If you have curly hair, I'd much rather build a costume around it than hide it under a wig. Ringlets, coils, soft waves and big volume suit a long list of characters: storybook heroines, glam performers, fluffy animals and the classic spooky crowd. The trick is picking a character whose hair already looks like yours, then letting clothing, makeup, shoes and a prop finish the job. You can refresh your curls, add a temporary colour, pin one side back or push the volume up without changing what makes your hair yours. Below are 40 ideas, from character looks to easy DIY, nostalgic outfits and a few odd ones, with notes on which curl types each one suits.
Hats, Crowns and Ears That Won't Crush Your Curls
Most of these costumes put something on your head, and that's where curly costumes usually go wrong. A hat pressed down for three hours leaves a flat crown and a frizzy band around it. I attach nearly every headpiece in one of three ways.
- On a headband, worn just behind the hairline. Mini hats, ears, antennae and crowns can all be hot-glued or stitched onto a plain plastic band, so nothing sits on the curls themselves.
- With a wire comb stitched inside. A comb on each side of a larger hat or crown slides into the hair near the scalp and grips without pressure on top.
- With bobby pins in an X. Two pins crossed under the edge of a crown or flower wreath hold it far better than one pin pushed straight in.
Do your curls first, let them dry completely and then add the headpiece. Putting anything on damp curls sets a dent in exactly the spot you didn't want.
1. Merida Costume With Green Dress
Merida is the obvious pick for long, big red or auburn curls, and the hair is honestly most of the costume. Start with a floor-length emerald dress with long sleeves and a modest neckline, a brown belt at the waist and flat brown ankle boots. I'd scrunch in a light mousse and then pull a few ringlets loose around the face, because her hair is never neat. If your curls are another shade, a temporary copper colour helps, though it will dull your definition a little. Keep the makeup fresh with rosy cheeks and a natural lip. A small tartan pouch or a foam target is a better prop than a real bow at a public event.
2. Mirabel Costume With Embroidered Skirt
Mirabel suits short or shoulder-length dark curls. A white peasant blouse with bright floral embroidery goes with a turquoise tiered midi skirt; if you can't find embroidery, felt butterflies and flowers attached with removable fabric tape stand in well. Add green round glasses, blue earrings and espadrilles or low brown sandals. The glasses are the detail people spot first, so I'd find the right green before anything else. Define the curls with a cream and set them on a soft side part so the volume frames the frames. Warm blush, feathered brows and a berry lip keep it cheerful, and a butterfly bag or a faux candle finishes it.
3. Dolores Costume With Red Skirt
Dolores is for long brown curls and softer ringlets. Build it with a cream ruffled blouse, a bright red ankle-length skirt and a red sash at the waist, plus gold earrings shaped like sound waves or simple hoops as a nod to her hearing. I put the curls into a high ponytail under a wide red headband and leave a few spirals by the cheeks; tie the ponytail with a soft scrunchie, since a tight elastic leaves a dent and frizz when you take it out. Warm brown liner, terracotta blush and a muted red lip suit her. Cream flats or brown sandals keep you comfortable. Carry a hand fan, and cup a hand behind your ear in photos.
4. Miss Frizzle Costume With Printed Dress
Miss Frizzle lets bright curls and a wild print do the work. Look for a blue, purple or navy fit-and-flare dress covered in planets, stars, dinosaurs or science symbols, then add rocket or planet earrings and blue flats or low ankle boots. Her hair should be big and round, so I'd diffuse red, auburn or temporarily coloured curls for volume rather than definition. Short hair? Clip small science patches onto a headband instead of buying a full wig. Coral lipstick and a touch of blue liner keep it cheerful, and a toy globe, a notebook or a little yellow school bus is the prop. Teachers love this one for school parties.
