The Tenth Doctor, portrayed by David Tennant, remains one of the most beloved incarnations of the iconic টাইম Lord. His energetic personality and distinctive style have made him a cosplay favorite for years. If you’re looking to embody the fantastic Tenth Doctor, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will break down every element of the 10th Doctor Outfit, from the essential pieces to those extra details that will truly elevate your cosplay, ensuring you look molto bene at your next convention.
Whether you’re aiming for screen-accuracy or creating a budget-friendly version, understanding the key components of the 10th Doctor outfit is crucial. Let’s dive into the details and explore how you can assemble your perfect Tenth Doctor cosplay.
The Tenth Doctor Costume Breakdown
The 10th Doctor outfit is deceptively simple, yet instantly recognizable. It primarily revolves around two core suit variations, each with its own nuances. We can divide the look into essential pieces that form the foundation of the cosplay, and optional elements that add authenticity and depth.
David Tennant as the Tenth Doctor, showcasing his iconic brown pinstripe suit and Converse sneakers, key elements of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Close-up shot of the Tenth Doctor’s blue pinstripe suit, highlighting the subtle stripe detail and the overall slim fit style of the 10th Doctor outfit.
The Tenth Doctor wearing his brown overcoat, an optional but recognizable accessory that adds another layer of depth to the 10th Doctor outfit.
Let’s break down the essential components of the 10th Doctor outfit that are needed to get started.
The Essential Pieces
To truly capture the essence of the Tenth Doctor, you’ll need these five core components as the foundation of your 10th Doctor outfit.
1. The Suit
The suit is undeniably the most crucial and iconic element of the 10th Doctor outfit. David Tennant sported two main suit variations: a brown pinstripe and a blue pinstripe. The brown suit is arguably the more classic and frequently seen look, making it a popular choice for cosplayers aiming for instant recognition.
Both suits share a similar 1930s-inspired design, crafted by costume designer Louise Page. They are made from a lightweight cotton shirting fabric, perfect for comfortable wear at conventions. The jacket is a distinctive 4-button style with a notch lapel and a unique pleated patch breast pocket with a curved flap. The hip pockets appear to be standard flap/welt, but cleverly open from the top for a unique detail.
A detailed costume card showcasing the essential elements of the Tenth Doctor outfit, including the suit, shirt, tie, shoes and hair.
The cut of the jacket is slim and tailored, featuring front darts and a belt sewn into the back waistline to accentuate the silhouette. A single back vent and sleeves with three non-vented buttons further define the jacket’s style.
The trousers are modern straight-leg fit with a two-clasp front flap closure and zipper. They feature practical slash pockets at the front and two double-welt back pockets secured with a button-and-tab. The trousers have a clean, blind hem at the leg opening and five belt loops on the waistband. Both suit jackets are fully lined with a color-matched acetate twill for comfort and a polished finish.
Close-up scan of the GAP trouser fabric, revealing the subtle texture and weave of the material used for the Tenth Doctor’s brown suit trousers.
Fabric swatch of the brown pinstripe suit material, demonstrating the electric blue pinstripe against the brown cotton base, a defining feature of the 10th Doctor outfit.
David Tennant in the brown pinstripe suit, showing the overall fit and style of the jacket and trousers, essential for replicating the 10th Doctor outfit.
Image showcasing the acetate twill lining used in the Tenth Doctor’s suit jackets, providing a detail for accuracy in high-end 10th Doctor outfit recreations.
Detail shot of the Tenth Doctor’s brown suit jacket, highlighting the four-button closure and notch lapel design, key features of the 10th Doctor outfit jacket.
Image showing the back vent detail of the Tenth Doctor’s suit jacket, demonstrating the tailored fit and construction of the 10th Doctor outfit.
A clear view of the Tenth Doctor’s blue pinstripe suit trousers, showing the straight leg fit and subtle pinstripe pattern, another option for the 10th Doctor outfit.
Full body shot of David Tennant in the blue pinstripe suit, illustrating how the blue suit variant presents a slightly different but equally recognizable 10th Doctor outfit option.
A classic pose of the Tenth Doctor in his brown suit, showcasing the complete look from head to toe, and the overall silhouette of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Close-up image detailing the lining of the back vent in the brown suit jacket, a minute detail that adds to the authenticity of a screen-accurate 10th Doctor outfit.
