DIY Severus Snape Halloween Costume

Professor Severus Snape is one of the most loved, and the most hated, characters of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series. Whether you think he is a good guy or a bad guy, Professor Snape is a popular choice when it comes to Halloween costumes. There is just something about his almost-shoulder-length, stringy black hair and sour attitude. In fact, he is my boyfriend's favorite characters of the series, and I actually enjoy his cranky demeanor, as well. Do you want to dress up as Professor Snape for Halloween this year?

Things you will need:

~black outfit
~black cloak or robe
~shoulder-length black wig, or
~black hair dye
~makeup
~wand

Instructions:

1. Dress all in black, from head to toe: black shirt, pants, socks and boots. They should fit well, because you will be wearing a cloak over your outfit. If you like, you can wear a white button-up instead, with a little bit of the collar showing under your robes.

2. Buy or make your own wizard robes. Snape wears a black one with sleeves that flare out. If you know how to sew, you can make your own robes using this tutorial .

3. You will need longish black hair to look like Professor Snape. Either buy a wig, or if you are daring, color your hair jet black. Part it down the middle. Straighten your hair, but not too straight -- it should have a little wave. Use pomade, wax or hair gel to give it a somewhat greasy, stringy look.

4. Apply white foundation makeup to your face. If you have darker skin, make it look sallow by applying a color that is a few shades lighter to your face. Line your eyes with black eyeliner, and dab a little bit of black or gray eyeshadow under your eyes to create the look of dark undereye circles.

5. Finish up with a wand. You can either buy a toy wand, or make your own using a stick and a whittling knife. Simply peel off the bark and sand it down until smooth. Use the knife to whittle a design near the handle and apply dark wood stain, finishing up with a coat of varnish.

As Professor Snape, you will also need to adopt his attitude for the night. Walk around with a sneer on your face, and whirl your costume as you stalk out of a room. And remember, never smile at anyone.

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