How to Go as Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy for Halloween

Need a great idea for a Halloween costume for a couple? Why not go with a classic couple from literature and movies? The characters, Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, are the famous couple from Pride and Prejudice written by Jane Austen. Here are some tips for the perfect couple's Halloween costume. For after all, "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a…" couple in possession of each other must be in want of a capital couple's Halloween costume!

For Miss Bennet

Clothes
Shop around. Go to thrift stores. Finding a period dress can be a case of recognizing the potential of a modern dress to become a period dress. Look for an empire waist. A long, flowing dress is ideal. Add a sash to create a high waist if necessary. Work with what you find. Wear long gloves to add a more formal look to short sleeves. For shoes, wear comfortable flats. If your dress is long they will barely be seen anyway.

Hair
Next comes hair. Although you do not have to heat your curling tongs in the fire, curl your face-framing hair in tight ringlets. Try an up hairstyle for the rest of your hair. You can even allow a few dazzling ringlets to hang down from the back. Add small flowers if you want a fancy ball look.

Personality
Smile to show how beautiful, witty and full of life you are as Lizzy.

For Mr. Darcy

Clothes
For the gentleman, start with a high collared shirt and a knotted tie. Add a jacket with tails, although a short jacket with correct posture will suffice. The iconic features are the high collar, the cravat or tie and the proud stance. Work with what you have for the rest. Pants can be long and tucked into tall boots or they can be shorter breeches that reach just beyond the knee and are worn with long socks and dress shoes. Here again, search your local thrift store for outfit pieces with potential.

Hair
Now onto hair. Real sideburns are best but optional due to the time commitment in growing them. However fake sideburns can be purchased at a local costume store if they are important to you. Just make sure they do not detract from the handsome appeal of Mr. Darcy. When styling the hair, remember to give it some volume on top.

Personality
Handing your date a script might be a bit much, but how lovely would it be if he chose to memorize a few lines on his own. "You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you." "I have been meditating of the very great pleasure which a pair of fine eyes in the face of a pretty woman can bestow." "…dearest, loveliest Elizabeth!"

P.S.
Remember to tell him his first name - it's Fitzwilliam.

Sources

Quotes from Pride and Prejudice Online
Jane Austen - Biography, Timeline, Books, Movies, Quotes, Fashion