Few characters in cinema history are as instantly recognizable as Beetlejuice. With a flash of black and white stripes and a shock of wild green hair, this chaotic ghost, masterfully played by Michael Keaton in Tim Burton’s 1988 classic, has become a cultural icon. His look is the perfect blend of spooky, quirky, and comedic, making it a go-to choice for costume parties and Halloween festivities.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to create the perfect Beetlejuice outfit. From the essential clothing components to the intricate details of his ghostly appearance, you’ll learn how to bring the “ghost with the most” to life with confidence and style.
The Essential Components of a Beetlejuice Outfit
At the heart of the Beetlejuice look are a few key pieces that create his signature silhouette. Getting these right is the first step toward a truly convincing costume.
The Iconic Striped Suit
The black and white striped suit is the undeniable centerpiece of the Beetlejuice outfit. The bold, horizontal stripes are what make the character so visually striking. When selecting a suit, pay attention to the width of the stripes; they should be prominent and evenly spaced to create that classic, disorienting effect. The suit should consist of a matching jacket and pants for a cohesive look.
A well-fitted suit makes a significant difference. While Beetlejuice himself is a bit disheveled, a suit that is either too baggy or too tight can detract from the overall impact. Aim for a fit that is comfortable yet structured, allowing you to move with the character’s chaotic energy.
The Foundation Pieces
Underneath the striped suit, the foundation pieces are simple but crucial. A crisp white dress shirt provides a stark contrast to the busy pattern of the suit, making the stripes pop. The shirt should be clean and well-maintained, as it peeks through at the collar and cuffs.
A simple black tie completes the neckwear, adding a touch of formal absurdity to the ensemble. For footwear, a pair of sturdy black boots, such as combat or jump boots, grounds the outfit and adds to its slightly punk, rebellious feel. These basic elements are essential for creating a polished and authentic Beetlejuice look.
Mastering the Beetlejuice Hair and Makeup
Beyond the clothing, the hair and makeup are what truly transform you into Beetlejuice. This is where you can capture his undead, moldy charm.
Creating That Wild, Untamed Hair
Beetlejuice’s hair is a character in itself—wild, unkempt, and tinged with a signature greenish-white hue. The easiest way to achieve this is with a pre-styled wig, which captures the messy volume and color perfectly. However, styling your own hair can also be effective.
To get the look, backcomb your hair to create significant volume and a chaotic texture. Use a temporary white or light gray hair spray as a base, then add streaks of green to create that iconic moldy effect. A strong-hold hairspray is essential to keep the gravity-defying style in place all night.
Achieving the Ghostly Complexion
The makeup is key to Beetlejuice’s ghostly appearance. Start with a pale, almost white foundation to create a deathly complexion, applying it evenly over your face and neck. The most defining feature is the dark, sunken eyes. Use black and purple eyeshadows to create dramatic, dark circles, blending them out to look hollow and tired.
To complete the undead look, add subtle green and gray shading around your temples and jawline to simulate decay. A light dusting of green or brown eyeshadow can create a “moldy” texture around the hairline. The goal is to look like you’ve been hanging around the Netherworld for a few centuries.
Accessorizing Your Beetlejuice Outfit
Accessories and props are the finishing touches that elevate a good costume to a great one. These details bring the character’s personality to the forefront.
Props That Bring the Character to Life
No Beetlejuice costume is complete without a copy of the Handbook for the Recently Deceased. This prop is not only instantly recognizable but also fun to carry around. You can often find replicas online, or you can create your own by printing a cover and attaching it to an old book.
For an extra touch, consider adding a fake snake prop that can be wrapped around your arm or shoulder. This is a clever nod to the memorable scene where Beetlejuice transforms into a giant snake. These props make the costume more interactive and provide great photo opportunities.
The Finishing Details
Don’t forget the smaller details that complete the transformation. Beetlejuice has a notoriously grimy smile, which you can replicate with a set of crooked, yellowed prosthetic teeth. Alternatively, you can use tooth-safe makeup to temporarily stain your teeth for a similar effect.
A light dusting of dirt or moss on the suit jacket can enhance the “just-crawled-out-of-the-grave” look. Most importantly, embodying the character’s obnoxious, hyperactive attitude is the final piece of the puzzle. It’s all about having fun and embracing the chaos.
Styling Your Beetlejuice Outfit for Different Occasions
While the full Beetlejuice ensemble is perfect for Halloween, you can adapt the look for other events with a few simple tweaks.
Halloween Party Ready
For Halloween, go all out. This is the time to fully commit to every detail, from the wild hair and makeup to the props and accessories. Since you’ll likely be wearing the costume for several hours, ensure your makeup is sealed with a setting spray and your hair is securely styled. Comfort is still important, so choose a suit made from breathable fabric if possible.
Balancing authenticity with comfort is key. If you’re attending an outdoor event, you might want to layer clothing underneath the suit for warmth. The goal is to create a look that is both impressive and practical enough to enjoy the festivities.
Casual Cosplay and Themed Events
For a more casual affair or a themed movie night, you can create a toned-down version of the Beetlejuice outfit. Pair the striped jacket with black jeans or wear a striped shirt instead of a full suit. This approach allows you to pay homage to the character without committing to the full costume.
Even with a simplified outfit, a touch of green in your hair or some subtle dark eye makeup can make the reference clear. This is a great way to show your appreciation for the character in a more understated and comfortable manner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When putting together your Beetlejuice outfit, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your costume looks polished and authentic.
One of the most frequent errors is getting the stripes wrong. The stripes should be horizontal, not vertical. A pinstripe suit, for example, will not convey the same iconic look. Similarly, neglecting the hair and makeup is a major misstep. These elements are just as important as the suit itself.
Finally, don’t forget to capture the character’s energy. Beetlejuice is loud, crude, and full of manic energy. A great costume can fall flat if the wearer doesn’t embrace the personality behind it. Have fun, be bold, and let your inner poltergeist shine.
Putting It All Together
Assembling your Beetlejuice outfit is a fun and creative process. Give yourself enough time to gather all the components and practice the makeup at least once before your event. This will help you feel more confident and ensure you’re happy with the final look.
Lay out all the pieces of your costume beforehand to make sure you have everything you need. On the day of the event, start with your makeup and hair, as these often take the most time. Once you’re dressed and ready, take a moment to get into character. The more you embody Beetlejuice’s chaotic spirit, the more effective your costume will be.
Conclusion
The Beetlejuice outfit is a timeless classic for a reason. It’s a perfect storm of spooky, funny, and visually striking elements that come together to create an unforgettable look. By focusing on the key components—the striped suit, the wild hair, the ghostly makeup, and the right accessories—you can create a costume that is sure to turn heads.
Whether you’re going for screen-accurate detail or a more casual interpretation, the most important thing is to have fun with it. Embrace the chaos, get creative, and get ready to be the ghost with the most at your next event.
