God Help The Outcasts

Ever since the Disney animated feature The Hunchback of Notre Dame was released in 1996, Esmeralda has been one of my favorite Disney characters of all time. My cousins, sisters, and I used to run around the backyard with remnants and scarves tied around our waists and in our hair, pretending to be gypsies on the run from the menacing Judge Claude Frollo. It was one of my favorite games-- and all inspired by one fiery, sassy, gorgeously animated gypsy.

It only makes sense that for one Halloween, my sister wanted to "officially" dress up as Esmeralda. I volunteered to help sew it, and between my mom and I and about four different patterns, we found the elements I needed to piece together to make Esmeralda's whole outfit: peasant blouse, teal corset, coined handkerchief, and a swirly twirly purple skirt. There is no point in a skirt if it doesn't whirl out when you spin, especially if you are a dancing gypsy.

I was pretty thrilled with how the costume turned out, overall. Between my sister and I, we've worn it for several Halloweens since its original debut. It's also a best seller in my Etsy shop, especially around October and convention times.

I'm just happy to know that there are so many other girls out there who like to play "gypsies." Esmeralda rocks.