Fashion

Dress Like +Size Ariana Grande In 4 Simple Steps

by Amanda Richards

I'll admit it: Before writing this story, I didn't know much about Ariana Grande. When I sat down to write about how to put together a plus size Ariana Grande Halloween costume motivated by her of-the-moment status, I did some research to remind myself exactly what she looks like. In my mind, she was merely a tiny bouncing blur of brunette hair tied into a big ponytail topped off with kitty ears.

I now know that she's a former Nickelodeon star who has successfully parlayed into a music career. I know that she dated Big Sean. I know that "Break Free" is the perfect song to sweat it out to. I know that she's been compared to Mariah Carey, a theory that I will only begrudgingly entertain while performing a series of bows to my Daydream 1995 deluxe edition album.

However, I have now gazed upon the visage of a million Ariana Grandes, poring over her photos until I got a clear idea of her style aesthetic. Coincidentally, her look is similar to Mariah's, in the sense that she seems to prefer the glam and sexy look of a high boot and a short hem. Luckily, I know just how to create the look in plus, and it's a lot easier than it seems. Here are the four things you need to get your plus size Ariana Grande on.

1. A Black Bodysuit

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This is the simplest way to achieve a very Grande look without a lot of hassle. Surprisingly, there are plenty of options on the market, at a variety of price points. This one from Chubby Cartwheels is my favorite, because it's velvet and goes from 1X to 6X.

Velvet Bodysuit, $50, chubbycartwheels.com

If you're worried about being cold (Ariana Grande is likely never cold, as I imagine she is carried from place to place in a mink Snuggie), then try this awesome Rebdolls bodysuit with sleeves, available in sizes S to 5X.

Criss Cross Bodysuit, $34.50, rebdolls.com

If you just want to look ridiculously hot, this Boohoo+ option will take you all the way there.

Jenny Plunge Neck Bodysuit, $24, boohoo.com

2. Over-The-Knee Black Boots

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In order for the bodysuit to reach desired Ariana Grande effect, you have to add tall black boots. Boots like these seem to be a favorite of Grande's, and a bodysuit/thigh high combo will have your costume looking accurate without being too fussy. These boots aren't cheap, but remember: They're so hot, you can wear them all winter long.

Eloquii Luella Over-The-Knee Boot, $149.90, eloquii.com

ASOS Kowtow Wide Fit Leather Over-The-Knee Boots, $108, asos.com

3. Cat Ears

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Ah, the cat ears. The linchpin of the entire Ariana Grande operation. I sometimes think that without them, her head wouldn't be able to withstand the weight of the enormous ponytail (more on that later). It would slowly collapse like a melting ice cream cake, bits of glitter gloss and extensions plopping all over the floor. These are load-bearing cat ears, and of the utmost importance. You can find them at virtually every party store for very reasonable prices.

The Ari Ears, $28, etsy.com

Cat Ears/Ariana Grande Ears, $5, etsy.com

4. A Massive Brunette Ponytail

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There's nothing more Ariana Grande than this. Let's face it, without this 73-pound mass of chocolate follicles swinging from the top of your skull, you're not Ariana: You're just another sexy kitty.

Faux Hair Ponytail, $16.99, drugstore.com

Once the extension is affixed to your head, you'll be the perfect plus size Ariana. A grande Grande for the ages.

Want more Halloween inspiration? Check out the video below, and be sure to subscribe to Bustle’s YouTube page for more excitement!

Images: Courtesy Brands