Black Swan – Halloween Special

I am the worst with scary movies: any ghosts, serial killers or zombies and I’ll be jumping for a week… So, when Halloween rolls around I tend to shy away from all slasher flicks and anything with exorcism in the title. However, I think that Black Swan is a great psychological thriller, with just the right amount of gore to make your skin crawl – without making you scared of your own shadow. Plus it provides a perfect chic Halloween costume – also works great for pairs.

Natalie Portman gives an incredibly convincing performance as perfectionist Nina, the new ballet star struggling to embody both the innocent White Swan, as well as the passionate Black Swan. Her gradual descent into madness as she becomes more and more involved in the role is gripping. Surrounded by mischievous Lily (Mila Kunis), the lecherous company director (Vincent Cassel) and her obsessive mother (Barbara Hershey), Nina’s paranoia and hallucinations rise to disturbing levels – watch out for a particularly alarming scene with Winona Ryder and a pair of nail scissors.

This costume is the perfect excuse to embrace your inner ballerina with tulle and as many feathers as you can get your hands on. Whilst the black swan costume embraces dramatic gothic accessories, keep the innocence of the white swan with nude shoes and lace. For both looks, the make-up is very important: a white base is needed for both, then change up the eye make-up depending on the swan (here is a great tutorial for the black swan look). Finish with a high ballet bun or simple up do, and you’re ready to take your place centre stage…

Zoom in on:

• Tutu skirts
• Feathers
• Contrasting colour palettes

For the film: 4/5

For the fashion: 4/5