink toy microphone or a glittered horseshoe cut from lightweight cardboard. If temperatures drop, a white long-sleeve shirt under the vest keeps it comfortable and still on theme.
14. Mermaid Costume With Shimmering Skirt
A mermaid doesn't need a tail you can't walk in. Pair a fitted aqua, lavender or pearly white top with a high-waisted iridescent maxi skirt that flares below the knee, and check you can climb a step in it before you buy. Metallic flats or low sandals underneath. Long waves, a side braid or a pastel wig with pearl clips and shell accessories. Turquoise and lilac eyeshadow, luminous highlighter and a little shimmer across the cheekbones. A sheer blue wrap suggests water and adds coverage. A shell clutch or a small pearl-covered mirror. Scale-pattern tights give texture without painting skin, and they spare every chair you sit on from body glitter.
15. Red Riding Hood Costume With Cape
Red Riding Hood is a storybook costume that's genuinely warm. A white blouse with a red, black or checked knee-length dress or skirt, a bright red hooded cape, opaque tights and brown lace-up boots or ballet flats. Soft curls, a low braid or two braids showing under the hood. Rosy cheeks, mascara and a red-tinted balm. A small wicker basket with a folded checked cloth and artificial flowers rather than food. A fitted cardigan goes under the cape for warmth. Hoods slide back or forward constantly, so I pin the hood to the hair at the crown with a bobby pin; it frames the face and leaves side vision clear.
16. Snow White Costume With Blue Bodice
Snow White is carried by four colours: blue, yellow, red and white. A blue fitted top with puffed sleeves over a flowing yellow midi or maxi skirt, plus a white collar, a short red cape and a red bow headband. Low yellow flats, black Mary Janes or neutral shoes under the skirt. A short black bob with curled ends, or longer hair tucked under into a faux bob. Fresh skin, softly flushed cheeks, neat liner and classic red lipstick. A bright red artificial apple or a small storybook. Because it's built from separates, you can size the top and skirt independently, which helps a lot if you're a different size on top and bottom.
17. Alice In Wonderland Costume With Blue Dress
Alice is sweet and made from comfortable shapes. A white apron over a light blue knee-length dress, white tights and black Mary Janes. A black ribbon headband over loose blonde waves, a half-up style or a shoulder-length blonde wig. Peach blush, fluttery lashes and a light pink lip. A teacup-shaped purse or a white stuffed rabbit tells the story without anything cumbersome. A petticoat adds gentle volume, but I'd leave it out for a crowded party, where it roughly doubles the width of the skirt. A white cardigan under the apron keeps you warm outdoors.
18. Queen Of Hearts Costume With Card Details
The Queen of Hearts is bold red, black and white. A red fit-and-flare dress, or a black blouse with a red full skirt, with removable felt hearts and playing-card shapes along the neckline or hem. Striped tights, black ankle boots, a heart-shaped choker and a small gold crown headband. A high updo or a curled red wig. Sharp liner, rosy cheeks, red lipstick and a tiny heart by one eye. A fan made from oversized playing cards beats any weapon-like prop; real cards bend, so I glue them onto stiffer card first. A structured underskirt gives royal volume, and a cropped jacket handles cool October evenings.
19. Tinker Bell Costume With Green Mini Dress
Tinker Bell stays playful and comfortable when you build her from practical layers. A leaf-green skater dress, romper or tunic over opaque matching tights, translucent wings and green ballet flats with white pom-poms. A high bun with soft face-framing strands, or a golden-blonde bun wig. Luminous makeup with champagne shimmer, green liner, peach blush and glossy pink lips. A small star-topped wand from foam or lightweight cardboard. A cropped green cardigan keeps you warm without breaking the colour. Pick compact wings with soft straps; thin elastic cuts into bare shoulders, and a strip of felt wrapped over it fixes that.