5. Goldilocks Costume With Blue Dress
Soft blonde curls are the entire point of Goldilocks. Wear a pale blue or yellow knee-length dress with puff sleeves, a white apron and a ribbon at the collar, with white ankle socks and black Mary Janes. I refresh the curls with water and mousse, then finger-coil a few ringlets around the face. A satin bow holds the crown back without flattening it; satin also snags less than grosgrain. Pink blush, mascara and a rose lip are enough. A wooden-look bowl and spoon make the prop. For a group, three friends in brown bear outfits with round ear headbands finish the story.
6. Annie Costume With Red Dress
Short red curls make Annie an easy, cheerful choice. Start with a bright red knee-length dress with a white Peter Pan collar and a slightly flared skirt, then white tights, black Mary Janes and a heart locket. Define the curls into springy ringlets with gel and a diffuser. Temporary red spray gives the colour while your own shade stays safe underneath, but I'd keep it off the white collar by spraying before you dress and letting it dry. Peach blush, a few freckles and a pink lip give a stage feel. A small plush dog is the prop. On a cold night, put a white cardigan under the dress so the red shape still shows.
7. Hermione Costume With School Robe
Naturally bushy brown curls are what make Hermione work. Layer a white button-down under a gray V-neck sweater with a striped red-and-gold tie, then a pleated charcoal skirt or black trousers and a long black school robe. Knee socks and sturdy black loafers handle a lot of walking. Let the curls expand: skip the gel and fluff through the lengths, with a slightly uneven part. I'd keep makeup to brows and a neutral lip. Carry a thick old-looking book or a faux parchment timetable. A red-and-gold scarf keeps you warm and makes the reference clearer from a distance.
8. Bellatrix Costume With Black Lace Dress
Untamed dark curls are the centrepiece for Bellatrix. Choose a long black lace dress, or a fitted black blouse with an uneven layered maxi skirt, then add a wide corset-style belt, patterned tights and lace-up boots. For the hair, I tease the roots gently and pin sections at odd angles; heavy teasing through curly lengths makes knots you'll be working out for an hour after. Temporary silver streaks near the front add drama. Smoky charcoal eyes, pale skin, sharp brows and a plum lip finish the face. An aged book or a small drawstring pouch keeps it family-friendly, and antique rings with fingerless lace gloves are the last touch.
9. Medusa Costume With Snake Headband
Medusa turns curls into sculpture. Weave lightweight rubber or fabric snakes through a padded headband, then wear a draped olive, black or metallic green maxi with a braided gold belt, gold arm cuffs, leaf earrings and strappy sandals. Pin a few curls up around the crown and leave the rest full. The snakes should sit on the headband, above the hair; I've learned not to wind them into curls, because rubber grips hair and pulls when you take it off. Green shimmer around the eyes, sharp winged liner, gold highlight and faint scales at the temples make the makeup. A small metallic mirror is a clever prop.
10. Greek Goddess Costume With Gold Curls
Golden curls glow next to ivory drape. Start with a white or ivory maxi that hangs easily from the shoulders, a metallic gold belt at the natural waist and a light cream cape. A loose half-up style works best; I set the gold leaf headband on top of the curls and pin it at each side rather than pushing it down, so the texture stays lifted. Warm gold shadow, glowing cheeks and a neutral lip make the face. Stacked gold bracelets, drop earrings and flat metallic sandals finish it, with faux greenery or a golden apple as the prop. Smart enough for an adult party, modest enough for school.
11. Disco Queen Costume With Sequin Jumpsuit
Big curls and sequins together say disco straight away. Choose a silver, gold or rainbow sequin jumpsuit with wide flares, or a metallic wrap top with high-waisted bell-bottoms if a jumpsuit feels like a hassle at the bathroom. Platform shoes, big hoops and tinted round sunglasses build the shape. For the hair, I lift the roots with a wide-tooth pick, never a brush, which keeps the definition while you get that round outline. Sparkly shadow, graphic liner, gloss and highlight on the cheekbones suit the lights. A mirrored-ball purse or an old record sleeve is the prop, and the outfit should still let you dance.
