Plenty of people spell her Laura, but the archaeologist is Lara Croft, and her wardrobe has changed a lot over the years. The early teal tank, brown shorts, braid, backpack and combat boots gave way to jungle gear, snow layers, tactical kit and a couple of film versions. That range is good news if you're dressing up, because there's a Lara for warm parties, cold doorsteps and black-tie events alike. I've written each one below as a full outfit, from hair and makeup to boots. At public events I always steer people toward empty holsters and harmless props like a map, a torch, rope or a compass. Some of these need a few thrift finds; others come almost entirely out of a gym bag.
The Three Details Every Lara Needs
Across every version below, I've found people recognise Lara from three things, and the rest is flavour. If a budget or a deadline is tight, put your effort here first.
- The hair. A long brown braid or a tied-back ponytail is the single most identifying feature. If your own hair is short or light, a braided wig or a clip-in plait is the one item worth buying.
- The straps. Thigh holsters, leg pouches or webbing straps give her outline. Without them, cargos and a tank can read as hiking clothes.
- The boots. Chunky lace-up boots ground every Lara, from the jungle versions to the gowns.
After that, choose by the night you'll have. The shorts versions suit warm indoor parties. The jackets, parkas and expedition layers suit trick-or-treating in the cold. The gowns suit formal events where you'd look out of place in cargo gear.
1. Classic Lara Croft Costume With Teal Tank
The original is still the one most people picture. A fitted teal tank, high-waisted brown shorts with pockets, tall white socks folded over brown lace-up boots, black fingerless gloves and a wide belt. The thigh holsters are what make the silhouette, and they're the part I'd spend time on: empty ones, strapped high enough that they don't swing into your knees as you walk. The single long braid is the other must. If your hair is short, a braided wig or a clip-in plait sorts it. Keep makeup natural with strong brows and a little matte bronzer. A small brown backpack, a map and a compass finish it, and a dusting of washable brown eyeshadow on the knees adds wear without staining anything.
2. Lara Croft Anniversary Costume
The Anniversary version is the classic tidied up, so it suits anyone who wants the familiar outfit without any grime. A sea-green tank, tailored chocolate shorts, a sturdy belt, tall brown boots with folded white socks and slim thigh straps. I'd pick stretch shorts here, because stiff cotton twill rides up once you add straps around the thighs. Braid the hair neatly and pull two soft pieces loose at the face. Warm brown shadow and a muted rose lip keep the face athletic. A small backpack, a journal, a torch and coiled cord make safe props. Flat boots are kinder than heels if you'll be standing for photos.
3. Lara Croft Bomber Jacket Costume
This is the Lara I'd point you to on a cold night. A brown aviator-style jacket over a teal tank, with tan shorts or brown cargo trousers, thick white socks and dark lace-up boots. Keep the belt, empty holsters, gloves and backpack so it still reads as her. One thing I check: the braid should come out over the jacket collar, not get trapped inside it, or the most recognisable detail disappears. Smudged brown liner and a muted lip are plenty. If a real leather bomber is too heavy for an indoor party, a lightweight faux-suede one looks almost the same. Most of it can be thrifted.
4. Lara Croft Wetsuit Costume
The wetsuit Lara covers you from wrist to ankle, which some people prefer. A long-sleeved black or navy athletic bodysuit with turquoise side panels, or a rash guard over matching leggings, gets you there. If you can't find panels, strips of turquoise fabric tape down each side are a reasonable stand-in. Water shoes or flat ankle boots with grip go underneath. A high braided ponytail stays out of the way, and the makeup is just brushed brows, mascara and a neutral lip. A dive watch, a utility belt, clear goggles pushed up on the head and a small waterproof pouch finish it. Swimwear fabric gets warm indoors, so breathable sportswear is the better buy for a party.
