Annie Costume
Bring tomorrow's optimism today in Annie's iconic red and white dress.
Little Orphan Annie is one of the most beloved musical theater characters of all time, famous for her bright optimism and belting voice. Her signature look is instantly recognizable, defined by a vibrant red dress with white accents and a curly red wig. It is a popular choice for theater productions, Halloween, and retro-themed costume parties.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~20 min
- Budget
- $35–85
Try it on
See yourself as Annie
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What you need for a Annie costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Annie costume — one box instead of 7 pieces.
Red A-line dress
A short-sleeved, knee-length red dress with a structured A-line silhouette.
DIY: Use a plain red dress and temporarily fabric-tape white felt trim to the collar and sleeves.
White collar and cuffs
A prominent white Peter Pan collar and matching white cuffs on the sleeves.
DIY: Cut the collar shape out of stiff white felt and safety pin it to the neckline of a red dress.
White waist belt
A simple white sash or belt worn high at the natural waistline.
DIY: Use a strip of wide white ribbon tied neatly in the back.
White bobby socks
Classic ankle-length white socks folded down.
DIY: Fold down any pair of plain white crew socks.
Black Mary Jane shoes
Flat or low-heeled black patent leather Mary Jane shoes with a single strap.
DIY: Use plain black ballet flats or school shoes.
Curly red wig
A short, voluminous, tightly curled bright orange-red wig with bangs.
DIY: If you have hair of a similar length, use tight curlers and temporary red hair spray.
Sandy plush dog
A small plush toy representing a light brown, scruffy mixed-breed dog.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Annie costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the red A-line dress, ensuring it fits comfortably at knee-length.
- 2
Attach the detachable white Peter Pan collar and matching white cuffs if they are not already built into the dress.
- 3
Fasten the white sash or belt around the waist, centering it neatly.
- 4
Style your hair under a wig cap, then secure the curly red wig in place, fluffing the curls to add volume.
- 5
Put on the white bobby socks, folding them down neatly at the ankles.
- 6
Slip into the black patent leather Mary Jane shoes.
- 7
Carry the Sandy plush dog under your arm to complete the classic theatrical look.
Makeup & hair
Keep makeup minimal and youthful with a touch of pink blush on the cheeks and light mascara. The hair is the focal point: a short, highly voluminous wig of tight, bright orange-red curls with short bangs framing the forehead.
Annie for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair up with someone dressed as Daddy Warbucks in a bald cap and a sharp black tuxedo.
- group
- Gather friends to dress as the other orphans in frayed dresses and aprons, or Miss Hannigan in a messy robe.
- kids
- This is a classic kids' costume; use a comfortable cotton red dress and a smaller curly wig.
- Plus size
- Look for an empire-waist or wrap-style red dress that allows for comfortable movement during performances.
- pet
- Dress a medium-sized, light-brown dog in a simple red collar to play the perfect Sandy.
Tips
- Ensure the wig is pinned securely with bobby pins, especially if you plan on dancing or singing.
- Opt for flat Mary Janes rather than heels to stay comfortable walking or trick-or-treating.
- If wearing this in cold weather, add thick white tights instead of bobby socks to stay warm.
- Carry a small locket necklace as an extra nod to the musical's plot.
Annie costume FAQ
- What does Annie wear in the musical?
- Annie famously wears a bright red short-sleeved dress with a white Peter Pan collar, a white waist belt, white bobby socks, black Mary Jane shoes, and her signature curly red hair.
- How do you make a DIY Annie costume?
- Start with a basic red dress. Cut a collar and belt out of white felt or fabric, attach them with fabric glue or safety pins, and pair the outfit with white socks, black flats, and a curly red wig.
- What kind of dog is Sandy in Annie?
- Sandy is a sandy-colored, scruffy mixed-breed dog, often played by a Labradoodle or a terrier mix. Carrying a plush toy dog is an easy way to represent him.
Did you know? The character of Annie first appeared in a 1924 daily American comic strip called 'Little Orphan Annie' before being adapted into the smash-hit Broadway musical in 1977.