Vampire Costume
Costumepedia earns a commission if you buy through links on this page. It doesn’t change what you pay. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Vampires have been a top Halloween pick since Bela Lugosi swept across movie screens in 1931’s Dracula. The look is dramatic, it works for anyone, and it can be as formal or as gory as you like.
What Makes It Work
The cape is the signature. A black cape with a red lining and a tall, stiff collar standing up behind your neck says “vampire” instantly. If the collar droops, it just looks like a cloak.
Underneath, think formal and old-fashioned. A white shirt with a high collar or a ruffled front, a dark vest, and dress pants or a long dark gown. A brooch or a medallion at the throat adds that old-world aristocrat feel.
Finish with pale skin, dark circles under the eyes, slicked-back hair and fangs. A single drop of fake blood at the corner of the mouth is plenty.
What People Get Wrong
Too much blood. A face covered in fake blood looks like a zombie, not a vampire. Vampires are supposed to be elegant, so keep the gore to a trickle. The other common miss is cheap plastic fangs that make you lisp all night. Custom-fit fangs cost a bit more but you can actually talk in them.
Buy It or Build It?
Kits run about $30 to $80 for a cape, vest and shirt front. A good stand-up collar cape is the one piece worth buying. Everything else you probably already own, or can find at a thrift store in an afternoon.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | What they carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Costume kits, wigs and accessories | Shop on Amazon |
FAQ
What's the difference between a vampire and a Dracula costume?
Dracula is one specific vampire, usually done with the slicked-back hair, tuxedo and tall-collared cape from the old films. “Vampire” covers everything from that to modern goth looks.
How do I keep vampire fangs in all night?
Get moldable fangs that you fit to your own teeth with hot water. They stay put and you can talk normally. Avoid the one-piece plastic mouth guards.
What makeup do I need for a vampire costume?
Foundation a shade or two lighter than your skin, gray or purple shadow under the eyes, defined brows and a deep red lip. Add a small drip of fake blood if you want.
Can a vampire costume work for a woman?
Absolutely. A long black or deep red gown, a dramatic high-collar cape, dark lipstick and fangs makes a striking vampire countess.
Next up: Werewolf 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.