Recreating Cruella's most iconic looks isn't easy, but if you want a truly show-stopping Halloween costume this year, there's no better pick. Set in the world of high fashion, Disney's Cruella features a range of stunning costumes. As Estella adopts Cruella's bold and unashamed persona, her wardrobe changes to reflect changes in her personality. Estella starts with a simple and classic look, but it quickly morphs into eye-catching punk wear and later, ultra-formal high fashion.
If one is looking for a cheap and easy costume, Cruella actually isn't a bad choice. Her distinctive hair and make-up make it a breeze to recreate her look even if you can't match every detail of her wardrobe. Just throw on an all-black ensemble and pick out a signature piece — spiky boots, lacy gloves, or a punk leather jacket — to add some flare. Cruella's new look also takes inspiration from Glenn Close's version of Cruella, particularly her bi-colored hair. A black-and-white wig is easy to order online, but for a better look for less money, grab some tight curlers and invest in temporary hair dye. Manic Panic offers "Dye Hard" styling gel and "Amplified" colored hair spray that will come out as soon as one showers. Colored hair sprays at Party City and other Halloween stores are also temporary, if less gentle. Some blood-red lipstick and white face powder complete the look.
For more dedicated cosplayers, there are several places to get reliable recreations of Cruella's wardrobe. The cost of the clothes ranges based on quality, so the first stop should always be the thrift store. Like Artie's "Second Time Around," such shops often have well-made classics from the 70s, 80s, and 90s at prices under $50. For those who don't feel like flipping through a rack of clothes, though, there are also some quality online apparel stores that each sell pieces of Cruella's iconic costumes.
All Black With Checkerboard Leather
Cruella's most-worn movie ensemble is an all-black look with a variety of funky leather jackets, chokers, and gloves. For those looking for the cheapest option, Spiral USA sells inexpensive leggings, tops, and dresses that all match Cruella's punk-gothic aesthetic. Attitude Clothing Co. is in the same vein with a wider range of prices, from $20 to $120. On the pricier side, Lip Service offers shiny vinyl leggings and jackets as well as elbow-length gloves. And for those willing to invest, Punk Rave sells beautifully crafted black leather jackets with some sharp edges. For inspiration, Cruella is now free on Disney+.
Her Deconstructed Red Evening Gown
The red dress Estella wears during her first appearance as Cruella is undoubtedly the most memorable costume of the movie. The fashion designer's modifications make the tight-fitting evening gown daring and unconventional–as well as hard to find. Hot Topic has the cheapest option, with a somewhat similar-looking dress on sale for about $44 (the "Her Universe Disney Cruella Red Dress"). But for those searching for something true to the film, look no further than the prom dress section of local department stores. Elizabeth K makes a long, red evening gown that could pass as the real thing. Amazon has an even closer match with a red, mermaid-cut dress with a high lace neck, sold by Gyin for about $90. A feathered mask is easily made with a hot glue gun, while elbow-length red gloves can be picked up at any Halloween store.
Her Leather Moto-X Look
Cruella's punk London look returns mid-movie when she makes a splash on the red carpet. If one is looking for a close fit, Chouyatou sells similar faux leather jackets with a gothic look, including metal studs, pointed shoulders, and wide lapels. Rose gold glitter leggings are harder to find, but Amazon and Etsy each have a few good picks. For anyone willing to shell out a little more cash, ASOS also sells snazzy sequined suit pants. The black straps on Cruella's leggings are completely unique but can be recreated with a roll of black gaffer or electrical tape. Looking to emulate her make-up? Some hand-cut stencils and black face paint will do the trick.
Haute Couture Military Princess Look
Cruella's next fashion stunt includes one of her most elaborate costumes — a highly decorated military jacket and extra-extra-long ruffled red skirt with black tulle peeking through. One of the inspirations for Cruella's formal military wear was likely Oscar de la Renta's embroidered military jacket, which retails for more than $6,000. Since it's unlikely most people have thousands lying around, however, some good substitutes can be found at Amazon, Etsy, and eBay by searching for steampunk military jackets or Napoleonic hussar uniforms. Pick up some gold braid and miniature figurines at a local craft store and one is well on their way to recreating Cruella's glamorous look.
Cruella's layered skirt is another challenge, but WDPL and Yuluosha on Amazon each sell vivid red ruffled tulle party skirts that could fit the bill. Etsy also sells affordable floor-length "wedding skirts" that can be easily modified with a trip to Michael's. Evil queen Cruella finishes the ensemble with stompy black boots that can only be found in one place — Dr. Martens.
Her Classic Black & White Dalmatian Coat Reimagined
Cruella reimagined the Disney villain's iconic Dalmatian coat toward the end of the movie when the main character emerges during an underground punk rock concert in a black and white coat with a cinched waist and asymmetrical skirt. Like Cruella's red dress, this particular outfit is one of the hardest to recreate since it's all one piece and was created specifically for the film. The best place to find it is a professional cosplay store like Pro Cosplay, but the quality costumes often run over $100. Cheaper recreations can be found on Amazon and at Halloween stores, but are often made overseas and don't last very long. Regardless, no Dalmatians were killed by Cruella in the making of these costumes. No matter what one orders, make sure to check the fit first! Having body measurements on hand is a good way to ensure there won't be any hasty returns.