12. 1980s Aerobics Costume With Curly Ponytail
A high curly ponytail gives this aerobics look its bounce. Wear a bright leotard over opaque leggings, then a cropped sweatshirt or loose tank in a clashing neon, striped leg warmers and white high-tops. Gather the curls loosely at the crown with a fabric scrunchie and keep the front soft. A terry sweatband sits on the hairline without squashing the ponytail, and it soaks up sweat if you actually dance. Colourful shadow, pink blush and gloss look properly retro. Wristbands and a light foam exercise mat round it out. It's made from activewear, so it's cheap, and it's a natural choice for a group.
13. 1970s Rock Star Costume With Flared Pants
Long, tousled curls are made for a 1970s rock star. Pair high-waisted velvet or patterned flares with a ruffled blouse, a fitted vest or a metallic long-sleeve top, then platform ankle boots, layered necklaces and big sunglasses. Diffusing upside down gives the volume, and I separate the curls with my fingers afterward for that undone look. A narrow scarf tied around the forehead adds a retro note without hiding much hair. Smoky liner, a little shimmer and a glossy neutral lip are enough. A toy microphone or an empty guitar case covered in stickers is the prop. Separates make this easy to adapt to any body and curl length.
14. Mad Hatter Costume With Curly Hair
Wild, colourful curls make the Mad Hatter even sillier. Start with a patterned blazer over a bright vest and a white ruffled shirt, cropped trousers, striped socks and colourful shoes or ankle boots. Tip an oversized top hat to one side so curls spill out around it; I'd stitch a comb inside the brim to grip the hair, since a big hat sitting on curls slides. Temporary orange, pink or purple hair wax can pick out single spirals without a wig. Bright eyes, rosy cheeks and a contrasting lip keep it friendly. Mismatched gloves, a big bow tie and a teacup finish him. Clashing thrift-store prints are exactly right here.
15. Curly Witch Costume With Purple Cape
A witch with curls can be stylish rather than scary. Wear a long black ruffled dress, or a fitted black top with a layered maxi skirt, then a purple velvet cape, striped tights and buckled ankle boots. Instead of jamming every curl under a big hat, I use a miniature pointed hat clipped to a headband. You keep the texture, and the hat doesn't flatten the crown. Define or fluff the curls, whichever you prefer. Purple shadow, silver highlight and a plum lip make the makeup, and a small craft-store broom is the prop. Star earrings, a moon bag and glitter nails add charm.
16. Glam Vampire Costume With Red Cape
Curls soften a glam vampire nicely. The base can be a fitted black jumpsuit, a velvet midi or a black top with tailored trousers, with a dramatic red-lined cape and pointed flats or heeled ankle boots. I sweep the curls over one shoulder with hidden pins, which shows off the spirals and keeps them off the cape's collar, where they'd otherwise tangle. Pale luminous skin, burgundy shadow, winged liner and a deep red lip are enough; a polished face looks more expensive than fake blood. A jeweled choker, vintage rings and a goblet-shaped purse or an antique-looking book finish it. Short curls and dense coils suit it just as well.
17. Forest Fairy Costume With Flower Crown
A forest fairy is soft and loose, which suits natural curls. Wear a sage or dusty pink dress with a flowing skirt and sheer layered sleeves, plus light translucent wings, lace-up flats and a slim vine belt. Set a flexible flower crown over the curls and pin it in place rather than tightening it; a snug crown gives you a headache by the end of the night. Small faux leaves clip into single ringlets nicely. Green or pink shimmer, rosy cheeks, tiny white freckles and gloss make the makeup. A mini lantern with battery lights or a basket of faux flowers is the prop. Bright and light enough for daytime events.
