So, do you want to be a cat for Halloween? Well, I believe you might be in luck—because I, my friends, am an expert in easy cat Halloween costumes. Not only did I dominate as a "black cat" for about three years in elementary school, but my career goal in my youth was also a "cat." Sadly, I wasn't successful at this, but trust me, it wasn't for lack of trying.
However, I do own a black cat, so I'm an expert on all the mannerisms you might want to adopt once you put this outfit together. Go big or go home, am I right?
Sure, the cat suit might scream "last ditch effort," but it's an absolute classic. First, everyone will recognize what you want to achieve. Secondly, this is a costume you can easily wear to any party (i.e. no worries about getting stuck in a doorway/no need to take off the entire costume when you have to go to the bathroom). Third, you probably already have most of the materials, and the ones you don't can easily be purchased at most stores. Since not everyone is in the market for a $70 Elsa costume, the Black Cat is probably the most affordable and cutest costume you can choose.
Here are the steps to create the absolutely perfect cat costume:
Step one: ears
I know some of you have your own cat ears at home. I did that too until I moved them a billion times and threw them out in a fit of stressed rage. So, here's how to make your own. You'll need some felt (black and pink, or black and white), an inexpensive fabric headband you can buy at the grocery store, and a needle with thread.
Cat ears are mostly triangular in shape, but have a little width near the base. Cut out one ear and use it as a template so your second ear will match.
Black felt, $4, Amazon
If you prefer smaller earbuds, a light pink or white would work well. Cut out a similar small triangle in this color and make a pair. From there, you'll need to use a little Elmer's glue or tacky glue to put the pieces together. Or, you can sew it. Prove to your middle school sewing teacher that yes, you can thread a needle!
Scunci Headband, $3, Amazon
Once the ears are in place, you'll need to sew them onto the headband. The reason inexpensive fabric headbands work so well is that you can pull right through them—and, since they're a lightweight material, you won't feel as much pressure behind your ears as the night goes on. If you're a fan of headbands, you know how important this is.
Step 2: Ensemble
Got a basic long-sleeved black T-shirt? If not, you can probably pick one up pretty easily. Long sleeves not only make your cat arms come to life, but they also make you feel warmer instead of "I'm super uncomfortable." Some leggings will cool you down.
Long-sleeve T-shirt, $10, Amazon | Black leggings, $13, Amazon
Even if you're on the "leggings are not pants" train, they really are the best choice for your outfit. There's no way to salvage these leggings once you've assembled the tail (see step three), so if you can't part with your more expensive pair, be sure to invest in a cheaper pair with some weight.
Step 3: Tail
Are there any metal hangers around? You'll need it, along with some fuzzy black fabric that you can probably find at JoAnn Fabric or in a giant bin labeled "Arts and Crafts" at your mother's house. If not, some leftover felt will work too. Cut off the bottom hanger until you have a piece of metal that can be twisted into the shape of a tail. Hot glue the fabric to the hanger and once dry, carefully sew it to the elastic part of the leggings, making sure it's centered. Remember, this is going to be something hanging directly from your butt all night, so precision is key.
Or, if you're looking for something simpler, consider purchasing this cat tail from Amazon. Unfortunately, it's not available through Prime, so if you're in a "I have to go to a party in two days!" mode, it's probably not the best choice. model.
Cat Tail, $6, Amazon
Better yet, become a Manx cat.
Step 4: Makeup
If you have a bottle of black liquid eyeliner but you've never been brave enough to use it for its intended purpose, congratulations! Today is your day. Liquid black eyeliner is perfect for little black cat noses. I used my own pencil and got the same result.
Maybelline Studio Master Precision Eyeliner, $6, Amazon
If you're on a budget (or don't want to use your everyday makeup), drugstores often sell makeup kits, too. Obviously, you can look beyond the nose and beard, but it's up to you. Halloween is all about creativity. Don't be afraid to extend your whiskers or accentuate the look with a pair of tricky disposable cat lenses. (I mean, fashion over function, right?)
Image: Karen Belz
