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The Best Women’s Costumes

Last updated on November 20, 2023

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When buying costumes for women, it is important to first consider the look you’re going for. Is it a Halloween party you’re shopping for? A masquerade ball? Or just a casual costume party? The sort of gathering, plus any themes the hosts might have planned, could help you narrow down what costume to buy.

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There are countless costume styles available online for every type of event imaginable. From superheroines to butterflies and hippies to princesses, there’s something for everyone and for all occasions.

When planning your outfit, keep the weather in mind. If you live in a colder climate and are attending a holiday party or a Halloween gathering, you might want a costume that includes pants or tights, plus the ability to add layers. If you size up, you might even be able to fit a jacket underneath your costume.

You should also think about the materials the costume is made of, as some fabrics may be too delicate to machine-wash. If you want to wear yours more than once but are unable to wash it, dry-cleaning may be your only option if the manufacturer indicates that’s acceptable. You might also just spritz your costume with Febreze or a similar product to freshen it up.

Remember that most costumes are not designed for daily wear and tear. Therefore, it is essential that they be properly cared for in order to keep them looking their best. For costumes that can be washed, read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that it is done properly.

Use a gentle detergent and cold water to help preserve the color and fabric of the costume. Always air-dry your costume rather than using a tumble dryer, as this may cause shrinkage or damage to the fabric.

If your costume has any sequins, beads or other embellishments, it is best to hand-wash them with a light detergent and line dry. If you take all necessary precautions to care for your costume properly, you will be able to enjoy it for many celebrations to come!

Our Picks For The Top Women's Costumes

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

Spooktacular Creations Women’s Butterfly Wing Cape Costumes

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Spooktacular Creations

Women's Butterfly Wing Cape Costumes

If you have dreams of being a butterfly for your next costume party, this set is the perfect choice. It comes with a gorgeous pair of polyester wings in your color of choice, plus a lace mask and a headband that includes two antennae on top.

Overall Take

Elegant InsectFlit beautifully into any costume party as a butterfly with this easy-to-wear dress-up set.

 Runner Up

Dreamgirl Women’s Sexy Little Red Riding Hood Costumes

Dreamgirl

Women's Sexy Little Red Riding Hood Costumes

Want to be Little Red Riding Hood? This feminine and adult take on the classic storybook character features a dress with a corset-look top and short skirt. A red cape with a hood completes the look. You'll buy stockings separately.

Overall Take

A Grown-Up TakeWow everyone when you elevate Little Red Riding Hood to impart a more mature vibe.

 We Also Like

Zhitunemi Women’s Medieval Peasant Costume Under Dress

Zhitunemi

Women's Medieval Peasant Costume Under Dress

This comfortable, flowing peasant costume can double as a layer under your gown or work well on its own for a medieval-style costume. It has an elastic waist and a square, off-shoulder top and comes in different colors.

Overall Take

Layer or Go SoloLayer this peasant-style chemise with a Renaissance dress for the perfect faire look.

 Strong Contender

SATINIOR Women’s Hippie Costume Set

SATINIOR

Women's Hippie Costume Set

If you have dreams of being a hippie, let this costume do the work. It comes with the dress and all the accessories you'll need to complete your look ((headband, necklace, earrings, ankle socks with tassles). All you have to bring is a chill vibe.

Overall Take

So GroovyThe perfect hippie outfit, this costume is fun, flirty, colorful and even looks authentic.

What to Look For

  • Size up if you’ll need to wear a jacket or other layers beneath your costume.
  • Find accessories or makeup to match your costume so you can really make a statement.
  • Be sure your costume is appropriate for the setting of your party. For instance, a costume that is very violent might not be right for a gathering with children. The same goes for risqué costumes that could fit in at an adults-only celebration, but not at a birthday party.
  • Most costumes don’t come with footwear, so dig through your closet to find something that will coordinate with your outfit.
  • Read the product description carefully to get an idea about what pieces do come with your costume.

More to Explore

The masquerade ball is a centuries-old tradition that has been enjoyed in countries around the world. While masks are commonly associated with these events, many masquerade balls feature elaborate costumes and headpieces as well.

Masquerades originated in the 14th and 15th centuries as part of the European carnival tradition, when villagers donned costumes to take part in pageants and processions. During the Renaissance, people from all social classes would attend masquerade balls and dress up to hide their identities. In more modern times, masquerade balls are often held as charity events or private parties. They are also a popular theme for weddings and proms.

More to explore