The Metamorphosis
The Mexican celebration, Day of the Dead (Día de Los Muertos) typically begins on All Saints Day, the day after Halloween. The traditional holiday of uplifting the lives of the dead is a cultural staple. If you’re unfamiliar with the significance behind Día de Los Muertos, especially when it comes to dressing up on Halloween, be sure to do your research before assembling your outfit. You will want to make sure that your costume is pulled from the proper context to do the sacred holiday justice.
Offerings, parades, music, and all other aspects of the special Day of the Dead wouldn’t be the same without the incredible garb alongside. We’ve gathered the best Day of the Dead costume ideas for you to make it a celebration to remember. Check out our 21 gorgeous picks!
Table of Contents
Our Top 3 Favorite Day of the Dead Costume Ideas
Stunning Day of the Dead Outfit Ideas for Women
Fake Face Tattoos
Source: Etsy
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Calavera fake tattoos are the perfect Day of the Dead idea for those who don’t want to spend hours on elaborate makeup but still want to capture the iconic look. Pair it with a vibrant floral shirt for a simple yet stunning look.
Red Roses
Source: Daily Mail
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Celebrate the mix of Catholic and indigenous customs with this fabulous red roses outfit and body paint. You’ll stand out with the blood-red attire and floral accents.
Rainbow-Colored La Catrina
Source: Daily Mail
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La Catrina is the term describing the skull makeup and embellished outfit traditionally worn on Día de Los Muertos. Try out this colorful idea for your clothes and add a touch of pink makeup to a dark black and pale white sugar skull.
Ball Gown Beauty
Source: My Modern Met
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Skulls and ball gowns do go together. Copy this incredible look with a black corset and long skirt, giant red statement earrings, and your skull candy makeup. For DIY enthusiasts, adding colorful patches to your black skirt is a fun and creative way to make this idea your own!
Traditional China Poblana Style
Source: Glamour Mexico
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Make a masterpiece this Día de Los Muertos with this traditional style china poblana dress influence. Incorporate the dress colors into your sugar skull makeup for a cohesive outfit.
It’s All About the Headpiece
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Source: @lilylove213
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All eyes will be on you when you put together this look. Play around with a timeless appearance of black and white lace for your clothing. Then, make a big statement with a splash of color on your headdress.
Bare Bones and Fierce Flowers
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Source: @kahlovera
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Let your guard down this year. Using a skeleton body paint design or bodysuit with the lush flower features will open you up to an entirely new perspective on the traditional Day of the Dead.
Day of the Dead DIY Headdress
Source: Instagram
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Get ready to create the most iconic costume you’ve ever made. This DIY project takes some time and effort but is hands-down worth it. Use dried flowers on your hairpiece and apply any extra you have to craft some oversized earrings.
Catholic Inspiration
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Source: @lilylove213
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The Day of the Dead is a religious holiday that often incorporates Catholicism in its customs. Add your spiritual twist to your chosen ensemble by dressing it up with crosses on your earrings, clothes, or makeup!
Golden Day of the Dead
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Source: @lilylove213
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Honor the dead this year with a gold and purple aesthetic that will shine throughout the festivities. An outfit idea like this will fill you with sunshine even on dark days.
All Black and White Couples Costume
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Source: @kahlovera
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This Día de Los Muertos outfit idea is perfect for couples who love a dark aesthetic. Though it’s traditional to spruce up a Day of the Dead attire with colorful embellishments, there is still nothing wrong going with this stylish and alternative look.
Bleeding Heart Body Makeup
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Source: @kahlovera
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This costume idea will have everyone’s heart aching for your attention. Have a friend help you paint a winged bleeding heart onto your chest for a powerful and unique design. Or, if you want to go with an easier option, check out our idea for a temporary winged heart tattoo!
Half Skull Half Human Makeup Idea
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Source: @kahlovera
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Embody the best of both worlds with this Day of the Dead makeup look. It’s a great costume for those who want to portray a celebration for dead loved ones while empowering the living flesh we all possess.
DIY Corn Husk Head Piece
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Source: @lilylove213
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This is another unique do-it-yourself Día de Los Muertos headdress idea. Corn husks have been used for centuries to create many items, so take it upon yourself to try out the traditional material for something insanely stylish.
Easy Day of the Dead Costume Idea
Source: Beyond Toy Store
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Keep it simple this year with these Día de Los Muertos masks! Find your favorite design, and you’re ready to celebrate. You can also paint your own design onto a plain white Halloween mask.
Bejeweled And Bedazzled
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Source: @lora_arellano
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We are in love with this show-stopping look! Sparkle throughout the festivities this year with stunning makeup featuring jewels on jewels on more jewels.
The One and Only Smokey Eye
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Source: @irisbeilin
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If there is one thing we all can agree on, it’s that you cannot go wrong with a classic smokey eye look…especially on Day of the Dead! Try out this makeup idea with a colorful flower crown for a simple yet artistic costume.
Fashion-Forward Day of the Dead
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Source: @lilylove213
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Day of the Dead is about bridging the gap between the dead and the living. This year, show your authentic self by using a fashion-forward style while embracing those who have passed away.
Feathers All Over
Source: Daily Bruin
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Add some feathers to those flower features and conceive a unique look this year. When you spread your wings and fly, you’re bound to have a good time.
Masculine Día de los Muertos Costume Idea
Source: Flickr
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Combine your feminine and masculine side with a sleek and sexy suit and a flower cap. There’s nothing wrong with bending gender lines, especially for a fab costume like this!
Day of the Dead Bride
Source: Flickr
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Become a beautiful bride this day after Halloween! Just be sure to do your makeup first, so it doesn’t get all over that wedding gown.
College is about growth and understanding. Do your best to understand the traditions of Day of the Dead when selecting your costume inspiration. Maybe your college has a Latin American culture course that you can take, so you’re well-equipped to participate in this worthwhile and passionate day!
