Pirate Costumes

The Basics for Men

Basic pirate costumes are available at any costume or party shop. Generally, men wear pants or leggings in a solid colour, such as black, tan, or brown, although some costumiers have red-striped pirate pants available. With their pants, pirates wear a black or white shirt, often in an open-necked, large-sleeved style, and a vest (usually black) or jacket. Boots are a definite must for the authentic pirate look, and the best are the boots with turned-down top cuffs. A tricorn hat and large belt complete the basic costume.

Accessories for Men

Men's accessories include:

• Eyepatch
• Weapon-- either a sword and dagger or pistol
• Hoop earring
• Scarf
• Long hair or a wig

Tattoos are also an authentic touch, and any good party supply store will have temporary tattoos that you can apply. A bluish-purple "P" tattoo will give the effect of the brand that used to be applied to pirates who were captured. It can be applied to the center of the forehead or to the right forearm.

The Basics for Women

Your she-pirate is a first-class wench. Her costume consists of a handkerchief-hem or ragged-edged skirt or a pair of ragged-edged cropped pants, a peasant-style blouse, and a corset or waist cincher that emphasizes her voluptuous bosom. A bandana or scarf for the hair, which should be long and mussed, and boots (with or without a turned-down top cuff) will complete her basic costume.

Accessories for Women

Accessories would be hoop earrings, sword and dagger or pistol, and perhaps a belt. Female pirates don't generally wear eyepatches or tattoos.

The Basics for Kids

Kids' pirate costumes will include the same basic elements as the adult costume for the appropriate gender. For kids' costumes, the eyepatch is not generally recommended, especially for very young children whose balance might be thrown off by the effects of the patch. Swords, daggers, and pistols may also present dangers, although the child will certainly want to carry one or the other. With careful supervision, the appropriate weaponry can be carried. Bandanas, too, may present dangers if tied over the face or if tied too tightly around the neck.

Special Touches for Famous Pirate Costumes

If you want to be one of the big-name pirates, you will need to do a little research to find specific characteristics of your character. Here are a few examples to get you started:

• Captain Jack Sparrow: Cap'n Jack is never without his shabby tricornered hat. Long dreadlocks are a must, as is a "P" tattoo on the right forearm. Cap'n Jack has a distinctive beard, with beads woven into it. He also wears a compass and various items of jewelry.
• Davy Jones: For this guy, you will need to buy a mask, unless you are creative and crafty enough to make yourself a mask that makes your head look like a squid. Your costume should be festooned with seaweed.
• Long John Silver: Long John's wooden leg and crutch are crucial to pulling this one off. Long John wears a red coat with large cuffs and brass buttons, and he carries a brace of pistols. In the Disney version of his story, he has a green parrot that rides on his shoulder.

Other Props

• The Jolly Roger: the black flag with the white skull and crossbones in the center is a great addition to your look, whether featured on your hat or incorporated elsewhere in your costume.
• Mascot: Many pirates had a pet or mascot that went with them everywhere. A stuffed parrot or monkey on the shoulder is a nice touch.