Cholo Costume
Nail the classic 90s Chicano subculture look with ease.
The Cholo costume draws inspiration from the iconic 90s Chicano street style and subculture. Popular for its distinct, laid-back aesthetic, this look is highly recognizable and easy to put together using everyday wardrobe staples. The signature style consists of an oversized plaid flannel buttoned only at the top, loose khaki pants, a bandana, and dark sunglasses.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~15 min
- Budget
- $20–60
Try it on
See yourself as Cholo
One clear photo of yourself; we render you in this costume — face untouched, full body, about 20 seconds.
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What you need for a Cholo costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Cholo costume — one box instead of 6 pieces.
Oversized plaid flannel shirt
A loose-fitting flannel shirt in blue, grey, or black plaid, worn open or buttoned only at the very top.
DIY: Use any oversized plaid button-down shirt from your closet.
White tank top
A classic white ribbed cotton undershirt worn beneath the flannel.
DIY: A plain white t-shirt works as an easy substitute.
Loose-fit khaki pants
Beige or tan flat-front work pants, ironed with a sharp crease down the center of each leg.
DIY: Any loose-fitting beige chinos or dark denim jeans.
Paisley bandana
A classic cotton bandana in black, blue, or red, folded into a narrow band.
DIY: Any square cotton scarf folded flat.
Dark sunglasses
Black-framed sunglasses with dark lenses, often in a rectangular or wrap-around style.
DIY: Any dark black sunglasses you already own.
White sneakers
Clean, classic low-top canvas or leather sneakers.
DIY: Any clean white or black athletic shoes.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Cholo costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the white ribbed tank top as your base layer.
- 2
Put on the loose-fit khaki pants, ensuring they are pulled up and neatly creased.
- 3
Layer the oversized plaid flannel shirt over the tank top, buttoning only the very top button at the collar while leaving the rest open.
- 4
Fold the bandana flat into a narrow strip about two inches wide and tie it snugly around your forehead.
- 5
Slide on the dark, black-framed sunglasses.
- 6
Complete the outfit with clean white low-top sneakers.
Makeup & hair
Hair is typically slicked back with gel or covered entirely by the bandana. A neatly trimmed mustache or goatee fits the classic 90s aesthetic.
Cholo for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair up as a Cholo and Chola, with matching plaid shirts, oversized hoop earrings, and lined lips.
- group
- Gather a group wearing coordinating flannel colors (all blue, all grey, or all red) for a unified crew look.
- kids
- A miniature version with a tiny flannel, khakis, and a small bandana tied around the head.
- Plus size
- Choose loose-fit or relaxed-fit work pants and an extra-large flannel for a comfortable, authentic drape.
- pet
- A small dog-sized plaid flannel shirt or a simple bandana tied around your pet's neck.
Tips
- Keep the flannel buttoned only at the top collar to maintain the signature silhouette.
- Ensure your khaki pants are ironed with a sharp front crease for a crisp, authentic look.
- Add temporary line-art or script tattoos on the arms or neck to enhance the 90s aesthetic.
Cholo costume FAQ
- What is the key element of a Cholo outfit?
- The most defining element is the oversized plaid flannel shirt buttoned exclusively at the top collar over a white tank top.
- How do you wear the bandana for this look?
- Fold the bandana flat into a strip about two inches wide, wrap it around your forehead, and tie it securely at the back of your head.
- What kind of shoes go best with this costume?
- Classic low-top sneakers, particularly clean white or black canvas and leather styles, complete the look perfectly.
Did you know? The distinctive style of buttoning only the top button of a flannel shirt originated as a practical way to keep the shirt secure while letting it drape loosely over the waist.