David Tennant in the blue pinstripe suit, demonstrating the suit’s appearance in various lighting conditions and action poses, useful reference for cosplayers recreating the 10th Doctor outfit.
Side profile of the Tenth Doctor in the brown suit, highlighting the slim fit and the way the suit drapes and moves, important for capturing the dynamic nature of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Another side view of the Tenth Doctor in the brown suit, further illustrating the tailored fit and details of the 10th Doctor outfit from a different angle.
2. The Button-Up
Underneath the suit jacket, the Tenth Doctor always wore a button-up dress shirt. These were often off-the-rack finds from popular retailers, emphasizing a more casual and less formal approach to the 10th Doctor outfit. Brands like UniQlo, Reiss, River Island, and FCUK were frequently used, showcasing the accessibility of the look.
The shirts were consistently made from soft cotton or linen, prioritizing comfort and a slightly rumpled aesthetic. Crucially, none of the shirts featured bold patterns or prints. They were primarily solid-colored dress shirts, although some linen options had a heathered texture, such as the medium gray UniQlo shirt seen in “School Reunion.” A few shirts had subtle embellishments, like the contrast stitching on his FCUK shirt from “Tooth and Claw,” or a single striped shirt, but plain solid colors were the norm. The key was to avoid stiff, formal business shirts, maintaining the Doctor’s energetic and approachable style.
For the brown suit, shirt colors ranged across various shades of light and dark blue, beige, heathered gray, and olive green. The blue suit was paired with shirts in light blue, maroon, and dark purple, offering a slightly different color palette.
Close-up of a light blue shirt worn with the brown suit, a classic color choice and a staple of the 10th Doctor outfit, versatile for various cosplay interpretations.
The Tenth Doctor wearing a beige shirt with his brown suit, demonstrating a softer, earthier tone within the 10th Doctor outfit’s color palette.
David Tennant in a maroon shirt with the blue suit, showcasing a bolder color combination and demonstrating the variety within the 10th Doctor outfit.
The Tenth Doctor in a medium blue shirt, a versatile and frequently seen shirt color that works well with both the brown and blue suits of the 10th Doctor outfit.
A darker blue shirt option worn by the Tenth Doctor, illustrating the range of blue tones that are appropriate for a 10th Doctor outfit.
David Tennant sporting a heathered gray shirt, showing a neutral option that still fits within the 10th Doctor outfit aesthetic.
Image highlighting the heathered texture of the gray UniQlo shirt, a specific detail for cosplayers aiming for high accuracy in their 10th Doctor outfit.
The Tenth Doctor wearing an olive green shirt, an earth-toned choice that adds variety and depth to the 10th Doctor outfit’s shirt options.
Close up of a dark purple shirt, demonstrating a richer, less common but still screen-accurate color choice for the 10th Doctor outfit’s shirt component.
David Tennant in a light purple shirt, another example of a less conventional but screen-used color, expanding the shirt possibilities for a 10th Doctor outfit.
3. The Tie
The tie is a defining accessory for the 10th Doctor outfit, so much so that it has gained a dedicated following within the cosplay community. While not every appearance featured a tie, they are a popular and instantly recognizable element. The ties worn by Tennant have become quite collectible, with fans meticulously documenting and replicating them.
The tie choices were carefully coordinated with the suits. For the brown suit, brown ties with blue geometric, floral, or striped designs were the standard. The blue suit called for maroon ties with navy details, although his most iconic blue suit tie is primarily navy blue with maroon accents. These ties add a crucial pop of color and pattern to the 10th Doctor outfit.
The Tenth Doctor wearing a brown tie with blue geometric patterns, the classic tie style paired with the brown suit in the 10th Doctor outfit.
David Tennant sporting another geometric patterned tie with the brown suit, highlighting the variety of geometric designs used within the 10th Doctor outfit.
The Tenth Doctor wearing a floral patterned tie, demonstrating a softer, more organic pattern option within the 10th Doctor outfit’s tie choices.
David Tennant in a striped tie with the brown suit, showcasing that striped ties are also a screen-accurate option for the 10th Doctor outfit.
Close up of a floral tie pattern, emphasizing the intricate design and colors used in the floral ties of the 10th Doctor outfit.
