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Awesome Plague Doctor Costume with Covid-19 Twist

The primary concern with 2020 as a whole has been the COVID-19 outbreak. Each state has its own requirements but my state in particular, Alabama, requires a mask while out in public. So, how does one incorporate a mask with their Halloween costume for public appearances? Research and imagination!

I was hoping to make a joke about the COVID-19 outbreak while looking for a costume idea but I had no idea how obsessed I would become with my costume pick. I decided to venture into the times of the Black Plague and the Plague Doctors. Even though females were not allowed to practice medicine during those times, I still wanted to play. The vast majority of the Plague Doctor costumes that I saw were not good enough for me. I wanted to get as close to “real” as I could so I researched and pieced mine together.

I purchased every item of my outfit individually from different sources. You know, finding a realistic, Renaissance-Era dress in black is not exactly easy! All of the other items were a breeze to pick out….EXCEPT for the mask! I did not just want any mask! I wanted to stay clear of the steampunk masks and I found the perfect mask on Etsy under Tom Banwell Designs. Superior, leather craftsmanship! The mask was surprisingly comfortable and the fit was perfect.

Although the majority of the Halloween parties were cancelled in my little town, I still had a blast appearing at different stores! A grocery store is the best place to go while dressed in costume! The facial expressions, compliments and constant pictures from the public made me feel like I had completely nailed the accuracy of a female Plague Doctor.

Even though I did not win any costume contests locally, I won a spot in many people’s memories and phone space. Lol. My intention to poke at the COVID-19 outbreak turned into an opportunity to teach people about the history of the Plague Doctors. In my mind, that was a win over any costume contest!



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1 thought on “Awesome Plague Doctor Costume with Covid-19 Twist”

  1. Hi there,
    your costume is the most perfect one I´ve seen and I just wanted to ask where did you get the dress from because it suits you so well ^^
    Greetings from Germany

    Reply

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