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Ellie Cosplay: At a Glance
ABOUT ELLIE WILLIAMS:
Ellie Williams is the brave, witty, and resilient teenager who becomes the emotional core of The Last of Us. With her sharp instincts, humor, and determination, she grows from a scrappy survivor into one of gaming’s most beloved heroines. Her simple but iconic outfit makes for a comfortable, instantly recognizable cosplay that fans of the series will adore.
1. Red Graphic T-Shirt – Ellie is often seen in her faded red T-shirt with a distressed logo. Any red tee with a graphic design can stand in for her iconic shirt.
2. Blue Jeans – A pair of slightly worn, slim-fit jeans captures her practical, rugged style.
3. Green Backpack – A survival essential, Ellie’s backpack is a must for authenticity; bonus points if you add a couple of pins or patches.
4. Gray Long-Sleeve Shirt – Layer a gray long-sleeve shirt under the red tee for her signature layered look.
5. Military-Style Watch – Like Joel, Ellie also likes to sport his simple green-strap watch as a reminder of what they have both lost.
6. Sketchbook Prop – Ellie’s notebook is a fun detail; carry one to show her creative, thoughtful side.
7. Tattoo Sleeve (Optional) – For her Last of Us Part II look, add a fern tattoo sleeve or temporary tattoo.
8. Red Sneakers – A worn pair of red low-top sneakers completes the outfit.
9. Brown Wig – If needed, add a medium-length brown wig tied back into a messy ponytail.
DIY Tip: Weather your clothes a little—dust, rips, or light distressing makes the costume look even more realistic and survival-ready.
Ellie is a fantastic costume on her own, but she shines brightest when paired with Joel for a duo cosplay. Together, the two make an iconic pairing recognized instantly by fans of both the game and the HBO series.
You can also build a Last of Us group ensemble: add Tess, Tommy, or even some Clickers for a complete post-apocalyptic lineup.
For more video game cosplay inspiration, check out our other guides; you’ll find no shortage of legendary heroes and survivors to recreate.
The Last of Us Costume Collection
It centers on the faded red graphic T-shirt layered over gray sleeves, with blue jeans and a green backpack. That combination suits her earlier Last of Us appearance. The optional fern tattoo refers to a later version and can be left out.
A faded red tee with a simple graphic can work if you do not have a replica. Wear it over a gray long-sleeved shirt and add jeans. The layered colors and backpack make the reference clearer than the tee alone.
You do not need it for the earlier red-shirt look. If you want to portray Ellie from Part II, choose her later clothing and add the tattoo as part of that version. Keeping one appearance in mind helps avoid mixing unrelated details.
A few small pins or patches add personality to an olive backpack without making it look overloaded. Use a bag you can comfortably wear over both shirt layers. It can also hold your everyday belongings during the event.
Give Ellie the layered red tee and backpack, then use an earth-toned shirt and worn jeans for Joel. Their contrasting tops make the pairing clear. Tess or a Clicker can join for a larger Last of Us photo group.
Tie brown hair into a relaxed ponytail with a few loose strands at the front. Worn red low-top sneakers suit the version featured here. A wig is optional, and similarly casual shoes can work when you are using clothes you already own.