Wednesday Addams Costume Guide: DIY vs. Store-Bought

The mysterious, macabre Wednesday Addams has captivated audiences for nearly a century, but the Netflix series Wednesday has brought unprecedented popularity to this iconic gothic character. Whether you're preparing for Halloween, a cosplay convention, or a themed party, creating the perfect Wednesday Addams costume requires attention to detail and an understanding of what makes her look so distinctively dark and enchanting. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about crafting or purchasing an authentic Wednesday Addams costume.

Who Is Wednesday Addams?

Wednesday Addams is the eldest child of the macabre Addams Family, known for her deadpan delivery, morbid interests, and signature all-black wardrobe. While the character has existed since the 1930s, Netflix's 2022 series brought Wednesday into the modern era through Jenna Ortega's captivating performance. In the show, Wednesday attends Nevermore Academy, a private school for society's outsiders, where she investigates supernatural mysteries while maintaining her characteristically bleak outlook on life.

The Netflix series, designed by legendary costume designer Colleen Atwood (who has worked with director Tim Burton since 1990's Edward Scissorhands), gave Wednesday's iconic look a contemporary twist while preserving the essential elements that make her instantly recognizable. As Atwood described her vision, Wednesday is "trying to conform, but not quite fitting in"—a sentiment perfectly captured in every outfit she wears throughout the series.

Essential Wednesday Addams Costume Components

The Black Dress

The cornerstone of any Wednesday Addams costume is the black dress. The classic Wednesday look features a simple, modest black dress that falls somewhere between knee-length and mid-calf. In the Netflix series, the dress is slightly sheer in some versions, often paired with black tights for a modern, layered appearance.

Key characteristics of Wednesday's dress include:

• A-line or shift silhouette
• Modest length (knee to mid-calf)
• Long or short sleeves
• Simple, unadorned black fabric
• Slightly fitted but not tight

The opening scene of the Netflix series features Wednesday in a black dress with a subtle white flower pattern, paying homage to the dress Christina Ricci wore as Wednesday in The Addams Family Values. This demonstrates how the character's wardrobe maintains tradition while incorporating contemporary elements.

The White Collar

Perhaps the most distinctive element of Wednesday's costume is the crisp white Peter Pan collar that creates a stark contrast against her all-black attire. This collar is essential for achieving an authentic Wednesday Addams look.

In the Netflix series, costume designer Colleen Atwood created variations including:

• Sharp-edged, oversized collars
• Delicate white lace collars
• Structured white collared tops layered under dresses
• Traditional Peter Pan style collars

The white collar serves multiple purposes: it breaks up the darkness of the outfit, adds a touch of innocence that contrasts with Wednesday's macabre personality, and creates that instantly recognizable silhouette that has defined the character for generations.

The Iconic Braids

Wednesday's hairstyle is as crucial to her identity as her wardrobe. Her signature look features two very straight, long braids parted perfectly down the middle. These aren't loose, romantic braids—they're tight, severe, and absolutely symmetrical.

To achieve Wednesday's braids:

• Part hair precisely down the center
• Create two tight, neat braids that hang over the shoulders
• Keep braids perfectly straight (no flyaways)
• Extend braids as long as possible (hair extensions work well)
• Maintain a sleek, controlled appearance

If your hair isn't naturally dark, consider a temporary black hair spray or a wig to achieve Wednesday's jet-black locks.

Footwear

Wednesday's shoe choices reflect her practical, no-nonsense personality. Throughout the Netflix series, she's seen in several footwear options:

• Classic black Mary Jane shoes with a small heel
• Black combat boots or lace-up boots
• Simple black flats
• Black platform sneakers for casual looks

For a traditional Wednesday costume, black Mary Jane shoes are the most iconic choice. However, if comfort is a priority or you're attending an event where you'll be on your feet for hours, black combat boots or flats work equally well while staying true to the character.

