Unleash Your Inner Terror: The Ultimate Guide to Pennywise Costumes
There’s something deliciously terrifying about transforming into Pennywise the Dancing Clown that sends shivers down spines and turns heads at any costume event. Whether you’re drawn to Tim Curry’s classic 1990 portrayal or Bill Skarsgård’s bone-chilling 2017 reinvention, mastering this iconic look requires attention to detail that separates the truly nightmarish from the merely spooky. The perfect Pennywise costume combines distinctive elements—the Victorian-inspired clown suit, that unforgettable makeup, and those sinister finishing touches that make children (and let’s be honest, adults too) want to run screaming.
Creating an authentic Pennywise costume isn’t just about slapping on some clown makeup and calling it a day. It’s about embodying the essence of Stephen King’s most enduring monster—a creature that feeds on fear while wearing the disarming disguise of a circus performer. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create a Pennywise costume that would make even the bravest soul float too.
The Evolution of the Pennywise Costume: Then and Now
Pennywise has terrorized audiences across generations, with each iteration bringing its own unique costume elements to the nightmare. The original 1990 miniseries featured Tim Curry in a bright, colorful clown suit with puffed shoulders and a ruffled collar—more traditional circus clown than pure horror. When Bill Skarsgård stepped into the role for the 2017 remake, Pennywise’s look evolved into something more sinister: a dirty off-white Victorian-inspired costume with subtle red pom-poms and a more weathered, ancient appearance.
Both versions have their devoted fans, and your pennywise costume can draw inspiration from either—or create a hybrid that captures elements from both. The beauty of this iconic horror character is that there’s room for personal interpretation while still maintaining those instantly recognizable features that scream “IT.”
The Classic Pennywise Clown Costume Essentials
Every show-stopping Pennywise clown costume starts with these fundamental elements:
- The Suit: An off-white or silvery-gray costume with puffy sleeves and distinctive orange/red pom-pom buttons
- The Collar: A large, ruffled neck piece that frames the face dramatically
- The Makeup: Stark white face with exaggerated red lips extending into a smile, red nose, and distinctive facial features
- The Hair: Bright orange-red hair, typically receding from the forehead in a wild, menacing style
- The Accessories: White gloves, red balloon, and potentially “floating” props
What makes the Pennywise costume so effective is how these elements work together to create something that sits uncomfortably between whimsical and terrifying. The clown imagery should be recognizable enough to trigger that primal coulrophobia (fear of clowns) while the specific Pennywise details make it clear you’re not just any circus performer—you’re the embodiment of fear itself.
Choosing Your Perfect Pennywise Costume: Store-Bought vs. DIY
When it comes to becoming the dancing clown, you have two primary paths: purchasing a ready-made pennywise costume or crafting your own nightmare from scratch. Each approach has its advantages depending on your time, budget, and crafting abilities.
Pre-Made IT Pennywise Costumes: The Convenient Option
For those who want a hassle-free transformation, numerous retailers offer complete IT costume packages. These typically include the signature clown suit with attached collar, sometimes with gloves and occasionally even a mask or wig. The quality varies significantly based on price point—budget options might feel thin or lack detail, while premium pennywise halloween costume sets often feature better materials, more accurate designs, and additional accessories.
The advantage of store-bought options is convenience and consistency. You’ll know exactly what you’re getting, and higher-end costumes can look remarkably screen-accurate right out of the package. Many retailers now offer both the classic 1990 and the newer 2017 pennywise costume versions, giving you flexibility in which terror you want to embody. For more insights on costume trends, check out the Halloween Costumes Collection, Costumes, and Morphsuits.
When shopping for a pre-made pennywise the clown costume, pay attention to these quality indicators:
- Fabric weight (heavier generally means better quality and less see-through material)
- Detailed collar construction (the more elaborate, the more authentic it will appear)
- Inclusion of all key accessories (some may require separate purchases)
- Size options and fit reviews (nothing ruins a costume like poor fit)
DIY Pennywise Costume Creation: For the Dedicated Horror Fan
For those seeking a truly unique or screen-accurate look, creating your own pennywise clown costume allows for complete customization. This approach works especially well for cosplayers or Halloween enthusiasts who want to stand out with exceptional attention to detail.
