This Halloween, Get Inspired By Elizabeth Taylor
There’s never a wrong time to channel Elizabeth Taylor, but Halloween offers the perfect excuse to step into one of her unforgettable looks. Across her films, public appearances, and love stories, she embodied a lifetime of transformation, and each look tells a story of boldness, confidence, and undeniable glamour. This Halloween, celebrate Elizabeth’s legacy with one of these costume ideas inspired by some of her most iconic moments.
(Original Caption) 1962-Rome, Italy: Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra, is shown seated on a chair in front of a stairwell, on the set in Rome where the movie is being shot.
Cleopatra
Few roles capture Elizabeth’s commanding presence quite like Cleopatra. Recreate her unforgettable look from this Twentieth Century Fox classic with a sleek black bob or Cleopatra-style wig, metallic eyeshadow in gold, turquoise, or blue, and a dramatic winged liner that extends nearly to the temples. A shimmering sheath dress completes the transformation, paired with bold, gold cuffs.
BUtterfield 8
For something sultry and modern, channel Gloria Wandrous from MGM's Oscar-winning drama BUtterfield 8. Think curve-hugging slip dresses with a faux fur coat tossed effortlessly over the shoulders. A pair of cat-eye sunglasses and a touch of attitude will complete the look, making this a perfect costume for those who want their glamour with a touch of edge. And don't forget to pack a tube of lipstick for writing on mirrors!
Elizabeth Taylor and Spencer Tracy on the set of Father of the Bride, directed by Vincente Minnelli. (Photo by Sunset Boulevard/Corbis via Getty Images)
Image: Getty
Father of the Bride
For a softer side of Elizabeth, look to her role as the luminous Katherine Banks in MGM's Father of the Bride. Choose a vintage-inspired tea-length wedding dress or gown, delicate gloves, and a lace veil. Style your hair in soft curls and carry a bouquet of white blooms. The result is timeless, classic elegance that never fades.
Real-Life Wedding Looks
Off-screen, Elizabeth’s weddings were as memorable as her movie roles. Reimagine one of her real-life bridal moments, like the canary yellow chiffon dress she wore to marry Richard Burton, or the green floral hooded gown from her wedding to Eddie Fisher. And don’t hold back on the white diamonds (or rhinestones, we won’t tell)!
Image: MPTV
Giant
Capture Elizabeth’s sophisticated Americana as Leslie Benedict from Warner Brothers' American epic Giant with a Western hat, a crisp blouse, and tailored trousers. A pair of vintage boots and soft, voluminous curls will finish the look. It’s a nod to her on-screen strength and effortless grace, a costume with quiet power.
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Image: © Bob Willoughby
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
For those who prefer their drama with a capital D, look to her Oscar-winning turn as Martha in Warner Brothers' production of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? A structured cocktail dress, loud jewelry, tousled hair, and smoky eyes will do the trick. Carry a martini glass and perfect your dry wit to get her biting, brilliant energy.
Image: Getty
The Life Of A Showgirl
Taylor Swift’s song “Elizabeth Taylor” from The Life of A Showgirl has the Hollywood legend fresh in everyone’s minds, making this year the perfect year to pay homage to one of the original Showgirls herself. While you could do any of the ideas above, if you want to combine your love of the two Taylors, we suggest leaning into the glittering side of Elizabeth with some show-stopping glam. Go all in with a glitzy bodysuit and accessories like a tulle train, a glitzy headpiece, a feather boa, or some statement jewelry. Top off the look with a smoky violet eye, a reference to her legendary gaze.