Anubis Costume
Embody the ancient Egyptian guardian of the underworld in black and gold.
Anubis, the ancient Egyptian god of funerary rites and protector of graves, is one of mythology's most striking figures. Choosing this costume lets you embody a powerful deity, recognized instantly by his sleek black jackal head and ornate gold armor. The look combines a dark base garment with shimmering gold accessories, a dramatic collar, and a jackal mask.
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Time
- ~45 min
- Budget
- $40–120
Try it on
See yourself as Anubis
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What you need for a Anubis costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Anubis costume — one box instead of 6 pieces.
Anubis Jackal Mask
A molded black mask featuring long, pointed jackal ears, a slender snout, and gold accents around the eyes and ears.
DIY: Paint a plastic dog mask matte black and add gold metallic paint highlights.
Black Tunic or Bodysuit
A form-fitting black long-sleeve shirt and matching pants, or a simple sleeveless black knee-length tunic.
DIY: Cut the sleeves off an oversized black t-shirt and cinch it at the waist.
Egyptian Collar (Nemes-style)
A wide, semi-circular collar featuring alternating metallic gold and black vertical stripes.
DIY: Cut a collar shape from gold poster board and draw black stripes with a thick marker.
Gold Armbands and Cuffs
Matching metallic gold cuffs worn on the wrists and upper bicep bands.
DIY: Wrap gold metallic duct tape around cardboard toilet paper rolls cut to size.
Gold Shendyt (Skirt/Belt)
A gold metallic waist sash or draped skirt piece worn over the black tunic.
DIY: Drape gold metallic fabric around the waist and secure it with a safety pin.
Ankh Staff
A gold-colored staff topped with the traditional Egyptian ankh symbol.
DIY: Cut an ankh shape from cardboard, paint it gold, and attach it to a black wooden dowel.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Anubis costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the black base layer, ensuring a snug and seamless fit.
- 2
Wrap the gold shendyt or sash around your waist, securing it tightly so it drapes in the front.
- 3
Place the wide gold and black Egyptian collar over your shoulders, centering it.
- 4
Slide the gold armbands onto your upper arms and the matching cuffs onto your wrists.
- 5
Put on the black jackal mask, adjusting the straps for a secure fit around your head.
- 6
Pick up the gold ankh staff to complete the powerful, god-like silhouette.
Makeup & hair
Since the mask covers the entire face, makeup is optional. If using a half-mask, apply heavy black eyeliner in a winged 'Eye of Horus' style around the eyes and paint any exposed skin black.
Anubis for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair with Cleopatra, a classic Mummy, or the sun god Ra for an ancient Egyptian duo.
- group
- Gather a pantheon of Egyptian gods including Bastet, Horus, Isis, and Osiris.
- kids
- A simplified version using a black sweat suit, a felt jackal mask, and a gold paper collar.
- Plus size
- A loose-fitting black kaftan or robe provides a comfortable, flowing base under the gold armor pieces.
- pet
- A black dog wearing a lightweight gold collar and a small gold headpiece.
Tips
- Ensure the mask has adequate eye holes and ventilation, especially if wearing it at night or indoors.
- Wear comfortable black leather sandals or black boots to keep the focus on the gold accessories.
- Secure the armbands with double-sided tape if they slide down your arms while walking.
- Pose with your back straight and holding the staff vertically for the most imposing, regal photos.
Anubis costume FAQ
- What does an Anubis costume typically include?
- A standard costume includes a black jackal mask, a wide gold and black collar, matching gold wrist cuffs, a gold waist sash, and sometimes a prop staff.
- How can I make a DIY Anubis mask?
- You can make one using paper mache over a balloon and cardboard ear cutouts, or by painting a plastic canine mask matte black with gold accents.
- Is Anubis a good costume for Halloween?
- Yes, it is a highly recognizable, classic mythological figure that offers a striking, dramatic look with its contrasting black and gold color scheme.
Did you know? In ancient Egyptian art, Anubis was depicted with a black head because black symbolized the color of fertile Nile soil and the discoloration of the body during mummification, representing rebirth.