A DIY approach typically involves:
- Sourcing a base costume (white/silver Victorian-style outfit or jumpsuit)
- Adding custom details (pom-poms, ruffled collar, weathering effects)
- Creating or purchasing a proper wig
- Mastering the makeup (often the most crucial element)
- Crafting or sourcing perfect accessories
The advantage of DIY is the ability to customize every aspect to your preference and body type. You can mix elements from different Pennywise eras or add unique touches that make your interpretation special. The downside? It requires more time, skill, and potentially more money depending on the quality of materials you choose. For inspiration on crafting unique costume props, see Fascinating Facts About Pan.
Perfecting the Pennywise Makeup: The Face of Fear
Let’s be honest—even the most expensive pennywise costume can fall flat without the right makeup. The face is what truly brings this character to life, creating that unsettling contrast between the cheerful clown appearance and the malevolent presence beneath.
Essential Makeup Elements for Your IT Clown Costume
Whether you’re recreating the 1990 or 2017 version, these key makeup components are non-negotiable:
- White Base: A smooth, even application of white face paint or cream makeup
- Red Details: The distinctive smile lines extending from the lips up the cheeks (different patterns for each version)
- Eye Makeup: Typically red or black details that enhance the menacing expression
- Red Nose: Either painted on or using a small clown nose
For the 2017 version, you’ll want to add cracked, aged details to the makeup and a more pronounced forehead with visible lines. The 1990 version features cleaner lines and a brighter overall appearance. Both require precision and patience—this isn’t a five-minute makeup job if you want truly terrifying results.
High-quality, water-resistant theatrical makeup will last longer through a night of terrifying party guests or trick-or-treaters. Many halloween pennywise costume enthusiasts recommend brands like Mehron, Kryolan, or Ben Nye for professional-grade results that won’t sweat off at the first sign of activity. You can also test your skills with fun challenges like the Minions Trivia Quiz to warm up before your makeup session.
Taking Your Pennywise Costume to the Next Level
Want to create a truly unforgettable pennywise halloween costume? Consider these advanced elements:
- Yellow Contact Lenses: The 2017 version features distinctive amber/yellow eyes that add an inhuman quality
- Prosthetic Teeth: Both versions have unique dental features—from buck teeth to rows of sharp fangs
- Forehead Prosthetics: For the 2017 version, a prosthetic forehead piece can create that distinctive cracked, bulbous appearance
- Weathering Effects: Adding subtle dirt and aged appearance to the costume fabric enhances realism
- Voice Training: Practicing Pennywise’s distinctive speech patterns completes the transformation
Remember that comfort matters too—especially if you’ll be wearing your adult pennywise costume for hours at a party or event. Test your makeup and accessories in advance, and make sure you can move, eat, drink, and use the restroom without completely destroying your terrifying look. For chilling inspiration, explore Bone-Chilling Legends from Around the World.
Mastering the Pennywise Makeup: Creating Nightmares Face by Face
The makeup transformation is where your pennywise costume truly comes alive. Even with the perfect clown suit, without those distinctive facial features, you’re just another clown at the party. Let’s break down exactly how to achieve that bone-chilling look that will have everyone at your Halloween gathering checking the drains before they use the bathroom.
Step-by-Step Pennywise Makeup Tutorial
Creating that perfect pennywise the clown face requires patience and the right tools. Start with a clean, moisturized face and follow these steps:
- Prime your face with a good makeup primer to ensure longevity
- Apply white cream makeup evenly across your entire face, neck, and ears
- Set the white base with translucent powder to prevent smudging
- Draw the signature red smile lines extending from the corners of your mouth up toward your temples
- Create the red triangular shapes above and below your eyes
- Apply a red nose (either with makeup or a small foam clown nose)
- Define your brows with black or red makeup, depending on which version you’re recreating
- Add subtle cracking effects for the 2017 look using gray or blue shadow
The 2017 it pennywise costume makeup includes more complex cracking and veining throughout the face, while the 1990 version features cleaner lines and a more traditional clown appearance. Either way, take your time with the details – they’re what separates a casual costume from a show-stopping transformation.