18. Curly Mermaid Costume With Teal Skirt
Long curls look like waves next to a mermaid outfit. Choose a fitted lavender, aqua or pearly top with a high-waisted teal maxi that widens at the hem. Make sure you can take a full stride; a true fishtail skirt makes stairs and kerbs a real hazard. Metallic flats, shell earrings, layered pearl-look necklaces and a starfish clip finish it. I define the curls with a glossy gel and sweep one side back to show off the clip. Turquoise shadow, iridescent highlight and faint scales at the temples give the sea feel. A shell-shaped bag is the practical prop, and you can trick-or-treat in it.
19. Lion Costume With Curly Mane
Full hair becomes a lion's mane with almost no effort. Wear a tan long-sleeve top or bodysuit with matching leggings and a soft faux-fur vest, plus brown ankle boots. Fluff the curls out from the roots into a round shape around the face; I'd do this with a pick after the hair is fully dry, since fluffing damp curls only gives frizz. Rest a small ear headband lightly above the hairline. Gold shadow, black winged liner, warm contour and a painted brown nose suggest the cat. Pin a fabric tail to the waistband, and add soft paw gloves and a gold collar. Nothing covers the mane, which is the whole idea.
20. Pink Poodle Costume With Curly Hair
Springy curls look a lot like a poodle's coat. Wear a pink sweater or fitted long-sleeve top with a matching tulle skirt and opaque pink tights, then white or pink sneakers and small faux-fur cuffs at wrists and ankles. Depending on length, I'd do two high puffs or one round ponytail. Clip soft pink ears at the base of each puff, where they're held by the hair tie instead of pressing curls flat. Rosy cheeks, long lashes, a black nose and a small curved smile make the face. A pearl-look collar and a light fabric tail finish it, and the colour swaps easily to white, gray or black.
21. Bumblebee Costume With Curly Puffs
Two curly puffs make a sweet base for a bee. Pair a black-and-yellow striped top with a black skater skirt, leggings and black sneakers, then sheer yellow wings and antennae set between the puffs. With shorter hair, leave it loose and use antenna clips at the temples. Golden shadow, black liner, peach blush and gloss keep it cheerful, with little dots at the outer corners of the eyes. A flower bag or a honey-pot bucket holds treats. I'd attach the wings with elastic loops over the shoulders, not pins, so they come off quickly for the car or a crowded room.
22. Sunflower Costume With Curly Hair
Curly volume makes a natural frame for a sunflower face. Wear a yellow dress, or a yellow top with a green midi skirt, with green tights on a cold night and brown ankle boots. Set a flexible sunflower crown around the front of the curls and leave the back loose. A wide crown sits better on curls than a thin one, because it has more hair to rest on. Fabric leaves on green ribbon cuffs add a bit more. Gold shadow, warm blush, faux freckles and a soft brown lip are enough; no face paint needed. A watering-can purse or a basket of sunflowers is the prop. It suits nearly every curl colour and pattern.
23. Pineapple Costume With Curly Updo
A high curly puff turns into the pineapple's leafy top. Wear a yellow dress, a jumpsuit or a big T-shirt painted with a simple brown diamond grid, plus green leggings and yellow sneakers. Gather the curls loosely high on the head and set a green felt leaf headband around the base. I tie the puff with a fabric band, not a tight elastic, so the height stays and you don't get a headache. Golden shadow, fresh blush and a coral lip feel tropical. A woven bag or a yellow treat bucket is the prop, and a green ribbon at the waist tidies it up. Light enough for active trick-or-treating.
24. Rain Cloud Costume With Curly Hair
Fluffy curls sit right into a rain cloud costume. Start with a pale gray sweatshirt dress, or a silver top with gray trousers, and attach small bundles of white polyester stuffing across the shoulders with removable fabric tape, well away from your face. Loose stuffing sheds onto everything, so I'd stitch it inside a layer of tulle first. Blue ribbon raindrops hang from the hem, with silver sneakers or gray rain boots. Style the curls wide and airy and set a cloud headband lightly at the crown. Silver shadow, blue liner and dewy highlight suit the theme, and a clear umbrella with blue ribbons is the prop.
