Becoming an Amazon: How to Create the Ultimate Wonder Woman Costume

Wonder Woman is one of the most iconic superheroes in the DC Universe, known for her strength, grace, and heroic spirit. Whether you’re a fan of her classic comic book look or the more modern portrayal in the films, Wonder Woman is a powerful choice for cosplay. Her costume combines beauty and function, giving cosplayers the chance to embody an Amazon warrior while wearing some of the most recognizable elements in pop culture. This guide will help you create the ultimate Wonder Woman costume, whether you’re crafting it yourself or enhancing a pre-made version.

Costume Components Outfit Overview

Wonder Woman’s costume has evolved over the years, with various versions appearing in comics, movies, and animated series. However, a few key elements remain consistent: her red bodice or corset, golden eagle emblem, and blue skirt or shorts. Depending on the version you choose, the look can range from a classic superheroine style to a more warrior-inspired ensemble.

Bodice/Corset

The bodice or corset is a central piece of Wonder Woman’s costume.

1. Classic Version: The classic comic book version features a red, strapless bodice with a golden eagle emblem across the chest. This look is bright, simple, and instantly recognizable.

2. Modern/Movie Version: In the modern Wonder Woman movies, the bodice is designed with a more armored, warrior aesthetic. The red is darker, and the bodice is sculpted, with intricate details to give it a battle-ready look.

DIY Tips: If you’re making the costume from scratch, you can use foam, faux leather, or fabric to create the bodice. Foam and fabric paints can be used to add texture, while faux leather gives the corset a more realistic, armored appearance. For the golden eagle emblem, you can use gold craft foam or fabric and attach it to the bodice for a standout feature.

Skirt/Shorts

The lower half of Wonder Woman’s outfit varies between versions.

1. Classic Version: In the classic design, Wonder Woman wears blue, star-spangled shorts or a skirt. This look adds a touch of Americana to her superhero attire.

2. Modern Version: The modern look opts for a darker, more muted blue or leather-like skirt with pleats, giving the outfit a more tactical and battle-ready feel.

DIY Tips: For the modern skirt, faux leather or pleated fabric works best. You can purchase fabric or modify a pre-made skirt to add detailing, such as stars for the classic look or textural elements for a more modern vibe.

Accessories

Tiara

Wonder Woman’s golden tiara is one of her most recognizable accessories.

DIY Tips: You can make the tiara out of foam, plastic, or even metal if you’re looking for durability. Paint it gold and add the iconic red star or gemstone in the center. Pre-made tiaras are also available if you prefer to buy one.

Arm Bracers/Bracelets

Wonder Woman’s silver or gold arm bracers (Bracelets of Submission) are essential to her costume, both as a symbol and as part of her defense.

DIY Tips: You can create the bracers using foam, Worbla, or lightweight plastic, then paint them silver or gold. For added realism, use metallic paint to give them a shiny, reflective surface. Pre-made arm bracers are also widely available if you’re looking for a quicker solution.

Lasso of Truth

Wonder Woman’s Lasso of Truth is one of her signature tools, often attached to her belt.

DIY Tips: Use gold rope or cord to create the lasso, and attach it to your costume with a loop or hook for easy access. For a more dynamic look, you can use lights or reflective paint to make the lasso glow.

Belt

Wonder Woman’s golden belt can be a simple waistband or an intricately designed piece, depending on the version.

DIY Tips: Create the belt from foam or purchase one online. For the modern version, add details like the “W” emblem in the center and craft foam accents to replicate armor.

BootsClassic and Modern Boots

Wonder Woman’s red, knee-high boots are a staple of her costume, with slight variations between the classic and modern versions.

1. Classic Boots: Red knee-high boots with white trim.

2. Modern Boots: The modern version uses darker shades of red with gold or silver accents and armor details.

DIY Tips: You can create or modify boots using fabric or spray paint. For the armored look, add foam or craft details and paint them gold or silver. If you prefer a simpler approach, you can find red boots online and customize them with white or gold accents.

Cape (Optional)

In some versions of Wonder Woman’s costume, she wears a red, white, and blue cape with stars, especially in her classic comic book look.

DIY Tips: You can make a cape using lightweight fabric in red, white, and blue, or purchase a pre-made cape. Make sure it complements the overall costume without overshadowing the main elements, like the bodice or tiara.

Makeup and Hair

Hair

Wonder Woman’s long, wavy black hair is a key part of her look. If you have long hair, you can style it with soft waves. Otherwise, a high-quality black wig can do the trick.

Styling Tips: Keep the look simple but elegant. You can use a curling iron or rollers to create loose waves that frame your face, enhancing the Amazonian look.

Makeup

Wonder Woman’s makeup is natural and heroic, focusing on a strong, empowered look.

1. Face: Use light contouring to emphasize strong features, like cheekbones and jawline.

2. Brows: Keep the brows bold and defined, as they help create a powerful expression.

3. Lips: A natural lip color, nude, or light pink works well. You can also opt for a bold red lip for a more intense, classic comic book style.

Cosplay Contacts

To complete the Wonder Woman look, consider using colored contacts. While Diana is often depicted with dark brown or blue eyes, depending on the version, adding contacts can make the costume more immersive.

1. Dark Brown: Use brown contacts for a classic Wonder Woman look, matching the traditional comic book character’s eye color.

2. Blue: For a more cinematic or modern version, blue contacts add a sharp, heroic look.

Choose a color that complements the version of Wonder Woman you’re cosplaying, and make sure the contacts are comfortable for long-term wear.

Props

Props Sword and Shield

For a more modern or movie-based Wonder Woman, her sword and shield are essential weapons.

DIY Tips: You can make the sword and shield using foam, Worbla, or lightweight plastic. Paint the props with metallic finishes to give them a battle-ready look. Pre-made props are also available for those who want a more detailed or durable option.

Poses and Characterization

Cosplaying Wonder Woman isn’t just about the look—it’s about capturing her powerful, confident demeanor. When in costume, practice standing tall and embodying her Amazonian poise.

Poses: Key poses include hands on hips, holding the shield and sword, or her iconic crossed-arm stance (deflecting bullets). Practice walking with purpose, always maintaining her strong, heroic presence.

Buying vs. DIY

Pre-made Cosplay

For those short on time, pre-made Wonder Woman costumes are widely available online. High-quality costumes often include the bodice, skirt, and accessories. Enhance these with personalized makeup, props, and your own additions to make the costume unique.

DIY Options

Crafting the costume yourself allows for full customization. Use foam, fabric, and craft supplies to build the bodice, skirt, and accessories, adding your own flair. This option gives you creative control and often results in a more authentic, personal take on Wonder Woman.

Final Tips for a Successful Cosplay

While Wonder Woman’s costume is visually striking, it’s important to ensure it’s comfortable and practical for long wear. Armor pieces should be secure but not too tight, and props like the sword and shield should be lightweight. Always test the costume before the event to ensure you can move freely and confidently.

Cosplaying Wonder Woman is an empowering experience, as her costume represents strength, courage, and justice. Whether you’re recreating her classic look or opting for a modern, warrior-inspired version, focusing on the key elements—like the bodice, accessories, and props—will help you bring this iconic character to life. By embodying her heroic presence and attention to detail, you’ll be ready to take on the role of the Amazon warrior at your next cosplay event.