Pirate Costumes Ideas
Pirates are one of the most popular subjects for Halloween and party costumes year after year. While many people rent or buy costumes, it is not difficult to make a pirate outfit yourself by simply selecting the right types of ordinary clothing. The guidelines below will take you through the basic fundamentals of putting together a homemade pirate costume.
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Shirt
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One of the first things to consider in putting together a pirate costume is whether or not you will be wearing a shirt. Shirtless pirate costumes are easier as they eliminate a potential hurdle, but are in many cases inappropriate. For those wearing shirts and without access to special-made costume "pirate shirts," the best thing is to look for a loose-fitting button-down shirt in a natural fiber. Avoid any stretch materials, as that would be inappropriate for the time period. An oversized white dress shirt will work in a pinch, though you should make sure to leave the collar and perhaps the first button undone, and it helps if the shirt is very rumpled and worn-looking.
Pants
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It is relatively easy to find workable pants for a pirate costume. Most pairs of loose-fitting, nondescript gray or brown pants without obviously modern features like leg pockets will work. Again, stick to natural fibers if possible and avoid anything stretchy or tight-fitting. Both the top and the bottom of the pants will be covered (by the shirt and boots, respectively), so it doesn't matter much what they look like.
Belt
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Look for one or two wide, plain leather belts; one to use as a belt and, if you can find a second, one to use as a bandolier. You should wear the belt over the shirt (which you should not tuck in so that i helps conceal the top of your pants). If you cannot find any appropriate belts, a wide sash is an excellent replacement.
Bandanna
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A bandanna tied on your head is a must for any pirate costume. Try to find a large, plain-colored bandanna rather than one with printing on it; if need be, they are easy to make from any large piece of scrap fabric (just cut out a large square).
Boots
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Assuming you can't or don't want to go barefoot, you will also need a pair of boots. Tall leather boots that you can flip down the top few inches of to make a cuff are ideal, but the same effect can be created with a pair of tall, nondescript rubber rain boots.
Accessories
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Lastly, look around for any accessories you can find. The biggest difference between a boring costume and one that looks good is often simply the addition of little accessories. Try to go beyond the obvious eye-patch and hoop earring; find gaudy costume jewelry to wear or hang from your clothing, add extra sashes, a vest, or any other articles you can find that go well, sew patches onto your clothing, and so forth. Try to find some sort of sword or knife to wear on your belt, as well.
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