How To Prepare For A Costume Party

Whether you’re heading to a birthday, a themed night out, or a full-blown festival weekender, costume parties are the perfect excuse to go big, be bold and have fun with your style. If you’re getting ready for a night where everyone is dressed to impress, here’s everything you need to know - including a few tips inspired by this year’s Don’t Tell Mama theme: Glitter & Glam.

1. Start with the Theme

Before you dive into outfits or props, look at the theme.
Some themes require a specific character or reference point, while others, like Glitter & Glam, are more open-ended and let you interpret the look your own way.

Understanding the brief early on helps you plan an outfit that feels fun, comfortable and entirely you.

2. Choose Your Comfort Level

Costumes can range from wonderfully simple to fabulously extra. Decide where on the scale you want to land:

  • Low-key: a fun T-shirt, a headpiece, themed makeup

  • Mid-level: statement accessories, coordinated colours, a themed outfit

  • All out: full costume, dramatic glam, elaborate styling

Even a theme like Glitter & Glam works at every level; subtle shimmer works just as well as head-to-toe sequins.

3. Shop Your Wardrobe First

Costume parties don’t always require buying something new. You’d be surprised how many outfit ideas you can build from:

  • Old Halloween or party outfits

  • Festival wear

  • Metallic or sparkly pieces

  • Vintage bits you’ve forgotten about

Themes like Glitter & Glam are especially reusable, since many people already own pieces that shine or sparkle.

4. Start with One Statement Piece

If the theme feels overwhelming, choose one hero item and build around it.

For example:

  • A sequin jacket

  • A bold wig

  • Dramatic jewellery

  • Glitter boots

  • A standout hat or headpiece

For this year’s Glitter & Glam party, even one great shimmery piece can set the tone for your whole look.

5. Don’t Forget Hair & Makeup

Hair and makeup can elevate even the simplest costume. Consider:

  • Bold colours

  • Glitter (if it fits the theme)

  • Face gems

  • Temporary hair dye

  • Dramatic lashes

Even if you’re not a makeup pro, a small nod can tie your whole look together.

6. Plan for Practicality

Before committing to your costume, ask yourself:

  • Can I dance in this?

  • Will it last the whole night?

  • Can I sit down?

  • Is it too hot or too cold?

A glamorous look should still let you enjoy the night fully, especially at weekenders where the party doesn’t stop.

7. Add Your Personal Twist

The best costume party looks are the ones that reflect personality. Think:

  • A funny twist

  • A reference only your friends will get

  • A nod to an icon you love (like Kylie’s showgirl sparkle or Beyoncé’s rhinestone cowboy moment)

  • Colours or textures you feel confident in

8. Pack a Little “Glow Kit”

Costume parties often last longer than expected, so a small essentials kit helps keep you looking and feeling great:

  • Safety pins

  • Fashion tape

  • Mini hairspray

  • Glitter top-up (if relevant)

  • Deodorant

  • Comfy shoes for later

  • Makeup for quick touch-ups

A tiny bit of preparation now saves a lot of stress on the night.

9. Own the Look

The most important part of any costume party is confidence.
Whether you’re dripping in sequins or rocking something low-key, the energy you bring makes your outfit unforgettable.

If there’s ever a night to step into your main-character era, it’s a costume party.

Ready to Shine at Your Next Costume Party?

If you’re looking for the perfect place to bring your best look to life, join us this January at Don’t Tell Mama for the Glitter & Glam costume party on Saturday night, hosted by the iconic Polyglamorous. It’s the ultimate night to shine, sparkle and show off your most unforgettable outfit.

Grab your tickets now and start planning your look!

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