The Tenth Doctor wearing a maroon tie with the blue suit, the standard tie color pairing for the blue suit variation of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Close-up of a brown tie, showcasing the texture and color variations within the brown tie spectrum of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Detail shot of a tie pattern, highlighting the geometric shapes and color combinations that are characteristic of the 10th Doctor outfit ties.
Another tie detail image, showing a different geometric pattern and color palette, further illustrating the diversity of tie options in the 10th Doctor outfit.
Close-up of a striped tie, demonstrating the texture and stripe design that is also an acceptable tie pattern for the 10th Doctor outfit.
4. The Shoes
In a move that cemented his Doctor’s quirky and unconventional style, David Tennant famously wore Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Hi-Tops as part of his 10th Doctor outfit. This wasn’t just a random choice; Tennant himself advocated for the Converse, fighting with the costume department to get them approved.
Tennant explained his reasoning: “I had these really old, battered, cream-colored Converse shoes that I brought in and I said, ‘I want to wear these.’ And people didn’t like that idea. I had to really fight for them. They were like, ‘No, no, no. I’ve got these wonderful boots.’ They’re beautiful. They’re beautiful boots. But I want to wear these crappy old trainers. That was the only thing I absolutely insisted on, battered old shoes, because that always just felt like that was the right thing to do. I’m glad I did.”
For the brown suit, he wore cream Converse, while maroon Converse accompanied the blue suit. The Converse were almost always laced in the same distinctive style. Due to legal reasons, the Converse logos were whited out on screen. Interestingly, in Series 2, black Converse were sometimes seen with the brown suit, adding another variation to the 10th Doctor outfit.
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Close up of the maroon Converse and dark maroon socks worn with the blue suit, showcasing the color coordination and the iconic footwear of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Cream Converse sneakers, the signature footwear for the brown suit variation of the 10th Doctor outfit, instantly recognizable and essential for the cosplay.
A lacing guide for the Tenth Doctor’s Converse, detailing the specific lacing style used, a small detail that adds to the accuracy of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Full shot of the Tenth Doctor’s cream Converse, showing their battered and worn appearance, contributing to the casual and energetic feel of the 10th Doctor outfit.
The maroon Converse, paired with the blue suit, offering a different footwear option that is equally iconic and part of the 10th Doctor outfit’s variations.
David Tennant wearing black Converse with the brown suit, a less common but still screen-accurate footwear choice, demonstrating the subtle variations within the 10th Doctor outfit.
5. The Hair
No discussion of the 10th Doctor outfit is complete without mentioning David Tennant’s remarkable hair. It was an integral part of his look and contributed significantly to his overall persona.
While the hairstyle evolved slightly throughout his tenure as the Doctor, the core silhouette remained consistent. The sides and back were scissor-cut, while the top and front featured longer fringe styled in a deliberately messy, spiky manner. Sometimes it was styled down, but often lifted and occasionally aggressively spiked using Bed Head hair products. Tennant also sported sideburns reaching his earlobes, varying in width but frequently flaring out wider at the bottom. This distinctive hairstyle is crucial for fully capturing the Tenth Doctor aesthetic.
David Tennant’s iconic spiky hair, a defining feature of the 10th Doctor outfit, styled upwards and contributing to his energetic persona.
Side view of the Tenth Doctor’s hairstyle, highlighting the scissor-cut sides and the longer, styled top, essential for replicating the hair component of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Another example of the Tenth Doctor’s hairstyle, showing a slightly different styling with more pronounced spikes, demonstrating the versatility of the hair within the 10th Doctor outfit.
Image comparing David Tennant’s hairstyle with another Doctor, emphasizing the unique and recognizable nature of the 10th Doctor’s hair as part of his outfit.
Close up of the Tenth Doctor’s sideburns, a specific detail of his hairstyle that contributes to the overall look and is often replicated in 10th Doctor outfit cosplays.
David Tennant’s hair styled slightly more casually, demonstrating the range of styling options within the 10th Doctor’s hairstyle and the 10th Doctor outfit.
Another example of the Tenth Doctor’s hair, showing a slightly different angle and styling, further illustrating the hairstyle as a key element of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Close up of the Tenth Doctor’s hair and sideburns, emphasizing the texture and style that is crucial for a screen-accurate 10th Doctor outfit.
David Tennant’s hairstyle in a slightly more relaxed style, demonstrating the natural look and feel that the 10th Doctor’s hair often had, an important aspect of the 10th Doctor outfit.
