What We Do in the Shadows: Nadja Costume Guide
What We Do in the Shadows is a popular mockumentary series that follows the lives of vampire roommates navigating the modern world. One of the standout characters is Nadja, portrayed by Natasia Demetriou. Nadja's unique and elaborate costumes have become iconic, blending Victorian Gothic elements with modern touches. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of how to create a Nadja costume, including where to find key pieces and how to assemble the look.
Understanding Nadja's Style
Nadja's costumes are a mix of Victorian Gothic and modern elements, reflecting her 500-year-old vampire persona. Costume designer Laura Montgomery has emphasized Nadja's evolving style, especially from season three onwards, where her costumes became more elaborate and expressive of her character's growing independence and power.
Key Elements of Nadja's Costume:
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Victorian Gothic Influence: Nadja's outfits often feature high collars, lace, velvet, and dramatic sleeves.
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Modern Touches: Elements like Chanel belts and contemporary accessories are occasionally incorporated.
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Color Palette: Rich, dark colors dominate her wardrobe, with occasional pops of bright colors like red.
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Accessories: Nadja's look is completed with statement jewelry, hats, and sometimes whimsical items like double top hats or chandelier-like glasses.
Essential Components of a Nadja Costume
1. The Dress
The centerpiece of Nadja's costume is her Victorian-inspired dress. These dresses are characterized by their rich fabrics, intricate details, and dramatic silhouettes.
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Materials: Look for dresses made from velvet, satin, or brocade. These materials give the dress a luxurious and authentic feel.
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Design: Key features include high collars, puffed sleeves, and full skirts. Lace details and ruffles add to the Victorian aesthetic.
Where to Buy:
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Amazon: Offers a variety of Nadja-inspired dresses. For example, the "What We Do in the Shadows Nadja Cosplay Dress Victorian Gothic Vampire Costume" is available for around $71.99.
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Etsy: Another great source for unique and custom-made Nadja dresses. Many sellers offer handmade Victorian dresses that can be tailored to your specifications.
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AliExpress: Provides affordable options for Nadja costumes, such as the "What We Do in The Shadows Nadja Cosplay Costume Women Natasia Demetriou Nadja Victorian Dress" priced at approximately $44.25.
2. The Wig
Nadja's long, curly black hair is a signature part of her look. A high-quality wig can make a significant difference in achieving her appearance.
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Style: Look for a wig with long, curly black hair and bangs.
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Quality: Synthetic wigs are a cost-effective option, but human hair wigs offer a more natural look and feel.
Where to Buy:
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Amazon: Offers a variety of wigs suitable for Nadja's look, such as the "Anogol Hair+Cap Black Cosplay Wig With Clip-on Ponytails" for $26.99.
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Crazecosplay.com: Known for its extensive range of cosplay wigs, including options that can be styled to match Nadja's hair.
3. Accessories
Accessories are crucial for completing Nadja's look. These include jewelry, hats, gloves, and other Victorian-inspired items.
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Jewelry: Statement pieces like large rings, necklaces, and earrings.
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Hats: Small top hats or fascinators add a whimsical touch.
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Gloves: Lace or fingerless gloves enhance the Victorian aesthetic.
Where to Buy:
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Amazon: Offers a variety of accessories, such as lace gloves and statement jewelry.
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Etsy: A great source for unique and handmade accessories that can add authenticity to your costume.
Putting It All Together
Once you have gathered all the essential components, it's time to assemble your Nadja costume. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the perfect look:
1. Layering and Fit
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Layering: Victorian dresses often involve multiple layers. Consider adding a petticoat or hoop skirt to give the dress its full shape.
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Fit: Ensure that the dress fits well, especially around the waist and shoulders. A well-fitted dress will enhance the overall look.
2. Makeup
Nadja's makeup is dramatic and complements her Gothic style.
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Foundation: Use a pale foundation to achieve a vampire-like complexion.
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Eyes: Dark, smoky eyeshadow and eyeliner create a dramatic effect.
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Lips: Deep red or burgundy lipstick completes the look.
3. Final Touches
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Posture and Attitude: Nadja's character is confident and commanding. Emulate her posture and attitude to bring the costume to life.
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Props: Consider adding props like a vintage parasol or a faux vampire bite mark to enhance the authenticity.
Inspiration and Variations
Nadja's costumes vary throughout the series, offering plenty of inspiration for different looks. Here are some notable variations:
1. Red Plaid Gown
In the season-four premiere, Nadja wears a striking red plaid gown, a nod to her time with the Worldwide Supreme Vampiric Council in London. This gown features a Vivienne Westwood-inspired V-neckline and a Kate Middleton–esque fascinator.
2. Double Top Hat
One of Nadja's whimsical looks includes a double top hat, showcasing her unique style and sense of humor. This can be recreated with two small top hats combined into one.
3. Modern Elements
Occasionally, Nadja's costumes incorporate modern elements, like a Chanel belt. Mixing Victorian and modern pieces can create a unique and personalized Nadja look.
Conclusion
Creating a Nadja costume from What We Do in the Shadows involves careful attention to detail and a blend of Victorian Gothic and modern elements. By sourcing high-quality pieces and paying attention to the key components of her style, you can achieve an authentic and impressive Nadja look. Whether you're dressing up for Halloween, a cosplay event, or just for fun, this guide provides all the information you need to embody the iconic vampire Nadja.
