How to Dress Like a Witch

FAQs ❓

What type of hat do witches wear?

Many believe that the witch's stereotypical pointed black hat originated in the year 1215 when Jews were told to identify themselves by wearing a similar headpiece. Since Jews were accused of practicing magic and other Satanic worship, many suppose that this image and the true meaning of this hat was gradually accredited to witches. More modern witches are now easily recognized by their wide-brimmed, conical-shaped black hats. These black hats have a definitive peak, and the crown often has a bent or scrunched appearance.

Why do witches ride brooms?

Many witches used an ointment, called henbane, in their potions when casting spells. Henbane could cause hallucinations if a person ingested a large enough portion. Oftentimes, witches used the wooden stick of their broom to apply the ointment to their receiver instead of touching others with it directly. If the person was far away, the broom then served two distinct purposes: 1) to carry the ointment and 2) as a flying device for transportation for the witch.

Why do witches use a cauldron?

Cauldrons were first seen in many fictional literary works, such as folklore, plays, and mythology, when witches would use them to brew their potions for magical spells. This large black metal pot had a handle that would hang from a spit over a blazing fire. These sorcerers tossed the various herbs and ingredients into this heavy vessel, allowing the elements of the mixture to blend together and boil into a magical concoction.

What colors do witches typically wear?

While witches in the 17th and 18th centuries wore solid black from head to toe, modern-day witches often incorporate a bold striking color to their ensemble. This bold color is very bright and attention-grabbing, sometimes a shade of orange, green, red, or pink. These colors often represent a specific emotion or idea that describes the enchanter at a personal level. Witches also may incorporate the color into their costume by using a prop like a candle, flower, or even a specific color ink for their spells.

Why do witches oftentimes have warts?

When witches vowed loyalty and obedience to the devil in the 16th century, people believed the devil permanently marked them. He made his mark by using his sharp nails to claw across their skin, or as some believed, by licking his faithful supporters. The usual marking of the scatch or lick would then result in a noticeable raised bump on the witches' skin which often gave the appearance of a wart. This symbolic branding ensured to all that this individual was, indeed, a witch.

What kind of shoes do witches wear?

Witches were commonly known to strut about performing their magical spells wearing a pair of black medium-heel (2-3 inch) shoes or booties. The block-heeled shoes were most often adorned with a silver buckle on the side. Some witches wear more of a boot style with black ribbon to "tie" the shoe rather than using a buckle. It is thought that witches commanded authority and attention by wearing both a pointy hat but also pointy shoes.

How do you laugh like a witch?

Witches use so much more than just their mouths to create the all-so-famous "witch laugh." Witches create a mysterious appearance by wearing a crooked half-smile, perhaps revealing a cracked or decayed tooth. When wanting to appear evil, witches use low-pitched sounds to create a full and robust laugh. However, when going for a more frenzied appearance, witches can use high-pitched sounds. Be sure to wave your hands wildly and furrow your eyebrows!

What type of jewelry do witches wear?

You'll be hard-pressed to find a witch that isn't wearing some type of special jewelry that controls their magical power! A ring may have special healing power, or a chain necklace with a large, heavy pendant may serve to symbolize a god or goddess. Probably the most famous pendant that witches are known to wear is the circled five-pointed star that represents witchcraft. Jewelry pieces are essential for the presentation of power, tradition, and magic.