I have been excitedly planning for Halloween for months— I love the DIY crafts, menu planning, and endless loop of spooky movies— and this year I have the added fun of planning an outfit for a Witches Gala! Hosted by the Victims Assistance Center of Jefferson County, Inc., the event is intended to raise awareness of domestic violence.
As a survivor of IPV (intimate partner violence), I can attest to the invaluable work done by organizations like VACJC, and I am thrilled to be able to attend in support… and the witchy theme is just an added bonus!
Naturally, I love any opportunity to sport my witchy regalia, but with a “black tie, spooky formal” dress code, I want to go full sartorial sorceress for this event. I even made a mood board to bring together my inspirations!

Some of my sartorial inspiration (clockwise from top left): Vintage Halloween photo (c. Getty Images); illustration from Kulturgeschichte (1896); Kim Novak in Bell Book and Candle (1958); lots of black velvet; Eva Green in Penny Dreadful (2014-2016); antique jet necklace and earrings; Miranda Richardson in Sleepy Hollow (1999).
Stay tuned, as I’ll be sharing pictures of the completed outfit, and be sure to snag your tickets for the VACJC’s Witches Gala, October 29th at the Sackets Harbor Ballroom!
Hi Kate – would love to see your costume at some point! Laura
I’ll be sure to share! 🖤