Accessories

While Wednesday keeps her accessories minimal, a few carefully chosen details can elevate your costume:

Essential accessories:

• Black tights or stockings
• Small black crossbody bag or satchel
• Black nail polish (shiny, not matte)
• Silver or simple jewelry (if any)

Optional additions:

• The "Thing" prop (Wednesday's disembodied hand companion)
• A cello case (Wednesday plays cello in the series)
• Black snoods or scarves
• Nevermore Academy uniform elements

Remember, Wednesday's style is about minimalism and utility. She's not one for excessive jewelry or flashy accessories—every element serves a purpose.

DIY Wednesday Addams Costume Tutorial

Creating your own Wednesday Addams costume can be both budget-friendly and rewarding. Here's a step-by-step guide to assembling your DIY Wednesday costume:

Step 1: Find or Create the Dress

Option A: Repurpose an existing dress

Look through your closet for any black dress with a simple silhouette. A-line, shift, or fit-and-flare styles work well. The dress should be modest and fall around knee-length.

Option B: Thrift shop hunting

Thrift stores are treasure troves for costume pieces. Look for vintage black dresses, which often have the perfect retro silhouette for Wednesday's look.

Option C: Basic sewing

If you have basic sewing skills, creating a simple black dress is surprisingly straightforward. Use a basic dress pattern and black cotton or cotton-blend fabric. Focus on clean lines and a modest fit.

Step 2: Add the White Collar

Method 1: Sew-on collar

Purchase white collar fabric or a pre-made Peter Pan collar from a fabric store. Pin it to your dress neckline and hand-stitch it securely. This creates a permanent Wednesday dress you can wear repeatedly.

Method 2: Removable collar

Buy a detachable white Peter Pan collar (available online or at costume shops). These clasp or tie around the neck and can be worn with multiple black dresses or tops. This is the most versatile option.

Method 3: DIY fabric collar

Create your own collar using white felt, cotton, or lace:

1. Trace a Peter Pan collar pattern (templates available online)
2. Cut two identical collar pieces
3. Sew them together, leaving the neck edge open
4. Turn right-side out and press
5. Add a clasp, ribbon ties, or Velcro to fasten

Method 4: Layer a white-collared shirt

For a modern twist inspired by the Netflix series, wear a white button-up shirt with the collar showing under a black dress or jumper.

Step 3: Perfect the Braids

1. Wash and thoroughly dry your hair
2. Straighten hair completely using a flat iron
3. Part hair precisely down the middle using a tail comb
4. Divide each section into three equal parts
5. Braid tightly and evenly, keeping braids as straight as possible
6. Secure ends with small black elastics
7. Use hairspray or gel to control flyaways and maintain sleekness
8. If needed, use hair extensions for extra length

Pro tip: Practice braiding a few days before your event to perfect the technique and timing.

Step 4: Complete the Look

• Pair your dress with black tights or leggings
• Choose black Mary Jane shoes, boots, or flats
• Paint your nails with glossy black polish
• Keep makeup minimal and pale (see makeup guide below)
• Add optional accessories like Thing or a small black bag

Step 5: Embellishments (Optional)

For added authenticity inspired by specific Netflix series looks:

• Add subtle white flower embroidery or print to your dress
• Include a black puffy vest for Wednesday's investigation outfit
• Create a striped black-and-white shirt for a casual Wednesday look
• Fashion a Nevermore Academy uniform with gray and black elements

Total DIY Cost Estimate: $30-$80 depending on what you already own and whether you thrift or buy new items.

Store-Bought Wednesday Addams Costume Options

If you prefer convenience or want screen-accurate details, purchasing a pre-made Wednesday Addams costume is an excellent option. Here's what to look for and where to find quality costumes:

What to Look for in Store-Bought Costumes

Quality indicators:

• Well-constructed collar that maintains its shape
• Dress made from substantial fabric (not flimsy polyester)
• Accurate color (true black, not faded or gray-toned)
• Proper length and modest fit
• Attention to details like sleeve length and neckline

Sizing considerations:

Wednesday's dress should fit comfortably without being tight or overly loose. Many costume manufacturers run small, so check size charts carefully and read customer reviews for fit guidance.

Where to Buy

Online retailers:

Store-bought Wednesday Addams costumes are widely available online, especially during Halloween season. Look for officially licensed Netflix merchandise for the most screen-accurate options.

