Goggles, corsets, and hats oh my!

The dinge aesthetic makes steampunk a great choice for a DIY/thrift store costume.

Whatever original creation you put together, ensure it includes these core steampunk qualities.

woman in steampunk costume

Fall into autumn colors

Welcome tosteampunk’s sepia-toned world.

In this aesthetic, rust is not only acceptable it’s encouraged.

Lean into coppers, golds, and browns of all hues (via Steampunk Movement).

Steampunk woman near train

Three materials reign supreme: leather, lace, and metal.

Lucky for the eco-conscious and the budget shopper alike, all three are in ample supply secondhand.

it’s possible for you to find the softer fabrics in the clothing section of the thrift store.

Steampunk woman with binoculars

Add some frill to your neckline or gloves for a bit of Victorian flare.

A ruffle on a blouse sleeve or veil can also enhance the steampunk look.

For your other decorations, step away from the clothes and into the hardware section.

steampunk top hat with skull

Gears, cogs, wheels, and plates all symbolize steampunk’s Industrial Revolution roots.

Explore the endless ways you could attach these items to your person as part of your costume.

You’re instantly prepared for whatever battle might await you.

steampunk woman in a bustle skirt

All these details come together to create a multifaceted, almost threatening look.

Mind your hat

Today, unless you’rePharrell, you probably don’t go gaga over headwear.

The more elaborate, the better.

steampunk woman with fascinator and metal laptop

you’re free to even channel your inner steampunk Flavor Flav and wear a timepiece on your hat.

Just consider the weight of your haberdashery creation.

Get that industrial look without the heft with this cardboard and foam mattop hat DIY tutorial.

Make a more rough and tumble choice with leather moto pants, weapon-loaded cargo pants, or cropped pants.

As always, leggings layered with a skirt also make a great steampunk look.

Think of items you might already have.

Consider, for example, a tool belt.

Moving down the outfit, necklaces, especially chokers, make fabulous accessories for Victorian clothing.

Consider layered chains mixed with lace or a pendant that includes steampunk elements like a lock and key.

Leather strap bracelets also add to the steampunk vibe.

Steampunk is all about mixing the world that was with the world that could be.

What alternate history will you create this Halloween?