Joe Goldberg Costume
The ultimate unassuming stalker look from Netflix's hit thriller series.
Joe Goldberg from Netflix's thriller series 'You' is a popular costume choice for his deceptively simple, everyday wardrobe. The look relies on blending into the crowd while keeping a watchful eye from beneath a low-profile baseball cap. With a few basic wardrobe staples like a denim jacket and a dark cap, you can easily pull off this chillingly casual cosplay.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~15 min
- Budget
- $20–70
Try it on
See yourself as Joe Goldberg
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What you need for a Joe Goldberg costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Joe Goldberg costume — one box instead of 7 pieces.
Navy blue baseball cap
A plain, unbranded dark navy blue or black cotton baseball cap worn low over the eyes.
DIY: Use any dark, unbranded baseball cap you already own.
Dark blue denim jacket
A classic, slightly worn-in dark wash denim button-up jacket.
Light blue button-down shirt
A casual light blue chambray or oxford cotton button-down shirt, worn open over a tee.
DIY: A grey or olive green casual button-down shirt also works.
White crewneck t-shirt
A plain, fitted white cotton t-shirt to wear as a base layer.
Navy blue chinos or slacks
Slim-fit navy blue or dark grey casual trousers.
DIY: Dark wash jeans can substitute if needed.
Dark brown leather boots
Simple, rugged dark brown leather or suede work boots or chukkas.
DIY: Any dark, nondescript casual shoes or sneakers.
Vintage book prop
A hardcover classic novel, preferably with a slightly worn or vintage spine.
DIY: Carry any old hardcover book from your shelf.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Joe Goldberg costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the plain white crewneck t-shirt as your base layer.
- 2
Layer the light blue button-down shirt over the t-shirt, leaving it completely unbuttoned.
- 3
Put on the dark wash denim jacket over the shirts, leaving it open as well.
- 4
Put on the navy blue chinos and secure them with a simple brown leather belt.
- 5
Lace up your dark brown leather boots.
- 6
Place the navy blue baseball cap on your head, pulling the brim down low to shade your eyes.
- 7
Carry a vintage hardcover book in one hand to complete the bookstore manager persona.
Makeup & hair
Keep your hair slightly messy and tucked under the sides of the baseball cap. For makeup, a clean-shaven face or light, neat stubble works best to match Joe's clean-cut yet intense appearance.
Joe Goldberg for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair up with someone dressed as Love Quinn in a stylish, trendy green dress or bakery apron.
- group
- Add characters like Beck, Peach, or Marienne to form a full cast group.
- Plus size
- Choose a relaxed-fit denim jacket and stretch-fabric navy chinos for maximum comfort.
Tips
- Keep the baseball cap pulled low to cast a shadow over your eyes for photos.
- Practice a neutral, intense, or slightly brooding expression to capture the character's internal monologue vibe.
- This is an excellent cold-weather costume because of the practical, warm layers.
- Keep your hands in your pockets or hold the book close to your chest to look unassuming.
Joe Goldberg costume FAQ
- What makes the Joe Goldberg costume recognizable?
- The key is the combination of the plain navy baseball cap pulled low, the layered denim jacket, and carrying a vintage book. Without the cap and the book, it just looks like everyday casual wear.
- Can I wear black instead of navy?
- Yes, a black baseball cap and black or dark grey pants work perfectly fine as long as the overall silhouette remains dark and unassuming.
- What is Joe Goldberg's style called?
- His style is often described as 'normcore' or classic Americana casual, consisting of basic, functional layers like denim, t-shirts, and chinos.
Did you know? Penn Badgley, who plays Joe Goldberg, has frequently spoken out about how viewers shouldn't romanticize his character despite his charming, unassuming wardrobe.