Costume specialty shops:

Dedicated costume stores often carry higher-quality Wednesday costumes with better construction and authentic details compared to generic Halloween stores.

Our store collections:

For a curated selection of Wednesday Addams and similar costumes, explore our collections:

• Halloween Costumes - Complete costume sets and accessories
• TV Character Costumes - Officially inspired looks from popular shows
• Gothic Costumes - Dark, mysterious styles perfect for Wednesday fans

Price Ranges

Budget options ($25-$50):

Basic costume sets that include a dress and collar. Quality varies, but these work well for one-time wear or casual events.

Mid-range options ($50-$100):

Better-constructed costumes with more accurate details, often including additional pieces like tights, accessories, or more elaborate collars.

Premium options ($100-$200+):

High-quality, screen-accurate costumes made with superior materials. These are ideal for serious cosplayers, theater productions, or collectors.

Pro tip: Purchase off-season (November through August) for better prices and selection. Halloween season brings higher prices and lower inventory.

Wednesday Addams Makeup Guide

Wednesday's makeup is subtle but essential for capturing her pale, gothic appearance. The goal is to look ghostly and slightly unwell while keeping the overall look wearable and age-appropriate.

Foundation and Skin

Creating Wednesday's pale complexion:

1. Start with a foundation 1-2 shades lighter than your natural skin tone
2. Apply white or very pale setting powder to further lighten the appearance
3. Avoid bronzer, blush, or any warm tones
4. Set with translucent powder for a matte finish

Alternative for darker skin tones:

Rather than trying to look unnaturally pale, focus on achieving a matte, cool-toned finish. Wednesday's look is about the contrast and overall gothic aesthetic, not a specific shade.

Eyes

Wednesday's signature eye look:

• Skip eyeshadow or use only matte black in the crease for subtle definition
• Apply black eyeliner on the upper lash line (thin to medium thickness)
• Optional: Very subtle black liner on the lower lash line
• One coat of black mascara
• Keep eyebrows natural but well-groomed
• Avoid false lashes—Wednesday's look is understated

The death stare:

Wednesday is famous for her intense, unblinking stare. Practice maintaining a serious, slightly menacing expression with minimal blinking. This is honestly half the costume!

Lips

Wednesday keeps her lips natural with minimal color:

• Use a nude or pale pink lip color close to your natural lip tone
• Matte finish preferred over glossy
• Alternatively, use a very pale lavender or mauve for a subtly gothic touch
• Avoid red, dark, or bright lipsticks

Optional Details

• Very subtle dark circles under eyes (use light brown or gray eyeshadow)
• Matte, pale highlighter on cheekbones (for a ghostly sheen, not glow)
• Set entire face with setting spray to ensure longevity

Products to avoid:

• Glitter or shimmer
• Bright colors
• Heavy contouring
• Dramatic or colorful eyeshadow

Thing Prop Ideas

No Wednesday costume is complete without acknowledging Thing, the disembodied hand that serves as Wednesday's loyal companion throughout the Netflix series. Adding a Thing prop to your costume takes it from good to exceptional.

Store-Bought Thing Props

The easiest option is purchasing a ready-made Thing prop:

• Foam or rubber hands designed to attach to shoulders
• Articulated hand props with wire frames for posing
• Plush or stuffed hand companions
• Animatronic hands with limited movement

These are available at costume shops and online, especially during Halloween season.

DIY Thing Creation

Method 1: Stuffed glove

1. Purchase a flesh-toned or gray fabric glove
2. Stuff firmly with polyester fiberfill or cotton
3. Sew the wrist opening closed
4. Add stitching details with black thread to emphasize fingers
5. Attach to shoulder with safety pins or Velcro
6. Optional: Add "stitches" with black embroidery thread for Frankenstein-like detail

Method 2: Paper mâché hand

1. Create a wire armature in the shape of a hand
2. Cover with paper mâché layers
3. Let dry completely (24-48 hours)
4. Paint with flesh tone or gray acrylic paint
5. Add details like fingernails with paint or press-on nails
6. Attach to a clip or pin for wearing

