Alfred Hitchcock’s frightening horror and suspense films are oftentimes the subject of costumes for Halloween. Below are ideas inspired by some of his most memorable characters.

In “The Birds” (1963), Tippi Hedren’s green suit ensemble is one of the most popular used costumes inspired by a Hitchcock heroine. It is so popular that it can be found at various Halloween and costume stores online. But if you want to go for a more authentic feel, you may want to check your local vintage/consignment or thrift store. Many a times they have exactly what you need at just the right price. To replicate any one of the numerous gory scenes where the pretty blond is getting bitten or pecked by birds, purchase artificial birds and fake feathers at a craft store. For an extra scary effect, apply red paint or red lipstick to create fake bird scratches on the face and arms.

Another costume inspired by “The Birds” can be worn by trick or treaters young and old. Dress up as a Bodega Bay School student! The attire for a 1960s student was considerably more formal than today’s causal attire. A typical female Bodega Bay student wore a blouse, a cardigan, plaid skirt, bobby socks or ankle socks and a pair of Mary-Jane like shoes. Some of the girls wore their hair in ponytails like “Kathy” or in pigtails. A male classmate would dress in a collared shirt, a pair of tan or khaki pants, and buckled shoes. Make and wear a button that says “Bodega Bay School Student” or carry a notebook, with a “Bodega Bay School” label written or glues to the front. Do not forget the faux bird scratches and bandages!

If you’re a male and looking for an easy Hitchcock inspired costume, try Jimmy Stewart’s character from “L.B. ‘Jeff Jeffries” from “Rear Window” (1954). All you need are a pair of striped pajamas and binoculars. A wheelchair and cast for a broken leg are optional. If you are the beau of a dazzling dame, she can play the part of the fashionable and somewhat meddlesome “Lisa Carol Fremont.” A sparkly vintage black and white evening gown, retro hairstyle, and small overnight bag will do. Use images of Grace Kelly’s character from the film for reference.

You can also be one of the most famous Hitchcock characters of them all - “Norman Bates.” There are two options you can take to have a successful “Norman” costume. The first choice is wearing a black jacket, a buttoned shirt and a pair of khaki pants. Carry a fake rubber knife, which are sold in most Halloween stores, and a bag of candy corn – it was Norman’s favorite type of candy after all. The second choice is wearing a vintage “mother”-type dress over khaki pants. Buy a female grey-haired “grandmother” wig and carry a fake rubber knife. Most online costume stores sell a factory-made “Psycho” costume as well.

Happy Costume Hunting!