With these five essential pieces, you’ll have a solid foundation for your 10th Doctor outfit. However, to truly elevate your cosplay and achieve a higher level of authenticity, consider incorporating these optional elements.
Optional Elements for Added Authenticity
These additional pieces aren’t strictly necessary, but they can significantly enhance your 10th Doctor outfit, adding layers of detail and recognition.
6. The Coat
The Tenth Doctor occasionally sported a long brown overcoat, adding a touch of dramatic flair and another layer to his 10th Doctor outfit. This coat was made from Alcantara, a luxurious upholstery-grade microfiber known for its suede-like texture and durability.
The coat is double-breasted with a notch lapel, flap-covered hip pockets, back darts for shaping, and a gusset for ease of movement. The sleeves are long and loose-fitting, without vents or buttons at the cuffs. It features eight faux horn buttons on the front and four more in the back vent, allowing it to be closed, although Tennant never wore it buttoned up on screen. The coat is lined with a navy acetate self-stripe lining, and the inside pocket welts are made from a contrasting rust-colored silk dupioni, adding subtle luxurious details.
Fabric swatch of Alcantara, the microfiber material used for the Tenth Doctor’s overcoat, providing a texture reference for accurate 10th Doctor outfit recreations.
Swatch of the navy acetate self-stripe lining used in the overcoat, a detail for cosplayers aiming for screen-accuracy in their 10th Doctor outfit.
Rust-colored silk dupioni swatch, the material used for the inside pocket welts of the overcoat, a subtle but accurate detail for the 10th Doctor outfit.
The Tenth Doctor wearing his brown overcoat, demonstrating the length, drape, and overall style of this optional but impactful piece of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Another image of the Tenth Doctor in his overcoat, showcasing the coat’s silhouette and how it enhances the overall 10th Doctor outfit when added.
A styled image emphasizing the overcoat as a key element of the 10th Doctor outfit, highlighting its fashionable and recognizable nature.
David Tennant in the overcoat in motion, showing how the coat flows and adds dynamic movement to the 10th Doctor outfit, especially in action poses.
The Tenth Doctor wearing the overcoat without buttoning it up, demonstrating the typical way it was worn and how it complements the underlying 10th Doctor outfit.
7. The Undershirt
When the Tenth Doctor wasn’t wearing a tie, his 10th Doctor outfit often included a colored t-shirt or Henley shirt layered underneath his button-up. These undershirts added a more casual and relaxed vibe to the look. The colors and collar styles varied widely, and few have been definitively identified.
Notably, in “Fear Her,” Tennant wears a Henley shirt without a dress shirt, showcasing it as a standalone piece. Similarly, in “Journey’s End,” the Metacrisis Doctor is seen wearing a t-shirt without a dress shirt, further demonstrating the versatility of undershirts within the 10th Doctor outfit variations.
The Tenth Doctor wearing a dark undershirt visible under his open dress shirt, showing the layering and casual style option of the 10th Doctor outfit.
David Tennant in a Henley shirt, illustrating the Henley style as a valid undershirt option and sometimes worn as a standalone top in the 10th Doctor outfit.
Close-up of the Tenth Doctor wearing a dark undershirt, highlighting the subtle layering and color contrast within the 10th Doctor outfit.
Another example of an undershirt peeking out from under the dress shirt, reinforcing the layered look as a stylistic element of the 10th Doctor outfit.
The Metacrisis Doctor wearing a plain t-shirt without a dress shirt, showing a more casual and stripped-down version of the 10th Doctor outfit.
The Tenth Doctor in a dark undershirt with a dress shirt, demonstrating the typical layered styling when a tie is not worn in the 10th Doctor outfit.
8. The Glasses
To enhance the “geek chic” vibe of the 10th Doctor outfit, Tennant occasionally wore custom Alain Mikli glasses in a dark tortoise shell acetate. These glasses added an intellectual and stylish touch to his look.
Interestingly, production only had one pair of the original Alain Mikli frames and struggled to find duplicates. As a backup, costume designer Louise Page acquired a similar pair of Alain Mikli frames as replacements in case of damage or loss. This second pair made a single onscreen appearance as sonic screwdriver-created sunglasses in “Planet of the Dead.” Finding similar tortoise shell glasses is a great way to add a touch of sophistication to your 10th Doctor outfit.
