Black Swan Costume and Makeup
Ranked #21 in Entertainment, #376 overall
Transfrom Yourself into the Black Swan, based on the Natalie Portman Ballet Movie Character
The Black Swan is an original and exciting costume idea that blends the beauty of the ballerina with a darker, more threatening character. This makes it the perfect feminine yet scary Halloween costume idea. Here I share some ideas on how you can recreate the Black Swan costume and makeup using inexpensive clothing and accessories.
The Black Swan is both the name of a recent ballet movie in which Natalie Portman plays a dancer being possessed by her darker side, and the evil female character from Swan Lake, danced by the prima ballerina, who brings about the death of the White Swan or Swan Queen through tricking her lover, the Prince.
Image features Black Swan soundtrack
Image Credits
Black Swan -- Swan Lake postage stamp courtesy of Wikimedia Commons (public domain image). Black Swan costume montage used with permission. All other photos used within terms of the relevant affiliate programs.
Black Swan Costume Basics
The Ballet Dress
Black Leotard + Black Tutu Skirt
You don't have to be a ballet dancer to look sensational in a Black Swan costume. You do, of course, need to have the confidence to wear a leotard, but so many Halloween costumes and party dresses are just as revealing as this Black Swan outfit!
Professional dancewear can be expensive and you are unlikely to have a full-blown Russian tutu to hand. Instead, this is a Black Swan costume that can be put together at home without spending a small fortune. The idea is that this Black Swan outfit should be wearable for a party or other occasion. All these items can (at time of writing) be bought via Amazon.com.
If you are in the UK, pirouette on down to the bottom of the page where there are suggestions just for you to create the same effect using dancewear items and accessories from Amazon.co.uk: Black Swan -- UK Costume Ideas
A Black Leotard
The Foundation of Your Costume
A ballet costume and many other types of dance outfits will begin with a basic leotard. Good news! These are readily available from Amazon.com in a number of styles and need not cost more than $15 - 20 (US).
Although Portman's Black Swan tutu has an exquisite bodice, a black leotard with slender straps
You can also choose from a range of other black leotard styles on Amazon according to your strap and neckline preference:
Capezio Women's Camisole Leotard With Adjustable Straps
Capezio Women's Halter Leotard
Capezio Women's Princess Tank Leotard
Adult Black Cotton Blend Camisole Leotard Size Medium
Amazon Price: (as of 02/23/2012)
The pictured leotard is a cotton spandex blend and comes from dancewear specialists Eurotard. As an alternative, you may like to view the range of black leotards offered by Capezio.
White Soft Footed Tights
Ballet Dancer Tights
These soft Capezio dance tights are matte nylon and will complete your basic Black Swan ballerina outfit. Available in a range of sizes.
Capezio Women's Ultra Soft Footed Tight
Amazon Price: (as of 02/23/2012)
These ballet tights are available via Amazon.com priced between $10 and $15 per pair. Capezio is a leading manufacturer of dancewear.
A Black Ballet Skirt
Add Some Romance with Tulle!
It is the ballet skirt or tutu that will give you the ballerina look. While you are unlikely to be able to get hold of a professional stage costume you can create the ballerina look with a gauzy tulle skirt.
If you don't want to make your own skirt, this pretty 'Juliet' ballet skirt
Tutu with 3 layers various colors one size fits all-30-31
Amazon Price: (as of 02/23/2012)
This double layer ballet tutu or Juliet skirt is currently available for $15 plus shipping charges. It is 20 inches in length.
Or a Light Up Black Tutu
This Light Up Tutu is so pretty and unusual, and in black it is perfect for a Black Swan costume. The fiber optic lights are safe and can be turned on and off using a hidden switch. You'll light up the party this Halloween!
Even better, the skirt comes in an adult size so this tutu is not just for little ballerinas. Click on the image to check the current price and to buy it direct from the retailer.
Why not team with these sensational shoes with lace up ribbons for a head-turning wicked ballerina costume.
Make Your Own Ballet Skirt
Homemade Ballet Skirt and Tutu Tutorials
- Tulle Ballet Skirt
- What are Tulle Ballet Skirts? Commonly referred to as Tutus, these are traditional costume attire of ballet dancers.
- Free Pattern and Directions for a No-Sew Tutu
- Free Directions for Making a No-Sew TutuNotions: Tulle: 6 yards total. You can use one solid color or a combination of colors.
