Christopher Columbus Costume
Set sail for history in a classic Renaissance explorer outfit.
The Christopher Columbus costume is a popular choice for historical school presentations, theater productions, and educational events. The look is based on traditional late 15th-century European explorer attire, featuring layered robes, a velvet coat, and classic navigation props. It captures the classic Renaissance aesthetic with rich textures like velvet and faux fur.
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Time
- ~45 min
- Budget
- $35–85
Try it on
See yourself as Christopher Columbus
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What you need for a Christopher Columbus costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Christopher Columbus costume — one box instead of 7 pieces.
Velvet doublet or coat
A deep blue, brown, or burgundy velvet coat with faux fur trim along the collar and front edges.
DIY: Trim a long, dark-colored winter coat or robe with strips of faux fur fabric.
Under-tunic or robe
A long-sleeved, high-collared white or cream pullover shirt or lightweight tunic.
DIY: Use an oversized white button-down shirt with the collar turned up.
Renaissance hat
A flat-crowned, foam-backed velvet hat or a soft Tudor bonnet in black or dark brown.
DIY: Cut and sew a circular piece of black felt or velvet, gathering the edges onto a thick headband.
Fabric belt
A simple black or brown tie-on sash or a faux-leather belt to cinch the tunic at the waist.
DIY: Use a long strip of brown fabric or a simple dark leather belt.
Tights or breeches
Snug-fitting black tights, leggings, or dark brown Renaissance breeches.
DIY: Wear a pair of fitted black thermal pants or slim-fit black sweatpants.
Explorer boots
Knee-high brown or black leather boots, or matching boot covers.
DIY: Wear dark brown dress shoes with tall brown socks pulled up to the knee.
Handheld telescope
A collapsible brass spyglass or telescope prop to represent navigation.
DIY: Paint a cardboard paper towel roll gold and black to look like a vintage spyglass.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Christopher Columbus costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the black tights or fitted pants as your base layer.
- 2
Slip on the long-sleeved white or cream shirt, pulling the collar up so it is visible.
- 3
Layer the dark velvet doublet or faux-fur-trimmed coat over the white shirt.
- 4
Fasten the belt or sash around your waist over the coat to secure the layers.
- 5
Put on the knee-high boots or slip the boot covers over your regular shoes.
- 6
Place the velvet flat hat squarely on your head, letting your hair show underneath.
- 7
Carry your telescope or a small globe prop to complete the historical explorer look.
Makeup & hair
Keep makeup natural or minimal. For hair, style it in shoulder-length loose waves or wear a dark brown, pageboy-style wig if your hair is short.
Christopher Columbus for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair with Queen Isabella of Spain in a royal Renaissance gown.
- group
- Go as a crew of explorers alongside figures like Ferdinand Magellan or Amerigo Vespucci.
- kids
- A simplified version with a felt tunic, soft hat, and a lightweight plastic telescope.
- Plus size
- Opt for a loose-fitting, open-front velvet robe cinched with an adjustable tie-on sash for a comfortable fit.
Tips
- Velvet and faux fur can get warm indoors; choose lightweight polyester velvet blends for comfort.
- If using this for a school presentation, carry a rolled-up parchment map as an easy, lightweight prop.
- Ensure your boots or boot covers are comfortable for walking if wearing this to an event or parade.
Christopher Columbus costume FAQ
- What are the key accessories for a Christopher Columbus costume?
- The essential accessories are a flat Renaissance velvet hat, a handheld brass telescope (spyglass), and a rolled-up parchment map or small globe.
- How can I make a DIY Columbus costume?
- You can assemble one using a long dark coat trimmed with faux fur, a white collared shirt underneath, black leggings, and a homemade felt flat hat.
- What kind of hat did Christopher Columbus wear?
- He is traditionally depicted wearing a flat-topped, brimless velvet hat or a Tudor bonnet common among wealthy Europeans in the late 15th century.
Did you know? Because no portraits of Christopher Columbus were painted during his lifetime, all historical costume designs are based on paintings created years after his death.