Supernatural Style: The Ultimate Guide to Cosplaying Eleven from Stranger Things
When Stranger Things first hit screens, Eleven (or "El") quickly became one of the most beloved and recognizable characters in pop culture. Her telekinetic powers, emotional depth, and evolving fashion choices make her a fan-favorite for cosplayers. Whether you’re drawn to her fierce personality, her love for Eggos, or her effortlessly cool 80s-inspired wardrobe, cosplaying Eleven is an exciting and versatile choice. This guide will help you recreate her iconic looks from different seasons, including costume details, makeup tips, and must-have accessories.
Choosing Your Eleven Look
Over the seasons, Eleven’s style has evolved dramatically, giving cosplayers multiple options to choose from. Here are the most popular versions of her look:
Season 1: The Classic Pink Dress Look
The outfit that started it all—Eleven’s escape from Hawkins Lab introduced this now-iconic look.
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Dress: A light pink, short-sleeved smock dress with pleated details.
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Jacket: A blue windbreaker with white stripes.
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Socks & Shoes: Knee-high white socks with green and yellow stripes, paired with white Converse high-tops.
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Accessories: A blonde wig (if you want to replicate her disguise) and a box of Eggo waffles.
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Makeup: A subtle face with a fake nosebleed to showcase her telekinetic powers.
Season 2: Punk Eleven
This is Eleven’s rebellious phase, where she briefly joins a group of outcasts and embraces a darker, edgier style.
- Shirt: Black or dark-colored top with rolled-up sleeves.
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Jacket: An oversized dark coat.
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Pants: Black, high-waisted jeans.
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Shoes: Dark boots or sneakers.
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Makeup: Smudged dark eyeliner and bold eyebrows.
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Hair: Slicked-back, wet-look style with gel.
Season 3: Mall Outfit
By season three, Eleven is discovering her sense of self and embracing colorful 80s fashion.
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Rompers: A bold, geometric-patterned romper or jumpsuit.
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Shoes: White sneakers.
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Accessories: A scrunchie and a friendship bracelet.
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Hair: Shoulder-length wavy bob with a middle part.
Season 4: Hawkins Lab or California Look
Eleven’s style in Season 4 reflects her struggle to fit into a new life.
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Hawkins Lab Look: Hospital gown or oversized flannel.
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California Look: Plaid button-up shirt over a graphic tee, paired with loose jeans.
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Props: A school binder or notebook.
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Attitude: She feels out of place—awkward and unsure expressions work well here.
Costume Breakdown for Classic Season 1 Eleven
For those going with Eleven’s classic Stranger Things look, here’s a detailed breakdown:
Pink Dress Outfit
The simple yet iconic pink dress is a must-have for Eleven’s first look.
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Dress: A short-sleeved pink smock dress with subtle pleating.
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Jacket: A blue windbreaker with white stripes.
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Socks: White knee-high socks with green and yellow stripes.
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Shoes: White Converse sneakers or similar high-tops.
Punk Eleven (Season 2)
A total contrast to her earlier look, this version of Eleven is edgy and rebellious.
- Shirt: Black, punk-style T-shirt.
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Jacket: An oversized black coat.
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Pants: Black or dark jeans, slightly rolled at the bottom.
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Shoes: Combat boots or dark sneakers.
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Makeup: Heavy eyeliner and darker brows for a grunge effect.
Mall Outfit (Season 3)
If you’re into bright and colorful 80s fashion, this look is for you.
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Rompers: Look for a vintage romper with a fun geometric pattern.
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Shoes: Classic white sneakers.
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Accessories: A scrunchie and a woven bracelet.
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Hair: Wavy, shoulder-length bob.
Hair and Wig Options
Depending on which Eleven look you choose, your hairstyle will vary.
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Buzz Cut (Season 1): If you’re not ready to shave your head, opt for a short wig or use a bald cap.
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Slicked-Back Hair (Season 2): Use styling gel for a wet, grungy look.
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Wavy Bob (Season 3 & 4): A brown, shoulder-length wavy wig works best for her later seasons.
Makeup & Special Effects
Eleven’s makeup is usually natural, except for her punk phase in Season 2.
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Minimal Makeup: Light foundation, soft blush, and lip balm.
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Punk Eleven: Smudged eyeliner and darker brows.
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Nosebleed Effect: Use fake blood, red lip liner, or face paint for Eleven’s signature telekinetic nosebleed.
Props for Extra Realism
No Eleven cosplay is complete without a few key props:
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Eggo Waffles: The most recognizable Eleven accessory—carry a box or wrap a few individually for fun photo ops.
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Fake Blood: Use sparingly under your nose for a dramatic effect.
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Blindfold: Perfect for recreating her sensory deprivation scenes.
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Walkie-Talkie: A nod to how she communicates with the boys throughout the series.
Posing and Acting Like Eleven
To really sell the cosplay, embrace Eleven’s mannerisms:
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Fierce Stare: Eleven’s intense expression is key. Practice her determined, serious gaze.
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Hand Gesture: Extend one hand forward with fingers slightly curled as if using her telekinesis.
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Nose Wipe: Lightly wipe your nose after "using your powers" to mimic her signature move.
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Eggo Eating: Holding an Eggo waffle in one hand while staring dramatically into the distance is a must.
Buying vs. DIY Costume
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Pre-Made Costumes: You can find Eleven costumes online, especially for her classic pink dress look.
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DIY Approach: Thrift stores are goldmines for 80s-inspired clothing, windbreakers, and oversized coats.
Final Tips for Bringing Eleven to Life
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Embrace Her Personality: Eleven evolves from a scared runaway to a confident young woman. Channel her growth in your portrayal.
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Focus on Small Details: The nosebleed, socks, and Eggo prop can make all the difference.
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Stay Comfortable: Whether you’re at a convention or a Halloween party, ensure your costume allows for easy movement.
Cosplaying Eleven is all about blending nostalgia, attitude, and supernatural vibes. Whether you rock her iconic pink dress, her punk phase, or her 80s mall makeover, getting the details right will make your Eleven instantly recognizable. So grab your Eggos, practice your power stance, and step into the world of Stranger Things—no telekinesis required.
