Mime Costumes

Ideas for this classic mime costume

If you’ve already decided on a mime costume, you’re halfway there. It’s one of those fancy dress choices that everyone recognises instantly, but it still gives you plenty of room to play around with the details. A striped top, a beret, white gloves and a bit of theatrical make-up can take you from “quick costume” to “silent star of the party” in no time.

What do you need for a mime costume?

A mime costume works because of a few very clear elements. You don’t need to overthink it, but getting these pieces right will make the whole outfit feel much more convincing.

• Striped top: the classic choice is a long-sleeved black and white striped top. It’s the piece that gives the costume its unmistakable style. If you fancy something a little different, red and white stripes can also work nicely, especially for a more cheerful version.
• Trouser braces: braces are a small detail, but they make a big difference. Wear them over your shoulders with black trousers for that traditional mime character feel. Black braces are the safest choice, while red ones add a more playful touch.
• Beret or hat: a Parisian-style beret is a favourite for this costume, usually in black or red. If a beret isn’t your thing, a small hat or mime cap can also do the job.
• White gloves: white gloves are a must for a mime. After all, how else will everyone see you opening invisible doors, pulling imaginary ropes or getting trapped in that famous invisible box?

At Costumalia, you’ll find different mime costume designs so you can choose the version that suits you best. You can also add mime costume accessories to give your outfit more personality and make it feel properly finished for the party.

How to create make-up for a mime costume

Mime make-up is what really brings the character to life. Without saying a word, your face does half the acting, so it’s worth spending a little time on it.

• Start with a white make-up base and cover the whole face evenly. Then add black details around the eyes. You can draw triangles, circles, stars, teardrops or simple lines, depending on whether you want something classic, funny or a bit dramatic.
• For the lips, black make-up is the traditional option, although red can also work well for children’s mime costumes or sweeter versions. Keep the shapes clear and expressive; the simpler they are, the better they usually read from a distance.

Surprise everyone at your next fancy dress party

Some costumes never really go out of fashion, and the mime costume is one of them. It works for adults, children, groups and families, and it’s especially fun because the character comes with its own little performance. Who can resist pretending to climb a rope or walk against the wind?

If you’re looking for a girls’ mime costume with a tutu, this is a lovely option for a softer, more playful version. Let your little one practise opening invisible doors, smelling imaginary flowers or standing so still that everyone has to check twice. You can also choose a girls’ Parisian costume if you prefer something classic and elegant.

The mime costume is also a great idea for families. At Costumalia, you’ll find family mime costumes in different sizes, so everyone can join in with the same theme. And if you like putting things together yourself, a homemade mime costume is easy to create with basic black trousers, a striped top and the right accessories.

For the smallest performers, a baby mime costume is a sweet and original choice. Add a tiny beret, soft stripes and a few gentle accessories, and you’ve got a party outfit with loads of charm.

Easy mime make-up for girls

For a girls’ mime costume, the make-up can be simple, fun and full of personality. Start with a white water-based face paint and apply it with a brush or sponge until the face has an even base.

Then paint the lips red or black, depending on the style of the costume. After that, you can add the little details: hearts on the cheeks, tears, freckles, red blush or fine black lines around the eyes. Want it sweet? Go for hearts and blush. Want it more theatrical? Add teardrops or bold eye shapes.

With the make-up ready, the costume is a great choice for World Book Day, an end-of-term party, Carnival or any fancy dress party where your child wants to do something a little different.

Halloween mime version

If you prefer something darker, a Halloween mime costume is a brilliant twist on the classic. Keep the stripes, braces and gloves, but swap the cheerful details for smudged black make-up, dark tears, pale skin and maybe a slightly ripped outfit.

The result is eerie without losing the mime theme. It’s a good choice if you want a scary costume that isn’t the same as the usual witches, skeletons or vampires.

How do mimes dress?

Mimes usually wear striped tops, black trousers, braces, white gloves and Parisian berets. Add the right make-up and a few mime costume accessories, and you’ll have everything you need to create a costume that feels recognisable, fun and ready for a little silent drama.