How to Create an "Ice Queen" Costume for Halloween

Skin

If your skin is pale, you're more less set and can even use kabuki makeup and/or glitter to accentuate your paleness. If your skin is tan or dark, there's no need to use kabuki makeup; use light blue body paint and glitter to create an illusion of an "icy" complexion. In either case, make sure the glitter is very fine, almost like a powder. Big glitter granules look too childish.

As far as the rest of the makeup goes, stay just this side of over-the-top by picking one feature to exaggerate while leaving the rest of your simple. An ice queen has an intense stare, so the feature you pick should probably be your eyes. Use false lashes and liquid liner.

Eyes

Optional: a pair of ice-themed contacts will go perfectly with your costume. You can pick a pale blue or go with stormy gray.

Hair

Ice-queen hair is generally long; it can be worn up or down. If you have long hair, you can style it either way. If you have very short hair, you can get a wig to wear down. If you have very short hair, but don't want to wear a wig, here's a cool trick: Spike it with gel and use glitter to give it the look of icicles jutting from your head.

If you happen to be a readhead, go with a wig whether your hair is long or short (red hair might clash with the rest of the ensemble). The wig can be black, brunette, blonde or even white, if you're willing to go that extra mile to ram the ice theme home.

Queenly Garb

A dress of the long, flowing variety is usually in order. However, like the hair, this is highly negotiable. If you go for the traditional option, stick to a very light blue, sterling gray or pure white color. A Grecian-style dress is your best bet. Strappy sandals or pumps will finish off this look nicely.

If you want to modernize this look, make sure that the colors stay ice-themed and that the look is still somewhat regal and queenly.

Jewelry, Ornaments & Accessories

Go for a crown or circlet; a tiara looks too childish. As far as the other jewelry goes, stick to things like pearls, pale rhinestones and acrylic jewelry. Really pile it on if you have a lot or keep it simple; it's up to you. Other costume accessories you can try:

* A hand fan (preferably Oriental)
* A (faux) fur piece of some kind (white or gray, of course)
* A scepter, sword or staff to carry (a fancy curtain rod can be used)
* If you happen to have a white dog or cat, bring it along!

Happy Halloween, all!