5. Lara Croft Croft Manor Training Costume
Croft Manor training gear is the closest thing to a free Lara, because most of it is already in a workout drawer. A teal cropped athletic tank over a supportive black sports top, high-waisted brown bike or training shorts, white crew socks, plain trainers, wrist guards and a slim belt. Braid the hair long or wear a high braided ponytail. Tinted moisturizer and waterproof mascara are all the makeup it needs. A towel round the neck, a stopwatch and a water bottle tell people where she is. I'd keep this one clean and fresh; distressing it confuses the story, since she's at home, not on a dig.
6. Lara Croft South Pacific Costume
South Pacific Lara brings in brighter color. A fitted turquoise top, olive or camouflage shorts, a brown belt and leg pouches, then black or brown combat boots with breathable socks. Pouches strapped to the thigh slide down on smooth leggings or bare skin, so I put a strip of silicone grip tape, the kind sold for sewing hems, on the inside of each strap. Warm bronze makeup and a coral lip suit the palette. A canvas backpack, binoculars, a paper map and a canteen finish the kit. A light olive vest adds coverage if you want it, and a little washable tan shadow at the knees and elbows gives that weathered look.
7. Lara Croft Antarctica Costume
If your Halloween involves standing on doorsteps in the cold, Antarctica Lara is the honest answer. An orange or rust insulated jacket over a black thermal top, dark brown cargo trousers, warm gloves and chunky snow boots. Put the utility belt over the jacket rather than under it, so it shows. A low braid fits under a grey knit beanie. Rosy blush on the cheeks and nose fakes the windburn, and the rest of the face stays natural. A silver torch, a rolled map and a compact backpack are enough props. Synthetic fur trim on the hood adds warmth and looks the part. This is one costume where every piece also keeps you comfortable.
8. Lara Croft Area 51 Costume
Area 51 Lara swaps the jungle for dark grey basics. A black tank, grey camo cargos, a cropped utility vest, a black webbing belt, empty thigh pouches, fingerless gloves and lace-up combat boots. A sleek braid, cool grey shadow and clean black liner keep it sharp; matte skin and a neutral lip let the outfit lead. The props make the joke: a fake visitor badge, a small torch, a headset and a metallic document case. A strip of reflective tape on the vest helps after dark. I'd check the fit by sitting down in the cargos before you commit, because tight cargo trousers with full pockets get uncomfortable fast.
9. Lara Croft Black Catsuit Costume
The black catsuit is the cleanest Lara and the least forgiving of fabric choices. Shiny or thin stretch shows every seam and goes see-through in camera flash, so I always pick a matte, opaque performance fabric. An opaque unitard works, or a black mock-neck top with high-waisted leggings, which is easier for bathroom breaks. Add a silver belt, fingerless gloves and flat ankle boots with grip. A cropped tactical vest gives structure if you want it. A long smooth braid, precise winged liner and a satin neutral lip suit the evening feel. A tiny torch, an earpiece and a silver card case are all the accessories it needs.
10. Lara Croft Desert Explorer Costume
Desert Lara is all faded sand tones, which helps it stand apart from the teal classic. A pale blue tank, tan cargos tapered over brown boots, a light cream scarf, a brown belt, gloves and canvas pouches. Leave the braid a little loose with a few strands falling at the face, as if she's been out all day. Bronze shadow and a dusty rose lip fit. A rolled map, a compass, a canteen and a canvas backpack carry the expedition. For weathering, I brush cheap tan face powder onto the knees, boots and scarf with a big brush; it shakes and washes out, unlike paint. Stick to cotton if it's a warm night.
11. Young Lara Croft Costume
Young Lara is modest and gentle, so it's the version I'd suggest for teens or a family party. A white short-sleeved collared shirt, high-waisted olive shorts over opaque brown tights, a simple belt, ankle boots and a small canvas backpack. Two neat braids or one plain plait look youthful. Keep makeup minimal. A sketchbook, a pencil, a magnifying glass and a folded paper map are perfect props because they suggest a curious explorer without any gear that looks like equipment. A forest-green cardigan or vest goes over it on a cool evening. Teens will also find it easy to sit and move in, which matters for a long night.
