Carnival is one of those times where you do not need an elaborate outfit to join in. A simple, recognisable costume can look great in photos, feel comfortable for a long day out, and be easy to source from things you already own.

Below are 10 classic, generic costume ideas that are easy to recreate and easy to search for online photos when you are looking for inspiration. Each idea includes what you need and a set of search keywords to help you find reference images quickly. Carnival is one of those times where you do not need an elaborate outfit to join in. 

Before You Pick One, A Few Practical Tips

1. Prioritise comfort: You will likely be walking, standing, and sitting, so choose breathable fabrics and shoes you can actually wear for hours.
2. Think about the weather: Carnival season can be bright and breezy. Layers help, and a light jacket can be worked into the look.
3. Keep it safe: If you are wearing a mask, make sure you can see clearly. Avoid anything that drags on the ground or blocks movement.
4. Face paint basics: Do a patch test if you have sensitive skin, avoid painting too close to the eyes, and remove gently at the end of the day.

1. Classic Clown

 

Throw on a bright top with colourful trousers or a skirt, add suspenders or a big bow tie, and finish with simple face paint like rosy cheeks and a red nose. If you want to keep it even easier, skip the makeup and just wear a clown nose with mismatched socks.

2. Witch

Wear an all-black outfit like a dress or a black top and skirt, then add a pointed witch hat and, if you have one, a short cape. A little dark lipstick or smoky eye makeup completes the look without needing anything complicated.

3. Pirate 

Start with a white shirt and dark trousers, tie a scarf or sash around your waist, and add a bandana on your head. If you want a quick extra detail, wear chunky costume jewellery or add an eyepatch. 

4. Angel

Choose a white outfit and add a halo headband, then wear lightweight wings if you can find them. Keep makeup soft and glowy, and add a touch of shimmer on the cheeks or eyelids for a simple finishing touch.

5. Devil 

Go for a red or black outfit and add a horn headband, then use eyeliner to create a sharper, bolder look. If you have time, add a small tail accessory or carry a little trident prop.

6. Cat

Wear a black outfit and pop on cat ears, then draw whiskers and a small nose with eyeliner. Add a simple tail if you have one, and finish with a bit of highlighter or glitter for a cute photo-friendly look.

7. Skeleton

Wear black from head to toe and either use a skeleton-print top or paint a basic skull design on your face with black and white makeup. If you want to keep it minimal, just do dark eyes and a simple "teeth" line across the lips.

8. Tourists 

Put on a loud shirt with shorts, add sunglasses and a hat, and lean into the vibe with a small backpack. Carry a map or a camera prop to make it instantly obvious, and pair it with socks-and-sandals for extra effect.

9. Detective 

Wear a trench coat or blazer over a shirt and tie and add dark trousers to keep it neat and simple. Carry a notepad or a magnifying glass prop, and if you have a hat, it gives the outfit an easy classic detective feel.

10. 80s Workout Look

Wear leggings with an oversized top, add bright socks, and throw on a headband or wristbands if you can find them. Keep hair big or in a high ponytail, and add bold, colourful accessories for the full retro aerobics look.