Yellow Contact Lenses: The Windows to Terror
Nothing completes an it clown costume like those eerie yellow eyes that seem to peer right into your soul. Specialty contact lenses can transform your look instantly, but remember – safety comes first. Only purchase contact lenses from reputable sources that require a prescription, even for cosmetic lenses. Your eyes are too important to risk with cheap alternatives that could cause infections or corneal damage.
If contacts aren’t your thing, you can still create an impressive effect with careful eye makeup. Yellow eyeshadow around the eyes with precise black liner can suggest the look without requiring anything in your eyes. If you’re a fan of sci-fi horror, you might also enjoy testing if you’re a massive Star Wars fan.
The Perfect Pennywise Costume Accessories: Details That Make the Difference
The Iconic Red Balloon
Nothing says “you’ll float too” quite like Pennywise’s signature red balloon. This simple prop instantly identifies your character and provides something for your hands to do while posing for photos. Opt for a high-quality latex balloon rather than a metallic one for screen accuracy, and consider attaching a white string for that perfect floating effect.
For maximum impact, practice walking with the balloon held at just the right height – slightly above eye level, string dangling ominously. It’s a small detail that photographs beautifully and adds movement to your costume as you mingle at parties. For some festive inspiration, check out Shocking Christmas Facts.
Gloves and Footwear
White gloves are essential for completing your pennywise clown costume, creating that stark contrast against the colorful suit. Look for ruffle-cuffed white gloves for the 1990 version or slightly aged, off-white ones for the 2017 look.
For footwear, the 1990 costume typically features colorful clown shoes, while the 2017 version has more Victorian-inspired boots. If authentic footwear is beyond your budget, focus on pants long enough to cover your shoes, and concentrate on perfecting the elements that will be most visible.
The Finishing Touches: Teeth and Voice
Both versions of Pennywise feature distinctive teeth – from the buck teeth of the 1990 version to the multiple rows of sharp fangs in the 2017 portrayal. Dental prosthetics can dramatically enhance your transformation, though they take some practice to speak while wearing.
Speaking of which – don’t forget about your voice! Practice Pennywise’s distinctive speech patterns, from Tim Curry’s playful yet menacing tone to Bill Skarsgård’s more guttural, otherworldly voice with that iconic drool. The way you move and speak while in your pennywise costume is just as important as how you look.
Pennywise Costume Options for Every Budget
Not everyone can spend hundreds on the perfect costume, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create an impressive pennywise halloween costume regardless of your budget. Let’s look at options across the price spectrum.
Budget-Friendly Pennywise Costumes
If you’re watching your pennies (pun intended), focus on these elements:
- A basic white costume or jumpsuit with added details (pompoms, ruffles)
- Quality face makeup (this is where you shouldn’t skimp)
- A DIY collar made from fabric or even white paper plates for structure
- A simple orange wig or temporary hair color
- One perfect accessory – usually the red balloon
Even on a tight budget, prioritizing the face makeup will give you the most bang for your buck. A perfectly painted Pennywise face with a simple costume will be more recognizable than an elaborate costume with mediocre makeup.
Mid-Range Pennywise Halloween Costumes
With a moderate budget, consider these upgrades:
- A complete pre-made pennywise costume from a specialty retailer
- Professional-grade makeup and setting powder
- A quality styled wig specific to your chosen Pennywise era
- Basic accessories including gloves, balloon, and perhaps basic teeth
At this price point, you can create a costume that will impress at any Halloween party or event, with enough attention to detail to satisfy most horror fans.