20. Maleficent Costume With Black Cape
Maleficent gives you an imposing silhouette without anything frightening. A long black dress with structured shoulders, or a black cape over a fitted top and floor-length skirt. The horned headpiece should be lightweight foam or fabric; horns are top-heavy, so I mount them on a wide headband and add a small comb at each side to anchor it. Black boots under the hem give stable footing. Hair goes into a hidden bun under the headpiece, or a sleek black wig. Sculpted brows, smoky purple eyeshadow, contoured cheekbones and deep berry lipstick. A decorated walking-stick staff only if the venue allows it; otherwise carry a raven-shaped purse. A high collar finishes the villain.
21. Cruella De Vil Costume With Faux-Fur Coat
Cruella's black, white and red is one of the clearest palettes on this list. A fitted black midi dress, or black trousers with a sleek blouse, under a spotted faux-fur coat or a black-and-white wrap. Red gloves, red heels or flats, oversized earrings and a structured handbag. A half-black, half-white wig is far easier than colouring your own hair in two clean sections. Dramatic arched brows, smoky eyes and bold red lips. A plush spotted dog is a funny, family-friendly prop. Avoid real fur and pick a lightweight coat, because heavy faux fur gets miserable fast indoors. The coat makes even a simple black base look done.
22. Morticia Addams Costume With Long Black Dress
Morticia is the minimal costume with the biggest silhouette. A floor-length black dress with long sleeves, a fitted bodice and a flared or slightly ruffled hem. Black pointed flats or heeled boots keep the line unbroken. A very long straight black wig with a centre part, or straightened natural hair with temporary dark colour only where it's safe for your hair. Smooth, softly pale skin, smoky eyes, defined cheekbones and deep red lipstick. Carry a single long-stemmed artificial rose with the head snipped off, a joke fans catch. Long red nails and a dark statement ring are all the extras she needs. Have the hem end at the shoe, not on the floor, or it drags on every stair.
23. Bride Of Frankenstein Costume With White Streak Wig
The Bride of Frankenstein is a classic monster that feels theatrical rather than graphic. A long white dress with draped fabric, or a white maxi skirt with a fitted long-sleeve top. Loose strips of clean white fabric around the arms add texture, as long as they don't restrict movement. White or silver flats beneath the skirt. The tall black wig with white streaks is the costume. Tall wigs tip backwards, so I pad the crown with a little foam and pin the wig to a wig cap in several places. Softly pale makeup, charcoal eyeshadow, defined brows and a muted mauve lip, with small silver earrings. A sealed miniature flask of coloured water is optional; the hair already says it all.
24. Friendly Ghost Costume With White Tulle
This ghost is airy and stylish, nothing like a sheet. A white tulle skirt over white leggings, a white long-sleeve top and a light sheer cape or poncho, with white sneakers for long walks. Loose waves with temporary white spray at the ends, or a soft silver-white wig. A pale luminous base, silver eyeshadow, fluttery lashes and pearly gloss. Small felt ghost shapes on the skirt or cape are a playful touch; tack them on with a few stitches, since glue shows through tulle. A small white lantern with battery lights. Reflective trim along the cape helps outdoors and gives a floating effect in photographs.
25. Skeleton Costume With Black Jumpsuit
A skeleton is simplest when the bones sit on one easy base. A black jumpsuit, leggings set or long-sleeve dress printed with bones, plus black sneakers or ankle boots that blend into it. A slick ponytail, a straight black wig or white temporary streaks. Stylised skull makeup in white and charcoal face paint around the eyes, nose and cheekbones, kept decorative. White paint cracks around the mouth if it goes on thick, so build it in thin layers and set it with powder. Bone-print gloves finish the effect. Carry a glow stick or battery-lit handbag for visibility. If you're making it yourself, attach felt bones with removable fabric tape so the clothes can be worn again.
