If you are looking to embody the ultimate pop camp aesthetic this Halloween or for your next concert, a Chappell Roan costume is absolutely the way to go. Specifically, her iconic look from the The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess album cover is a stunning mix of drag culture, pageant glam, and slightly unhinged pop star energy. This guide will help you transform into the “Pink Pony Club” president herself, breaking down every sparkle, sash, and shade of blue eyeshadow you need to nail this Chappell Roan costume.
Chappell Roan has taken the world by storm with her unapologetic style, powerful vocals, and a visual identity that screams drama. The Midwest Princess cover art features Chappell in a look that feels like a prom queen who just had the most chaotic, wonderful night of her life. It is tacky in the best way possible, mixing high-glam sequins with a stark, white-painted face and bold, drag-inspired makeup. Pulling off this Chappell Roan costume isn’t just about wearing a dress; it is about embracing a persona that is bold, loud, and incredibly fun.
Whether you are planning to attend one of her high-energy shows, heading to a costume party, or just want to channel your inner Midwest Princess, this guide covers it all. We will dive deep into the specific pieces you need, from the voluminous red curls to the custom sash that declares your title. Get ready to tease your hair to the heavens and paint your face like a work of art, because we are about to break down the ultimate Chappell Roan costume guide step-by-step.
Complete Costume Breakdown
Creating the perfect Chappell Roan costume requires a keen eye for layering and a lot of confidence. The look is a heavy blend of 1980s prom queen nostalgia and modern drag aesthetics. You aren’t just putting on a dress; you are building a character. Let’s break down each element so you can assemble the perfect ensemble that screams Midwest Princess.
Voluminous Red Curly Wig
The hair is arguably the most recognizable part of Chappell Roan’s silhouette. For this Chappell Roan costume, you need big, bold, red curls. The Red Curly Synthetic Wig suggested here is a fantastic base. Chappell’s hair on the album cover is massive, frizzy in a stylized way, and takes up a lot of space. It frames her face perfectly and adds to that slightly chaotic pageant energy.
When you get the wig, don’t just put it on straight out of the bag. You will want to shake it out vigorously to wake up the fibers. For that true Chappell volume, consider using a teasing comb to backcomb the roots slightly. You want it to look like you’ve been dancing under stage lights for hours. The deep red color contrasts beautifully with the blue dress and the pale makeup, so make sure the wig sits securely and frames your face well.
Sparkly Sequin Dress and Skirt Layering
The outfit itself is a shimmering blue dream. To replicate the texture and shape from the album cover, we are layering two pieces. Start with the Sparky Sequin Dress. This gives you the base color and the initial layer of shine. It should fit snuggly but allow you to move, as Chappell is known for her energetic performances. The blue needs to be vibrant and electric, catching the light with every move you make.
Over the dress, you will add the See Through Sparkly Skirt. This is a crucial step for adding dimension to your Chappell Roan costume. The sheer overlay adds a tulle-like, prom dress quality without being too heavy. It gives the skirt that extra ‘poof’ and movement that makes twirling irresistible. This layering technique mimics the custom, high-end look of her stage outfits without breaking the bank. Ensure the skirt sits comfortably at your waist, blending seamlessly with the dress underneath.
The Essential Sash and DIY Letters
No pageant queen look is complete without a sash, and for this Chappell Roan costume, the sash tells the whole story. You will need a Blank Plain Satin Sash to start. The sash on the album cover proudly displays the album title, or simply “Midwest Princess”. This is where you get to be a bit crafty and personalize your look.
Use the Rhinestone Letter Stickers to spell out “MIDWEST PRINCESS” across the sash. Space them out evenly before sticking them down to ensure they fit. The rhinestones add that necessary tacky-glam vibe that fits the aesthetic perfectly. Wearing this sash isn’t just an accessory choice; it’s a declaration of your persona for the night. Wear it draped from your right shoulder to your left hip, and secure it with a safety pin if it slips.