Premium Pennywise Costume for Adults
If you’re going all-out for a convention, costume contest, or simply want the most screen-accurate look possible:
- A high-end custom or premium manufactured pennywise costume for adults
- Professional theatrical makeup with proper setting products
- Custom-styled wig or professional hair styling
- Special effects contact lenses (properly fitted)
- Custom dental prosthetics
- Screen-accurate accessories including period-appropriate footwear
At this level, you’re not just wearing a costume – you’re creating a complete character transformation that could stand up to close inspection even by the most dedicated Stephen King fans.
Group Costume Ideas: Beyond the Dancing Clown
While a solo pennywise costume makes a striking impression, consider expanding to a group theme for even more impact. The IT universe offers plenty of opportunities for friends or family to coordinate their Halloween looks.
The Losers Club and Pennywise
One person dons the full pennywise halloween costume while friends dress as members of the Losers Club. This works especially well for groups, with each person taking on a different character – Bill, Beverly, Richie, Eddie, Stan, Mike, and Ben. The contrast between the colorful, menacing clown costume and the 80s-inspired outfits of the kids creates an instantly recognizable group theme.
For added effect, each Loser can carry a signature item – an inhaler for Eddie, a notebook for Ben, or a camera for Mike. This theme works with either casual everyday clothes or more specific costume pieces, making it adaptable to different budgets and effort levels.
Multiple Pennywise Eras
For a truly unique approach, consider having different people represent Pennywise across different eras – the 1990 miniseries version, the 2017 film version, and perhaps even your own interpretation of how the character might appear in other time periods mentioned in the book. This creates a striking visual when you arrive together, showcasing the evolution of this iconic horror character.
Remember that whatever costume option you choose, the key to a truly memorable pennywise costume lies in the confidence with which you wear it. Practice those menacing expressions in the mirror, perfect that chilling laugh, and prepare to bring Stephen King’s most enduring nightmare to life this Halloween season. For a deeper dive into clown hysteria, see The Clown Epidemic of 2016.
Advanced Pennywise Costume Performance Tips
A truly unforgettable pennywise costume experience goes beyond just looking the part – it’s about embodying the character’s essence. Once you’ve perfected your pennywise the clown costume, it’s time to focus on the performance aspects that will elevate your portrayal from merely wearing a costume to becoming the dancing clown that haunts Derry.
Mastering Pennywise’s Movements
Both versions of Pennywise have distinctive movement patterns that are instantly recognizable. The 1990 Tim Curry version moves with theatrical flair – broad gestures, sudden stillness, and that iconic wave. The 2017 Bill Skarsgård interpretation features more unsettling, inhuman movements – the odd head tilt, asymmetrical postures, and that famous eye drift.
Practice these signature movements in front of a mirror while wearing your it pennywise costume. The restricted vision from makeup and possibly contacts means you’ll need to be comfortable with your movements before heading to any event. Pay particular attention to how Pennywise uses stillness – those moments of complete immobility that make the sudden movements all the more terrifying.
Voice and Dialogue for Your IT Clown Costume
Nothing completes an it clown costume like nailing the character’s distinctive vocal patterns. The 1990 version features a more theatrical, almost sing-song delivery with sudden drops into menace. The 2017 version has a more guttural quality with unexpected pitch changes and that unsettling drool effect.
Memorize a few key Pennywise quotes to deploy at the perfect moment: “We all float down here,” “You’ll float too,” or “Time to float!” These instantly recognizable lines will enhance your costume’s impact. Practice speaking while wearing any dental prosthetics beforehand – they can significantly affect pronunciation.
Caring For Your Pennywise Costume
Quality pennywise costumes aren’t cheap, and with proper care, your investment can last for multiple Halloween seasons or convention appearances. Proper maintenance is especially important for premium materials and detailed components of your pennywise costume halloween ensemble.
Cleaning and Storage Tips
Most complete pennywise halloween costumes should be hand-washed or dry-cleaned rather than machine washed. Check the care instructions, but generally, spot cleaning with mild soap and cold water works best for the delicate details like ruffles and pompoms. For the wig, use specialized wig shampoo and conditioner, then store it on a wig stand to maintain its shape.