Method 3: Foam hand

1. Trace your hand on craft foam
2. Cut two identical hand shapes
3. Glue or stitch edges together, leaving wrist open
4. Stuff lightly with cotton or foam pieces
5. Close wrist opening
6. Paint and detail as desired
7. Attach to costume

Thing Positioning

To achieve the authentic Wednesday look:

• Attach Thing to your shoulder (as if riding along)
• Carry Thing in a small bag with fingers hanging out
• Position Thing emerging from a pocket
• For photos, hold Thing at arm's length as if it's "helping" you

Pro tip: If you're handy with electronics, consider adding small LED eyes or subtle movement mechanisms to bring Thing to life!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear a Wednesday Addams costume if I'm not a kid?

Absolutely! Wednesday Addams costumes are popular for all ages. The Netflix series features a teenage Wednesday, making this costume appropriate and relevant for teens and adults. Many adults appreciate Wednesday's dark humor and gothic aesthetic, making it a popular choice for Halloween parties, conventions, and themed events. Adult costume options range from screen-accurate replicas to sexy or glamorous interpretations, depending on your preference.

What's the difference between traditional Wednesday and Netflix Wednesday costumes?

Traditional Wednesday Addams (from the original comics, 1960s TV series, and 1990s films) typically features a very simple black dress with white collar, long braids, and Mary Jane shoes. The look is more uniform and consistent. Netflix's Wednesday, designed by Colleen Atwood, offers much more variety while maintaining core elements. You'll see Wednesday in multiple outfits: striped shirts, sweater vests, casual hoodies, a Nevermore Academy uniform (gray and black instead of the typical purple and white), and various iterations of the classic black dress with different collar styles. Both versions are recognizable and valid costume choices.

How can I make my Wednesday costume stand out from others?

To elevate your Wednesday costume above basic interpretations:

• Perfect the attitude: Wednesday's expression and demeanor are as important as her outfit. Master the death stare and deadpan delivery.
• Add Thing: A well-made Thing prop immediately makes your costume more memorable and photo-worthy.
• Include specific details: Reference particular outfits from the Netflix series, like the fencing uniform, the lace collar dress, or the Rave'N dance look.
• Accessorize thoughtfully: Carry a cello case, wear a Nevermore Academy badge, or include other series-specific elements.
• Nail the braids: Take extra time to make your braids absolutely perfect—tight, symmetrical, and severe.
• Quality over quantity: Invest in one excellent piece (like a really good collar or perfectly fitting dress) rather than cheap versions of everything.

Can I do a couples or group Wednesday costume?

Definitely! Wednesday-themed group costumes offer many creative possibilities:

• Classic Addams Family: Coordinate with others dressed as Gomez, Morticia, Pugsley, Uncle Fester, Lurch, and Cousin Itt.
• Wednesday and Thing: A duo costume where one person is Wednesday and another creates an all-black outfit with an oversized hand prop.
• Nevermore students: Gather friends to dress as Wednesday, Enid (her colorful roommate), Xavier, Bianca, and other students from the series.
• Multiple Wednesdays: A group of friends all dressed as different versions of Wednesday from various episodes or interpretations throughout the years.
• Wednesday and Tyler/Xavier: Pair Wednesday with one of her love interests from the series.
• The Addams Family musical: Create costumes inspired by the Broadway musical version of the characters.

Group costumes allow for creative photo opportunities and make attending events more fun!

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose to DIY your Wednesday Addams costume or purchase a ready-made version, the key to success lies in attention to detail and embodying the character's distinctively dark personality. The Netflix series has given us more Wednesday costume inspiration than ever before, from the classic black dress and white collar to modern interpretations with striped shirts and Nevermore Academy uniforms.

Remember that Wednesday's costume is more than just clothing—it's an attitude. Perfect your death stare, embrace the darkness, and channel Wednesday's brilliant, sarcastic wit. With the guidance in this comprehensive costume guide, you'll be ready to bring the most beloved gothic character to life at your next Halloween celebration, convention, or cosplay event.

For all your costume needs, explore our complete collections:

• Halloween Costumes
• TV Character Costumes
• Gothic Costumes

Now go forth and spread some delightful darkness—Wednesday Addams style.

Word Count: 3,247 words