David Tennant wearing his Alain Mikli glasses, adding an intellectual and stylish accessory to the 10th Doctor outfit.
Close up of the Tenth Doctor’s glasses, highlighting the tortoise shell frame and the shape, key details for replicating this accessory for the 10th Doctor outfit.
Another image of David Tennant in his glasses, showing how they complement the overall 10th Doctor outfit and add to his intellectual persona.
Side profile of the Tenth Doctor wearing glasses, demonstrating the frame shape and how they sit on his face, important for accuracy in a 10th Doctor outfit cosplay.
The Tenth Doctor using his glasses as sonic sunglasses, a fun and unique variation of the glasses accessory within the 10th Doctor outfit.
9. The Socks
A seemingly minor detail, but one that dedicated cosplayers appreciate: the Tenth Doctor wore ribbed socks with his Converse. These were dark brown for the brown suit and maroon for the blue suit, maintaining color coordination even down to the socks in the 10th Doctor outfit. This attention to detail showcases the thoroughness of the costume design.
[Close up of the maroon ribbed socks paired with the maroon Converse, highlighting the color coordination even in the sock detail of the 10th Doctor outfit.
Brown ribbed socks, the sock style and color worn with the brown suit, demonstrating the attention to detail in sock choice for a complete 10th Doctor outfit.
10. The Sonic Screwdriver
While technically a prop rather than clothing, no Doctor is complete without their sonic screwdriver. It’s an iconic piece of every Doctor’s ensemble since the Second Doctor, and essential for a convincing 10th Doctor outfit.
The Tenth Doctor’s sonic screwdriver, originally designed by Dan Walker and built by Aztec Modelmakers, has a distinctive look. It features machined aluminum with a crackle glaze grip, a black end cap, and a blue light at the tip. The tip extends via a crackle-painted slider, revealing a clear tube with a central spiral of wires connected to the emitter head by a static ball joint. Various iterations of the sonic screwdriver appeared throughout the era, with minor differences in the slider details and crackle paint color. For the 50th Anniversary special, “The Day of the Doctor,” replicas were used to protect David Tennant’s personal sonic, and these replicas notably featured a gold-colored crackle glaze.
The Tenth Doctor’s sonic screwdriver, a must-have accessory for any 10th Doctor outfit, showcasing its metallic design and blue emitter tip.
Different versions of the Tenth Doctor’s sonic screwdriver, highlighting the minor variations in design and color that appeared throughout his era, details for dedicated 10th Doctor outfit cosplayers.
The gold crackle glaze sonic screwdriver used in “The Day of the Doctor,” a unique variant for collectors and those aiming for specific 10th Doctor outfit variations.
Close up of the sonic screwdriver’s details, showing the crackle glaze grip, metallic components, and the overall craftsmanship of this iconic 10th Doctor outfit accessory.
The sonic screwdriver in action, demonstrating its extended tip and the blue light emitter, key features of this essential accessory for the 10th Doctor outfit.
Bonus: Other Notable Accessories
Beyond the sonic screwdriver, the Tenth Doctor used a variety of other fun and recognizable props that can further enhance your 10th Doctor outfit. These include psychic paper, a squirt gun, 3-D glasses, a silver fob watch, and various homemade gadgets. Adding any of these can showcase your deep knowledge of the character and add extra personality to your cosplay.
The Tenth Doctor using psychic paper, a clever and recognizable accessory that can be added to a 10th Doctor outfit for extra detail and character.
The Tenth Doctor with a water pistol, a quirky and unexpected accessory that can add humor and uniqueness to a 10th Doctor outfit cosplay.
The Tenth Doctor wearing 3D glasses, another fun and episode-specific accessory that can be incorporated into a 10th Doctor outfit for a unique touch.
The Tenth Doctor holding a silver fob watch, a significant plot device and a sophisticated accessory that can be added to a 10th Doctor outfit for dedicated fans.
The Tenth Doctor with homemade gadgets, showcasing his inventive nature and providing inspiration for DIY accessories to personalize a 10th Doctor outfit.
Another example of the Tenth Doctor with a homemade gadget, emphasizing the Doctor’s resourcefulness and the potential for creative prop additions to a 10th Doctor outfit.
Where Can I Find the Screen Accurate Things?
For cosplayers aiming for ultimate screen accuracy in their 10th Doctor outfit, sourcing the right components can be a rewarding but sometimes challenging quest. Here’s a breakdown of where to find screen-accurate or near-screen-accurate items.