26. Scarecrow Costume With Plaid Shirt
A scarecrow is cozy, cheap and well suited to chilly outdoor plans. A plaid flannel shirt with denim overalls or relaxed jeans, with fabric patches on the knees and elbows held by safety pins or removable tape. Brown work boots, a straw hat and a rope-style belt. Two braids, loose waves or low pigtails tied with raffia-coloured ribbons. Warm orange blush, freckles, a painted triangle nose and short stitch lines around the smile, kept cute. Tuck paper raffia into the cuffs but keep it off bare skin, because it itches. A small stuffed crow or a fabric sunflower. Straw hats shed bits too, so give yours a shake outdoors before you put it on.
27. Bumblebee Costume With Yellow Tulle Skirt
Stripes and small wings make a cheerful bee. A black-and-yellow striped top with black leggings and a yellow or black tulle skirt, sheer wings, an antenna headband and black sneakers or ankle boots. A high ponytail, twin buns or soft curls under the antennae. Golden eyeshadow, winged liner, peach blush and glossy lips, with small yellow dots at the outer corners of the eyes. A mini bouquet or a yellow felt honeycomb purse. Keep the wings small for indoor parties. Wide horizontal stripes add visual width; if that bothers you, choose narrower stripes or a plain black top over a striped skirt. A black zip-up fits under the wings when it turns cold.
28. Ladybug Costume With Red Dress
A ladybug comes together in an afternoon. A red skater dress, tunic or matching top and skirt, with removable black felt circles across it for the spots. I cut the circles in two or three sizes, because identical dots in a grid look like polka dots rather than a beetle. Black tights, black flats, small wings and an antenna headband. A ponytail, smooth bun or soft waves. Black liner, rosy blush, red lipstick and a few tiny dots beside one eye. A red crossbody keeps personal items close. Layer a fitted black turtleneck under the dress for warmth, and choose flexible wings that sit close to the body so sitting stays easy.
29. Butterfly Costume With Colorful Wings
Here the wings lead and everything else supports them. A fitted black jumpsuit or long-sleeve top with black leggings, then large fabric wings in blue, purple, orange or rainbow shades. Match your eyeshadow and hair clips to the main wing colour. A sleek ponytail, braided crown or soft waves keeps attention on the wings. An antenna headband and comfortable black boots or sneakers. Small symmetrical swirls of liner extending outward, luminous cheeks and a neutral lip. Open the wings for photos and fold them close in crowds; wings with finger loops make that easy. A flower-shaped bag or a small bouquet of silk flowers is plenty.
30. Peacock Costume With Blue And Green Dress
Jewel tones give the peacock a dressy, decorative look. A teal, royal blue or emerald dress with a short feather-pattern cape or a removable fan-shaped back piece, never a trailing tail someone will step on. Blue tights with green heels, metallic flats or ankle boots. A high ponytail, sculpted bun or blue-green ombré wig with feather-shaped clips. Emerald and sapphire eyeshadow, strong liner, glowing skin and a berry lip. Eye-pattern appliqués on the skirt give detail without real feathers. Gold earrings and a fitted belt. A fan-shaped back piece needs support, so I mount it on a stiff interfacing panel with a strap at the waist and keep it above the knees so you can sit.
31. Medusa Costume With Green Snake Headband
Medusa is about the hair, and it's easier than it looks. A dark green, black or bronze wrap-bodice maxi dress, a gold belt, arm cuffs, flat sandals and a sheer shoulder cape. For the snakes, either work small rubber snakes into a curly dark wig or attach light fabric snakes to a braided crown headband. I'd try the headband version first, because rubber snakes add weight surprisingly fast. Secure every piece so nothing drops into your face. Bronze and green eyeshadow, defined brows, subtle scale makeup near the temples and a muted red lip. A round mirrored purse is the clever prop. Keep the snakes small and clearly fake.