25. Cupcake Costume With Curly Sprinkles
Curls make very convincing frosting. Wear a pastel top with a full tulle skirt in pink, lavender or blue, wrap a pleated silver or tan panel around the skirt as the cupcake liner, then add matching tights and flats. Shape the curls into a high round puff and clip small coloured pom-poms over the surface as sprinkles, with a red cherry headband on top. Hot-glued pom-poms on tiny clips are far kinder than anything glued straight into hair. Pastel shadow, pink blush, gloss and tiny dots near the eyes finish it. Carry a bakery box or a sprinkle bag. Keep everything light so nothing pulls on single curls.
26. Scarecrow Costume With Curly Pigtails
Curly pigtails give a scarecrow real personality. Wear a plaid button-down under denim overalls with a few colourful patches tacked on with loose stitches or temporary tape, then striped socks and brown lace-up boots. Divide the curls into two low pigtails tied with raffia-coloured ribbon. A floppy straw hat sits behind the hairline so the pigtails stay visible. An orange nose, freckles, rosy cheeks and short stitch lines at the mouth corners keep it friendly. Carry a basket of faux leaves. For the straw cuffs, I use soft fabric fringe rather than real straw, which pokes and sheds all night.
27. Pirate Captain Costume With Long Curls
Long curls give a pirate captain that windswept look without any effort. Wear a white ruffled blouse with a fitted burgundy or navy vest and black cropped trousers, plus striped knee socks, tall brown boots and a wide buckled belt. Tie a red scarf around the crown and leave most of the curls loose down the back; the scarf also keeps a tricorn from sliding on smooth curls. Define the ends and keep the roots full and a little messy. Bronzed skin, smudged liner and a berry lip suit the character. A tricorn, a coin pouch, a rolled map and layered jewelry finish it. Leave realistic weapons at home.
28. Circus Ringmaster Costume With Curly Ponytail
A neat curly ponytail looks sharp under a ringmaster's hat. Layer a red tailcoat with gold trim over a white ruffled blouse or fitted black shirt, then high-waisted black trousers, a short skirt with opaque tights, or tailored leggings, and knee-high black boots. Pin a miniature top hat firmly above the ponytail. I define the lengths with curl cream and wrap one curl around the hair tie to hide it. Gold shadow, red lipstick and subtle winged liner suit the role. A light hoop or a printed show programme beats a whip. White gloves, gold epaulettes and a bow tie make the character clear.
29. Victorian Ghost Costume With Gray Curls
Soft gray curls and faded fabric make a Victorian ghost eerie without anything graphic. Wear a high-neck ivory blouse with a long gray skirt, or a modest pale cream lace maxi, plus gray tights, lace-up ankle boots and a sheer shawl. Dust temporary silver over a few curls rather than the whole head, so your own colour still shows through. Silver sprays stiffen curls, so I mist them on the outer layer only. Pin the front back with an antique-style barrette. Pale skin, cool taupe shadow, gray mascara and a mauve lip look faded. A vintage photo frame or a battery candle lantern is the prop.
30. Porcelain Doll Costume With Curly Ringlets
Tight, defined ringlets give a porcelain doll its carefully styled look. Choose a pastel knee-length dress with puff sleeves, lace trim and a fitted waist, with white knee socks, black Mary Janes and a big satin bow set behind the curls. Finger-coil several ringlets around the face; I do this while the curl cream is still damp, so each one sets in shape. Smooth skin, round pink blush, painted lower lashes and a tiny heart-shaped lip make the doll face. A few fine lines near the jaw hint at old porcelain without looking damaged. A teddy bear or a gift box is the prop, and white gloves with a cameo necklace finish it.
