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Becoming a Halloween Monster: Ghost

 ðŸ‘» BOO! Who you gonna call now? Ghosts are such a cliché part of Halloween, but it is a classic "easy" costume. 

I got a rock!

What is a Ghost?

A ghost is an ethereal representation of a dead person's spirit. It often is considered a soul stuck on "this side" and unable to pass peacefully. 

Tell-Tale Features

  • Colorless/White/Grey
  • Transparent

Common Themes

  • Formless
  • Glowing
  • Victorian/Historical
  • Tattered
  • Chains/Imprisoned
  • Cold
  • Prankster
  • Grave
  • Death
Since we have not made CGI costumes accessible to the common man or reality, being a see-through being is going to require some serious trickery. You can think "x-ray" or at least partial x-ray with make-up. 

 Lighting effects can make a big impression since a slight "glow" is often associated with a ghost-like appearance. The cause of death for your ghost can also serve as inspiration. However, unlike zombies, ghosts are bloodless and don't show gore in the same way. You could think in terms of "black and white television" when doing any injuries...if you are even going for that "pale" ghost stuff. 

Inspiration References

  • Ghostbusters (Film Series/TV Series)
  • Ghost Hunters (TV Series)
  • Ghosts (TV Series)
  • Phasmaphobia (Video Game)
  • Haunted Mansion (Film/Theme Park Ride)
  • Casper the Friendly Ghost (Animated Series/Film)
  • 6th Sense (Film)
  • Christmas Carol (Book/Films)
  • Luigi's Mansion (Video Game)
  • Star Wars (Films...fight me on this one. LOL.) 

Where to Start

If you are going beyond the sheet with eye holes, this could become a more make-up heavy costume. You may be able to find a make-up kit or two, but likely you'll be looking at a historically inspired costume of some kind most likely in a white or silvery color.

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