Attending a fantasy ball is a chance to step into an enchanted world where imagination reigns and style knows no bounds. Whether you’re channeling an elven king, a celestial sorcerer, or a romantic nobleman from a world that never was, what you wear plays a major role in bringing your character—and the event—to life.
But before you begin assembling your dream look, it’s important to understand the event itself. Not all fantasy balls are created equal. Some may draw from specific historical eras with fantasy flourishes—like a Regency fae court or a 14th-century masquerade—while others encourage full original world-building with no rules at all. Some events may even be tied to specific lore or fandoms. Always read the event guidelines: Are guests expected to stay in character? Are there any costume restrictions or themes? The more you know, the more cohesive your look will be.
Also, consider the activities. Fantasy balls are more than photo ops—they often include ballroom dancing, immersive performances, and long hours on your feet. As tempting as they are, oversized wings and dramatic long capes can be difficult to manage in a crowd or on the dance floor. Your outfit should balance style with comfort and mobility, especially if you’ll be waltzing or twirling through the night.
If you’re attending a grand fantasy ball, a themed wedding, or an immersive historical event, this guide is your go-to resource for dressing like royalty from a realm all your own. Here’s how to create a magical look that is both graceful and dance-floor friendly. Also check out our Women’s guide to fantasy ball attire.
Fantasy ball looks can be incredibly elaborate. One of the most stunning aspects of fantasy fashion is the details and depth of the outfits. Creating depth through layers with different textures and materials adds an air of authenticity to your look. However, due to that fact, there’s a lot to take in and a lot to choose from.
Here’s the process I’d recommend you follow:
- Research & Inspiration
Start by identifying the character or archetype you want to embody—royal, rogue, knight, sorcerer, pirate, fae, or something entirely original. Use fantasy media, lore, and mood boards to guide your look. - The Base: The Outfit
Your core outfit—whether that’s a tunic and trousers, doublet, tailcoat, robe, or fitted jacket—will set the tone for your character and dictate color, silhouette, and overall formality. - Layers & Clothing Accessories
Elevate the look with vests, belts, sashes, cloaks, capes, shoulder armor, or gauntlets. These additions create texture, dimension, and storytelling in your ensemble. - Jewelry, Accessories & Props
Rings, brooches, pins, amulets, gloves, pocket watches, or character-specific props (like a scroll, sword, or goblet) add depth and help define your fantasy persona. - Headwear, Hair & Grooming
Finish the look with crowns, circlets, hats, or hoods, along with styled hair or beards that suit your character. Consider subtle makeup or face paint to enhance magical or dramatic looks. - Footwear
Choose boots or shoes that match your outfit’s style—but make sure they’re broken in and comfortable for walking or dancing. Knee-high boots, leather loafers, or lace-up styles work well for many fantasy looks. - Where to Shop
Combine sources—thrift stores, online retailers, cosplay vendors, or even renaissance faire merchants. Mix and match modern pieces with costume elements for a unique, budget-friendly result.
Research: Scour Pinterest and Other Sites for Inspiration
Before committing to a final look, spend some time exploring and dreaming. Pinterest, Instagram, Etsy, and even costume design blogs are goldmines for inspiration. You don’t need to lock anything in right away, but start narrowing in on a fashion aesthetic or “core” you’d like to work around—whether that’s elven elegance, dark & enchanting, warrior in armor, royal court regalia, or woodland whimsy.
As you research, think about what elements are most important to you and use that as your styling “North Star.” Is historical accuracy a must? That might steer you toward specific silhouettes or time periods, like the Tudor or Regency eras. Would you rather create an original character or focus on a specific color motif, vibe, or magical archetype? That opens the door to more creative freedom.
Shows / Movies for Inspiration:
- Once Upon a Time
- Bridgerton
- Lord of the Rings
- Pride & Prejudice
- Pirates of the Caribbean 1
- Cinderella Live Action
- The Princess Bride
- King Arthur
- Beowulf
Things to consider while gathering ideas:
- Time period: Are you drawing from a specific era (like medieval, renaissance, rococo, or Victorian)?
- Silhouette: Think corsets vs. empire waist, hoop skirts vs. flowy A-line gowns.
- Color palette: Does your look center around icy blues, moody jewel tones, golden light, or earthy neutrals?
- Vibe: Do you want to look powerful and dark, regal and commanding, soft and ethereal, mysterious and celestial?
Pro Tip: Many fantasy balls share official mood boards or Pinterest boards curated by the organizers—these are incredibly helpful for aligning your outfit with the event’s aesthetic. Understanding the tone of the event will help your look feel more cohesive—and ensure you’re dressing respectfully and appropriately. Be sure to read through all event guidelines carefully and note things like:
- Are guests expected to stay in character?
- Are there any rules about wings, masks, or trains?
- Is there a specific theme or lore you’re expected to align with?
