The modern witch outfit is an iconic and evocative look that has captured the imagination of many. Gone are the outdated and stereotypical witch costumes of old, filled with pointy hats and black capes. In the present day, the witch outfit is all about embracing individuality, empowering oneself, and celebrating femininity. One of the key elements of a modern witch outfit is the dress. While black is still a popular choice, witches today are not limited to this color. Deep, rich shades like purple, dark green, or burgundy are often chosen to convey a sense of mystery and allure.

How To Dress Like A Witch

How To Dress Like Your Novel is a series in which we explore what Creative Director Raquel calls “the pursuit of literary aesthetic coordination.” In this edition, we turn away from any specific novel and, instead, towards the very seeds of our collective aesthetic. Examining history, art, pop culture, and more, Raquel Reyes shows us how to dress like a witch.

All photos by Raquel Reyes unless otherwise noted.

“ A witch is just a girl who knows her mind. ”

In the scope of history, art, existence — I will always love witches first. I will always root for, embrace, and be utterly fascinated by the woman who knows her own abilities and isn’t afraid to use them. Of course the world has always held its own interest in the unknown and mythical, and with that comes witches. Historically they were a force to be feared, an evil to be reckoned with. Lies twisted and made up by cowards and hierarchical oppressors to demonize those who questioned them, or showed talent they could not possess. Witches were first doctors and healers, women and men who stood apart from the crowd and challenged authority.

“ Witchcraft is less a set of defined practices than a representation of the oppositional, as the intentional thwarting of the machinery of power, whether that power lies with the church, with the king, or with the dominant culture group. ”

A Puritan Couple. Jan de Bray, Double portrait of Abraham Casteleijn and Margarieta van Bancken (1663).

I won’t pretend to know much about early history, as it is rightfully guarded by those still around, but in its Indigenous beginnings, witchcraft was mostly a channel of connection to the earth and holiness of nature. Paganism was (and is) a religion like any other, its members persecuted as Christanity sought a stronghold, and thus the witch trials were born. In Salem years later, a lack of explanation for what we now know to be cases of disease, illness, and again, a questioning of authority, led to the belief that demons and witches were at hand, sabotaging colonial settlers. We all know what happens from there.

The aesthetic fascination with witches runs deep. Sensual, dark, mysterious. the word I always come back to is fearless. I was raised to be a fearless woman, and so my fascination with witches was born. Witches didn’t look any different than anyone else at first, of course. But with the witch trials came all sorts of literature, detailing ways to spot a witch, what she would wear, how she would behave. With beliefs enamoured to the concepts of cleanliness and purity, it became obvious: witches wore black. A lot of it. Ignoring the fact that puritanical clothing offered little else in the way of available options. Nevertheless, it became a uniform, a signifier allowing one to recognize a fellow member of the coven, and helpful when they went into hiding.

A 1926 Advertisement for Ipswich Hosiery, the brand preferred by modern witches. via Glamourdaze.

Eventually, social culture brought witches back to the forefront, the extravagances of the 1920s making witches approachable with the advent of more adventurous costume parties and flappers in particular embodying the free spirited, rollicking witch. The uniform became glamorous — black cocktail dresses covered in sequins, an adorable cat or prop broom to complete the look. In the time since, the pop culture witch has only gained momentum and popularity, and expanded her style to go with it (not to mention the endless cavalcade of fashion industry collections mimicking or appropriating the style historically). As a character trope, the witch is never not intriguing, and never not intriguing to watch. As a teenager with a slight interest in Arthuriana, Morgana Pendragon (left, played by Katie McGrath) stands outside the fold, a particularly stylish witch whose television depiction inspired a few of us Attic members in our early internet socializing days, with her pearl encrusted hair accessories and ethereal gowns. Most recently, I’ve been drawn to the modern and equally powerful Anathema Device (right, played by Adria Arjona), of the book and series Good Omens, a devastatingly chic and devastatingly intelligent Latina witch in an endless array of autumnal footwear and Victorian inspired separates.

