Make a Stunning Witch Costume

Some costumes are always popular for Halloween and the witch is one that is a favorite of all ages. Good witch, bad witch, sexy witch, ugly witch, or just a generic broom carrying hag, you're certain to see one or all on Halloween.

My middle granddaughter, the one who is always a costume challenge at Halloween, put an incredible witch costume together, with the help of her mom and Goodwill. It usually takes several trips to any second-hand shop to find what you need for a good costume, so start early.

Her dress happens to be of a shimmery fabric but any black dress will do. Ankle length is especially good. The dress doesn't have to fit particularly well and safety pins will work for quick adjustments. My granddaughter's dress is actually sleeveless but she added a long sleeve black turtleneck underneath to improve the look and add warmth.

The cape sparkles. Finding it was a piece of luck, but as with the dress, any black cape will do. If you can't find a cape you like, buy a piece of fabric, trim it to the right length, and attach ribbons to form a loose closure at the neck. Small safety pins should work to attach the ribbons.

The hat is the most important item of a witch costume and my granddaughter found a gorgeous one. Green and black, it's topped with satin fabric cones, feathers, and a veil. Stunning! I've not seen another like it but your witch can create a similar one from craft shop items. Add feathers, beads, black lace, and tulle to an ordinary witch hat to make a one-of-a-kind design. Be certain that the tulle doesn't impair visibility at night or just keep it tucked back around the hat.

Black shoes and stockings or tights are fitting, unless you're lucky enough to have striped socks and a pair of ruby-red slippers, like those worn by the Wicked Witch of the East in The Wizard of Oz.

The costume is finished of with a dollar store black broom and plastic cauldron for collecting the goodies. No toads or bat wings allowed in there!

Before my granddaughter set out for to collect treats, I used green face paint to add a slight tint to her face and added a black mole or two with an eyeliner pencil. I darkened her eyebrows and brushed her face with glittery powder. She looked fantastic!

Second hand shops often have a rack of children's costumes but kids don't always want what's available. They want unique. Browse the stores for inspiration and if you see something you can use, snatch it up now because it may not be there tomorrow. But something new will be so shop often until you've put together the perfect costume.