31. Werewolf Costume With Curly Mane
Dense curls make a werewolf mane, so you can skip the hot rubber mask. Wear a brown plaid shirt over a charcoal T-shirt with distressed-look jeans or dark leggings, plus a faux-fur vest, brown lace-up boots and furry wrist cuffs. Fluff the curls up around the crown and sides, and run temporary gray or brown hair wax through a few sections. Coloured wax builds up on curls, so a light hand is better than a thick coat. A small ear headband sits between the curls. Warm contour, heavy brows, a black nose and pointed liner give the face. A removable tail and fingerless gloves with felt paws finish it.
32. Bride Of Frankenstein Costume With Curly Updo
Long curls give the Bride of Frankenstein her tower. Wear a flowing white maxi with draped sleeves and a high neck, a wide white belt, opaque tights and silver or white ankle boots. Gather the curls upward over a hidden hair cushion with big pins and let the textured sections show. I pin the cushion to a couple of small braids first, since an updo this tall wants to tip forward. White streaks at both temples give the signature contrast. Luminous pale skin, sharp brows, silver shadow and a deep berry lip make the face. A small bouquet of white faux flowers tied in black ribbon is the prop, with black-and-white earrings and silver cuffs.
33. Colorful Clown Costume With Curly Puffs
Curly puffs make a cheerful clown, never a scary one. Wear a polka-dot jumpsuit, or striped trousers with a bright ruffled blouse, then suspenders, odd socks and high-tops in clashing colours. Divide the hair into two puffs tied with oversized ribbons, and use pink or blue hair wax on a few curls. Round blush, bright shadow, a small red nose and a curved painted smile make the face. Painted smiles smudge when you eat, so I set them with powder and keep a cotton bud in the pocket for touch-ups. Light balloons or a flower bag are the prop, and a ruffled collar with pom-pom buttons finishes it. Fine for kids, adults and school events.
34. Curly Superhero Costume With Bright Cape
An original superhero lets any curl pattern become part of the character. Start with a bright long-sleeve top and matching leggings or joggers, layer metallic shorts or a knee-length skirt over them, then add a contrasting cape and supportive sneakers or ankle boots. A high puff, a side ponytail or a full halo all work. I'd swap a tight mask for a metallic headband, which keeps edges and hairline comfortable. Colourful winged liner, shimmery highlight and a bold lip suit it. Cut a unique emblem from felt and tape it to the chest. Matching wrist cuffs and a light utility belt finish it, with no franchise or weapons needed.
35. Bob Ross Costume With Curly Hair
A round curly shape makes the TV painter one of the easiest costumes here. Wear a pale blue button-down tucked into relaxed straight-leg jeans, with a brown belt and dark loafers or casual sneakers. Shape short curls into an even round outline with a pick at the roots, or use a rounded curly wig. Keep makeup minimal and add a light costume beard to match your hair colour. A clean wooden palette, some dry brushes and a small canvas of simple trees and clouds are the props. I'd leave wet paint out entirely, because it ends up on your shirt and the sofa. A calm smile sells it.
36. Weird Al Costume With Hawaiian Shirt
Long brown curls suit the comedy musician with the accordion. Wear a loud Hawaiian-print shirt with loose black pants or straight-leg jeans, black sneakers and wire-frame glasses, plus a patterned tie for his earlier era. Let the curls fall around the shoulders, with curl cream for definition and plenty of volume left in. Keep makeup simple and add a removable moustache. A toy accordion or a cardboard one with painted keys is the prop, and with the shirt it makes the reference easy. Very comfortable for a long night. Glue-on moustaches lift with sweat, so I'd bring a spare strip of costume adhesive.
37. Prince Costume With Purple Suit
Short dark curls sit well with a purple performer look. Wear a fitted purple blazer with ruffles over a white high-neck blouse, matching slim trousers, heeled ankle boots and a wide metallic belt. Shape the curls into a defined side-swept style with height at the crown. Temporary black or deep brown colour is optional; the shape matters more than the exact shade. Smoky liner, sculpted brows, luminous skin and a berry lip finish the face. A light purple guitar prop or a microphone is the prop, with silver rings, a lace cuff and a brooch. I'd hunt thrift stores for the ruffled blouse first, as it's the hardest piece to find.
