Countless movies, a “Thrilling” music video, and a remarkably powerful TV show have made Zombies an iconic image in our culture. While zombies are as popular as ever, there are some people who go a little overboard attire. We all want to experiment with new things to make our Costume look more realistic but in the end safe is better than sorry. Some people have tried using chemicals on their Skin or clothes that shouldn't be there or dressed too heavily and hurt themselves in the act. Here is a list of do’s and don’ts for enjoying your time portraying one of the “walking dead”.
Clothing
· Do get comfortable and creative with your threads. Everyone is always impressed to see a new themed zombie. Try something people rarely do like a Monk zombie, anything that’s not the cliche mail man, suit, or cheerleader.
· Don’t try and be a superhero turned zombie. It’s trying a little too much and only going to take away from whatever side of the costume you want to portray most.
Makeup and Props
· Do use the fake blood, the full face of makeup or black and white face Paint. Give yourself a few nasty wounds to enhance the flavor of the image.
· Don’t ever use real blood or led-based paint on yourself. The last thing you want is to use substances that give off a completely repulsive smell, make people sick, or damage your skin. Remember there are certain types of paint that are harmful to your skin, know exactly what you are getting on you first. Some people try so hard to pull the zombie act off that they actually try to smell like one by using vinegar or some other fowl substitute for disgustingness, don’t do that. Rub some Dirt and water based paint on your clothes and skin and call it good.
Hair
· Do make your hair look the part. Use some pomade or other type of gel to give yourself a more outlandish look. A small bit of dirt is ok but as I’m about to explain, be careful what you put in your hair.
· Don’t rub anything in your hair that could mold or die. Have you ever picked up Poison Oak and made it sit in your hair or rubbed some dirt in up there that had a spider in it. Remember you’re trying to make other people scream, they’ll on laugh if you’re the one screaming because poison oak got on your scalp or bugs are crawling down your face.
Marie Sumner enjoys writing about entertainment and art. She owns more anime than she thinks appropriate to reveal to polite society. Recently, she started writing for Costume Super Center, which gives her an excuse to talk about cosplay costumes, comic books and zombies all day.
