What kind of dress do I need for a Woman in Black costume?

You need a Victorian or Edwardian style black mourning dress, characterized by a high neckline, long sleeves, and a floor-length skirt.

How do I make a DIY Woman in Black veil?

Cut a yard of sheer black tulle or lace, gather one end, and sew or hot-glue it to a simple black headband or hair comb.

Is the Woman in Black costume comfortable for walking?

Yes, as long as your skirt is hemmed slightly above the ground to prevent tripping, and you wear comfortable black lace-up boots.

The Woman in Black

The Woman in Black Costume

Bring the chilling Edwardian ghost story to life this Halloween.

The Woman in Black is a classic gothic horror figure known for her chilling appearances in Susan Hill's novel and the film adaptation. Perfect for anyone wanting a genuinely scary, mature look, this costume relies on Victorian-era mourning attire. The ensemble features a high-necked black dress, a sheer black veil, and hauntingly pale makeup.

Difficulty: Medium
Time: ~45 min
Budget: $40–120

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What you need for a The Woman in Black costume

Short on time? Buy it ready-made

Spirit Halloween sells the complete The Woman in Black costume — one box instead of 6 pieces.

Shop The Woman in Black at Spirit ↗

High-neck black blouse
A long-sleeved black blouse featuring a high collar, lace detailing, or pleated fabric to mimic Edwardian style.
DIY: Use a plain black long-sleeve shirt and hand-sew a strip of black lace trim around the collar.
Amazon
Long black maxi skirt
A floor-length, flowing black skirt made of structured cotton or polyester to create a Victorian silhouette.
Amazon
Black mourning veil
A sheer black lace or tulle veil attached to a hair comb or simple headband.
DIY: Attach a yard of sheer black tulle to a black headband using hot glue or bobby pins.
Amazon
Black lace gloves
Wrist-length or elbow-length sheer black lace gloves.
Amazon
Victorian-style boots
Black lace-up boots with a modest heel.
DIY: Any plain black lace-up combat boots or dress shoes will work under the long skirt.
Amazon
Gothic makeup kit
Pale white face paint or very light foundation paired with dark grey and black eyeshadow.
DIY: Mix a small amount of white face paint into your regular foundation, and use matte black eyeshadow for the eyes.
Amazon

Rather not assemble it? See ready-made The Woman in Black costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗

How to put it together

1
Put on the high-necked black blouse and tuck it securely into the long black maxi skirt.
2
Lace up your black Victorian-style boots.
3
Apply the pale foundation or white face paint to your face and neck, blending it thoroughly.
4
Use dark grey and black eyeshadow around your eyes and in the hollows of your cheeks to create a sunken, ghostly appearance.
5
Style your hair into a low, neat bun at the nape of your neck.
6
Secure the black mourning veil to your hair using the comb or bobby pins, letting it drape over your face or shoulders.
7
Put on the black lace gloves to complete the Victorian mourning look.

Makeup & hair

Apply a pale, ghostly foundation to your face and neck. Use matte dark grey or black eyeshadow around your eyes and in the hollows of your cheeks to create a sunken, skeletal appearance. Keep hair pinned back in a neat, low Victorian bun.

The Woman in Black for couples, groups, kids & more

couples: Pair with Arthur Kipps wearing a 1910s Edwardian three-piece tweed suit and overcoat.
group: Create a gothic ghost group with other classic literary spirits like a Victorian ghost or the Headless Horseman.
kids: A simplified version using a black long-sleeved dress and a small black tulle veil.
Plus size: An A-line black maxi skirt paired with a stretchy lace-overlay long-sleeve top offers a comfortable, flattering Edwardian silhouette.

Tips

Ensure your veil is sheer enough to see through clearly if you plan to wear it over your face in low-light settings.
Layer thermal undergarments beneath the long skirt and blouse to stay warm during outdoor Halloween events.
Use setting spray on your pale makeup to prevent it from smudging onto your black veil or collar.

The Woman in Black costume FAQ

What kind of dress do I need for a Woman in Black costume?: You need a Victorian or Edwardian style black mourning dress, characterized by a high neckline, long sleeves, and a floor-length skirt.
How do I make a DIY Woman in Black veil?: Cut a yard of sheer black tulle or lace, gather one end, and sew or hot-glue it to a simple black headband or hair comb.
Is the Woman in Black costume comfortable for walking?: Yes, as long as your skirt is hemmed slightly above the ground to prevent tripping, and you wear comfortable black lace-up boots.

Did you know? The 2012 film adaptation starring Daniel Radcliffe became the most successful British horror film in three decades.