Many epic and superhero movies, especially big-budget blockbusters coming from famous graphic novels, comics, novels, along with a share of original stories, feature very distinctive costumes and props. Some of the iconic epic and superhero movies with characters already part of pop and film culture include "Star Wars," "Lord of the Rings," "Superman," "Batman," "Avatar," "Iron Man" and "X-Men."
When making the iconic Jedi costume, make the Jedi robe out of brown polyester fabric, which is usually available in fabric shops and even super centers. Sew the front opening, then make a straight cut from the middle to the shoulder fold. Hem the edges by the bottom of the robe, the front opening and the ends of the sleeves. Attach a brown hood to the neck area of the robe. Wear this robe over an inner, V-shaped tunic made out of a white loose shirt, then secure the tunic with a brown belt. Complete the costume with brown or white pants and brown boots.
Period movies can range from those featuring adaptations of historical accounts into the big screen to fictional stories inspired by periods and striking moments in history. Some of these popular period movies with costumes used in pop culture include "Robin Hood," "Apocalypto," "Gladiator," "Memoirs of a Geisha," "300," "Bonnie and Clyde," "Cleopatra, "Pearl Harbor" and "Marie Antoinette."
To make a Robin Hood costume, use two large-size shirts. The deep green shirt should be worn over a white, gold or brown undershirt. Cut and sew them together to look like a tunic. Add a brown belt to complete the costume for the upper body. Meanwhile, pair the tunic with green tights or skinny pants, brown leather shoes or boots. Complete the look with a triangularly elongated hat made of green felt.
A number of animation and live-action movies geared towards children become iconic costumes for kids during their birthdays, school events, Halloween and many other occasions. Popular movie characters used as costumes by many children include those showcasing Disney princesses like "Cinderella," "Sleeping Beauty," and "Snow White, and also other famous movies like "Alice in Wonderland," "Toy Story," "The Incredibles," "The Wizard of Oz," "Peter Pan," "Aladdin" and "Pocahontas."
To make a Cinderella costume, buy a light blue ball gown or you may improvise by adding a wide skirt to a modern gown and making a few alterations on the top to make puffy short sleeves. Add sequins and beads to the dress, then wear sparkling jewelry and a tiara over a princess-like up-do. Wear white gloves and Cinderella's trademark glass slippers. Although common in costume shops, similar footwear made of plastic or any other material, even those sold in department stores, may also work.
Horror movies are favored sources of costumes for Halloween and other parties and occasions. Some of the movies featuring popular horror movie costumes include "Dracula," "Frankenstein," "Scream," "Saw," "The Ring," "Freddy vs. Jason" and "Sweeney Todd."
To make a classic Dracula costume, use a white collared shirt, along with a black suit, pants and shoes. Over the white shirt and black suit, wear either a ready-to-wear black cape typically available in costume stores or a do-it-yourself cape made of an old black coat with the sleeves removed. Aside from wearing fangs, the entire face should also look very pale with white foundation or white face paint. Finalize the look with black eye shadow around the eyes and a distinct widow's peak painted on top of the forehead.