- Free pattern: Ballet skirt for grownups - The Selfish Seamstress
- Make a pretty practice ballet skirt.
Buy a Ballet Tutu on eBay
Hard-to-find professional tutus and bargain dancewear
Ballet Footwear
White or Black Ballet Slippers
Shoes to Match Your Dress
These ballet slippers are genuine dance shoes from dance footwear manufacturer Dansoft. They are held in place with an elasticated strap. To complete the Black Swan ballet dancer costume you could attach black ribbons and tie these around your ankles.
These shoes are also available in white. (If you are sharp-eyed, you will have noticed that Natalie Portman is wearing white pointe shoes in the film Black Swan).
If you want actual ballet pointe shoes, yes, Amazon.com sell those too! Of course, only buy these if you have advanced ballet training as otherwise you risk damaging your feet. If you are still tempted, please do read the comments by a dancer and teacher in the Guestbook at the foot of the page.
Bloch Women's Dansoft Ballet Slipper
Amazon Price: (as of 02/23/2012)
These ballet shoes from Dansoft are available in a range of sizes. Check on Amazon to select the correct size for your feet.
Outdoor Wear Ballet Flats
Shoes You Can Wear Again... and Again
Ballet slippers are beautiful but you might prefer to buy a pair of shoes that you can wear for outdoor use and team with everyday outfits in the future. In that case, a pair of black ballet flats will be ideal.
Kenneth Cole REACTION Women's Slip On By Ballet Flat
Amazon Price: (as of 02/23/2012)
These black ballet flats from Kenneth Cole are available either in soft black leather or in black patent. They have a cushioned insole for a comfortable fit.
Ballet Pointe Shoes on eBay
Professional dance footwear: for dancers only
Note: Admire these shoes as much as you like, but you should only buy pointe shoes if you are a dancer and have had the appropriate ballet training in order to build the necessary ankle strength. Pointe shoes should also be professionally fitted. A soft ballet shoe with ribbons sewn on still looks fantastic if you simply need a ballet shoe for your costume.
Thanks to dance teachers and dancers who have emphasized this point in the comments. To add my own story, I very recently injured my foot (although not through wearing pointe shoes) and was unable to bear any weight on the injured foot. Walking was out of the question and it was very painful even to rest my foot. Believe me, an experience like that could ruin your Halloween or party.
Learn How to Tie Ribbons on Your Ballet Shoes
Black Swan Makeup
Black Swan Makeup Video Tutorial
Step by Step Black Swan Makeup from KlairedelysArt
Contact Lenses for the Black Swan
Those Crazy Swan Eyes...
Remember: you need a prescription to buy contact lenses. Eye health is important! If you want lenses for a costume and not eyesight correction you can ask your eye doctor for a 0.00/plano prescription.
These special effects contact lenses are available from ACLens. Click on an image to view the lens in more detail on their website or to see a wider selection.
Black Swan Accessories
Pack of Black Ostrich Feathers
Dress Up Your Leotard
Natalie Portman's Black Swan costume has large black feathers on the bodice. You could add your own feathers to the top of your leotard. These big ostrich feathers will give your costume a dramatic look. Just watch out, these may tickle!
Ostrich Feathers-2PK/Black
Amazon Price: $1.20 (as of 02/23/2012)
for your costume and get creative!
A Ballerina Tiara
Add Some Ballet Glamour!
A ballet tiara is just what you need to accessorize your hair Black Swan style. The
Black Jeweled Tiara Adult above has sparkly black swans, while the Tiara Crown with Dark Purple Crystal Flowers
Princess Bridal Wedding Tiara Crown with Dark Purple Crystal Flower DH15764c
Amazon Price: $13.99 (as of 02/23/2012)
Make Your Own Tiara
Creating a Black Swan Inspired Crown
If you have left it a little late or need to stretch your budget, it is not too hard to make your own Black Swan costume tiara out of nothing but a few supplies you can find around your home.This step-by-step photo tutorial shows you how I made my tiara using black paper and a couple of other inexpensive items.
Or Add Glamour with a Mask
For an Easy Black Swan Effect
What could be easier than putting on this wonderfully dramatic Venetian mask complete with a long black feather. Adds a touch of mystery to your Black Swan costume... and will save time on your makeup too!
