You could instead use a tank top or a white button-up shirt as a top.
Cut off the ends of the sleeves in a jagged fashion. Cut the bottom of the t-shirt off. Pirates don’t need hems. Cut off the neckline of the t-shirt. $10 says Hanes was not around in the era of your pirate.
Allow the paint to dry, then flip the t-shirt over and paint the back the same way.
For women, choose a man’s shirt as it will be bigger and more likely to billow. For men, avoid anything that’s too tight or too short.
If possible, just try tucking in your ruffle to your neckline. The volume of the ruffle will cover up any self-improvements you’ve made to your shirt.
Fancy buttons for both the middle and cuffs A golden or silver chain toggle for the collar area Ruffles! Ay, matey. Ruffles can be added almost anywhere on the shirt ––around the cuffs, around the collar, down the button line, etc.
If preferred, you can wear a long skirt with petticoats underneath. It’s best if it billows out, to allow freedom of movement. This is something female pirates might like to wear in place of trousers.
Roll up your pants legs to quickly turn them into a pair of pirate breeches. Another alternative is to wear pants but to wear a coat tailored to hug around the front with tails in the back like a full skirt. This would probably be something you need to sew yourself or have tailored, but it can be a nice combination of pants and dress.
For a colder night, wear a very long, free flowing overcoat. It can have seen better days, provided it’s not a tight fit. Search in thrift stores for such a coat. Again, it’s best kept a darker color but can be colorful or patterned if you’re a flamboyant pirate.
Place the template over lightweight card and trace around it. Do this twice, as you need two sides to the hat. Cut out the hat shape.
If you’re using paint, this may take two coats; white over black at first is gray. Be patient – your hat is one of the flashiest parts of your outfit – put the time in to make it right.
If it’s really windy out and you’re forced to become an outdoor pirate, add elastic to keep the hat in place. Only do this as a last option though, as it can look a bit bulky and silly.
Cut a piece of red fabric in a large square shape. Fold the square into a triangle. Wrap around your neck. Tie the ends at the back of your neck and have the bandana tips pointed downward at the front of your neck.
Some pirates wore (or “wear” in the images on Google) a belt that more resembles a sash. If you have a black or red scarf, it can easily be turned into a pirate belt. Layer multiple belts for an eclectic pirate look.
Draw the shape of an eye patch on a piece of lightweight card. Cut out the patch. Paint the outer side black. Let dry. Pierce two holes into the top of the patch on either side of it. Thread in the ends of thin elastic and knot in place. Check that the length of elastic is just right for going around your head before cutting and knotting the final hole.
The more worn, the better. Hit up your local thrift shops for shoes you will probably never wear again – or at least not until next year.
You don’t necessarily have to mirror Jack Sparrow, but his is certainly a good look.
Plastic ones are pretty cheap and abundant in costume or party shops, too. Your entertainment will be provided all night – just be careful not to knock too many things over or poke someone in the eye.