32. Cleopatra Costume With White Maxi Dress
Clean draping and bold gold make Cleopatra. A sleeveless white maxi dress, or a white tunic over fitted leggings, with a wide gold collar, a metallic belt, cuff bracelets and flat gold sandals. A sleek black bob with bangs, or a straight bob wig with small gold beads. The eyes do most of the work: long black liner, gold eyeshadow, sculpted brows and a rich neutral or red lip. Use a waterproof liner, since long wings smudge quickly in a warm room. A small gold fan or decorative scroll. Choose light costume jewelry, because a heavy collar drags on the neck after an hour. A sheer white cape at the shoulders adds movement.
33. Renaissance Queen Costume With Velvet Gown
This is the most elaborate costume here, and still family-friendly. A floor-length velvet or brocade-style gown in burgundy, navy, emerald or purple, with a decorative waist belt, detachable bell sleeves and a small shoulder cape. Low boots or cushioned flats under the long skirt. A braided updo, loose curls or a half-up style under a lightweight crown. Soft matte makeup, warm eyeshadow, defined brows and a berry lip. A folded fan or fabric-covered book, with costume pearls and a jeweled brooch for royal detail. Real velvet is hot and heavy, so for an indoor party I'd pick a stretch velvet knit, which moves and breathes better. Check the hem in the shoes you'll wear.
34. 1950s Diner Waitress Costume
The diner waitress is nostalgic and very easy to wear. A pastel button-front shirt dress in pink, mint or light blue with a small white apron, white ankle socks and saddle shoes, sneakers or low heels. A high ponytail tied with a scarf, or soft vintage curls. Neat winged liner, rosy cheeks and a red or pink lip. A paper name tag on the dress, and a light serving tray of empty plastic sundae cups. Stick the cups down with a dab of reusable putty or they'll slide off the first time you turn. A small order pad fits in the apron pocket. For cooler weather, add a white cardigan worn so the apron and name tag still show.
35. 1980s Aerobics Costume With Neon Leggings
An 80s aerobics outfit gives loud colour and total freedom to move. A bright leotard or fitted tank over neon leggings, leg warmers, a cropped sweatshirt and a wide elastic belt, with white high-tops for dancing. A high side ponytail or big curls with a colourful scrunchie and a terry headband. Blue or purple eyeshadow, pink blush, mascara and glossy lips. Sweatbands and light plastic earrings. A small water bottle or a rolled exercise mat strap is the prop. Leotards and leggings get hot fast indoors, so plan to drop the sweatshirt once you arrive. A leotard also means a full undress for every bathroom trip, which is worth knowing before you commit.
36. 1990s Clueless Cher Costume
Cher's yellow plaid is all about matching. A yellow plaid blazer and matching knee-length skirt over a white blouse or fitted sweater, white knee-high socks and black Mary Janes, loafers or low heels. Long, smooth blonde layers or a natural-looking blonde wig with a centre part. Polished makeup with neutral eyeshadow, pink blush, defined lashes and a glossy nude-pink lip. A small faux-fur backpack or a chunky foam phone prop. Knee-highs slide down most legs by mid-evening, and a strip of fashion tape inside the top cuff holds them. If matching plaid pieces won't turn up, a yellow cardigan with a plaid skirt still carries the palette.
37. Velma Costume With Orange Sweater
Velma is the last-minute choice I recommend first, because every piece looks like normal fall clothing. An oversized orange turtleneck with a red pleated skirt and orange knee-high socks, plus red Mary Janes, loafers or flats. A short brown bob wig with bangs, or longer hair tucked under into a rounded faux bob. Thick square glasses with clear lenses. Matte skin, soft brown liner, light blush and a muted lip. A large book or a light plastic magnifying glass. Shorts under the skirt add coverage. Thick turtlenecks run warm, so pick a cotton knit over wool for indoor events; then it suits school, work and neighbourhood plans alike.