“ Witches, like saints, are solitary stars that shine with a light of their own; they depend on nothing and no one, which is why they have no fear and plunge blindly into the abyss with the assurance that instead of crashing to earth, they will fly back out. They can change into birds and see the world from above, or worms to see it from within, they can inhabit other dimensions and travel to other galaxies, they are navigators on an infinite ocean of consciousness and cognition. ”

In my most confident, shining moments, I have felt like a witch, unflinching and aware that I am capable of some thing or greatness, whatever that may be, somewhere, someday. I have been a fearless woman and a fearless dresser, not bothering myself with the concerns of people in my suburban childhood city or the small, sometimes conservative town I live in today. It has its own magical history, so naturally I feel right at home when the energy feels right, an occasion not uncommonly frequent at this time of year. I find that I dress like a witch more often than not, particularly in my ability to intuitively blend styles and pieces across their original or intended uses. Whether dressing casually, for a night out, or a random Thursday, the elements are always there. A bit of black, a touch of deep red, jewelry that means something, and a shoe to stomp in. If a piece doesn’t work, it is changed by my own hands, whether by needle and thread, or even simple magical rotation; a cardigan worn front to back, a blouse layered, a dress under a pullover, transformed into a skirt. There is magic in resourcefulness.

Daniel Gardner, The Three Witches from Macbeth (Elizabeth Lamb, Viscountess Melbourne; Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire; Anne Seymour Damer) (1775).

My love of black and white outfits came from my love of school uniforms, but the first uniform I ever saw in a school was that in a history textbook, on a Puritan woman. I’m no Puritan, but the underlying visual that left the two concepts — along with the concept of uniforms and covens in general — tied together might never leave my memory. Diving into my favorite paintings of witches, my memory is justified. Shakespearean witches in decadent cloaks or ethereal gowns wielding flowers and herbs, ready to wield power just as well. Sisters (are not all witches sisters, all sisters witches with their own connections and powers?) in black lace with just a hint of white ruffle. My wardrobe is full of black, well-worn dresses; lace, tights, and boots; a small collection of both white and ethereal blouses at the ready, and I never hesitate to pull the lot together whenever nothing else will do.

Abbot H. Thayer, The Sisters (1884).

You can never go wrong with a black, puff sleeve midi dress.

Not your average conical hat—the 1940s hand-feathered cloche, a girl's most beloved possession.

Something wicked this way comes…

“ I think of someone who is knowledgeable in the art of shape-shifting. Someone plugged into an ancient current. Someone who is pliable not out of resignation but out of self-preservation. She’s an intelligent, resilient being who changes with the times, and changes the times along with her. ”

Francisco Goya, The Witches Flight (1797-8).

But there are other witches, too. Voodoo practitioners, non-binary individuals, marginalized men, brujas, and more, just as powerful, just as much a part of the coven. They too, have their histories and practices, their style just as interesting and worthy of reverence.

My ultimate, number one, favorite painting of witches is by 18th century artist Francisco Goya, The Witches Flight (1797-8), depicting a trio of characteristically un-feminine witches carrying an unknown soul off to be consumed. (You may know this painting as it made the internet rounds last year, next to stills of a music video by that fellow rockstar witch, Florence Welch. I have never been more ecstatic in my life at a crossover.) Men below shield their eyes, perhaps out of fear, perhaps to avoid accountability.

Goya’s series of paintings surrounding witches were a protest, in fact, of government ignorance and the persecution of witches in his time. The witches wear deep, jewel toned garments and hats, stealing colors then only allowed to the rich and clerically powerful, while the men below cower in ragged, somber clothing. As a child I was discouraged from and disallowed to wear black or deep colors, both deemed too rebellious and un-pretty. As a forbidden article, rich colors and less-than-feminine shapes hold just as striking an appeal as the dark and overtly feminine. A deep mustard or emerald, a perfectly tailored trouser, spectacularly beloved boots — essentials I will never let go of. The way to be a witch is to take what you connect to, be it magic, nature, enthusiasm, empowerment, nonconformity, or all of the above, and wear it as loudly and fearlessly as you can.

Yay Or Nay? Modern witch Costume 💀

Super cute. but agree it doesn't look witch to me. looks like something I would normally wear lol. add long black nails, witch hat, broom stick, maybe a spider ring or something, & some witch make up!

Zaynab L.

I agree with girls.

Lea A.

Lily H.

I agree with Christina.

Maria E.

Catherine T.

I love it just the way it is!! Looks like it came straight out of american horror story(:

Mikayla B.

Super cute. Add a witch hat and broom!

Nadzhe G.

