Do it yourself catwoman costume ideas 2024

The Basics: Choosing Your Catwoman

• Michelle Pfeiffer's Catwoman from "Batman Returns" (1992)
• Anne Hathaway's Catwoman from "The Dark Knight Rises" (2012)
• Classic comic book Catwoman
• Eartha Kitt's Catwoman from the 1960s Batman TV series

The Catsuit

1. Store-bought option: Purchase a black bodysuit or catsuit from a costume shop or online retailer. Look for one made of stretchy material like spandex or latex for a sleek look.

2. DIY option: If you're handy with a sewing machine, you can create your own catsuit using a black stretchy fabric like spandex or PVC. Use a bodysuit pattern and adjust it to fit your measurements.

3. Budget-friendly alternative: For a quick and easy solution, pair black leggings or tight black pants with a black long-sleeved top or turtleneck.

The Mask and Ears

1. Mask:
   1. Purchase a simple black eye mask from a craft store or costume shop.
   2. Alternatively, cut an eye mask shape from black felt or faux leather.
   3. For a more elaborate look, create a full-face mask using black fabric or leather, leaving openings for the eyes and mouth.

2. Cat Ears:
   1. Cut two triangular ear shapes from black felt or craft foam.
   2. Attach the ears to a black headband using hot glue or stitching.
   3. For a more secure fit, sew the ears directly onto the mask or create a full headpiece.

Gloves and Boots

1. Gloves:
   1. Use long black gloves that extend above the elbow for a classic look.
   2. For Anne Hathaway's version, opt for shorter, more tactical-looking gloves.
   3. To add claws, glue fake nails or craft foam claw shapes to the fingertips of your gloves.

2. Boots:
   1. Choose black knee-high or thigh-high boots with a slight heel.
   2. For a more practical option, black combat boots or ankle boots work well.

Accessories

1. Belt:
   1. Use a black leather or faux leather belt worn low on the hips.
   2. For a more tactical look, add small pouches or a utility belt.

2. Whip:
   1. Purchase a prop whip from a costume shop.
   2. Alternatively, braid three long strips of black fabric or leather to create a DIY whip.

3. Goggles (optional):
   1. For Anne Hathaway's Catwoman, add a pair of sleek, high-tech looking goggles that can be worn on top of the head.

Makeup and Hair

1. Makeup:
   1. Apply a smoky eye look using black and gray eyeshadows.
   2. Use black eyeliner to create a dramatic cat-eye effect.
   3. Choose a nude or dark red lipstick, depending on your preferred Catwoman version.

2. Hair:
   1. For short hair, style it in sleek waves or spikes.
   2. If you have long hair, consider a high ponytail or tucking it into your mask.
   3. For specific character looks, you may want to use a wig (e.g., a short black wig for Anne Hathaway's version).

Putting It All Together

1. Start by putting on the catsuit or your black base outfit.
2. Add the boots and gloves.
3. Secure the belt around your hips.
4. Put on the mask and ear headpiece.
5. Apply your makeup.
6. Style your hair or put on the wig.
7. Add any final accessories like the whip or goggles.

Tips for a Purr-fect Catwoman Costume

1. Comfort is key: Ensure that your costume allows for easy movement, especially if you plan to wear it for an extended period.

2. Practice your poses: Catwoman is known for her feline grace and agility. Practice some cat-like poses to really embody the character.

3. Consider the weather: If you're wearing your costume outdoors, think about adding layers or choosing materials appropriate for the temperature.

4. Safety first: If you're adding claws to your gloves, make sure they're not too sharp or dangerous.

5. Attention to detail: Small touches like painted nails or a cat-themed necklace can elevate your costume.

Variations and Inspirations

1. Vintage Catwoman: For a 1960s-inspired look, add a gold belt and necklace to your black catsuit, and consider a more exaggerated cat-eye makeup.

2. Steampunk Catwoman: Incorporate brass goggles, gears, and a corset into your costume for a unique steampunk twist.

3. Casual Catwoman: For a more subtle nod to the character, wear black leggings, a black top, cat ears, and dramatic cat-eye makeup.

4. Comic Book Catwoman: Use fabric paint or white-out to add stitching details to your catsuit, mimicking the look of comic book illustrations.

Final Thoughts