1. The Suit
Close up of GAP trousers, highlighting the specific make and style that were used for the Tenth Doctor’s brown suit trousers, the “holy grail” item for screen-accurate 10th Doctor outfit cosplayers.
The original brown suit trousers were famously off-the-rack GAP trousers. Locating vintage GAP trousers from that era is considered the “Holy Grail” for screen-accurate 10th Doctor outfit cosplayers. However, these are incredibly rare and can be very expensive when found. It’s estimated that 4-5 pairs are needed to create a jacket from the fabric, with larger sizes required for the wider panels, plus a spare pair in your size to wear with the finished jacket. Finding these requires dedication and a significant budget.
Fabric swatches from Magnoli Clothiers, showcasing their screen-accurate fabric recreations for the Tenth Doctor’s suit, a top source for high-quality 10th Doctor outfit components.
For more accessible screen-accurate suits, Magnoli Clothiers is a leading name. They sell fabric by the yard, meticulously rewoven from original swatches, and also offer finished suits in their updated fabric. Their “Time Suit” is highly regarded for its pattern accuracy and fabric quality, though it comes at a premium price. Baron Boutique also offers an excellent suit, which can be made using Magnoli fabric, providing another high-quality option.
For those with sewing skills, Bad Wolf Costumes provides a sewing pattern for creating your own suit. This is just the pattern, not a finished suit, and requires tailoring expertise. However, they also offer a detailed step-by-step sewing tutorial to guide you through the process.
Expect to invest in the $500-$800 range for any serious attempt at a screen-accurate or near-screen-accurate 10th Doctor outfit suit.
2. The Button-Up
Some of David Tennant’s original dress shirts are still available through their original retailers, although often with minor variations. Iconic shirts like the light blue linen UniQlo shirt can sometimes be found. eBay searches may occasionally turn up popular ID’d options, such as the maroon/striped H&M shirt from “42” or the dark purple two-button-collar Reiss shirt from “Time Crash.” However, these vintage shirts can fetch high prices in bidding wars, sometimes reaching hundreds of dollars.
Many shirts remain unidentified, like the pinspotted dark purple shirt from “Silence in the Library” and the medium blue shirt from “Midnight” and “Planet of the Dead.” Vintage versions of Reiss and UniQlo shirts occasionally surface on resale sites like eBay, Vinted, and Poshmark, or are traded within cosplay communities. Luck plays a significant role in finding these items. Highly sought-after shirts, such as the FCUK shirt from “Tooth and Claw” and the Hackett shirt from “The Day of the Doctor,” are rarely found.
3. The Tie
Time and Space Replicas and Magnoli Clothiers are excellent sources for high-quality replicas of nearly every Tenth Doctor tie. These replicas are often flawless and capture the intricate patterns and colors accurately.
For those seeking authentic vintage ties, eBay, Vinted, and Poshmark are the places to search. However, be prepared for fierce competition and rising prices as these ties become increasingly scarce. The hunt for vintage Tennant ties can be an adventure in itself, but replicas offer a more accessible and reliable alternative for a screen-accurate 10th Doctor outfit.
4. The Shoes
Chuck Taylor All Star in Natural Ivory, color code M9162, and Chuck Taylor All Star in Maroon, color code M9613, are still in production and readily available. These are the exact styles and colors worn by David Tennant, with no notable alterations over the years.
The maroon color can be slightly trickier to locate in some stores, as it’s a specific shade that’s less purple and more of an earthy red compared to standard maroon. However, with a bit of searching, they are still findable. New Converse typically cost around $65-$75 per pair, making them a relatively affordable and highly screen-accurate element of the 10th Doctor outfit.
5. The Hair
Achieving screen-accurate Tenth Doctor hair often involves personal styling and experimentation. While some cosplayers opt for wigs or fake sideburns, many dedicated fans style their own hair to closely match Tennant’s cut and look.
The original hair products used by production, Bed Head Hard To Get and Bed Head Stick, are still commercially available and effective for achieving the spiky, messy texture. “Hard To Get” has recently been discontinued but can still be found on eBay and other online marketplaces. Experimenting with these products and hair-styling techniques is key to perfecting the hair component of your 10th Doctor outfit.
