Salt-N-Pepa Costume
Push it real good in iconic 80s hip-hop style.
Salt-N-Pepa is one of the most influential hip-hop groups of all time, and their 1987 'Push It' music video defined late-80s fashion. This costume recreates their signature look, featuring vibrant color-blocked leather jackets, black unitards, and chunky gold accessories. It is a popular choice for anyone looking to bring high-energy retro music vibes to a party.
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Time
- ~30 min
- Budget
- $45–120
Try it on
See yourself as Salt-N-Pepa
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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What you need for a Salt-N-Pepa costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Salt-N-Pepa costume — one box instead of 5 pieces.
Color-Block 'Push It' Jacket
An oversized faux-leather or polyester bomber jacket featuring bold red, white, yellow, and black color-blocking.
DIY: Use a plain white oversized windbreaker and fabric paint to add red and yellow panels.
Black Unitard or Bodysuit
A form-fitting, sleeveless black spandex unitard or a high-cut bodysuit paired with black leggings.
DIY: Wear a tight black tank top tucked into high-waisted black leggings.
Chunky Gold Chain Necklace
A thick, heavy-looking gold rope chain or link necklace to capture the classic 80s hip-hop aesthetic.
DIY: Paint a thick plastic toy chain with metallic gold spray paint.
Gold Door Knocker Earrings
Large, metallic gold hoop or bamboo-style 'door knocker' earrings.
White Combat Boots or Sneakers
High-top white sneakers or white lace-up combat boots with white socks pulled up.
DIY: Use any clean white athletic shoes you already own.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Salt-N-Pepa costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the black sleeveless unitard or the black tank top and leggings combination.
- 2
Layer the oversized color-blocked 'Push It' bomber jacket over the unitard, leaving it open or slightly zipped at the bottom.
- 3
Put on the white high-top sneakers or combat boots, pulling white crew socks up slightly above the ankle.
- 4
Accessorize with the chunky gold chain necklace and large gold door-knocker earrings.
- 5
Style your hair into an asymmetrical 80s bob or a high-top fade style, and apply bold red lipstick.
Makeup & hair
Style hair into an asymmetrical 80s bob, a high side ponytail, or use a styled wig. Apply bold 80s-style makeup featuring defined eyebrows, dark eyeliner, and a vibrant red lip.
Salt-N-Pepa for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair up as Salt and Pepa, or go as Salt-N-Pepa and DJ Spinderella.
- group
- Form a trio with Salt, Pepa, and DJ Spinderella, all wearing matching color-blocked jackets.
- kids
- A miniature version featuring a colorful windbreaker, black leggings, and faux gold chains.
- Plus size
- Look for oversized bomber jackets and high-stretch spandex unitards for a comfortable, flexible fit.
Tips
- The jacket is the centerpiece; make sure it is oversized to capture the authentic late-80s silhouette.
- Wear comfortable sneakers if you plan on dancing or walking around all night.
- Keep the jacket unzipped to show off the contrast of the black unitard underneath.
Salt-N-Pepa costume FAQ
- What is the most iconic Salt-N-Pepa outfit?
- Their most famous outfit is the 'Push It' look, consisting of oversized red, white, and yellow color-blocked jackets, black unitards, and chunky gold jewelry.
- How do I style my hair for a Salt-N-Pepa costume?
- Go for an asymmetrical cut, a high side ponytail, or a short, styled 80s wig with plenty of volume.
- Can I make this costume last-minute?
- Yes, you can wear a black bodysuit, black leggings, chunky gold jewelry, and any bright red or yellow windbreaker you can find.
Did you know? Salt-N-Pepa's iconic 'Push It' jackets were originally designed by Christopher Martin (Play from Kid 'n Play) and fashion designer Dapper Dan.