Witch Costume
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The witch is the most popular adult Halloween costume in the country, year after year. It’s easy to see why. You can go glamorous, creepy, cute or full storybook hag, and everybody knows exactly what you are from fifty feet away.
What Makes It Work
It starts with the hat. A tall, pointed, wide-brimmed black hat is the single piece that does all the work, so don’t cheap out on a floppy one that folds over by 9 p.m. Look for a brim with wire in it.
Under the hat, go long and dark. A black dress, a long skirt with a fitted top, or a hooded cape all work. Layers help. A shawl, some lace, or a tattered hem makes it look lived in.
Then pick your props. A broom is the classic, a cauldron bucket is handy for trick-or-treating, and a stuffed black cat on the shoulder gets a laugh every time. Dark lipstick and a bit of smoky eye finish it.
What People Get Wrong
Going all black with no texture. A plain black dress and a hat can read as “forgot my costume” in a dim room. Add one contrasting element, like a purple or green sash, striped tights, or a silver pendant. The other mistake is a cheap hat that won’t stand up. If the point flops, the whole look flops with it.
Buy It or Build It?
Kits run about $25 to $60 and usually include the dress and hat. Honestly, this is one of the easiest costumes to build from your own closet. Buy a good hat and a broom, raid your closet for black clothes, and you’re done for under $30.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | What they carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Costume kits, wigs and accessories | Shop on Amazon |
FAQ
How do I make a witch hat stand up straight?
Stuff the cone with tissue paper or wrap a thin cardboard tube inside it. For the brim, slide a piece of craft wire along the edge and bend it into shape.
What colors work for a witch costume besides black?
Deep purple, forest green and burgundy all read as witchy. A white or cream outfit with a pale hat makes a nice “good witch” twist.
Is a witch costume okay for kids?
Yes. It’s one of the top kids’ costumes too. Go with a shorter dress, colorful striped tights and a friendly broom, and skip the scary makeup.
What's an easy witch makeup look?
Dark lipstick, a smoky eye and a little contour under the cheekbones. Green face paint is optional and pretty messy, so test it first.
Next up: Vampire 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.