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The Best Sugar Skull Accessories

Last updated on October 14, 2021
Best Sugar Skulls

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Sugar skulls seem to be everywhere these days, particularly when it comes to Day of the Dead celebrations, though they have also been appropriated for Halloween. You can find them printed on clothing, showcased in popular media and featured in décor.

If you are not familiar with sugar skulls, they are a sugar candy in the shape of a skull that are decorated with different colors, smiling faces, roses and other lovely elements. They are most commonly used during Mexico’s Day of the Dead (Dia de Los Muertos), which is a yearly event where people put these sugar skulls on altars and graves to honor their deceased loved ones. Instead of being somber and sad, this festival celebrates death, and sugar skulls serve as a reminder that death has a certain sweetness to it.

The popularity of sugar skulls has spread around the world. It’s easy to find them in artwork, films, television shows and on household items and clothing. Of course, they may not appeal to everyone, but if you or someone you care for does like them, you can shop for slippers, tops, bottoms, mugs, jewelry and countless other items that feature the mesmerizing skull design.

You don’t have to spend too much money on these items, unless you celebrate Dia de Los Muertos for real and want to buy authentic sugar skulls, or if you want to support a Mexican artist. However, if you’re just buying sugar skulls for the aesthetic, make sure that you understand the importance of these skulls to Mexican culture. It’s important to be respectful of the rich tradition of the sugar skull and use its likeness in an honorable way.

Our Picks For The Top Sugar Skull Accessory

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

MRSP Sugar Skull Cosmetic Pouch

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MRSP

Sugar Skull Cosmetic Pouch

Cute and compact, this makeup bag is made from polyester and sports a sweet sugar skull design. It can also be used as a men’s shaving kit and fits neatly into a purse or travel bag. Take it with you on your next overnight or vacation.

Overall Take

Cute Little TotePut all your essentials into this handy, on-trend bag and zip it up to keep everything inside.

 Runner Up

Sister Amy Women’s Sugar Skull Racerback Tank Top

Sister Amy

Women's Sugar Skull Racerback Tank Top

This stylish racerback top comes in a variety of skull designs and has an appealing open back. This top is made from soft, comfortable material and comes in sizes XS to XXXL, so there's an option for everyone.

Overall Take

Spooky and BoldYou’ll want to wear this alluring top by itself to show off your back, or you can tone down the style with a sweater.

 We Also Like

Lazy One Women’s Sugar Skull Fleece-Lined Slippers

Lazy One

Women's Sugar Skull Fleece-Lined Slippers

How cute (and cozy) are these fun-loving sugar skull fuzzy slides? They have miniature images and the words "dead tired" printed on them, and they feature an ultra-soft lining on the inside.

Overall Take

A Treat for Tired ToesAnyone who appreciates eye-catching footwear will love wearing these slippers.

 Strong Contender

Leggings Depot Women’s Sugar Skull High-Waist Joggers

Leggings Depot

Women's Sugar Skull High-Waist Joggers

Sugar skull fans will be thrilled with these black, white, purple and blue joggers. These pants are made with a high drawstring waist, loose fit and elastic ankle cuffs. They're perfect for relaxing around the house or heading to the gym.

Overall Take

Cheery and ColorfulDress up your legs in these lightweight, stretchy joggers.

What to Look For

  • If you want to buy an authentic sugar skull, search for traditional Mexican artists who make them. This is a respectful way to honor Mexican heritage and support makers.
  • Traditional sugar skull colors have specific meanings. Black sugar skulls refer to the Land of the Dead; purple skulls mean pain; pink skulls reference hope; yellow skulls allude to the Mexican marigold; red skulls signify blood and orange sugar skulls indicate sunshine.
  • Small children may be afraid of sugar skulls, so the designs are probably more appropriate for older kids and adults.
  • If you think sugar skulls look scary, shop for designs that are more friendly, with smiles instead of scowls, fun sayings and vibrant colors.

More to Explore

The 2015 James Bond movie “Spectre” includes an incredible Dia de Los Muertos scene, which was filmed in Mexico City’s Zócalo Square. The scene had to be coordinated with government security, the army and the presidential palace.

The film crew hired an impressive 1,500 extras to play revelers, and Bond (played by Daniel Craig) was filmed pursuing a killer into a hotel, up an elevator and through rooftops and different rooms during the event. Toward the end of the scene, Bond triggers an explosion that destroys the hotel, creating excitement and chaos for everyone.

More to explore