Constantine Costume: An In-Depth Guide to Dressing Like the Iconic DC Hero

The character of John Constantine has captivated audiences for decades with his wit, cunning, and mastery of the supernatural. His distinctive costume is an integral part of his persona, instantly recognizable by fans around the globe. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of Constantine's wardrobe, providing step-by-step instructions and tips on how to achieve the perfect cosplay.

History of the Constantine Costume

John Constantine was created by Alan Moore and Stephen R. Bissette in 1985. Originally depicted as a cynical, trench coat-wearing detective in the pages of Swamp Thing, Constantine's costume has undergone several iterations over the years. The iconic look that we know today was largely defined by the Vertigo Comics series "Hellblazer," which ran from 1988 to 2013.

Key Elements of the Constantine Costume

Trench Coat

The trench coat is the most recognizable element of Constantine's costume. A long, dark-colored coat, it serves both a practical and symbolic purpose. It conceals Constantine's identity, provides protection from the elements, and evokes the character's enigmatic and isolated nature.

Shirt and Tie

Underneath the trench coat, Constantine typically wears a button-down shirt and tie. The shirt is usually blue or grey, while the tie adds a touch of sophistication. The choice of fabric varies, but linen or cotton are common options for a lived-in, rugged look.

Pants

Constantine's pants are typically slim-fitting and black or dark grey in color. Leather is a popular choice, as it complements the trench coat and lends a sense of authority to the character.

Boots

John Constantine is rarely seen without his trusty boots. These are sturdy, ankle-length boots with laces or zippers. They provide support and durability while traversing the supernatural realms.

Gloves

Constantine often wears gloves, both for warmth and to protect his hands from the rigors of his investigations. Leather or suede gloves are common, and they can add a touch of mystery and flair to the costume.

Accessories

Several accessories complete Constantine's costume:

• Cigarette and Lighter: Ever-present in his hand, Constantine's cigarette and lighter are not merely fashion accessories but symbols of his world-weariness and defiance.
• Trench Coat Talisman: Pinned to the lapel of his trench coat is a circular talisman with a pentagram on it. This talisman provides Constantine with protection from supernatural forces.
• Ring: Constantine wears a silver ring on his right hand, which is said to have occult powers.

Variations on the Constantine Costume

Over the years, several variations on the Constantine costume have appeared in comics, TV shows, and movies. These variations often reflect the character's evolving personality and circumstances.

2005 Constantine Movie Costume

In the 2005 film adaptation of Constantine, Keanu Reeves portrayed the eponymous character. His costume was more militaristic than the comic book version, featuring a black leather trench coat with multiple pockets and buckles.

CW's Legends of Tomorrow Costume

In the CW television series "Legends of Tomorrow," Matt Ryan plays Constantine. His costume is more faithful to the comic books, with a long dark trench coat, a blue shirt and tie, and pinstriped pants.

Costume Guide for Beginners

Materials:

• Long, dark trench coat
• Blue or grey button-down shirt
• Black or dark grey tie
• Black or dark grey pants
• Black boots
• Brown leather or suede gloves
• Pentagram talisman
• Lighter
• Cigarette

Instructions:

1. Put on the shirt, tie, and pants.
2. Slip on the trench coat and fasten it with the buttons or belt.
3. Put on the boots and gloves.
4. Pin the talisman to the lapel of the trench coat.
5. Insert the cigarette into the lighter and light it.

Tips for Enhancing the Costume:

• Distress the trench coat with bleach or sandpaper to give it a worn-in look.
• Add patches or pins to the trench coat to reflect Constantine's rebellious nature.
• Experiment with different styles of boots and gloves to find what suits you best.
• Make your own talisman with clay or other materials.
• Practice carrying a cigarette and lighter with confidence.

Advanced Costume Techniques

Creating a Realistic Cigarette and Lighter:

• Use a real cigarette and lighter for authenticity.
• Alternatively, craft a cigarette out of rolled-up paper and insert a glowing LED inside.
• Use a flashlight or small battery-powered light for the lighter.

Aging the Trench Coat:

• Soak the trench coat in a weak solution of coffee or tea overnight.
• Use a wire brush to gently distress the fabric.
• Create holes or tears in the coat using a sharp object.

Adding Supernatural Effects:

• Stitch or glue glowing LEDs to the inside of the talisman to create an ethereal glow.
• Wear contact lenses with a glowing or distorted effect to enhance the character's supernatural abilities.

Tables for Quick Reference

Key Elements Checklist

Materials Table

Distress Techniques

Size and Fit Guide