Store your clown costume from it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent color fading. Hang the costume rather than folding it to avoid permanent creases in the fabric. For accessories like gloves and collars, stuff them lightly with acid-free tissue paper to help maintain their shape during storage.
Makeup Removal and Skin Care
After a night of terrifying partygoers in your pennywise costume for adults, proper makeup removal is essential. Use a quality makeup remover specifically designed for theatrical or Halloween makeup – regular facial cleansers often can’t handle the heavy pigments in clown white and other specialized products.
Follow up with a gentle moisturizer, as the heavy makeup and setting powders can be drying to the skin. If you’ve used spirit gum or other adhesives for prosthetics, use the appropriate remover to avoid skin irritation. Your face is your canvas for future costumes, so take good care of it!
Where to Show Off Your Pennywise Halloween Costume
Once you’ve invested time and resources into creating the perfect pennywise costume, you’ll want to showcase it in venues where it will be truly appreciated. Beyond the obvious Halloween parties, consider these opportunities to make the most of your transformation.
Horror Conventions and Cosplay Events
Horror conventions offer the perfect audience for your meticulously crafted it the clown costume. Events like Monsterpalooza, Texas Frightmare Weekend, and Horror Hound Weekend attract fans who will appreciate the nuances of your costume’s accuracy. These venues often host costume contests with substantial prizes, giving you a chance to recoup some of your investment in that premium pennywise costume.
Larger comic conventions also frequently feature horror sections where your pennywise costume will find an appreciative audience. The photography opportunities at these events are unparalleled, with professional photographers often capturing stunning portraits of standout costumes.
Charity Events and Halloween Fundraisers
Many communities host Halloween-themed charity runs, haunted houses, or fundraising events where your pennywise halloween costume can both entertain and contribute to a good cause. Children’s hospitals often seek volunteers for supervised Halloween events, though you might want to tone down the scariest elements of your performance for younger audiences!
Local theaters showing horror movie marathons or special screenings of IT also provide perfect opportunities to showcase your costume while enjoying the source material that inspired it. Just be mindful of venue rules regarding masks and props before arriving.
The Ultimate Pennywise Costume Shopping Guide
With so many retailers offering varying quality levels of pennywise costumes, knowing where to shop can make all the difference between a disappointing experience and a triumphant transformation. Here’s where to find the best options for every component of your it pennywise the clown costume.
Finding Quality Pennywise Costumes Online
While many Halloween pop-up shops offer pennywise costumes, the quality can be hit-or-miss. For reliable, screen-accurate options, specialty costume retailers like MorphCostumes offer premium versions with attention to detail that mass-market versions often lack. The difference is immediately apparent in the fabric quality, construction methods, and inclusion of all necessary accessories.
When shopping online for your pennywise costume adult version, look for listings with multiple high-resolution photos showing the costume from different angles. Check customer reviews with photos to see how the costume looks on real people rather than professional models. Pay special attention to comments about fabric quality and fit – these are the most common issues with lower-quality costume options.
Pennywise Plus Size Costume Options
Everyone deserves to float, regardless of body type! Fortunately, many retailers now offer pennywise plus size costume options that maintain all the terrifying details of the standard sizes. When shopping for extended sizes, look for costumes with adjustable features like lace-up backs or side panels that allow for customization to your specific proportions.
If you’re having trouble finding a pre-made option that works, consider purchasing a base costume and customizing it with additional fabric and details. Many sewists specializing in cosplay can modify existing costumes or create custom versions based on your measurements for a truly perfect fit.
Conclusion: Becoming Pennywise
Whether you opt for a spirit halloween pennywise costume or invest in a premium custom creation, the most important element is how you bring the character to life. The best pennywise costume is one that makes you feel transformed – that gives you the confidence to embody this iconic horror character with all the menace and macabre charm that has made Pennywise an enduring figure in horror culture.