I like it, to make it more witchy maybe get a wig and get some striped leggings and wear a bold red lip(:

Lyli M.

That dress is cute! The signature pointy witch hat would complete your look though(:

Madeline F.

Yay! Adorable! I love the hat and boots. That dress is beautiful!

Nadzhe G.

I like the hat actually. I think it adds to the modern feel of the costume! I think I would even wear the dress after halloween lol.

Samantha V.

Thanks girls you gave me a lot of good ideas 😊

Mariah G.

Go to YouTube and search "madeyewlook" she just put up an amazing witch makeup tutorial. It would look perfect with that outfit

Megan T.

Perfect for Modern witch! love the idea! ♡ ♡ ♡ Yess ofcourse make it more witchy with hat and nails and stuff but love!

Megen D.

Its soo does look like it.came from american horror story! lovee it!

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Deep, rich shades like purple, dark green, or burgundy are often chosen to convey a sense of mystery and allure. The dress can have a flowing, ethereal silhouette or a more fitted and structured design, depending on personal preference. Another important aspect of the modern witch outfit is accessorizing.

Good Molecules: See a difference in your skin

Many witches like to incorporate symbols and talismans into their outfits to channel their power and beliefs. These can include amulets, crystals, rings, or pendants that hold personal significance. They can also be adorned with symbols of divination, such as pentagrams, crescent moons, or star motifs. These accessories not only add a touch of magic to the outfit but also serve as a reminder of the strength and connection to the spiritual realm. When it comes to footwear, there are various options for the modern witch. Some prefer heeled boots or chunky platforms to add height and confidence. Others opt for comfortable and practical options like ankle boots or sandals, depending on the occasion. Regardless of the style chosen, the footwear often incorporates unique and intricate designs, such as lace-up details, buckles, or studs, to further enhance the witchy aesthetic. To complete the modern witch outfit, attention is given to hair and makeup. Witches often embrace their natural hair texture, whether it be long and flowing, wild and curly, or sleek and straight. Colors can range from jet black to vibrant shades of red or even pastel hues for those who want to experiment further. Makeup can be minimal and understated, with a focus on enhancing natural features, or bold and dramatic, with dark, smoky eyes, defined brows, and deep, matte lips. The choice is entirely up to the individual witch, providing them with a creative opportunity to express their identity and personal style. In conclusion, the modern witch outfit is a captivating blend of elegance, empowerment, and self-expression. Incorporating various elements such as the dress, accessories, footwear, and hair and makeup, witches today have the freedom to craft an outfit that reflects their unique personality and celebrates their connection to the mystical and magical. By embracing this modern interpretation of the witch outfit, individuals can find a sense of power and liberation in their style choices while honoring the fascinating and rich history of witchcraft..

Reviews for "10 Fashion Tips to Elevate Your Modern Witch Outfit"

1. Jane - 2/5 - The modern witch outfit I bought was a huge disappointment. The fabric felt cheap and the fit was completely off. The dress was too short and the sleeves were too tight, it was not flattering at all. Additionally, the accessories that came with the outfit were flimsy and broke within minutes of wearing them. Overall, I was extremely dissatisfied with my purchase and would not recommend it to others.

2. Mike - 1/5 - I regret buying the modern witch outfit. The quality was abysmal, to say the least. The seams were poorly stitched and started coming apart after just one wear. Not to mention, the fabric was scratchy and uncomfortable against the skin. I paid a decent amount of money for this outfit and expected it to at least last for the duration of the Halloween party, but it fell apart before the night even ended. Save your money and find a better witch costume elsewhere.

3. Emily - 3/5 - The modern witch outfit was just okay. It looked better in the picture than in person. The black color wasn't as vibrant as I had hoped and the overall design was underwhelming. The costume also felt a bit flimsy and didn't hold up well throughout the night. While it served its purpose for the intended event, I wouldn't recommend it if you're looking for a high-quality, standout witch costume.

4. David - 2/5 - I was highly disappointed with the modern witch outfit. The sizing chart provided was inaccurate and I ended up ordering a size too small. The customer service was unhelpful and refused to exchange the outfit for a larger size. Apart from the sizing issue, the costume itself was mediocre at best. The sheer fabric was see-through and didn't provide the desired effect. I would advise potential buyers to look elsewhere for a better witch costume.

The Modern Witch's Guide to Dressing for Different Seasons