How to Dress Like Carlton Banks
DIY Costume Items
Best Carlton Banks Halloween Costume Guide
Carlton Banks is a fictional character portrayed by actor Alfonso Ribeiro on the massively successful 90’s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Carlton is the son of Vivian and Phil Banks, and the cousin of Will Smith’s fictionalized version of himself who is shipped off to live with the Banks’ to get him away from the mean streets of West Philadelphia.
In contrast to Will Smith’s wise-cracking, smooth character, Carlton is almost a direct opposite, having been sheltered by his wealthy upbringing. He dresses in a preppy style, he is a strong Republican, trusting (usually to a fault) and appears to have very few friends or the social skills required to make them. All you need to become one of 90’s television’s cult figures, Carlton Banks you’ll need a Men Oxford Shirt, Knit Crewneck Sweater, Men’s Stretch Chino, Leather Dress Belt, and Lace Dress Shoe.
Carlton Banks Cosplay Costumes
The 90’s weren’t a great time for fashion, let’s be honest. The outrageous styles seen on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air are a great example of this, however our man Carlton didn’t conform to the trends of the time. His preppy appearance had the mark of a young man who was almost ready for middle-age before he even left high school.
If you want to go to your next costume party dressed in the country-club style of Carlton Banks, why not try to get some friends together and dress as some other characters from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Of course there is Will Smith with his funky style and sideways hats, his clueless friend Jazz, or the rest of the Banks clan – Hilary, Ashley, Philip, Vivian, or their loyal butler Geoffrey. Upload your photos here if you decide to step back into the 90’s as the lovable Carlton Banks!
About Carlton Banks
Carlton Banks is the eldest son of Phil and Vivian Banks in the hit television sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. He is portrayed by actor Alfonso Ribeiro and gained a cult following since the show aired, and maintained it long after the series ended. Carlton has many good qualities – he had a strict upbringing under the watchful eye of Uncle Phil, and he values good manners and sophistication. While he has a view of himself as a typical privileged young man, he is characterized as not quite being able to live up to his own standards because he is somewhat self-absorbed.
Regardless of his faults, we will always remember Carlton frequently dancing to Tom Jones’ “It’s Not Unusual”, showcasing dance-moves similar to fellow actor Courtney Cox’s dance in Bruce Springsteen’s “Dancing In The Dark” music video. The routine has become known as The Carlton, and is even featured in popular video game Fortnite.