12. Lara Croft Russian Expedition Costume
Russian expedition Lara is a layering costume. A grey thermal under an olive field-style jacket, dark cargo trousers, black lace-up boots, a brown belt, canvas gloves and a crossbody document pouch. A low braid sits under a dark knit cap. Soft pink blush and taupe shadow give that wind-chilled face. A made-up travel document, a compass, a torch and a worn canvas backpack fill the props. When I thrift the jacket, I swap any real military insignia for plain patches or brass buttons, since real insignia can upset people who served. It's warm, fully covered and reads as her as long as the braid is visible.
13. Lara Croft Blue Evening Dress Costume
You don't have to wear cargo gear to be Lara. The royal blue gown is a lovely option for a gala or a dressy party. Look for a floor-length dress with a high neck, a fitted waist and a side slit or enough skirt to stride in; she's still an action character, and a narrow hem that hobbles you ruins that. Sleek black ankle boots or low block heels go underneath. A polished braid or smooth low ponytail, soft smoky eyes and a berry-neutral lip suit the dress. Black gloves, a silver cuff and a tiny bag with a folded clue card are enough. If you want a hint of adventure, wear a slim belt under a short matching jacket.
14. Lara Croft Angel Of Darkness Denim Costume
Angel of Darkness Lara has an early-2000s edge, and it's mostly denim. A fitted black tank with dark indigo jeans, ideally with utility pockets or straps, a cropped denim jacket, a wide black belt, fingerless gloves and heavy black combat boots. The hair goes in a long ponytail rather than a tidy braid. Smudged charcoal liner and a mauve lip suit the darker mood. A small black backpack, a torch, a silver watch and a fake museum pass finish it. To make plain jeans look more like costume, I buckle a couple of strips of black webbing around one thigh; they come off afterward and the jeans go back into the wardrobe.
15. Lara Croft Camo Pants Costume
Camo cargos are the answer for anyone who doesn't want to wear shorts. A fitted black or deep olive tank, straight-leg camo cargo trousers, a sturdy brown belt, fingerless gloves, empty thigh pouches and dark combat boots. A textured braid over one shoulder, bronze lids and soft brown liner keep the face earthy. A green canvas backpack, a compass, a torch and a topographic map carry the theme. I'd keep the camo print generic rather than an official uniform pattern. A lightweight utility vest over the tank adds coverage. It's practical for outdoor events where you'll be sitting on walls or kerbs.
16. Lara Croft Legend Costume
Legend Lara shifts the palette to browns and tans. A fitted brown V-neck top, tan shorts or slim cargos, a wide utility belt, empty leg straps, black gloves and dark lace-up boots. The hair goes up in a high ponytail that swings in photos. Peach blush and softly defined eyes keep it understated. A small metal pendant at the neckline and a grappling-hook prop made from soft cord finish it. Since every piece is neutral, it's easy to pull together from separate shops without the colors fighting. Stretch fabric matters again here, because straps over stiff trousers bunch at the hip.
17. Lara Croft Biker Costume
Biker Lara is a white tee and black cargos under a cropped black-and-red faux-leather moto jacket. Add fingerless gloves, a wide belt and sturdy black biker boots, then pull the hair into a low ponytail or braid. Smoky eyes, matte skin and a muted red lip suit the road-trip mood. A light costume helmet under one arm, a folded road map and a small crossbody bag do the rest. Faux leather with stretch panels at the sides is much more comfortable to dance in than a stiff jacket, and reflective piping helps if you'll be walking home in the dark. The helmet gets tiresome to carry, so I'd hand it to a friend after photos.
18. Lara Croft Winter Coat Costume
Winter coat Lara is built for snow. A cream thermal sweater under a fitted dark brown parka, charcoal cargo trousers and insulated lace-up boots. A webbing belt, warm gloves and a compact backpack keep the expedition feel. A relaxed side braid tucked into a neutral beanie, rosy cheeks and waterproof mascara. A scarf, a compass, a torch and a rolled map are enough props. For fake snow on the boot toes and hem, I'd test the spray on an inside seam first, because some leave a residue on dark fabric. Take the coat off indoors and the sweater and belt still read as Lara.