38. Slash Costume With Curly Hair
Long, dark, dense curls are the base for this rock guitarist. Wear a plain black T-shirt under a faux-leather vest with slim black jeans, black lace-up boots, layered silver necklaces and round sunglasses. Set a tall black top hat behind the hairline so the curls spill around the shoulders. A tall hat on curly hair needs help staying put, and I pin it through the band at both sides. Define the ends but keep the shape big and relaxed. Subtle smoky liner is all the makeup needed. A toy or cardboard guitar in warm brown is the prop, and a red bandana around the hat adds the colour.
39. Napoleon Dynamite Costume With Curly Hair
Short sandy curls make the awkward high-schooler costume funny and easy. Wear a white ringer T-shirt with a hand-drawn slogan tucked loosely into high-waisted light-wash jeans, plus thick white socks, brown boots and big clear-frame glasses. Fluff the curls into a round shape with height on top and fullness at the sides. A light temporary blonde spray is optional, since the clothes and glasses tell the story. Natural makeup, a spiral notebook or a bag of tater-shaped snack props, and a digital watch round it out. The deadpan stance sells it more than anything you wear, so I'd practise it in the mirror. Practical for school or work.
40. Hobbit Costume With Curly Hair
Loose, tousled curls fit the cozy hobbit layers. Wear a cream peasant shirt under a brown or moss vest with cropped trousers in an earthy neutral, then a burgundy cloak, a leaf brooch and a small crossbody satchel. Leave the curls natural with gentle definition rather than a polished shape. Warm blush, light freckles and soft brows suit the outdoor feel. Going barefoot outdoors in October isn't sensible, so I'd go with brown slip-on shoes or foot-covering costume slippers worn over real shoes. A rolled map, a faux loaf or a light foam walking stick is the prop. It works for groups and suits adults, teens or children.
Temporary Hair Colour on Curls, and Getting It Out Again
A lot of these looks use a temporary spray or coloured wax. Both work on curls, but they behave differently from how they do on straight hair, so it's worth knowing what to expect.
- Sprays sit on the surface and stiffen the curl, so they look best misted onto the outer layer only. Dry curls take colour more evenly than damp ones.
- Colour waxes are softer and easier to place on single spirals. Use a little at a time; a thick coat clumps the curl together.
- Both can rub onto collars, pillowcases and car headrests. Spray before you dress, let it dry fully and wear dark clothing near your shoulders if you can.
- Very light or bleached curls can hold on to bright pinks, blues and greens for a few washes. Test a hidden strand underneath first.
To take it out, I'd rinse well, wash with a clarifying shampoo and follow with a good rich conditioner, because most temporary colours leave curls drier than usual. Don't brush the colour out while it's dry; you'll pull the curls apart and end up with frizz as well as pigment.
Holding Definition Through a Damp or Crowded Night
Rain, fog or a hot room full of people will loosen curls faster than anything. For a night like that, a firm gel that dries to a cast holds shape best; scrunch out the crunch once you've arrived. If it's raining, a hood or a costume cape with a hood protects the hair far better than an umbrella in a crowd. Pack a small comb with wide teeth and a few spare pins. If the curls do frizz, lean into it, because half the characters on this list look better with a bit of fluff anyway.
Let the Curls Carry Half the Costume
Every look here treats your natural texture as part of the costume, not a problem to cover. Short or long, loose or tightly coiled, any colour: you don't need to straighten it or bury it under a wig. Pick a character whose hair already looks like yours, then add the clothing, makeup, shoes and one or two props. Temporary colour, clips, soft headbands and light accessories add detail without crushing the curls. In my own styling, the curly costumes that look best are the ones where the hair was planned first and the outfit built around it. From storybook characters and retro performers to animals and spooky classics, there's a version for your curl pattern.
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