Remember that the most effective horror often lies in suggestion rather than explicit gore. A well-timed smile, a subtle head tilt, or simply standing too still for too long while wearing your pennywise clown costume can create more genuine unease than jumping out and shouting at people. Channel the calculated predatory nature of the character for a truly memorable performance.
From the carefully applied makeup to the final accessory adjustments, each element of your it costume contributes to the overall effect. Take your time with the preparation, practice your character’s mannerisms, and most importantly – have fun terrifying your friends. After all, fear tastes better with a side of laughter, just as Pennywise would prefer.
So go ahead – don that ruffled collar, paint on that iconic smile, and grab your red balloon. When someone asks about your incredible transformation, just smile and tell them: “We all float down here… and with the right costume, you’ll float too!” For more on Pennywise’s costume design, check out this Emmy-winning costume design story, a cosplay creation walkthrough, and chilling new costume design details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Pennywise’s outfit look like?
Pennywise’s outfit is a vintage-style clown costume that features a high collar, puffed sleeves, and ruffled details. The suit is primarily gray with red pom-pom buttons down the front, paired with oversized clown shoes. The overall look is eerie and old-fashioned, enhancing Pennywise’s unsettling and timeless presence.
What is Pennywise’s original name?
Pennywise’s original name is Pennywise the Dancing Clown, but in Stephen King’s novel ‘It,’ the entity is known as ‘It.’ This malevolent being takes on the form of Pennywise to lure children, but it has many other terrifying shapes and names throughout the story.
What to use for Pennywise makeup?
To achieve Pennywise makeup, start with a white face base to create a pale, ghostly complexion. Use red face paint or lipstick to draw the iconic exaggerated smile and the vertical lines extending up through the eyes, as well as a red nose. Black or dark brown eyeliner can enhance the eyes, while adding a bright orange or red wig completes the look.
What are the types of costumes?
There are several types of Pennywise costumes available, ranging from simple, ready-to-wear designs to highly detailed and authentic replicas. Some costumes focus on the classic clown suit style, while others include more theatrical elements like masks or full makeup kits. Additionally, you can find costumes inspired by both the 1990 miniseries and the recent movie adaptations, each with distinct styling.
What is Pennywise’s real name and face?
Pennywise does not have a true ‘real’ name or face since it is a supernatural entity known as ‘It.’ The clown persona is a guise used to terrify and attract victims, but the creature can shape-shift into whatever it desires. Its true form is incomprehensible to humans, often described as a cosmic, otherworldly presence.
What is Pennywise’s biggest fear?
Pennywise’s biggest fear is the loss of its power and influence over the town of Derry, especially when confronted by the Losers’ Club, the group of children who challenge and fight it. The creature fears being defeated and banished, which is why it preys on the children who can ultimately stand against it.
About the Author
Joe is the chief contributing writer for the MorphCostumes Blog.
MorphCostumes is the Costume Brand that gives you the costumes that make your best times in life even better.
We are the brand for people who want to make Halloween, Christmas, Easter, Birthdays or BBQ Parties even better with great costumes.
We know that many people have experienced having these events ruined by a rubbish costume they have bought online from a no-brand Chinese factory. The costume might turn up not looking like it was advertised, badly fitting, of poor quality so it tears easily. The material may be see-through, non-breathable or itchy. It also might be missing key accessories that complete the look.
MorphCostumes ensures that it makes your best times better by doing the following:
- Having thousands of innovative and unique costume designs.
- Ensuring fit by testing 30 or more separate measurements on each costume design.
- Guaranteeing quality by performing over 500,000 in-person quality checks each year.
- Always using 125 GSM or more material for a soft, breathable and quality feel.
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Through sticking to these values since launching in 2009, we have won awards such as Disney Product of the Year, and the business has been recognised as an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year finalist (twice), featured on the FEBE 100 fastest growing companies list (twice), the Sunday Times Fast Track, and the Maserati Top Companies List.
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