19. Lara Croft Black Evening Dress Costume
The black evening dress is the formal Lara. A long black dress with a fitted bodice, a high neck and a side slit so you can walk properly, with black ankle boots or sturdy block heels underneath. A smooth braided ponytail and an elegant smoky eye with a nude lip. Long black gloves, a metallic cuff and a slim belt carrying a tiny torch and a fake invitation card keep the action hint. A cropped wrap or tailored black jacket adds warmth. I'd keep jewellery minimal so her athletic outline stays the focus. It's a strong choice for a formal event, or for a group where each friend wears a different Lara.
20. Lara Croft Doppelganger Costume
The doppelganger is Lara in reverse: darker and colder. A burgundy tank with black shorts over opaque tights, or black cargos for full coverage, plus a black belt, leg pouches, gloves and tall black boots. A long deep-red wig in a sleek braid or ponytail is what separates her from the original. Long synthetic wigs tangle where the braid rubs the back, so I plait it before putting it on and spray it lightly with a detangler. Sharp black liner, cool contour and a burgundy lip make the face do the work without being frightening. A black backpack, a silver compass and a small plastic glow light finish it. She pairs naturally with a friend in classic teal.
21. Lara Croft Underworld Costume
Underworld Lara is athletic and modern. A fitted brown tank with black shorts, opaque black tights underneath if you like, a wide brown belt, empty thigh straps, fingerless gloves and tall black combat boots. A high ponytail with small braided sections at the sides. Warm contour, brown liner and a peach lip keep it defined but natural. A small backpack, soft rope, a torch and a map case finish the kit. The outfit should look flexible rather than armoured, so I'd pick breathable sportswear and keep every accessory light. It's a good first cosplay, since nothing needs sewing.
22. Lara Croft Jungle Costume
Jungle Lara is greens and browns that look lived-in. A dark green tank, brown cargos rolled a little above rugged ankle boots, a light canvas vest, a utility belt, gloves and several pouches. A loose, slightly untidy braid suits it better than a polished one. Bronze eyes, natural brows and waterproof mascara, then a little washable brown shadow for dirt on the cheeks and forearms. Carry binoculars, a compass, a map and a canteen in a small backpack. A strip of fabric wrapped round one wrist hints at a rough day without any fake injury. Cotton and wicking layers stop you overheating in a crowd.
23. Lara Croft Arctic Wetsuit Costume
Arctic wetsuit Lara combines cold-weather and water gear. A full-length silver-grey athletic bodysuit, or a thermal top and leggings with black side panels, with a cropped white insulated vest over it. Black gloves, a belt, flexible waterproof boots and a grey headband. A tight braid or ponytail that clears the high collar. Cool silver-grey shadow and rosy cheeks suit the setting. Goggles, a waterproof map pouch and a compact torch finish it. Pick matte stretch fabric; shiny metallic spandex looks like a party costume rather than diving gear. It's an unusual Lara that stands out in a group.
24. Lara Croft Guardian Of Light Costume
Guardian of Light keeps the classic colors and adds more kit. A teal tank, tan cargo shorts, tall brown lace-up boots, white socks, black gloves, a brown belt and matching pouches on both legs. Symmetry matters with this one, so I measure both straps to the same height before fixing them. A thick braid with a few strands loose at the face, and warm neutral makeup. A gold-tone pendant, a map scroll, a compass and a small backpack bring the archaeology in. A soft foam climbing hook or coiled rope can come along if the venue allows props. Anyone who loves the original outline but wants more texture will enjoy putting it together.
25. Lara Croft Temple Of Osiris Costume
Temple of Osiris Lara uses rich desert colors. A turquoise tank, warm brown utility trousers or shorts over opaque tights, a structured belt, arm wraps, fingerless gloves and tall brown boots. A neat braid with one or two small gold cuffs threaded on. Bronze shadow, warm blush and a terracotta lip suit it. A canvas backpack, a compass, a rolled map and a sun-shaped pendant complete the kit. I'd leave out anything that looks ceremonial or religious and keep the focus on exploring. Arm wraps made from strips of muslin tea-stained in a bowl look more convincing than bright white bandage.