The gold decoration around the eyes of these forms 2 swan shapes, making it perfect for a Black Swan.
(L) Masquerade Ball Feather Mask in Black w/ Bright Gold Swan Pattern Flashing Trim Decor
Amazon Price: $23.99 (as of 02/23/2012)
Gorgeous Black Feather Masks
. Find just the right one for your Black Swan look.
A Beautiful Ballet Hairstlye
Ballerina Hair
Here's a quick and easy ballet bun hairstyle that is also fun to wear. No need to have a boring, severe hairstyle. This bun looks great for a party and also suits the crazy ballerina look you want to achieve with the Black Swan costume.
Don't Miss the White Swan
Swan Lake Costume and Makeup Guide
Transform yourself into the fragile and beautiful White Swan, perfect for little girls, teens and women alike.
Head on over to the White Swan for tutu, headpiece and makeup ideas. Why not team up with a friend or younger sister (or even your daughter) -- her White Swan and your Black Swan will make a head-turning costume pairing.
Discover More Makeup and Costume Ideas
Be inspired for Halloween, Zombie Prom, and more!
Black Swan Ideas for UK Women and Girls
UK: Black Swan Ballerina Suggestions
Putting together a tutu costume in the UK
The base for your costume will be a black leotard like this one from dancewear manufacturer Capezio.
Available in 5 sizes. Click on image for more details and to calculate price.
Capezio V-Neck Camisole Leotard
Amazon Price: £16.99-£19.95 Â
Or choose a Tutu
Rather than buying or making a ballet skirt, women and girls can instead opt for an all-in-one tutu and leotard for a professional ballet look.
Starlite Black Tutu
Amazon Price: £29.95-£49.99 Â
Take a Look at this Gorgeous Home Made Black Swan Costume
Doesn't She Look Amazing?
Wow, I think this is such a beautiful interpretation of the Black Swan costume, put together by 'naughtynymph' (aka manicnymph).
She won two costume contests with this creation. It's easy to see why.
How did she do it? Take a look at the comments where she explains how in full detail. This awesome costume includes:
"My version of the Black Swan:
* Masquerade Mask, black with glitter and large black ostrich plumes
* Decorative black choaker
* Black leotard with feathers, decorations and 'jewels'
* Shiny black vinyl waist-cincher
* Black tutu, handmade, with jewels and a TON of black feathers, especially at the waist
* Traditional pink tights
* Black (soft) leather ballet slippers with black ribbons (love the contrast with the pink legs!)
* Big black feathered wings"
Please note: Images are copyright of manicnymph, all rights reserved. Displayed here with the kind permission of the copyright holder.
Ballet Themed Gift Ideas
Find the Perfect Gift for a Dancer
Love dance? Discover a Dance Calendar!
Black Swan Memorabilia
A Ballet Calendar 2012 is a Perfect Christmas Gift
Buy one for a Ballet Lover
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Did This Black Swan Costume and Makeup Put You Under a Spell?
Is this a look you would love for Halloween or a costume party?
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accessorytree
Feb 10, 2012 @ 12:12 am | delete
- This is great and very detailed. Good job WordCustard! I have a couple of friends who actually dressed as the Black Swan for Halloween. :)
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krakensquid
Jan 24, 2012 @ 10:04 am | delete
- I have to say that Black Swan is one of my favourite movies of all time. Fantastic lens, great work! :)
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kathysart
Jan 10, 2012 @ 9:14 am | delete
- Ohh YES! I love the costume tips, I think the fav thing about this movie were the costumes. Thumbs up and blessed!
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toldyaso
Dec 7, 2011 @ 4:14 pm | delete
- I loved Black Swan! I did notice you left out the nail polish she used in film - the pretty, soft pink one. It's by Zoya, and is called Bela. I bought it and I love it. The makeup in the film was phenomenal. Your lens is really helpful. Great job!
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mihgasper
Dec 6, 2011 @ 4:20 am | delete
- Beautiful and... little scary! Very intriguing lens.
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manicnymph
Nov 30, 2011 @ 8:23 pm | delete
- Hello again WordCustard! Just wanted to let you know I've created my first lens, and briefly talked about my Black Swan costume - so I have linked it back to your lens. :)
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jadehorseshoe
Nov 27, 2011 @ 9:10 pm | delete
- Fabulous Lens!
