Dress up as a side show freak for your next Halloween party.
Beginning in the late 19th century up until the 1970s, the circus often featured a human freak sideshow, which showcased people who suffered from extreme physical abnormalities. Today, freak show-themed theatrical works and parties are more whimsical and light-hearted. They feature characters with unusual abilities, such as fortune-telling or snake-charming.
Many sideshow "freak" costumes can be created from clothing and household items. Visit a party store, costume shop or thrift store to find items you don't already have.
Bearded Lady
This character can be portrayed by either a man or a woman. For a woman, purchase a fake beard and wear a very feminine, brightly-colored dress with lots of jewelry. A man could grow out his beard, apply feminine makeup and jewelry, and wear a frilly dress.
Clairvoyant Fortune Teller
Dress like a gypsy, using exotic prints and lots of dangly jewelry like bangles and hoop earrings. Apply thick, Egyptian-like eye makeup and a decorative head wrap. Wear a long, peasant-style skirt or dress with flat sandals or bare feet. Add a shawl for a mysterious look.
Snake Charmer
The snake charmer is another unisex costume idea. For men, wear a turban-like headdress and Bollywood-style clothing. Women can also dress like a Bollywood performer, wearing harem pants, jewelry and colorful scarves with alluring eye makeup. Carry a rubber snake around your neck.
Knife-Thrower and Target
This is a couple's costume. The male dresses as a macho, sexy knife thrower, wearing a blindfold on his head and carrying a fake dagger. His shirt can be partially or completely open. The female acts as the target, wearing a fake apple attached to a headband. She can also wear a sultry costume such as a short, sequined dress with fishnet tights and high heels. Her makeup should be bright and alluring.
Lion-Tamer and Lion
The lion tamer, either male or female, can wear high boots, a short jacket and a top hat. He should also carry a whip and a megaphone. If he is part of a couple, his partner can dress as the lion, using face makeup and a lion costume mane and tail.
Bird Lady or Bird Man
Dress in feathers and bright colors. Purchase a fake beak from a costume or party shop. Top the costume off with a feathered boa and feathered headpiece. Use brightly-colored metallic eye makeup to create bird-like eyes.
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