26. Lara Croft 2013 Survivor Costume
The 2013 survivor look is grounded and very DIY-friendly. A faded grey-blue tank, dark brown cargo trousers, rugged lace-up boots, a slim belt, a canvas side pouch, a wrist wrap and a simple pendant. A messy low ponytail rather than a neat braid. Smudged brown liner, matte bronzer and washable dirt on the cheeks and arms give the weathered finish; I keep it to smudges and avoid anything that looks like a wound. A torch, a backpack, coiled rope and a folded island map make good props. For wear on the tank, dab diluted brown fabric paint along the seams with a sponge, which looks far more real than cutting holes.
27. Lara Croft Mountain Climber Costume
Mountain climber Lara is about durable layers. A burgundy tank under a grey hooded jacket, dark cargos and brown hiking boots. A utility belt with plastic carabiners, soft rope, gloves and a climbing pouch. Real climbing hardware is heavy and clanks into people, so I'd leave it at home for anything public. A low ponytail with small braided sections, cool brown eye makeup and rosy blush give an outdoorsy finish. A headlamp, a map, a compass and a small backpack are useful props. Lightweight nylon and stretch fabrics keep it easy to move in, and it's much warmer than the shorts version.
28. Lara Croft Rise Expedition Costume
Rise expedition Lara layers a burgundy thermal under a weathered grey jacket with fitted brown cargos. A climbing-style belt, fingerless gloves and dark hiking boots. A loose ponytail that looks a little windswept. Keep the face realistic with smudged liner, flushed cheeks and a neutral lip. A canvas backpack, a rolled map, a compass and an LED lantern finish it. A removable faux-fur collar adds texture without weight. I weather the knees, cuffs and boots with dry eyeshadow on an old brush, which fades out in the wash. It earns its keep at outdoor autumn events where you'd want the layers anyway.
29. Lara Croft Leather Jacket Costume
The leather jacket Lara is the one you could wear again in November without anyone noticing. A fitted burgundy henley under a cropped brown faux-leather jacket, charcoal jeans or slim cargos, a dark belt, fingerless gloves and rugged brown ankle boots. A relaxed ponytail with a few loose pieces, brown liner, peach blush and a soft rose lip. A journal, a compass, a torch and a crossbody satchel are the props. Slightly worn faux leather looks right and costs less than the real thing. Fans will spot the reference, while everyone else just sees a sharp outfit.
30. Lara Croft Snow Expedition Costume
Snow expedition Lara is heavy layers. A red thermal henley, a fitted grey insulated jacket, dark weatherproof trousers and sturdy snow boots. Warm gloves, a knit cap, a webbing belt and a backpack with a rolled blanket strapped on. Put the low braid over one shoulder so it stays visible against the jacket. Rosy blush and a touch of cool shimmer around the eyes look frosty. A compass, a headlamp, a map case and a travel mug of something hot are props you'll actually use. If you add white fabric paint to the boot edges, choose one labelled washable. It suits cold climates, because the costume is also your coat.
31. Lara Croft Shadow Costume
Shadow Lara uses navy and olive for a jungle setting. A fitted navy tank, olive cargos, dark brown hiking boots, a light blue scarf at the neck, a brown belt, wrist guards and canvas pouches. A low ponytail with one small side braid. Matte makeup, warm brown shadow, waterproof mascara and a little washable dirt. A map, a torch, a compass and a fabric rope in a worn backpack. A sleeveless olive vest adds coverage and pockets. I'd test-walk in it with the backpack loaded, because pouches, scarf and pack together can feel crowded. The muted palette gives it a real expedition feel.
