Mime Costume
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Mime goes back to ancient theater, but the look everyone knows comes from 19th-century French pantomime and the white-faced Pierrot clown. It’s one of the easiest costumes to put together if you own a striped shirt, and the best part is that you don’t have to talk all night.
What Makes It Work
The striped shirt is the base: black and white, horizontal stripes. Add black pants, black suspenders and black shoes.
White gloves and a black beret are the finishing pieces. A red scarf or a single red flower is a nice pop of color.
The face makes it. Paint a smooth white base over the whole face, then use black eyeliner for arched brows, a tear under one eye and thin black lips (or red). Set it with powder so it doesn’t smudge. Then stay silent and get trapped in an invisible box whenever anyone looks your way.
What People Get Wrong
Talking. A chatty mime is just a person in face paint. The other mistake is a patchy white base; use a sponge and build thin layers.
Buy It or Build It?
Mime kits with gloves, a beret and face paint run $15 to $30. If you own a striped shirt, white gloves and face paint cost under $15.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | What they carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Costume kits, wigs and accessories | Shop on Amazon |
FAQ
How do I do mime makeup?
Sponge a smooth white base over the face, then add black arched brows, a black tear under one eye and thin black or red lips. Set it with powder.
What does a mime wear?
A black-and-white striped shirt, black pants, suspenders, white gloves and a black beret.
What couples costume goes with a mime?
Two mimes, a mime and a clown, or a mime and an invisible box.
Is a mime a good last-minute costume?
Yes, if you own a striped shirt. The rest is face paint and gloves.
Next up: Police Officer 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.