Opera Gloves and Tiara
To elevate the look from ‘party girl’ to ‘pageant royalty’, you need the right accessories. The Elbow Length Satin Fingerless Gloves are a must. They add a touch of elegance that contrasts funnily with the messy hair and intense makeup. Fingerless gloves are also practical, allowing you to use your phone or hold a drink without removing them. Pull them up taut so they don’t bunch too much.
Top it all off with the Princess Tiara. This piece sits right in the center of that massive red wig. It signifies your status as the queen of the ball (or the dive bar). Choose a tiara that has some height so it doesn’t get lost in the curls. Secure it with bobby pins because if you are channeling Chappell correctly, you will be moving your head a lot.
The Signature Drag-Inspired Makeup
This is the step that truly transforms you into Chappell Roan. Her makeup on the Midwest Princess cover is heavily influenced by drag, specifically the ‘white face’ technique. Start with the Goth White Cream Foundation. You want a pale, almost mask-like base. Apply it evenly over your face and neck. This blank canvas makes the other colors pop aggressively.
Next, go in with the Blue Glitter Eyeshadow Palette. You aren’t going for a subtle blend here. You want a bold, graphic shape that goes all the way up to your eyebrows. Think Mimi Bobeck meets divine intervention. Pack the glitter on so it shines from a distance. Pair this with the Red Lipstick. Overline your lips slightly to get that exaggerated, pouty shape. The contrast between the blue eyes, white skin, and red lips is the signature color palette of this Chappell Roan costume.
Finishing Touches: Shoes and Trophy
Completing the look requires attention to detail. The Strappy Heels Sandals are the perfect footwear. They are dainty enough to look pageant-appropriate but strappy enough to be modern. Make sure you can walk in them, as the Midwest Princess is always on the go. If you are planning on dancing all night, you might want to break them in beforehand.
Finally, carry the Silver Trophy Cup. In the visual lore of the album, she’s a winner (even if the vibe is tragic glam). Carrying a trophy adds a prop element that makes for amazing photos. You can even wave it around while lip-syncing to “Hot to Go!”. It’s these little props that take a Chappell Roan costume from good to legendary.
Cosplay Tips for a Better Look
1. Tease the Wig: Don’t be afraid of volume. Use a teasing comb and strong-hold hairspray to make the wig huge. The bigger the hair, the closer to Chappell.
2. Set Your Makeup: White cream foundation can slip. Use a translucent setting powder generously to lock in that pale base so it lasts all night.
3. Customize the Sash: If stickers aren’t sticking, use a little hot glue (carefully) or fabric glue to ensure your “Midwest Princess” title stays put.
4. Over-Blush: Chappell often wears heavy blush. Don’t be shy with a pink or red blush on the apples of your cheeks to break up the white foundation.
5. Body Glitter: Add body glitter to your chest and arms. You can never have too much sparkle for this look.
6. Attitude is Key: Walk with your head high. You are the princess. Wave to your adoring fans, even if they are just your friends in the living room.
7. Practice the Pout: Work on your facial expressions. The slightly bored but glamorous stare is a staple of this character.
Character Vibe Notes
Chappell Roan’s persona in this era is a fascinating mix of earnest ambition and campy performance art. She channels the energy of a small-town girl who dreamed of being a star and then became one, but in the most exaggerated way possible. When you are wearing this Chappell Roan costume, you are inhabiting a character who is deeply emotional but wraps it all in sequins and irony.
Think about the way drag queens perform—big gestures, intense eye contact, and precise lip-syncing. That is the energy you want to bring. You are a pop star, a drag daughter, and a midwest princess all rolled into one. Do not be afraid to be a little messy, a little loud, and entirely spectacular. The vibe is “prom night gone right and wrong at the same time.”
Final Thoughts
Putting together this Chappell Roan costume is a journey into creativity and camp. It is a look that celebrates being extra and embracing the theatrical side of pop music. By combining the dramatic makeup with the sparkly outfit and the massive hair, you create a visual impact that is undeniable.
Whether you are screaming the lyrics to “Red Wine Supernova” or just posing for photos, this costume is a guaranteed hit. So, glue on those rhinestones, tease that wig, and get ready to serve pure Midwest Princess energy. Have an amazing time living your pop star fantasy!