Ghosts and Skeletons

• If you begin with a white mask, which suggests a deadly, otherworldly complexion, your clothing choice can denote any type of ghost or skeleton. Brides, bikers, pirates and even clowns and animals can all be made into "ghosts" with the addition of a deathly white mask. Create a skeleton with a bit of decoration to the mask to denote the cracks and crevices of a skull. Consider also the classic plain white sheet, the "Grim Reaper" or a purchased skeleton costume for a more classic ghost/skeleton look.
  
  

Phantom of the Opera

• Known for hiding his deformed face beneath an oddly shaped white mask, the Phantom of the Opera is a character recognizable from literature, film and theater. Traditionally, the Phantom is dressed in a tuxedo or classic evening dress with a dramatic cape thrown over his shoulder. A dashing hat will complete this look. Masks created specifically for a Phantom of the Opera costume are available, but you could also acquire a simple, whole face mask and cut it to your own specifications.
  
  

Jason

• If you have the classic white hockey mask, recognizable as worn by Jason in the movie "Friday the 13th," you can simply add work clothes, like a heavy work jacket and jeans or coveralls to create Jason's costume. Heavy boots can help with creating an ominous-sounding entrance, and carrying a fake machete or club will also add to the sinister tone. If you begin with a simple white mask, make sure to decorate it to emulate the design of Jason's hockey mask.
  
  

Silent Film Star

• Silent movies of the early 20th century were shot in black and white. Since the face was one of the major ways that the actors expressed their characters' thoughts and feelings, heavy white, mask-like make-up with dark lining around the eyes was commonly applied. Costume yourself as Charlie Chaplin, Clara Bow, Rudolph Valentino or Mary Pickford, adding dark eyeliner to your mask that mimics the eye make-up of the period. Chaplin was distinctive for his too-tight jacket, baggy pants, large clown shoes, bowler hat and mustache. Clara Bow was usually dressed as a classic 1920s flapper, while Mary Pickford was noted for her long ringlet hairdo and little-girl dresses. Rudolph Valentino was noted for his "sheik" roles and flowing robes and headdress.