'80s Star Elvira Looks So Different Without Her Signature Hair And Makeup

Elvira is one of the biggest horror media icons of all time — beloved by audiences over the years for her campy one-liners and over-the-top gothic beauty. The 'Mistress of the Dark' character was first introduced as the host of "Elvira's Movie Macabre," a locally-airing Los Angeles TV show featuring low-budget horror films. The character became beloved for her distinctive look, humor, and sex appeal, and she went on to star in her own movies: "Elvira: Mistress of the Dark" in 1988, and "Elvira's Haunted Hills" in 2001. While most '80s horror fans could immediately identify the iconic television host and comedian, some may not recognize the woman behind the character. Meet Cassandra Peterson, the red-headed beauty who portrays Elvira.  

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Unlike Elvira's alternative style, with teased-up raven hair and bold, gothic makeup, Peterson is much more low-key in real life. Today, the actor is most often seen sporting her gorgeous, naturally red waves (adding her to the list of red-haired celebrities who will make you want to try the flaming-hot look), and her makeup is also heavily toned down to highlight her piercing blue eyes and bright smile. The entertainer behind Elvira can truly do it all; whether rocking natural glam or a dramatic goth look, one thing is certain — Peterson is just as stunning now as she was during her rise to fame in the 1980s. 

Cassandra Peterson's transformation into '80s horror icon Elvira is quite stark. However, the talented entertainer has broken down how exactly she achieves that signature look. In a 2025 interview with NewBeauty, Peterson explained that, while her skincare regimen never changes, her makeup routine is quite different for her and Elvira. "For Elvira, it's an hour and a half of theatrical makeup. It's total drag," she said. "For me, in my everyday life, it's about 10 minutes. I do a really quick makeup look and go. I don't have time to mess around!" The actor went on to describe her skincare must-haves, which include products from her go-to brand SkinCeuticals, as well as facial serums from Trish McEvoy — both good additions to a skincare routine for those over 40.

To achieve Elvira's iconic makeup look (which she's applied by herself for decades), Peterson initially used stage makeup — employing techniques and products she'd picked up as a showgirl in Las Vegas in the 1970s. However, the horror star has since switched to commercial cosmetics brands to achieve her Elvira "drag." Peterson uses Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Foundation in Porcelain to set the base for her pale skin, and she's mentioned using MAC eyeliner and red L'Oréal lipstick, as well as Jeffree Star Velour Liquid Lipstick in the shade "Wifey," and KVD Beauty's Tattoo Eyeliner.

But when not appearing as her goth alter-ego, Peterson keeps her makeup simple, having perfected the soft glam look. The actor applies Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream as her base, and then adds mascara from Blinc, and Johnny Concert's Maudit Timeless Liquid Lipstick in the creamy, nude shade "Le Beige." Peterson is truly a multi-hyphenate: an iconic performer, talented comedian, and expert makeup artist in her own right.