When Kiss exploded onto the American glam rock scene in the mid 1970s, there was no way to know that this iconic band would still be admired and emulated four decades later. The band was known just as much for their elaborate face paint and studded leather costumes as for their flamboyant stage shows that included spectacular pyrotechnics and the fire breathing, blood spitting antics of lead singer Gene Simmons. It is not wonder that Kiss band costumes are still popular to this day.
The four characters represented by the band are The Demon (Gene Simmons), Starchild (Paul Stanley), Spaceman (Ace Frehley) and Catman (Peter Criss). The basic costumes feature lots of black leather and silver studs. The musicians were also famous for the towering platform boots that gave them such a commanding presence on stage.
All four costumes are built around a simple black bodysuit usually made of a nylon and spandex blend to allow for easy movement. Various accessories are then added to distinguish the characters. Many versions of the Demon costume include a vest with attached bat wings while the costume worn by the Starchild is adorned with rhinestone studded stars. The Spaceman costume is recognized by the silver shoulder discs and lightning bolts. The Catman outfit features lots of silver trim and oval cut outs located in the upper thigh area.
No Kiss band costume is complete without the proper face makeup. The four different characters can be recreated with ordinary cream makeup but an even easier way to get the right look is with temporary tattoo kits that take just minutes to apply.