Handmaid Costume
Stand out in the iconic crimson cloak and white winged bonnet.
The Handmaid costume from The Handmaid's Tale is a striking, instantly recognizable look worn by Offred and the other handmaids of Gilead. Popular for its bold visual contrast and cultural resonance, this outfit is simple yet incredibly impactful. The ensemble consists of a long red dress, a matching hooded cloak, and a structured white bonnet.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~15 min
- Budget
- $35–80
Try it on
See yourself as Handmaid
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What you need for a Handmaid costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Handmaid costume — one box instead of 5 pieces.
Red Cloak with Hood
A long, flowing crimson red cloak with an attached hood, reaching down to the ankles.
DIY: Drape a large piece of red fabric or a red bedsheet over your shoulders and secure it with a safety pin.
Red Long-Sleeve Dress
A modest, high-necked, long-sleeve red dress or maxi dress in a matching shade of crimson.
DIY: Wear a plain red long-sleeve t-shirt paired with a long red skirt.
White Bonnet (Wings)
The signature white bonnet with stiffened side panels that frame and obscure the face.
DIY: Cut white poster board into the signature wing shape, fold it, and attach it to a white fabric bonnet or headband.
Brown Leather Boots
Simple, flat brown or dark leather boots or sturdy walking shoes.
DIY: Any plain, dark-colored flat boots or closed-toe shoes will work.
Brown Satchel Bag
A simple, rustic brown canvas or leather crossbody bag used for carrying groceries.
DIY: Use a plain brown reusable grocery tote or a simple brown canvas bag.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Handmaid costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the long-sleeve red dress or your red shirt and skirt combination.
- 2
Lace up the flat brown leather boots over dark socks.
- 3
Drape the red hooded cloak over your shoulders and fasten it at the neck.
- 4
Place the white bonnet on your head, securing the ties under your chin or behind your neck so the stiff wings frame your face.
- 5
Sling the brown canvas satchel bag across your body.
- 6
Pull the red hood of the cloak up over the white bonnet, letting the white wings peek out from underneath.
Makeup & hair
Keep makeup completely natural or wear none at all to match the strict rules of Gilead. Hair should be parted down the middle and tied back in a low, neat bun or braid so it fits comfortably under the bonnet.
Handmaid for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair up with someone dressed as a Commander in a dark suit, or a Guardian in a black tactical uniform.
- group
- Gather a group of friends to walk in pairs wearing matching red cloaks and white bonnets for a powerful group look.
- Plus size
- Look for a loose-fitting red maxi dress and an oversized cloak, which offer a comfortable, flowing fit for all body types.
Tips
- If the bonnet wings droop, reinforce the inside with white cardstock or craft foam to keep them stiff.
- The long layers make this costume excellent for cold weather, but wear light layers underneath if you will be indoors.
- For photos, keep your head slightly cast down with a solemn expression to capture the character's demeanor.
Handmaid costume FAQ
- What do you need for a Handmaid's Tale costume?
- You need a long red dress, a matching red hooded cloak, a structured white bonnet (wings), flat brown boots, and a simple brown satchel bag.
- How do you make the white handmaid bonnet stay stiff?
- You can line the inside of a fabric bonnet with stiff white felt, poster board, or craft foam to help the side wings hold their shape.
- Is the Handmaid costume comfortable for walking?
- Yes, it is very comfortable as it features flat boots and loose, flowing garments, making it ideal for walking in parades or outdoor events.
Did you know? The iconic red and white costumes designed by Ane Crabtree were inspired by a mix of religious garments, mid-century fashion, and the striking contrast of blood red against stark white.