What are the essential props for a Hermes costume?

The three essential items are the winged helmet (petasos), the winged sandals (talaria), and his herald's staff (the caduceus).

How do I make DIY winged sandals?

Cut wing shapes out of stiff white or gold felt, punch holes along the flat edge, and thread your sandal straps through them to secure them to your ankles.

What is the staff that Hermes carries called?

It is called the caduceus, a short staff entwined by two serpents and topped with wings, symbolizing his role as a messenger.

AI-generated example

Hermes Costume

Deliver divine style as the swift messenger of Mount Olympus.

Hermes, the swift messenger of the Greek gods, is a popular costume choice for mythology fans, historical parties, and Halloween. This classic look features a draped white tunic, golden accents, and his signature winged accessories. With a few key props like winged sandals and the caduceus staff, you can easily bring this Olympian to life.

Difficulty: Medium
Time: ~45 min
Budget: $30–80

See yourself as Hermes →What you need Buy the Hermes costume

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See yourself as Hermes

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Hermes costume — Example look · AI-generated

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What you need for a Hermes costume

Short on time? Buy it ready-made

Spirit Halloween sells the complete Hermes costume — one box instead of 6 pieces.

Shop Hermes at Spirit ↗

White Greek tunic
A knee-length white or cream polyester or linen chiton draped over the shoulders.
DIY: Use a white bedsheet folded and pinned at the shoulders with safety pins.
Amazon
Gold rope belt
A thick metallic gold rope to tie around the waist and hold the tunic in place.
DIY: Braided gold yarn or yellow utility rope.
Amazon
Winged helmet
A gold or bronze-colored cap or helmet featuring small wings on either side.
DIY: Attach painted cardboard wings to a gold plastic costume helmet or a gold headband.
Amazon
Winged sandals
Brown or gold lace-up gladiator sandals with small wings attached to the outer ankles.
DIY: Cut wing shapes out of stiff gold felt and lace them into the straps of regular brown sandals.
Amazon
Caduceus staff
A short golden staff entwined by two snakes and topped with small wings.
DIY: Wrap plastic toy snakes around a wooden dowel, paint the entire assembly gold, and add cardboard wings to the top.
Amazon
Gold shoulder cloak
A short gold fabric cape, also known as a chlamys, fastened at one shoulder.
DIY: Drape a yard of gold satin fabric over one shoulder and secure it with a gold brooch.
Amazon

Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Hermes costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗

How to put it together

1
Put on the white tunic, adjusting the drape so it falls comfortably just above the knees.
2
Tie the gold rope belt snugly around your waist, letting the excess rope hang down the side.
3
Drape the gold shoulder cloak over your left shoulder and secure it with a decorative pin or brooch.
4
Lace up the gladiator sandals, ensuring the attached ankle wings face outward.
5
Place the winged helmet securely on your head, adjusting it so the wings sit symmetrically above your ears.
6
Hold the caduceus staff in your dominant hand to complete the divine messenger look.

Makeup & hair

Keep hair natural or styled in loose, classical curls. A light dusting of gold highlighter on the cheekbones adds a subtle, Olympian glow.

Hermes for couples, groups, kids & more

couples: Pair with Athena, Aphrodite, or Percy Jackson for a mythological duo.
group: Assemble an Olympian council with friends dressed as Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades.
kids: Use a simple white t-shirt, gold ribbon, and cardboard wings taped to sneakers.
Plus size: Opt for an adjustable wrap-around toga or a loose-fitting tunic for maximum comfort.
pet: A small white cape and a golden collar decorated with tiny felt wings.

Tips

Secure the ankle wings tightly to your sandals so they do not slide down or trip you while walking.
If you do not want to wear a full helmet, a gold laurel wreath headband is a comfortable and highly recognizable alternative.
Craft your own wings using stiff gold felt or painted cardboard for an affordable and lightweight DIY project.

Hermes costume FAQ

What are the essential props for a Hermes costume?: The three essential items are the winged helmet (petasos), the winged sandals (talaria), and his herald's staff (the caduceus).
How do I make DIY winged sandals?: Cut wing shapes out of stiff white or gold felt, punch holes along the flat edge, and thread your sandal straps through them to secure them to your ankles.
What is the staff that Hermes carries called?: It is called the caduceus, a short staff entwined by two serpents and topped with wings, symbolizing his role as a messenger.

Did you know? In Greek mythology, Hermes' winged sandals were crafted by Hephaestus, the god of blacksmiths, using imperishable gold.