DIY 80s Madonna Halloween CostumeLooking for an easy 80s Madonna Halloween costume? Recreate Madonna’s iconic early-1980s look with a mix of lace, fishnet stockings, layered silver jewelry, black rubber bracelets, belts, and plenty of attitude. This DIY Madonna costume can be pulled together with pieces you may already have in your closet, including a mini skirt or crinoline, ripped tights, lace fingerless gloves, ruffle socks, and ankle boots. Finish the look with big, voluminous 80s hair, bold black eyeliner, rosy cheeks, and a classic red lip for the ultimate Madonna-inspired Halloween costume. Whether you’re dressing up for Halloween, an 80s-themed party, or simply want to channel Madonna’s legendary style, this is an easy costume to recreate—and you can shop the pieces to get the look below.
Originally published October 1, 2008 // Updated in 2026
It’s finally October! …and to kick off the festivities, I’m posting the first of my top ten Halloween costumes.
I totally rocked 80’s Madonna and luckily, my friend Erik Hyler {who just so happens to be a freaking amazing photographer} was there to snap some radical shots. {I only wish I had more!}
I am not embarrassed to say that I did not need to buy a single item for this costume.. yep, I had it all ..even down to that lace glove, which I kept from the 80’s {and still have!}. I only wish I had a full-length shot because I was wearing an awesome mini crinoline, ripped stockings, ruffle socks and ankle boots.
How to Recreate the 80s Madonna Look
The secret to an 80s Madonna costume is more is more. Start with a black mini skirt, crinoline, or layered tulle skirt and add ripped or fishnet stockings. Then pile on the accessories: black rubber bracelets, lace fingerless gloves, layered silver chain necklaces, and multiple belts worn loosely around the waist or hips. Add ruffle socks and ankle boots to really lean into the early-80s look. If you’re ready for a fun treasure hunt, check your local thrift shops (or your own closet, your mom’s closet or even your grandma’s closet 😉) or check out the options I’ve curated in the shopping widget below. 👇
For the hair, go big. Tease the roots, add plenty of volume, and create messy waves or curls. A high side ponytail with a scrunchie, ribbon, or bow also works beautifully for a classic Madonna-inspired look.
For makeup, think bold rather than polished: defined brows, black eyeliner, plenty of mascara, rosy blush, and a bright red or berry lip. You can even add a beauty mark above the lip for an unmistakable Madonna reference. Finish with layered jewelry and a little attitude, and you’re ready to hit the dance floor—or at least your Halloween party.
SHOP THE 80s MADONNA LOOK
Fishnet tights, Black lace tights and accessories,
Lace fingerless gloves, Black and white rubber bracelets, layered Silver chain necklaces, Cross necklaces and/or rosary beads, Wide leather studded belts and silver chain belts, Mini crinoline/tulle skirt, Ruffle socks, silk camisoles or bras or bustiers, I used fishnets (and cut the crotch out, 😆) and used them as sleeves, Ankle boots
ICONIC MADONNA HAIR
If your hair is long, create a faux bob with THIS HAIR TUTORIAL and use the links/steps below or buy a wig 😉
Black lace bow barrette, clip or headband (YOU can also take a long piece of black tulle or lace fabric and wrap it around your head like a headband and tie a bow on top – which is what we often did because all of these options weren’t readily available back in the day, Teasing combs and brushes, Volumizing hairspray, crimping and curling irons, Black eyeliner, Red lipstick, Beauty mark eyeliner
I’ve always been a fan of dressing up and DIY-ing my own costumes instead of buying them. It started with my mom who would hand make them all for me as a kid. Throughout the month of October, I’ll be posting the rest of my top 10 {from various ages} for your viewing pleasure.
Harley Quinn Arkham Knight DIY Costume / Cosplay + Halloween
