Best of AC Content: 10 Ethnic Halloween Costumes

Halloween Costumes Ideas for Celebrating Diversity

Moira Richardson
The problem with writing an article about ethnic Halloween costumes is "Whose ethnicity?" Let's look, first, at the definition of the word "ethnic" from dictionary.com: "Pertaining to or characteristics of a people, esp. a group sharing a common and distinctive culture, religion, or language." It can also mean "belonging to or deriving from the cultural, racial, religious or linguistic traditions of a people of country: ethnic dances." So, bearing this in mind, I present to you a list of 10 of the best ethnic Halloween costumes this year.

Ethnic Halloween Costumes #1

Sushi

For the Japanese folks out there, and for any fans of anime, here's a unique costume idea that I have yet to see implemented, but would certainly appreciate if I did. Sushi is the bomb. This article was written by an experienced costumer and includes lots of valuable information for anyone interested in a DIY Halloween costume.

Ethnic Halloween Costumes #2

The Japanese Geisha

There's nothing more elegant that a Geisha in her full tea service outfit, so why not emulate the look this Halloween by making your own Kimono with some gorgeous Japanese fabric?

Ethnic Halloween Costumes #3

Pocahontas

For those wanting to represent Native Americans this Halloween, why not try out a Pocahontas costume? You can buy a kit online, but come on, surely you can make your own fringed tan shift dress? It's not like it has to look perfect, since Poca's look was definitely handmade. My favorite part about this article is the "Best Quote to Annoy People With" section.

Ethnic Halloween Costumes #4

Native American Indian with Mohawk

Okay, so you want to be an Indian for Halloween and you're mom won't let you shave your head? Here's an article about how to create a fauxhawk Mohawk that's totally bitchin' and great to complete your Native American Indian look.

Ethnic Halloween Costumes #5

Rainbow Brite

Okay, Rainbow Brite ain't exactly ethnic, but that doesn't mean you can't give your own ethnic spin to the look. Why not be Rainbow Brite's long lost cousin Jamaica Brite? Or her separated at birth Hindu Brite? Just choose colors that represent the culture you are trying to represent and go wild.

Ethnic Halloween Costumes #6

Zohan

For the Israeli's in the hizz-ouse, why not represent by dressing like Zohan, the army commando turned hairdresser in New York. You'll need cut off jeans, a women's t-shirt with some very girlie image on it, a blingin' gold necklace, a brown beard, and a shaggy brown wig.

Ethnic Halloween Costumes #7

The French Maid

Are you French or do you wish you were? Dress up in this fabulous plus size Halloween costume from Torrid, and you'll be talking pretty in fake French all night long. Oh la la!

Ethnic Halloween Costumes #8

The Oktoberfest Guy

Okay, so you love German beer and you think the Germans are a good people overall, despite the whole holocaust thing? Why not represent by getting yourself a pair of lederhosen this Halloween? Ich liebe du leather pants, baby!

Ethnic Halloween Costumes #9

Sergeant Pepper (ala the Beatles)

For the Brits, I present to you the Sgt. Pepper look from the Sgt. Pepper Lonely Hearts Club Band. If you aren't already whistling the songs to yourself, check out this article which details how to make your own Sgt. Pepper Beatles Halloween costume, and you will be.

Ethnic Halloween Costumes #10

Tyra Banks

If you want to represent as a strong, powerful black woman this Halloween, look no further than this article about how to create a Tyra Banks Halloween costume. With an army of ugly-pretty model wannabes at her disposal, this is one celebrity you don't want to mess with.

Published by Moira Richardson

A freelance writer living in Providence, Rhode Island, Moira Richardson is a regular magazine contributor. When she is not writing, Moira is often found making jewelry, teaching classes, or playing the acco...  View profile

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