Start Browsing: Where to Look and What to Look For
- Pinterest & Instagram: Great for mood boards and keyword-driven searches.
- Etsy: Offers unique handmade or less common designs- start favoriting the things you like
- Google & Costume Blogs: Helpful for deep dives into specific eras or fantasy tropes.
- Be cautious: Many sellers, especially on marketplace sites, use stolen or AI-generated images. Always read reviews, look for real, unique photos, and be wary of too-good-to-be-true pricing.
Helpful Search Phrases to Guide Your Research:
- “Fantasy men’s costume”
- “Medieval nobleman outfit”
- “Elven prince costume”
- “Renaissance fair men’s attire”
- “Regency ball men’s outfit”
- “Victorian men’s formalwear”
- “Dark wizard cosplay”
- “Men’s royal fantasy costume”
- “Knight tunic and armor cosplay”
- “Steampunk men’s outfit”
- “Sorcerer costume men”
- “Pirate ball costume men”
- “Men’s fantasy cloak”
- “Fantasy crown or circlet for men”
- “Men’s bard costume”
- “Masquerade ball mask men”
- “Men’s medieval boots”
- “Fantasy waistcoat or doublet”
- “Men’s fairy or fae costume”
The Base: Shirt and Pants
Focus on layers and structure to give your look the weight of nobility and polish. You don’t need to buy a new tailcoat (unless you’ve been looking for an excuse to own one)— just aim for silhouettes that suggest power and elegance.
Key garments:
- Tailcoats, tailored coats, military-style jackets, frock coats, or long jackets
- Doublets or waistcoats in rich fabrics
- High-collared, ruffled shirts or flowing tunics
- Breeches or slim-fit trousers or harem-style pants, kilts (please wear underwear!)
- Cloaks or capes for added drama
Search phrases for outfit ideas:
- “Victorian men’s attire”
- “Steampunk gentleman”
- “Elven men’s clothing”
- “Renaissance formal wear”
- “Fantasy medieval suit”
- “Men’s cosplay formal wear”
Pro Tip: Thrift stores can have some fun printed vests and coats, look for velvets, printed patterns, leathers, and faux furrs
There are also sometimes when you can buy sets that take care of the entire outfit and some of the accessories too! Here’s a few examples:
3. Layers and Accessories
Once you’ve chosen your base outfit, layers and accessories are where your fantasy look truly comes to life. Adding pieces like vests, doublets, sashes, belts, cloaks, capes, shoulder armor, or gauntlets introduces depth, texture, and character to even the simplest ensemble. A long embroidered vest can instantly read as royal or scholarly, while a weathered leather belt and bracers suggest a seasoned traveler or rogue. Cloaks and capes bring movement and drama, but make sure they’re manageable if the event includes dancing or crowds. These layered details help tell your character’s story visually—think of them as your outfit’s personality. Don’t be afraid to mix materials (like velvet, brocade, leather, or linen) to create a more immersive and dimensional look.
Accessories to consider:
- Cravats, jabots, or ascots
- Belts or harnesses
- Vests or sashes
- Signet rings, brooches, wrist guards/ bracers, cufflinks, or vintage pocket watches
- Gloves (leather or lace-trimmed) or fingerless gloves
- Decorative buttons, pins, or chains
- Armour: pauldrons, bracers, gauntlets (Remember, you need mobility to dance)
- Hoods or cowls (fabric, faux fur, velvet)
Caution: Avoid oversized props (wings, shields, etc.) and weapons unless they are clearly decorative, lightweight, and safe.
Pro Tip: Old curtains, thrifted or not, can make for beautiful fabric to create accessories or dresses due to their weight and patterning if you’re looking for a project piece
4. Jewelry, Accessories, and Props
Small details can have a big impact. Items like rings, brooches, amulets, cufflinks, chains, gloves, or belt pouches add richness and storytelling to your outfit. Consider what your character would carry—a scroll, book of spells, goblet, pocket watch, or even a sword or dagger (check event rules on prop weapons). Choose materials that match your aesthetic—polished metals for royalty, crystals for magical beings, or worn leather for rogues. These elements bring personality to your look and can spark conversations throughout the evening.
Jewelry & Accessories:
- Signet rings or gemstone rings
- Brooches or cloak pins
- Amulets or crystal pendants
- Leather or metal cuffs
- Pocket watches or compass necklaces
- Belts with ornate buckles
- Fingerless gloves or lace gloves
- Waist sashes or draped scarves
Props (Character-Specific):
- Scepters, canes, or staffs
- Goblets, chalices, or tankards
- Satchels, belt pouches, or potion holsters
- Prop weapons (swords, daggers, spell wands — check event rules)
- Lutes, flutes, or small instruments (for bardic vibes)
5. Headwear, Hair, and Grooming
Headpieces and grooming are the final polish for a cohesive fantasy look. A crown, circlet, wide-brim hat, hood, or even a fur-lined cowl can define your character in an instant. Hair and beard styling should suit your persona—consider long waves for an elven prince, slicked-back hair for a villain, or tousled locks for a bard. If your natural look doesn’t match your vision, wigs and facial hair prosthetics can work wonders—just make sure they’re secured and breathable. A touch of makeup or face paint (like metallic eye shadow, faux scars, or contouring) can add dramatic flair without going overboard.
