What kind of hat does Jack the Ripper wear?

He is traditionally depicted wearing a black Victorian top hat or a bowler hat, which fits the late 19th-century London setting.

How can I make a DIY Jack the Ripper costume?

You can assemble this easily using a black trench coat, a dark vest over a white collared shirt, a black top hat, and a white scarf tied as a cravat.

Is a prop knife necessary for this costume?

While a prop knife helps identify the character, you can also carry a vintage-style lantern or a pocket watch to emphasize the Victorian mystery theme instead.

AI-generated example

Jack the Ripper Costume

Bring the dark mystery of Victorian London to life with this look.

The unidentified serial killer who haunted the foggy streets of Whitechapel in 1888 remains one of history's most infamous figures. A popular choice for historical horror fans, this costume captures the classic Victorian gentleman aesthetic with a dark, sinister twist. The look relies on a dramatic black cape, a period vest, a top hat, and a prop knife to evoke the eerie atmosphere of 19th-century London.

Difficulty: Medium
Time: ~30 min
Budget: $45–120

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Jack the Ripper costume — Example look · AI-generated

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What you need for a Jack the Ripper costume

Short on time? Buy it ready-made

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

Shop Jack the Ripper at Spirit ↗

Black top hat
A structured black felt or velvet stovepipe top hat, optionally trimmed with a red or black band.
DIY: Use a black bowler hat or construct a top hat out of stiff black poster board.
Amazon
Black double-breasted cape
A knee-length black velour or wool cloak or duster coat with a dramatic shoulder overlay.
DIY: Drape a length of black fabric over your shoulders and secure it with a vintage brooch.
Amazon
Victorian vest
A button-up brocade or velvet vest in dark red, burgundy, or patterned black.
DIY: Use a modern formal vest and sew on vintage-style brass buttons.
Amazon
White ruffled jabot or cravat
A white or cream satin neck tie or ruffled lace jabot worn under the vest.
DIY: Tie a white silk scarf or bandana around the neck, tucking the ends into the vest.
Amazon
Black dress pants
Standard black trousers or slacks to maintain the formal Victorian silhouette.
DIY: Any clean, dark-colored formal trousers will work.
Amazon
Toy vintage knife
A safe plastic prop knife, styled like a vintage carving knife or scalpel, optionally detailed with fake blood.
DIY: Cut a knife shape out of thick cardboard, paint the blade silver, and wrap the handle in black tape.
Amazon

Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Jack the Ripper costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗

How to put it together

1
Put on a white collared dress shirt and tuck it into your black dress pants.
2
Fasten the ruffled jabot or tie the white cravat around your collar.
3
Button the red or patterned Victorian vest over the shirt.
4
Drape the black cape or duster coat over your shoulders, securing it at the neck.
5
Place the black top hat firmly on your head, tilting it slightly forward for a mysterious shadow.
6
Carry the prop knife in one hand, keeping your posture upright and formal.
7
Put on black dress shoes or boots to complete the historical look.

Makeup & hair

Keep hair neatly slicked back under the hat. For makeup, apply a pale foundation to look cold and ghostly, with dark grey eyeshadow blended lightly under the eyes to create a tired, hollowed-out Victorian appearance.

Jack the Ripper for couples, groups, kids & more

couples: Pair with a Victorian-era street vendor or a classic London detective carrying a magnifying glass.
group: Gather a group dressed as Victorian citizens, a bobby police officer, and the Ripper lurking in the shadows.
kids: A simplified version with a small black cape, top hat, and a harmless foam prop.
Plus size: Look for adjustable lace-up backs on Victorian vests and wide-cut capes for a comfortable fit.
pet: A small black cape and a tiny felt top hat secured with an elastic band.

Tips

If wearing a heavy velvet cape, choose a lightweight shirt underneath to avoid overheating indoors.
Add a pocket watch with a chain hanging from your vest pocket for extra historical authenticity.
For outdoor events, a black trench coat or duster can substitute for the cape to keep you warm.
Keep the prop knife safely stowed in a pocket or belt loop when not posing for photos.

Jack the Ripper costume FAQ

What kind of hat does Jack the Ripper wear?: He is traditionally depicted wearing a black Victorian top hat or a bowler hat, which fits the late 19th-century London setting.
How can I make a DIY Jack the Ripper costume?: You can assemble this easily using a black trench coat, a dark vest over a white collared shirt, a black top hat, and a white scarf tied as a cravat.
Is a prop knife necessary for this costume?: While a prop knife helps identify the character, you can also carry a vintage-style lantern or a pocket watch to emphasize the Victorian mystery theme instead.

Did you know? The nickname 'Leather Apron' was widely used by London journalists and locals before the famous 'Dear Boss' letter popularized the name 'Jack the Ripper' in late 1888.