32. Lara Croft Rainforest Costume
Rainforest Lara is built for warm, sticky weather. A dark teal athletic tank, light khaki cargos and waterproof brown hiking boots. Add a thin utility vest, a woven belt, fingerless gloves and small waist pouches. A loose braided ponytail keeps hair off your neck. Waterproof mascara, tinted moisturizer and a coral lip hold up in heat far better than full foundation. A canteen, binoculars, a folded trail map and a small backpack finish it. A light green rain jacket tied round the waist is both costume and backup. It's the most comfortable choice here for a warm night.
33. Lara Croft Tactical Costume
Tactical Lara is darker and more structured. A charcoal top under a black utility vest, olive cargos and black combat boots. A webbing belt with empty pouches and plastic carabiners, fingerless gloves, an earpiece and clear protective-style glasses. A high braided ponytail. Sharp brown liner, matte skin and defined brows. A torch, a fake ID card, a map case and a backpack finish the kit. I'd leave out anything that looks like real military markings or weapons, because security at many venues will stop you at the door. It looks capable without being aggressive.
34. Lara Croft 2001 Movie Costume
The 2001 film version is black and khaki. A fitted black tank with dark khaki shorts or cargos, a wide black belt, empty thigh straps, fingerless gloves and heavy black boots. A thick braid with a few short pieces framing the face. Strong brows, smoky brown liner, matte bronzer and a beige lip give it confidence. A silver watch, a compact backpack, a map and a torch keep it practical. A lightweight black vest adds coverage. Heavy boots plus straps can rub behind the knee, so I'd wear long socks and break the boots in before the night.
35. Lara Croft 2018 Movie Costume
The 2018 film Lara is stripped back, which makes it brilliant closet cosplay. A fitted grey tank, olive cargos cropped just above dark lace-up boots, a brown belt, wrist wraps, a simple pendant and a small crossbody pouch. A messy low ponytail suits medium or long hair. Minimal makeup with strong brows, smudged brown liner and a little washable dirt on the cheeks and shoulders. A folded map, a compass, rope and a worn backpack. A dark green overshirt tied round the waist adds color. Honestly, if you own cargo trousers and a grey tank, you're most of the way there.
Making Thigh Straps That Don't Slide Down
Sliding leg straps are the most common complaint I hear about a Lara costume, and they're easy to fix. Bought holsters are often cut for a slim thigh and set too low. Making your own takes about an hour.
- Use 25 to 40 mm black or brown nylon webbing with plastic side-release buckles. It's light, it won't stretch, and the buckles let you adjust it once you're dressed.
- Hang each leg strap from the belt with a short vertical strap. That hanger takes the weight, so the band around the thigh only has to hold position, not carry the pouch.
- Fasten the thigh band snugly over the fullest part of the thigh, with one finger's room underneath. Lower, it slips toward the knee as you walk.
- Stitch a strip of silicone grip tape inside each thigh band. It holds on leggings and bare skin far better than tightening the strap.
- Sit down in the full kit before you leave. If a pouch digs in when you sit, move it slightly to the outside of the leg.
Weathering Clothes You Plan to Wear Again
Most of these outfits look better a little worn, but I'd never use permanent dye or sandpaper on pieces you'll want back in the wardrobe. Dry brown or tan eyeshadow rubbed in with an old brush, on the knees, cuffs, pocket edges and boot toes, gives a convincing dusty finish and washes out. For a stronger effect on a thrifted piece you're happy to keep as costume, sponge diluted fabric paint along seams and hems, where real wear happens. Weathering only the edges looks natural. Painting the middle of a shirt just looks like a spill.
Which Lara Suits the Weather on Your Night?
From the teal tank and brown shorts to snow gear, ballgowns, film looks and covered-up tactical kit, there's a Lara for nearly every kind of night. Whichever you pick, the same few details carry her: a tight color palette, brown hair braided or tied back, sturdy boots, natural makeup and light explorer props. Maps, backpacks, compasses, torches and soft rope are safer at public events than anything that looks real. Most versions come together from thrifted cargos, sportswear and a few worn accessories. I'd let the forecast decide first, then comfort, then which era of her you love most.
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