38. Superhero Costume With Red Cape
An original superhero means you don't have to copy anyone's uniform. A blue jumpsuit, fitted athletic set or long-sleeve top and leggings, with a red knee-length skirt or shorts, a bright cape and a wide gold belt. Red boots, high-tops or ankle boots. A high ponytail, smooth waves or a practical braid. Clean winged liner, glowing skin, defined brows and classic red lipstick. Design your own emblem in gold felt and attach it to the chest with fabric tape; a simple star or bolt reads from further away than a detailed design. Matching wrist cuffs and a light eye mask. Keep the cape above calf length so it can't catch under your shoes on stairs.
39. Retro Space Girl Costume With Silver Dress
The retro space girl is metallic fashion with a playful edge. A silver shift dress, holographic jumpsuit or metallic top with matching wide-leg pants, white tights and white or silver platform boots with a stable sole. A clear bubble-style headband, a metallic belt and geometric earrings set the theme without a helmet. A smooth bob, high ponytail or silver-white wig. Graphic silver liner, lavender eyeshadow, luminous highlighter and a pale pink lip. A small round purse decorated as a planet or control panel, and reflective tape on the cuffs and hems. Metallic fabrics show every crease, so hang the outfit up the night before and never put an iron on vinyl or foil finishes.
40. Garden Gnome Costume With Red Hat
A gnome is quirky, comfortable and easy to read in photos. A blue tunic or long-sleeve dress over black leggings, a brown belt and a red felt cone hat. Sturdy brown ankle boots for outdoor paths. Two braids, loose waves or a simple shoulder-length wig under the hat. Rosy blush, faux freckles, defined lashes and a cheerful red lip. A light watering can of silk flowers or a basket of artificial mushrooms. A short brown or green cape adds warmth. Felt bends instead of creasing, so it beats cardboard for the hat, but a tall felt cone flops right over; I stiffen the lower half with fusible interfacing and let only the tip droop.
Makeup That Lasts From the First Photo to Midnight
Several of these looks lean on makeup, from Cleopatra's liner to the skeleton's white base and the vampire's berry lip. The routine I follow is the same for all of them, and it's ordinary makeup sense rather than anything theatrical.
Before You Start
Patch-test any new face paint, glitter or adhesive on the inside of the wrist the day before. Only use glitter labelled as cosmetic anywhere near the eyes, since craft glitter has sharp edges. Start on clean, moisturised skin, but give the moisturiser a few minutes to sink in or the paint slides about.
Making It Stay
Build colour in thin layers rather than one thick coat, and press translucent setting powder over cream products. Waterproof liner and a long-wear lipstick survive drinks and warm rooms far better than regular formulas. Tuck your lip colour, a few cotton buds and a little powder into your bag for one touch-up.
Taking It Off
An oil-based cleanser or balm loosens face paint and waterproof liner without scrubbing. Massage it in, wipe it away with a soft damp cloth, then wash as normal. However late it is, don't sleep in heavy paint.
Turning a Costume Down for an Office Party
Plenty of women wear one costume to a daytime work event and again to a party that night, so I plan for both from the start. Choose a look whose clothing reads as a real outfit on its own, like Rosie, Holly Golightly, Velma, Cher or the diner waitress, and keep the obvious costume pieces separate. For the office, leave off the fangs, the heavy face paint and anything with a wide wingspan, and wear the hat or headpiece only for the group photo. In the evening, the cape, the bold lip and the props all go back on, and one costume covers two very different events.
Try Every Layer On Together, Shoes Included
A costume should look finished and still let you move, sit, walk and enjoy the night. Across these forty there are dramatic classics, colourful characters, easy DIY looks and fantasy pieces for very different kinds of parties. A week before Halloween, put on every layer at once and wear the shoes, headpiece, makeup and props around the house for an hour. Pin or strap down capes, wings, wigs and props so they stay comfortable. Shorten a skirt, add leggings, trade heels for flats or bring a jacket as needed. What makes plain clothing read as a character is a clear colour palette, a signature hairstyle, one good prop and a bit of confidence.
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