Miss Congeniality Costume
Transform from FBI special agent to pageant queen with Gracie Hart's look.
This costume recreates Gracie Hart's iconic undercover pageant look from the hit comedy Miss Congeniality. Perfect for movie fans and anyone looking for a mix of glamour and comedy, this outfit pairs a formal pageant gown with unexpected tactical accessories. The look is instantly recognizable by the signature 'Miss United States' sash and tiara.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~30 min
- Budget
- $40–120
Try it on
See yourself as Miss Congeniality
One clear photo of yourself; we render you in this costume — face untouched, full body, about 20 seconds.
One render, $1. No account needed — if it fails you're not charged. Pricing.
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Want a different costume on this photo, or a whole group in costume? Open the Try-On Studio.
What you need for a Miss Congeniality costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Miss Congeniality costume — one box instead of 5 pieces.
Pink Pageant Dress
A strapless or drape-sleeve light pink or peach-colored satin gown.
DIY: Use a pink maxi dress or a pink satin bridesmaid dress.
Miss United States Sash
A white satin sash with 'Miss United States' printed in gold or black lettering.
DIY: Write 'Miss United States' on a wide white satin ribbon using a fabric marker or gold glitter paint.
Pageant Tiara
A rhinestone crown or tiara that sits securely on the head.
Toy Handcuffs and Holster
A black faux-leather thigh holster or belt holster with toy handcuffs to show off the undercover FBI agent theme.
Faux Rose Bouquet
A bunch of artificial red roses to carry as the pageant winner.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Miss Congeniality costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the pink satin pageant dress and secure any straps or zippers.
- 2
Attach the black tactical thigh holster or belt holster over or under the dress slit to reveal the FBI gear.
- 3
Drape the 'Miss United States' sash across your shoulder, pinning it at the hip so it stays in place.
- 4
Style your hair in voluminous pageant curls and secure the rhinestone tiara on top.
- 5
Tuck the toy handcuffs into your holster or carry them in one hand.
- 6
Hold the bouquet of red roses in your arms to complete the pageant-winner look.
Makeup & hair
Style your hair in high-volume, glossy pageant curls. Apply classic glam makeup with pink lipstick, defined eyeliner, and a touch of blush.
Miss Congeniality for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair with an FBI agent in a dark suit, sunglasses, and an earpiece to represent Eric Matthews.
- group
- Have friends dress as other state contestants (e.g., Miss Rhode Island) with custom sashes.
- kids
- A pink dress, mini tiara, and a custom 'Miss Congeniality' sash make a cute, simple kids' outfit.
- Plus size
- A flowy, empire-waist pink maxi dress offers a comfortable and flattering fit for this look.
Tips
- Secure the tiara with bobby pins so it doesn't slip off while walking or dancing.
- Wear comfortable heels or even nude flats, as the long gown will cover your feet.
- Keep a straight face or strike a funny 'tactical' pose in photos to contrast with the glamorous dress.
Miss Congeniality costume FAQ
- What does the Miss Congeniality sash say?
- The sash worn by Gracie Hart in the movie says 'Miss United States', though some costumes use 'Miss Congeniality'.
- How do I make this costume look more like an FBI agent?
- Add subtle tactical elements like a toy earpiece, a badge clipped to your sash, or toy handcuffs peeking out from a dress slit.
- What color is the dress from the movie?
- Gracie Hart wears a light pink/peach strapless gown during the main pageant sequence, which is the most popular version to recreate.
Did you know? The famous 'April 25th' line from the pageant scene was inspired by a real-life pageant contestant's answer.