Headwear:
- Metal or leather circlets
- Crowns (jeweled, nature-inspired, dark spiked)
- Wide-brimmed or floppy hats
- Velvet caps, tricorne hats, or minimalist crowns (if secure)
Hair & Grooming:
- Styled long hair (curled, braided, half-up)
- Slicked-back, tousled, or vintage-styled short hair
- Beard grooming (braided, trimmed, styled)
- Temporary hair color (chalks, sprays, or washable dye)
- Facial prosthetics (fake scars, elf ears, etc.)
- Wigs (natural or fantasy-colored—look for breathable caps and lace fronts)
- Subtle fantasy makeup (viking paint, black eyeliner under eyes)
Don’t feel limited by your natural hair—extensions and wigs are widely used and can help you achieve a dramatic look with minimal effort. Wigs, on the other hand, can completely transform your appearance and are ideal for creating fantasy hair colors (like silver, lavender, or deep green) without permanent dye. Just be aware: wigs can get hot and uncomfortable during long events. When choosing a wig, look for natural hairlines, heat-safe fibers, and a color that complements your costume.
6. Footwear
Footwear should match the aesthetic of your outfit while still being practical—especially if the night involves dancing or lots of walking. Full-length coats or capes will often obscure your shoes, so don’t stress over perfection. Leather boots—either ankle or knee-high—are a versatile and fitting option for most fantasy characters. Lace-up shoes, brogues, or loafers also work for more refined looks like nobles or regency-inspired outfits. Above all, make sure your shoes are broken in, secure, and comfortable—you’ll want to feel confident moving across the ballroom floor.
Comfortable & Thematic Shoe Options:
- Knee-high leather boots (buckled, laced, or folded cuff)
- Ankle boots (Victorian, witchy, or rustic styles)
- Lace-up dress shoes or brogues
- Loafers or slip-on leather shoes
- Medieval-style slipper shoes or soft-soled boots
- Faux armor boot covers (for knight/warrior looks)
- Spats or gaiters to add drama to plain shoes
Pro Tips:
- Break shoes in before the event
- Add gel insoles or cushioned socks for long wear
- Use shoe polish or leather conditioner for a finished look
7. Where to Shop (or Create!)
You don’t have to spend a fortune to look magical. Many enchanting looks can be created through layering, thrifting, or slight alterations.
Budget-friendly shopping tips:
- Thrift Stores: Look for prom dresses, vintage gowns, or long skirts that can be accessorized into something magical
- Facebook Marketplace: basically an online thrift store but this can be a great place to find old prom or bridesmaids dresses for a low cost along with the possible accessories. You basically never know what you’ll find!
- Etsy: Search for handmade cloaks, circlets, and fantasy jewelry
- Amazon: Try searching for “medieval dress” or “costume ball gown”
- Costume Stores: Great for accessories and layering pieces
- DIY: Add lace, beading, or trim to an existing gown; layer a corset belt over a long dress; create a fun cape from some tulle or chiffon
Other Sites I’ve stumbled upon:
Pro Tip: A great time to shop is Halloween time. Another great time to shop is prom- shop the sales and clearance events to find big dramatic dresses for less.
Power of layering: A long cape over a simple dress, a brocade vest, or gloves can elevate even the simplest piece into something magical.
Final Tips for a Successful Night
- Don’t be afraid to stand out! If you haven’t attended many events like ren fairies or conventions, you might think your outfit is “too much.” It’s not! I can tell you from experience that once you arrive, everyone will love it and you’ll be so happy you went all out.
- Test your outfit: Ensure your costume is comfortable and functional for sitting, dancing, and moving. Extra safety pins and bobby pins can be a real life saver, stick some in your bag!
- Stay hydrated: Many fantasy balls are long events, and wearing heavy costumes can be taxing.
- Interact with love and confidence: Compliment others on their attire and share stories about your character or inspiration. It’s rare I find negative people at events like this but if you do, just move on, you’ll find wonderful friendly people the more you wander and chat!
Embrace the fantasy, dress to charm, and dance like it’s your moment in a fairytale.
More guides from other sites:
https://mysticfateevents.co.uk/fantasy-womenswear/
https://mysticfateevents.co.uk/menswear-ideas/
We’re two sisters with a passion for wearable style and interior design mixed in with some self-care and family tips. Our blog is dedicated to helping you find your unique fashion formula, both in your wardrobe and your living space. Follow us for style tips, home décor inspiration, self care ideas, family advice that help you create changes that reflect who you are.