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oxfordian
Nov 25, 2011 @ 10:39 pm | delete
- Amazing! I really love that first tiara. Stunning! I'm not dancing in too many ballets these days, though. I used to -- back in another lifetime.... about a million years ago (at least it seems that way).
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seedlingspublishinggroup
Nov 9, 2011 @ 12:08 am | delete
- Beautiful lens and very informative. Thanks
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magicshine-
Nov 7, 2011 @ 6:18 am | delete
- the film was disturbingly beautiful so to be able to recreate the look would be amazing!
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naughtynymph
Nov 3, 2011 @ 9:29 pm | delete
- Awesome write-up!! (Good movie too!) This page was truly inspirational. Everything from sewing the tutu (which I did - but my own way) to lacing up your ballet slippers and tying up your hair. Very thorough. I love how you have provided so many different options. I liked the idea of using a mask instead of the makeup, I chose one similar to the last one on your list with large black ostrich plumes. I ended up putting together my own interpretation, an absolutely smashing Black Swan costume, winning two costume contests, and this article is partly to blame! ;) I absolutely love how the Black Swan is both feminine and dark. My favourite Halloween costume yet. (How will I top this next year?! haha)
My version of the Black Swan:
Masquerade Mask, black with glitter and large black ostrich plumes
Decorative black choaker
Black leotard with feathers, decorations and 'jewels'
Shiny black vinyl waist-cincher
Black tutu, handmade, with jewels and a TON of black feathers, especially at the waist
Traditional pink tights
Black (soft) leather ballet slippers with black ribbons (love the contrast with the pink legs!)
Big black feathered wings
Would love to send you a picture?
Thanks WordCustard! :)
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WordCustard
Nov 4, 2011 @ 3:14 am | delete
- Sounds fantastic! I bet you looked gorgeous and love the addition of the featherd wings. :) Want to put a pic on Flikr and send me the link? I'll feature it here with a link back and full credit, of course.
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naughtynymph
Nov 4, 2011 @ 12:01 pm | delete
- Great! Here it is... :)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/69428733@N07/6312105975/in/photostream/
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WordCustard
Nov 4, 2011 @ 12:41 pm | delete
- I was right, you look absolutely stunning. Thanks so much for sharing these beautiful images and congratulations on the contest wins. They were clearly very well deserved.
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naughtynymph
Nov 4, 2011 @ 1:05 pm | delete
- Thanks for adding me to your lens!! And thanks again for such an awesome and thorough article. :)
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WordCustard's Bio... and how to work with me
It's easy to see why I love Squidoo -- I get paid to write about my passions! These include face painting, dance, European travel, photography, and more. Click on my picture if you'd like to join me here.
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More Dance Topics to Explore
Dancing from Ballet to Tango!
Ready to become the Black Swan?
Dance on up...!
- Natalie Portman -- Black Swan
- Black Swan Costume Basics
- The Ballet Dress
- A Black Leotard
- White Soft Footed Tights
- A Black Ballet Skirt
- Make Your Own Ballet Skirt
- Buy a Ballet Tutu on eBay
- Ballet Footwear
- White or Black Ballet Slippers
- Outdoor Wear Ballet Flats
- Ballet Pointe Shoes on eBay
- Learn How to Tie Ribbons on Your Ballet Shoes
- Black Swan Makeup
- Black Swan Makeup Video Tutorial
- Contact Lenses for the Black Swan
- Black Swan Accessories
- Pack of Black Ostrich Feathers
- A Ballerina Tiara
- Make Your Own Tiara
- Or Add Glamour with a Mask
- Gorgeous Black Feather Masks
- A Beautiful Ballet Hairstlye
- Don't Miss the White Swan
- Discover More Makeup and Costume Ideas
- Black Swan Ideas for UK Women and Girls
- UK: Black Swan Ballerina Suggestions
- Take a Look at this Gorgeous Home Made Black Swan Costume
- Ballet Themed Gift Ideas
- Black Swan Memorabilia
- A Ballet Calendar 2012 is a Perfect Christmas Gift
- Did This Black Swan Costume and Makeup Put You Under a Spell?
by WordCustard
The Black Swan costume and makeup is an ideal look when you want to be dramatic and scary but still very feminine.
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