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In 1994, the nation was rocked by the biggest scandal ever to take place in women’s figure skating (not exactly a sport known for controversy). While training for the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, Nancy Kerrigan was struck in the knee with a metal baton—and after some probing, it was discovered that skater Tonya Harding’s ex-husband and his friends were responsible. Harding was convicted of conspiracy and banned for life from skating, but her story lives on—thanks to the film I, Tonya, which brought home three Oscars, including Best Actress for Margot Robbie’s incredible portrayal of the skater.
If you love the film, have fond memories of 1990s skating, or just really, really want to dress up as a figure skater this Halloween, here’s a DIY I, Tonya Halloween costume that is affordable, creative, and consists of pieces you can still wear after Halloween.
How To Nail A DIY Tonya Harding Halloween Costume With Only 6 Items
1. A Blue Long-Sleeve Leotard
Supernowa Scoop Neck Long-Sleeve Leotard ($16.99)
If you want to recreate Tonya Harding’s most popular look from I, Tonya, her blue, sequined figure skating dress would be the winning choice, literally. Harding wore this costume at the 1991 United Skates Figure Skating Championships, where she famously placed first in the competition, taking home the gold medal and posing alongside silver medalist Kristi Yamaguchi and, of course, bronze medal winner Nancy Kerrigan, her biggest rival.
But back to her costume: it’s gorgeous. A typical, flashy figure skating dress chosen in a color that worked well with Harding’s hair and skin coloring. Unfortunately, most figure skating dresses will cost $100 or more. One great way to save a lot of money is by purchasing separate pieces—a long-sleeve blue leotard like this one mimics the top style of Harding’s beloved figure skating dress, and it costs a fraction of the price.
2. A Blue Skater Skirt
Simlu Women’s Skater Skirt ($14.25-16.99)
The blue shades on this short mini skater skirt and the long-sleeve leotard are similar enough to evoke the feeling of a full-on figure skating dress—but it won't cost you a ton of money. This cute skirt is made from polyester and stretchy spandex. Wear it over nude tights (or get fancy and find a pair of sparkly nude tights with embellishments). Since you’ll be spending Halloween on dry land and not in a skating rink, it’s totally fine to pair this costume with white ankle boots (if you own a pair) or simple white sneakers or Keds. Just picture what Tonya herself would have worn on her feet while in costume and off the ice if you need a bit of inspiration.
3. Sequin Embellishments
Bilipala Bulk Clear Sequins ($7.99)
Here’s where being handy with a simple needle and thread will take you far. Instead of paying extra for a costume that comes already bedazzled, grab your sewing supplies, along with this kit of 3000 sequins, and scatter a few (or a slew) of sparkly sequins all over your leotard and skirt. And if you don’t possess sewing skills, no worries: extra-strong Gorilla Glue can hold sequins in place. Just be sure you work on your costume way in advance and give it plenty of time to dry before Halloween.
4. An ‘80s-Style Blonde Wig
Kalyss Wig ($17.99)
Even though Tonya Harding became a household name in the early 1990s, good, old-fashioned, big ‘80s hair didn’t just fall off the face of the planet in 1990. Like many women, Tonya still rocked teased hair when she won her gold medal at the 1991 championships. Get her look by styling this wig into a ponytail and then grabbing a can of hairspray and teasing half of the bangs straight up (leave a bit of fringe down for the full effect).
5. Blue Eyeshadow
BYS Glitter Eyeshadow Palette ($6.99)
Like big hair, 1980s-inspired blue eyeshadow was a major component of Tonya’s skating style. Play with various shades of blue shadow and make your application dramatic (remember: she’s essentially wearing stage makeup). Don’t be shy about topping off your look with pale pink lipstick and dark red blush — because skaters get flushed out on the ice.
6. Ice Skates
Sophia’s Doll Ice Skates ($6.95)
Unless you already own a pair of white figure skates or have been thinking about investing in a pair, it doesn’t make a whole lot of sense to spend major money on ice skates for a Halloween costume (because they aren’t cheap). Here’s an affordable, cute idea: loop a heavy rope or thread through these doll ice skates and carry them as your Tonya Harding prop.
