How to Do Fancy Dress Like a Pro

Fancy dress parties are fun to attend and full of surprises, but one surprise you don’t want is finding out you have accidentally twinned with someone else. After all, picking a costume to begin with is stressful enough. There is absolutely nothing wrong with purchasing a ready made costume at the store if you don’t mind the risk of going as the same character as someone else at the party. However, why not be a little different and put a costume together yourself? Not only can a DIY costume be much cheaper, but it is guaranteed that no one else will have an outfit quite like yours. Here is a short guide to help you do fancy dress like a pro.
Be Recognizable
Although it is important that you choose a costume, or persona, that you are interested in, it is equally important that partygoers recognize who you are going as. After all, what’s the point in making the effort of putting together a homemade costume if no one knows who you are? When it comes to themed parties, try to opt for a better known character but steer clear of obvious classics. Choosing a recognizable figure that isn’t overdone needn’t be difficult, simply identify what makes them iconic.
Pick a Costume According to Your Budget
Once you have an idea of who, or what, you want to dress up as, work out how much money you are willing to splash. Budget for all the extra bits, such as accessories and makeup. Whether you are on a budget or not, it is a good idea to look through your home and identify items that could be used for your costume.
Go All Out With Makeup
Sometimes, all you need to create an amazing fancy dress idea is makeup. From a stripy tiger to Spiderman, you can use makeup to create different types of looks. If you want to go one step further, invest in some special effects makeup and create a realistic makeup design. Use pre-made appliances to create wounds worthy of the undead, or splatter realistic fake blood on your body to immolate something from a gore movie.
Add Accessories
A fancy dress outfit is all about the accessories, so make sure you get yours right. Whether it’s an iconic hat and a pair of sunglasses, or a recognizable hair piece, figure out the accessory that will make your outfit complete.
Plan a Group Effort
Planning a group costume effort with your friends can take your fancy dress to the next level. Not to mention, collaborating is a great idea if you and your friends are stuck on ideas individually. Dressing up as a group can be as extravagant or as basic as you like. For example, going as The Smurfs is super simple. All you need is blue body paint, white hats and white clothes. Alternatively, you can go as superheroes and villains.
This idea may take a bit more effort, but you will certainly make a lasting impression at the party.