The film industry discovered its pot of gold with Pirates of the Caribbean. Captain Jack Sparrow is found at every door on Halloween. Historically pirates spoke of adventure, danger, and excitement on the high seas. Commanding your own ship, with cannons firing and plunder treasures. Add the extra ingredients of blue tropical skies, white sandy beaches and hidden treasure. Who would not dream the life of a pirate?

Pirates have made a big comeback in the last few years, and costume manufacturers have catered to the demand with elaborate fancy dress outfits. From Jack Sparrow to lacy female captains, you’ll re-enact the glamorous life on a sailing vessel, even just for one evening. Here’s a few ideas to help you along the way:

Buccaneer:buccaneers are close to the idea of a pirate: the English crown financed escaped slaves, mercenaries and rogues to fight against her enemies. Attacking ships and towns, buccaneers lived an independent democratic existence, voting for captains and dividing the plunder. Many of them had bases and a few lucky ones retired as wealthy merchants.
A good look is a puffed white or shirt, overcoat, black boots, a sword and eye patch. They had their own type of sword, the boucan, with a curved end, used for hunting.

If you dress as Jack Sparrow, include a white puffed shirt, sash, and boot covers. Dress in blue trousers and leather boots. Add an overcoat, cutlass and scabbard, and a pirate hat with beaded braids. Grow a moustache, and complete yourself with makeup and mascara.