How to Make an Amy Winehouse Costume

Sometimes more infamous than famous, Amy Winehouse gave her voice to the world. Along with unforgettable hits, she also contributed her signature retro fashion to the stage. Put together a tribute to this fallen artist with a costume that shows Amy at her most glamorous... high hair, big belts and all.

of 07

Big Hair with all the Trimmings

Amy Winehouse Hair — Amy Winehouse performs onstage during the 46664 Concert In Celebration Of Nelson Mandela's Life held at Hyde Park on June 27, 2008 in London, England. Getty Images

Amy's high-rise beehive hair-do is unmistakable. (Larger photo of Amy's Hair)

If you already have long locks, you can tease your hair up into a beehive. It may sound like a tall order (pun intended), but you can do it with this step-by-step video tutorial.

Not blessed with brunette tresses? A big wig is all you need. Don't try to turn a straight-haired wig into a beehive- wigs are threaded to function as a single hairdo.

However you achieve it, be sure to dress up your beehive with flowers, feathers or a big clip as shown.

of 07

Dramatic Makeup

Amy Winehouse Makeup — A waxwork figure of Grammy Award winning singer Amy Winehouse is unveiled at Madame Tussauds on July 23, 2008 in London, England. Getty Images

Through all her ups and downs, one factor of Amy's style remained consistent. (Larger Makeup Photo)

Cateyes: A sharp upturn of eyeliner to the outside corners of Amy's eyes were an undeniable trademark. Contributing to her edgy retro style, Amy's cat eye makeup is a mandatory addition to the costume.

Never-nude Lips: Though paparazzi cameras could catch her on an off-day, Amy's lips were usually coated in rich color.

How to Apply Red Lipstick: This tutorial will get you started on wearing red without looking like a clown.
50's Pin-up Makeup Video: Try this video tutorial for cat eyes that can be enhanced and lengthened to match Amy's.

of 07

Slinky Sweetheart Dress

Amy Winehouse Gingham Dress — Singer Amy Winehouse performs onstage at Lollapalooza in Grant Park on August 5, 2007 in Chicago, Illinois. Getty Images

When it comes to gowns, Amy had a formula for fashion that you can easily follow for your costume. Here are some of the characteristics of her style.

Sleeveless: While Amy could sometimes be caught covering her shoulders, she often went sleeveless and strapless. Spaghetti straps will work, but sleeves are most definitely out.

Sweetheart neckline: The cut of the shirt has everything to do with an Amy Winehouse look. She was a huge proprietor of plunging necklines. Heart-shaped tops helped to accentuate a couple of her god-given talents.

Short skirt: Amy's skirts did not typically meet the knee. The fit was usually a tight mini-skirt style; fuller, flouncy skirts can work as well, but keep it short.

Dress Photos from Amy:

Gingham Skirt
Slinky Denim Dress
Little Black Dress
Pastel Wrap Gown
Sapphire Strapless

of 07

A Thick Belt

Amy Winehouse Onstage — Amy Winehouse performs on stage at the Music Of Black Origin (MOBO) Awards at the O2 Arena, Greenwich on September 19, 2007 in London, England. Getty Images

Part of Amy's 50's look included a cinched waist. A large belt is a good way to pull in the waist without actually doing a lot of cinching. Go with a black belt at least 3" tall, and a large buckle wouldn't hurt.

Photo Inspiration from Amy:

Plain Black Belt
Huge Belt on Red Dress
Crescent Moon Buckle
Big Belt on Little Shorts

of 07

Winehouse Tattoos

Amy had a collection of classic pin-up tattoos down her arms. Since most of Amy's gowns and shirts are sleeveless, the tattoos are an essential part of accurately creating the Winehouse look.

Use a large photo of Amy's tattoos to assist in getting temporarily inked. Washable tattoo markers are available online and should last for hours (price tattoo markers online).

of 07

The Shoes: Slippers or Heels?

Amy Winehouse Slippers and Heels — Amy Winehouse in slippers and heels. Getty Images

High Heels: Amy Winehouse was stunning in heels. She stalked the stage with a casual grace that could send fans into a frenzy. I doubt I could even walk across the room in those heels without falling flat on my face! If you are talented (or daring) enough to parade the party in heels this high, more power to you.

Ballerina Slippers: For a stint, Amy Winehouse famously lit the town on fire in a pair of satin ballerina slippers. She took her pajama wear to the streets, repeatedly photographed on the sidewalk, in bars and stores in her favorite pair of shoes. Amy regularly faced off against paparazzi that wasn't used to seeing stars in the same thing twice, Amy quickly developed a reputation for wearing the slippers until they appeared dirty.

of 07

Props: Cigarette, Drink, Microphone

Amy Winehouse Smoking — Amy Winehouse smokes a cigarette at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London. Getty Images

Amy has such a unique look; it is likely that Halloween will bring on a lot of impersonators. Make your Amy Winehouse disguise stand out from the big-haired crowd with the right props.

Cigarette: Amy was seldom seen without a smoke in-hand.

Drink: This prop could be a touchy subject. While typical of her ensemble, alcohol was her biggest vice. Fans might be offended by this prop, but it is true-to-life.

Microphone: Amy Winehouse should be remembered for her gift, not those things that held her back. Take along a toy microphone or hit the karaoke with your best attempt.

More Top Costumes