Clown Costumes
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Costumes for clowns can be whatever suits the personality of the character. There are specifics, however, that have held fast throughout history and make each clown type recognizable. The Whiteface Clown
The Pierrot (European Whiteface) is a jester clown. He usually wears a loose fitting top with a ruffle or oversized collar. Originally the pants were tights but evolved into baggy pants that can be either loose or gathered at the ankle. A floppy hat or soft pointed hat was originally worn but modern-day Pierrots also wear black skull caps. The female clown is called a Pierrette. The American version of this classic, the Neat Whiteface, usually dresses all in white, sometimes with a colored trim. The oversized suit, similar to the pierrot, is usually three pieces, plus a hat. A skull cap is often worn instead of a wig; the make-up is neat to highlight, rather than exaggerate, facial features.
The Grotesque Whiteface has irregular body proportions, whether a big rump, big nose, big feet or all of the above. The suit for this clown accommodates his unusual proportions, adding to his comical appearance. This clown usually wears a wig. The modern-day whiteface is the typical Circus Clown with a billowing suit, gathered at the ankles and wrists. It can be one or two-piece, plus a ruffle at the neck and is usually made in bright colors with contrasting ruff and trims. Colorful wigs and exaggerated facial features are common, especially oversized smiles! Gloves are required on all Whiteface Clowns for competition. The Auguste Clown
Bold colors, large prints and patterns often characterize the Auguste outfit. This clown often has irregular body proportions, much like the Grotesque Whiteface clown. Oversized (or undersized), comical clothes are their trademark and accessories such as brightly colored suspenders or huge neckties are a common addition to the outfit. Gloves are required on all Auguste Clowns for competition. The Tramp or Hobo
The costume is often a dark colored suit that can be excessively patched and/or tattered looking. A sloppy coat with many pockets and a brightly colored vest are also common. A derby or silk hat, often with no top, finish off the look. For competition, gloves should be worn, if appropriate, on all Tramp and Hobo clowns. The Bag Lady usually wears layers of clothing – a frumpy dress or skirt and blouse, perhaps a sweater and jacket over top. Add a scarf around the neck and some type of headwear. Bag ladies often wear worn sneakers or boots with droopy socks, perhaps a piece of cheap costume jewelry and, of course, carry a tattered bag or pushe a cart to hold their worldly possessions. The Character Clown
The type of dress for the Character Clown is totally dependant upon the character chosen. Various character outfits are available at costume stores; patterns are available at fabric/craft stores or outfits can be created out of your closet and an active imagination! In competition, gloves should be worn if the clown is Whiteface or Auguste and are optional for Tramp or Hobo.
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