What did Julius Caesar actually wear?

Historically, as a Roman senator and general, Caesar wore a white wool toga with a wide purple border (toga praetexta) and a laurel wreath awarded for military triumphs.

How do you make a Julius Caesar costume at home?

You can easily make one using a white bedsheet wrapped as a toga, a red bedsheet or fabric scrap pinned as a shoulder sash, and a gold-painted cardboard laurel wreath.

What shoes should I wear with a Caesar costume?

Brown or tan leather sandals, preferably with straps that wrap around the ankle, are the most historically accurate and visually fitting choice.

AI-generated example

Julius Caesar Costume

Rule the empire in a classic Roman toga and gold laurel wreath.

Julius Caesar is one of history's most famous Roman generals and statesmen, making him a timeless choice for Halloween or historical parties. The classic look centers on a white Roman tunic or toga paired with a royal red shoulder drape and a gold laurel leaf crown. It is an easy-to-assemble, instantly recognizable costume that commands authority in any room.

Difficulty: Easy
Time: ~20 min
Budget: $25–75

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What you need for a Julius Caesar costume

Short on time? Buy it ready-made

Spirit Halloween sells the complete Julius Caesar costume — one box instead of 5 pieces.

Shop Julius Caesar at Spirit ↗

White Roman Tunic
A knee-length or ankle-length white tunic or toga made of lightweight cotton or polyester, often featuring gold trim along the hem and collar.
DIY: Wrap a white twin-sized bedsheet around your body and secure it over one shoulder with a safety pin.
Amazon
Red Shoulder Drape
A crimson or burgundy fabric sash or cloak that drapes over one shoulder and flows down the back to signify senatorial status.
DIY: Use a length of red fabric or a red scarf pinned to the shoulder of your toga.
Amazon
Gold Laurel Wreath Crown
A metallic gold headband shaped like laurel leaves, worn resting on top of the head.
DIY: Cut leaf shapes out of gold cardstock or paint faux silk leaves gold, then glue them to a simple plastic headband.
Amazon
Gold Rope Belt
A braided gold cord or a faux-leather belt with gold accents to cinch the waist of the tunic.
DIY: Use a length of thick yellow or gold utility rope tied in a simple knot.
Amazon
Roman Sandals
Brown or tan leather-look flat sandals with straps that wrap around the ankle or lower calf.
DIY: Wear simple brown leather flip-flops or slide sandals.
Amazon

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

How to put it together

1
Put on the white tunic or toga, ensuring it hangs evenly around your knees or ankles.
2
Tie the gold rope belt securely around your waist, pulling a small amount of tunic fabric over the belt to create a slight overhang.
3
Attach the red shoulder drape to your left shoulder using a safety pin or the built-in clasp, letting it flow diagonally across your chest and down your back.
4
Place the gold laurel wreath headband on your head, positioning it slightly forward toward your forehead.
5
Lace up your Roman sandals, wrapping the straps around your ankles or lower calves if applicable.
6
Optional: Carry a rolled-up paper scroll tied with a red ribbon to represent Roman decrees.

Makeup & hair

Style your hair in a classic Roman crop, brushed forward toward the forehead. Keep makeup clean and natural, focusing on a neat, clean-shaven appearance.

Julius Caesar for couples, groups, kids & more

couples: Pair up with Cleopatra in an Egyptian gown or a Roman senator in a matching toga.
group: Assemble a Roman Senate or a legion of Roman soldiers wearing plastic chest plates and carrying shields.
kids: A simple white tunic with a red sash and a lightweight plastic gold leaf headband.
Plus size: A loose-fitting, adjustable wrap toga provides a comfortable and highly customizable fit.
pet: A small red cape and a miniature gold felt leaf collar for your dog.

Tips

Wear light-colored shorts and a white t-shirt underneath your toga for comfort and coverage.
If using a bedsheet for a DIY toga, look up a 'toga wrapping guide' online and secure it with safety pins to prevent slipping.
Opt for flat, comfortable sandals if you plan to walk or stand for long periods.
Keep the red drape pinned securely to your shoulder so it does not drag on the ground or trip you up.

Julius Caesar costume FAQ

What did Julius Caesar actually wear?: Historically, as a Roman senator and general, Caesar wore a white wool toga with a wide purple border (toga praetexta) and a laurel wreath awarded for military triumphs.
How do you make a Julius Caesar costume at home?: You can easily make one using a white bedsheet wrapped as a toga, a red bedsheet or fabric scrap pinned as a shoulder sash, and a gold-painted cardboard laurel wreath.
What shoes should I wear with a Caesar costume?: Brown or tan leather sandals, preferably with straps that wrap around the ankle, are the most historically accurate and visually fitting choice.

Did you know? The laurel wreath worn by Julius Caesar was not just a symbol of victory; historical accounts suggest he also wore it frequently to help conceal his thinning hair.