Pablo Escobar Costume
Recreate the infamous 1980s cartel boss look with simple retro pieces.
The Pablo Escobar costume, popularized by historical accounts and the hit TV show Narcos, is a popular choice for retro 1980s and pop culture themes. The look is surprisingly casual, consisting of a vintage patterned shirt or sweatshirt, classic blue jeans, and his signature thick mustache. It is an easy-to-assemble costume that relies on recognizable retro styling rather than complex props.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~15 min
- Budget
- $20–60
Try it on
See yourself as Pablo Escobar
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What you need for a Pablo Escobar costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Pablo Escobar costume — one box instead of 5 pieces.
Retro short-sleeve button-down shirt
A light-colored, short-sleeve button-down shirt with a subtle 1980s geometric pattern, floral print, or vertical stripes.
DIY: Use any light-colored, slightly oversized short-sleeve button-down shirt from a thrift store.
Classic blue jeans
Standard straight-leg or relaxed-fit blue jeans in a medium-to-light wash, typical of 1980s fashion.
DIY: Use a pair of broken-in, light-wash denim jeans from your closet.
Fake mustache
A thick, dark brown or black chevron-style mustache that covers the upper lip.
DIY: Draw a thick mustache using a dark brown or black eyebrow pencil or face paint.
White sneakers
Simple, classic white low-top sneakers or retro tennis shoes.
DIY: Any plain white athletic shoes or canvas sneakers will work.
Prop money stack
A small stack of play money secured with a thick rubber band to carry as a subtle prop.
DIY: Wrap a stack of cut green paper or play money with a thick rubber band.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Pablo Escobar costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the light-wash, straight-leg blue jeans.
- 2
Put on the retro patterned button-down shirt, leaving the top one or two buttons undone, and tuck it loosely into the jeans.
- 3
Lace up a clean pair of classic white low-top sneakers.
- 4
Apply the adhesive fake mustache directly centered on your upper lip, pressing firmly to secure it.
- 5
Style your hair with a side part, brushing it slightly over the ears to match the 1980s aesthetic.
- 6
Carry the prop money stack in your hand or let it peek out of your front pocket.
Makeup & hair
Keep makeup natural. Style your hair into a classic 1980s side-parted look, using a light pomade or gel to give it a slightly styled, retro volume. The thick, dark chevron mustache is the key facial feature.
Pablo Escobar for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair with a partner dressed in 1980s Colombian high-fashion (silk blouse, gold jewelry, and voluminous hair) to represent Tata Escobar.
- group
- Have friends dress as DEA agents in beige suits and aviator sunglasses, or cartel associates in vintage silk shirts.
- kids
- A scaled-down version with a printed polo shirt, jeans, and a drawn-on mustache for a funny retro look.
- Plus size
- The relaxed-fit 1980s shirts and straight-leg jeans offer a very comfortable, true-to-era fit for all body types.
Tips
- For a more casual variant, swap the button-down shirt for a light blue or gray crewneck sweatshirt.
- Keep the look recognizable by focusing on the mustache and the tucked-in 80s shirt style.
- Make sure the fake mustache adhesive is skin-safe, or use spirit gum for a hold that lasts all night.
- Keep props simple and legal; stick to basic prop money rolls rather than anything that could be mistaken for contraband.
Pablo Escobar costume FAQ
- What kind of shirt does Pablo Escobar wear?
- He is most famous for wearing light-colored, short-sleeve patterned button-down shirts, polo shirts, or simple crewneck sweatshirts tucked into jeans.
- How do I do the hair for a Pablo Escobar costume?
- Style your hair with a clean side part, blowing it out slightly to get that classic 1980s volume, and pair it with a thick, dark brown chevron mustache.
- Is this costume easy to DIY?
- Yes, it is incredibly easy. Most of the outfit consists of everyday items like light-wash jeans and white sneakers, meaning you only need to source a retro shirt and a fake mustache.
Did you know? The real Pablo Escobar was known for his surprisingly plain wardrobe, often preferring simple, comfortable polo shirts and basic sneakers over flashy luxury clothing.