How to Dress Like a Gangster Girl

Do you need to dress up like a female gangster for a costume event? The methods in this step-by-step guide can help you get started.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Most monster costumes are based around the fashions popular in the 1920s to 30s. The popular silhouette for women's clothing at the time was loose throughout, with a dropped or undefined waist. Flapper dresses with lots of fringe were also popular. Neutral colors were in fashion, as well as bright accent colors such as red, coral, jade green, yellow and deep blue. See what you can dig up at your local costume shop or consignment store.^{[1]XResearch source}
A makeup entered the mainstream in the 1920s, women began to wear dark red lips and smoky black eyes.^{[2]XResearch source} For your hairstyle, try finger waves for long hair or straight hair with the bottom curled in for shorter hair.^{[3]XResearch source}
Finish your look with fishnet stockings and black or red heels, then add period-appropriate accessories. Wear a long strand of pearls tied in a knot about halfway down, or a thick, Asian-inspired cuff. Try a sparkly headband over your forehead or an embellished comb in your hair. For an extra costume-like effect, wear a feather boa and put a tiny toy gun in a thigh holster.
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Appropriate the traditional 1920s mobster look for feminine use. Start with something like the classic, double-breasted pinstripe suit. Add black shoes and an elegant tie, as well as a fedora.
Wear the same bold red lip and smoky eye that Jazz Age women did. Either tie your hair back in a tight bun (to better accommodate a hat) or try loose finger waves.
If your suit has a breast pocket, add a flashy handkerchief. Pin a bright flower on your lapel for extra feminine effect. If you're planing on taking off your jacket, add a slim pair of suspenders over your blouse.
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Most modern gangs have specific colors in which members dress. Make sure your clothing doesn't accidentally telegraph allegiance to a rival gang by being the wrong color.
You need to be able to run, so skip the heels and sandals. Pick shoes that allow you to sprint easily and don't feel uncomfortable after several hours on your feet.
Rotate a variety of styles through your daily look. Slim-fitting tank tops, plaid button-up shirts, baby tees and off-the-shoulder blouses are street appropriate. For jeans or skirts, find a fit that works for you and go with it.^{[4]XResearch source}
Use loud, big accessories to display your confidence. Common gangster girl accessories include bandanas, hoop earrings, sunglasses, cross necklaces, and big rings.
However you style your hair, make it a reflection of your attitude. Be aware that a long ponytail makes it easy for someone to grab you and pull you down if you're running.
Look people straight in the eye and keep you posture straight. Subtle cues like this communicate that you're fearless and in control.^{[5]XResearch source}
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Dressing and acting like a gang member can lead to a bad experience in the wrong neighborhood. You will also be profiled by the police and more likely to be stopped, searched, questioned or just be given a hard time.
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