How to Create a Banshee Costume for Halloween

Banshees are as much a part of Irish myth and legend as are leprechauns. These creatures are thought to move around aimlessly mourning the death of a loved one. Known for their high pitched wails, they can be young or old but always have long, white hair that appears disheveled and wild. They are frequently dressed in long white or pale gray flowing gowns that match the color of their hair as well as their pallid complexions. Their appearance can be frightening, making them the perfect creature to imitate for Halloween, particularly since the holiday was originated by the Celts.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Face paint
• White sheet or fabric
• Strips of additional pale gray or silver sheer fabric or ribbon
• White, gray or silver hair paint or powder
• Stiff hair gel
• Whistle with rope or chain

1. Design the costume on paper, complete with hair and make up. This will help to identify the items needed to complete the overall look.

2. Cut the sheet or white fabric to fit the child who will be wearing the Banshee costume. Make a hole in the center of the fabric just large enough for the child’s head. Sew the neckline closed to make certain that the dress will remain in place. Stitch the fabric loosely around the arms to form a free-flowing sleeve. Cut off the bottom of the dress just above the ground so that the child won’t trip as she walks.

3. Sew somewhere between 20 to 45 additional strips of pale gray or silver sheer fabric or ribbon, each about three to four inches in width, to the shoulders of the costume. Let each of them hang free down the front and back of the dress. Attach additional shorter strips along the underneath side of the sleeve line as well.

4. Back comb the child’s hair to form a spiky, frightening hairdo. Use a stiff hair gel to hold the pieces into place. The more disheveled the overall look, the better.

5. Spray the hair white, gray, or silver with hair paint or simply coat the hair very heavily with talcum powder.

6. Use face paint to cover the child’s face and hands in a pallid white or gray color.

7. Put a whistle on a string or chain and tie it around the child’s neck, inside the garment. It can be used to simulate the Banshee wail if or when the child’s voice isn’t capable of making the high pitched sound.

Tips & Warnings

• A white bed sheet works best for the base of the Banshee costume. It has just the right amount of body to flow properly while also adequately covering the child.

• White gauze works wonderfully for the sheer strip additions to the costume.

• It is better if the sheer strips are partially torn or frayed and are sewn haphazardly onto the dress. This will help to give the piece a more authentic Banshee look.

• If white fabric is used instead of a sheet, try white muslin or cotton. Stay away from fabrics that are shiny.

• Substitute a very muted green or blue color for white, gray, or silver if desired.

• Be sure that the hair and face paint chosen are hypoallergenic and environmentally safe.