Martha May Whovier Costume: How to Recreate the Iconic Grinch Outfit for Christmas & Cosplay

September 26, 2025 Rankifly SEO Agency

When it comes to memorable holiday movie characters, few are as glamorous and unforgettable as Martha May Whovier from How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Played by the always elegant Christine Baranski, Martha May is the fashion-forward diva of Whoville who stole the spotlight with her over-the-top outfits, big hair, and sparkle-filled charm.

If you’ve ever wanted to turn heads at a Christmas party, a cosplay convention, or even a themed family gathering, the Martha May Whovier costume is the perfect choice. It’s glamorous, festive, and a little cheeky—just like Martha May herself.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: who Martha May is, the key elements of her wardrobe, DIY costume tips, where to buy the outfit, and styling ideas to truly bring Whoville magic to life.

Who is Martha May Whovier?

Martha May Whovier is a beloved character from Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000), directed by Ron Howard. While the Grinch himself may be the star, Martha May is the stylish neighbor who adds elegance and sparkle to every scene. She’s known for her signature red dress trimmed with white fur, her glamorous updos, and her charming personality.

Her costumes were intentionally designed to look like a blend of old Hollywood glamour and Christmas pageantry, making her one of the most unforgettable style icons in holiday movie history.

This makes her the ideal inspiration for anyone who wants a glamorous twist on a holiday costume. Whether you’re a fan of Christine Baranski, love classic Christmas films, or simply want to stand out at your next event, the Martha May Whovier costume is a showstopper.

Key Elements of the Martha May Whovier Costume

To pull off this look, you’ll need to pay attention to the details. Martha May’s style is bold, sparkly, and festive. Here are the must-have components:

1. Signature Red Velvet Dress

The centerpiece of the outfit is her deep red velvet dress. It’s form-fitting, elegant, and always trimmed with white faux fur. Some versions also have sequins or shimmering accents, which catch the light beautifully.

2. White Faux Fur Trim

Fur-lined hems, cuffs, and collars give the costume that festive Whoville touch. Whether you go for a floor-length gown or a shorter cocktail dress, don’t skip the fur—it’s what makes the outfit instantly recognizable.

3. Sparkling Accessories

Martha May never shied away from accessories. Think diamond-like jewelry, sparkly earrings, shimmering belts, and glitzy shoes. The shinier, the better.

4. Hair and Makeup

Her hair is always styled into dramatic voluminous updos with a bit of curl and flair. Pair this with bold makeup—red lipstick, winged eyeliner, and shimmering eyeshadow—and you’re halfway to Whoville.

5. Heels and Gloves

Complete the look with red or white heels and long opera-style gloves. These touches give your outfit a sophisticated finish that screams Martha May.

How to Recreate Martha May Whovier’s Look at Home

If you love DIY projects, you can absolutely put together a Martha May costume without breaking the bank. Here’s how:

Dress Alternative: Start with a plain red velvet dress (or even a velvet skirt and top). Add white faux fur trim around the edges using fabric glue or stitching.
Hair Styling: Use a teasing comb, lots of hairspray, and a few decorative hairpins to create Martha’s dramatic updo. You can also find Whoville-style wigs online if you prefer a ready-made option.
Makeup: Go heavy on glam—red lips, rosy cheeks, shimmering eyeshadow. Don’t forget the long lashes!
Accessories: Raid your jewelry box for sparkle. If you don’t have rhinestones or pearls, costume jewelry works perfectly.
Shoes & Gloves: Red heels are ideal, but white or silver shoes also work. Pair them with long satin gloves for that touch of Whoville elegance.

DIY versions not only save money but also give you the chance to add a personal twist. You can make it subtle for a Christmas party or go all-out extravagant for cosplay events.

Where to Buy Martha May Whovier Costume Online

Not everyone has time for a DIY project, and that’s okay. Luckily, you can find stunning ready-made costumes that capture Martha May’s glamour perfectly.

At Just American Jackets, we’ve curated high-quality pieces that let you step straight into Whoville. Whether you’re after the classic Martha May Whovier costume or looking for something a little more modern, we’ve got options designed to turn heads.

Explore our collection here: Martha May Whovier Costume

You’ll also find celebrity-inspired jackets and costumes for other pop culture favorites, giving you endless options for your next cosplay or party.

Other sources include Etsy for handmade designs, Amazon for budget-friendly costumes, and specialized cosplay shops for tailored pieces.

Styling Ideas for Parties & Events

The beauty of the Martha May Whovier costume is its versatility. You can style it for:

Christmas Parties: The perfect outfit to wow at a festive gathering.
Halloween Costumes: A glamorous yet unique choice that stands out among witches and vampires.
Cosplay Conventions: Ideal for anyone who loves Dr. Seuss characters or themed events.
Family-Themed Costumes: Pair up with friends or family as The Grinch, Cindy Lou Who, and other Whoville residents for a fun group look.

For extra flair, carry a giant Christmas ornament prop or wrap yourself in a string of sparkling lights—it adds that over-the-top Whoville energy.

Celebrity-Inspired Costumes Similar to Martha May Whovier

If you love Martha May’s dramatic style, you might also enjoy other iconic costumes with the same energy. Some fan favorites include:

Morticia Addams (The Addams Family) – dark, elegant, and dramatic.
Jessica Rabbit (Who Framed Roger Rabbit) – glamorous, bold, and curve-hugging.
Harley Quinn (DC Comics) – playful, colorful, and instantly recognizable.

For fans who enjoy standing out with celebrity-inspired costumes, our store has an entire section dedicated to these looks. Check it out here: Celebrity-Inspired Jackets & Costumes.

FAQs About Martha May Whovier Costume

1. Who played Martha May Whovier in How the Grinch Stole Christmas?
The role was played by Christine Baranski, known for her glamorous presence and witty performances.

2. What does Martha May Whovier wear?
She’s best recognized for her red velvet dresses trimmed with white fur, paired with glamorous hairstyles and sparkling jewelry.

3. Can I make a Martha May Whovier costume at home?
Yes! Start with a red velvet dress, add faux fur trim, style your hair into a Whoville updo, and finish with bold makeup and sparkly accessories.

4. Where can I buy a Martha May Whovier costume?
You can find ready-made versions at Just American Jackets or browse Etsy, Amazon, or cosplay shops for alternatives.

5. Is the Martha May Whovier costume only for Christmas?
Not at all! It works for Halloween, cosplay events, holiday parties, and even themed photoshoots.

Conclusion

The Martha May Whovier costume is more than just an outfit—it’s a chance to channel a character who represents holiday glamour, confidence, and sparkle. With her iconic red dress, fur trims, and bold style, you’re guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go.

Whether you choose a DIY approach or a ready-made costume from Just American Jackets, this look ensures you’ll be the star of the show—just like Martha May herself.

So this season, skip the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. Get your Martha May Whovier costume and bring a little Whoville magic to your next event.