6. The Coat
Fabric swatches for the overcoat, highlighting the Alcantara and lining material challenges in finding screen-accurate fabrics for the 10th Doctor outfit.
The original Tenth Doctor overcoat fabric, Alcantara in “Roan 11,” is legendarily said to have been cut directly from a sofa and is long discontinued. Replicating the exact fabric is a significant challenge. Standard faux suede is a popular substitute, but these fabrics often get discontinued after a few years, making consistent sourcing difficult. Microfiber and microsuede may offer more sustainable solutions for finding similar textures.
Finding screen-accurate lining fabric is also challenging, as the original was simply BBC stock. Steve Ricks, a renowned coat maker in the cosplay community, had a lining replica rewoven, which he sells by the meter. This is a valuable resource for those seeking high accuracy.
Steve Ricks is considered the foremost expert on the Tenth Doctor coat, and his blog indicates he still takes commissions for custom-made coats. Magnoli Clothiers is another reputable option for coat replicas, although fabric choices may vary over time. A high-quality replica coat will typically cost between $700 and $1200.
A Steve Ricks replica coat, demonstrating the high quality and screen-accuracy achievable in replica 10th Doctor outfit coats from specialized makers.
7. The Undershirt
The only definitively identified undershirt is the River Island Henley worn in “Tooth and Claw,” which was auctioned at Bonhams in 2006. Finding a vintage version of this exact Henley is highly unlikely. For screen accuracy, your best approach is to locate a Henley shirt from River Island or similar retailers that closely resembles the style and color of the auctioned item. Otherwise, focus on finding a close substitute from department stores that captures the general look of the undershirts worn in the 10th Doctor outfit.
8. The Glasses
While production struggled to find duplicate Alain Mikli frames at the time of filming, these frames in alternate colors have surfaced in recent years. Magnoli Clothiers offers a practically flawless replica of the Alain Mikli glasses for a reasonable price. These replicas are an excellent option for adding screen-accurate glasses to your 10th Doctor outfit without the difficulty and expense of sourcing vintage frames.
9. The Socks
Screen-accurate socks have never been definitively ID’d. A simple Google search for “ribbed socks” in dark brown and maroon will yield numerous options from various retailers. Focus on finding ribbed socks in the correct colors to match your suit and Converse for a detail-oriented 10th Doctor outfit.
10. The Sonic Screwdriver
A replica sonic screwdriver from Rubbertoe Replicas, showcasing the high level of detail and screen-accuracy available from professional prop makers for a 10th Doctor outfit.
Nick Robatto, the original prop maker for Doctor Who, sells replicas of his sonic screwdrivers through his company, Rubbertoe Replicas. Their Series 4 Tenth Doctor sonic screwdriver look is currently out of stock, but they offer pre-orders for the cream version (Series 4) and a version with a “wide slider” feature (Series 1-2, Eccleston and Tennant). These are high-end, screen-accurate replicas, reflecting their professional craftsmanship.
Little Shop Props, which collaborates directly with Nick Robatto, also offers several iterations of the “Aztec” version of the sonic screwdriver (Series 1-2) in gray. These professional replicas come at a higher price point, reflecting their accuracy and quality.
Bonus: Other Notable Accessories
Little Shop Props currently offers the Psychic Paper prop, which was also originally made by them for the show and previously sold by Rubbertoe Replicas. For other accessories like the squirt gun, fob watch, and homemade gadgets, you’ll need to source found items or create DIY replicas. The hunt for these bonus accessories can be a fun and personalized aspect of completing your screen-accurate 10th Doctor outfit.
What If I Can’t Afford or Don’t Care About Screen Accurate??
A budget-friendly 10th Doctor outfit cosplay, demonstrating that a recognizable and effective cosplay can be achieved without screen-accurate or expensive components.
The fantastic news is that a recognizable and impressive 10th Doctor outfit is achievable on any budget! Even a thrifty approach can result in a cosplay that clearly reads as the Tenth Doctor. The key is to focus on the essence of the look rather than perfect screen accuracy.
To ensure your budget 10th Doctor outfit is unmistakably Ten and not mistaken for another character like Castiel from Supernatural or Rip Hunter from Legends of Tomorrow, keep a few key considerations in mind.
1. The Suit
The Tenth Doctor in his brown pinstripe suit, demonstrating that even with budget suits, focusing on the pinstripe is key for a recognizable 10th Doctor outfit.
