Buzz
Whether you're prepping for Halloween or gearing up for a themed bash, this guide will help you nail that gangster style!
Steps
Achieving That Vintage Gangster Vibe
Dress to Impress. In the roaring 20s and 30s, gangsters were all about sharp dressing. Picture yourself in a sleek all-black, gray, or pinstriped suit paired with a tie. Keep it classy with a simple color palette; think black, white, gray, or brown.
- No suit jacket? No problem. Opt for a vest and roll up those shirt sleeves.
- Choose between a white collared shirt with a black tie or a black collared shirt with a white tie.
- Complete the look with black or brown dress shoes.
- If you're feeling bold, add a pop of color, but keep it harmonious. Consult the color wheel for combinations that complement each other. For instance, blue and green make a winning duo.
Don a Stylish Hat.
Opt for a black, white, gray, or pinstripe fedora. Classic mobster style often featured a black hat with white trim or a white hat with gray trim.
- Ensure your hat complements your suit, sticking to neutral tones like black, white, gray, or brown.
Accessorize with a Fake Gun. Pick up a toy gun from Halloween or toy stores. Consider giving a squirt gun a coat of black spray paint for an authentic touch.
Add a Cigarette Prop. Classic cinematic villains often sported cigars. While smoking isn't necessary, carrying a cigar adds a genuine flair to your outfit.
Giving a Contemporary Gangster Vibe
Sport Baggy Attire. Unlike their predecessors, modern gangsters opt for loose, casual clothing in a variety of hues.
- Grab a pair of baggy jeans in blue or black. Jeans are a safe bet, but sneakers are also making a comeback.
- Pick up an oversized t-shirt; a plain white tee works well too.
- Throw on an oversized hoodie, puffy jacket, or large sweatshirt to complete the look.
Sport Some Ink. Tattoos are a hallmark of gangster style. Create fake tattoos with a pen or use temporary stick-ons for a realistic look.
- Many gang members honor lost loved ones with tattoos of their faces on their upper arms.
- Adorn your face, neck, and/or chest with drawn-on tattoos.
Accessorize with Bling. Seek out lengthy silver or gold chains featuring dollar signs, crosses, or other symbols. Layer multiple chains of varying lengths and colors for added flair.
Rock a Bandana or Beanie. Wrap a bandana around your head or neck, tying it securely at the back. Opt for beanies in solid colors without any logos or designs.
- Consider wearing a cap as an alternative, experimenting with different styles and combinations.
Pro Tips
Cautions
- Be mindful of gang-associated colors or bandanas. Avoid mimicking specific gang attire, especially in areas known for gang activity, to steer clear of trouble.
- If you opt for a fake gun, familiarize yourself with local laws regarding toy gun modifications. Keep the tip neon orange to signal its non-lethal nature to law enforcement. Use caution and common sense, as brandishing it as real could lead to serious consequences.
