Gladiator Costume
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Gladiators fought in Roman arenas for more than six hundred years, and they’ve been a favorite costume ever since the movies made them famous. It’s a great pick for toga parties, history units and Halloween, and it looks especially good on anyone who wants to show off their arms.
What Makes It Work
Start with a short tunic in red, brown or cream, belted at the waist with a wide faux leather belt. A faux leather chest plate or a strip of armor over one shoulder adds the fighter look.
The helmet with a crest is the signature. A plastic Roman helmet works, or spray-paint a plastic hard hat silver and glue a red brush or yarn crest on top.
Carry a round or rectangular shield and a foam sword. Add arm guards (bracers), a short red cape pinned at one shoulder, and lace-up sandals. A little bronzer and a fake scar finish it.
What People Get Wrong
Mixing it up with a Greek costume. Gladiators wear armor and carry weapons, not a toga and laurel wreath. The other mistake is a metal sword at a party; foam is safer and lighter.
Buy It or Build It?
Gladiator costumes run $35 to $80. A helmet, shield and sword set costs $25 to $40 if you build the tunic yourself.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | What they carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Costume kits, wigs and accessories | Shop on Amazon |
FAQ
How do I make a gladiator costume?
Wear a short belted tunic with a faux leather chest piece, a crested helmet, arm guards and sandals, and carry a shield and foam sword.
What's the difference between a gladiator and a Roman soldier?
Roman soldiers wore matching armor and red cloaks. Gladiators were arena fighters with mixed armor and gear.
What couples costume goes with a gladiator?
A Roman empress, a Greek goddess, or a second gladiator to fight.
Is a gladiator costume good for a toga party?
Yes. It fits the theme and stands out from all the bedsheets.
Next up: Mime Costume
See Also
Free: The Last-Minute Costume Cheat Sheet
Ten costumes you can make tonight, mostly from your own closet. One page, printable, plus a short email before each costume season. No spam.