While the blue pinstripe is iconic, it’s not absolutely essential for a budget 10th Doctor outfit. Even on screen, the pinstripes often appeared subtle due to the standard definition filming in 2005. The pinstripe itself is the important element, more so than the specific color. For a budget brown suit, prioritize finding a suit with a strong pinstripe, even if the color is gray or beige rather than blue.
The Tenth Doctor in his blue suit, highlighting that for budget blue suits, solid blue or very subtle stripes are acceptable for a recognizable 10th Doctor outfit.
For a budget blue suit, you have even more flexibility. Blue is a common suit color, and the Tenth Doctor’s blue suit had such a low-contrast stripe that it often appeared solid on screen. A solid blue suit or one with a very fine, neutral stripe will work perfectly well for a budget 10th Doctor outfit.
Four-button suits are less common in modern fashion, so finding one in a thrift store might be difficult. A 3-button suit is perfectly acceptable for a budget cosplay. While the original suits were cotton, finding a cotton suit in a thrift store is also unlikely. Opt for a thinner wool or polyester suit instead. A slim-cut or tailored fit is ideal, but the overcoat (if you choose to include it) can help make a less-than-perfect thrifted suit work. A suit that buttons slightly higher can even be beneficial, helping to differentiate your cosplay from characters like Castiel.
For purchasing a budget replica suit, Baron Boutique offers a less expensive option using their screen-printed fabric. For the most budget-conscious cosplayers, cheap cosplay houses in China often offer versions of the suit for under $100, which can be a great starting point for a basic 10th Doctor outfit.
2. The Button-Up
Thrift stores and department stores are your best resources for budget-friendly shirts. Look for soft cotton or linen shirts that are not stiff or overly formal. The Tenth Doctor’s look was intentionally a bit rumpled and relaxed. Linen shirts are a classic choice and often inexpensive new. Avoid shirts with stripes, prints, or intricate weaves. Thrift stores are almost guaranteed to have suitable solid-colored shirts at very low prices.
Light blue is the classic and most versatile shirt color for both suit variations. You can’t go wrong with a light blue shirt for your 10th Doctor outfit.
3. The Tie
Magnoli Clothiers offers excellent tie replicas if you want accuracy on a slightly lower budget than vintage. However, for a truly budget-conscious 10th Doctor outfit, thrift stores and department stores are perfect.
For the brown suit, look for brown-based ties with blue details. For the blue suit, seek out maroon ties with blue details. Geometric or floral patterns offer the most authentic feel, but stripes are also acceptable. The goal is to capture the color palette and general pattern style without needing an exact replica.
4. The Shoes
Converse Hi-Tops are essential for a recognizable 10th Doctor outfit, even on a budget. They significantly differentiate the look from other similar cosplays. “Natural Ivory” Converse for the brown suit and maroon Converse for the blue suit are ideal and add a high level of authenticity, even to a budget outfit. If new Converse are too expensive, check eBay for cheaper used pairs.
If even the “screen-accurate” maroon is too difficult to find or afford, standard maroon Converse are perfectly acceptable. Avoid bright red, as it can detract from the overall authenticity. While “Natural Ivory” is ideal for the brown suit, proper white Converse can also work, especially if they are distressed or dirtied to look more worn-in.
The key is Hi-Top Converse in an appropriate color. While black-and-white Converse are technically sometimes screen-accurate, opting for cream or maroon Converse significantly enhances the 10th Doctor outfit, even on a budget.
5. The Hair
For a budget 10th Doctor outfit, don’t stress too much about the hair. While wigs and fake sideburns can enhance the look, they aren’t essential for recognition. Even with variations in hairstyle, if the rest of the outfit is well-executed, you’ll be easily identifiable as the Tenth Doctor. Focus on the core clothing elements if you’re on a tight budget.
6. The Coat
A budget overcoat option for a 10th Doctor outfit, demonstrating that even less expensive coats can achieve the right silhouette and contribute significantly to the cosplay.
For a budget 10th Doctor outfit, the overcoat can be your secret weapon. A reasonably good coat can cover up minor inaccuracies in the suit and other components, making it a worthwhile investment even on a budget. The coat is often the most visible part of the outfit, so focusing on this piece can significantly elevate your budget cosplay.
Color is more crucial than fabric for a budget coat. Aim for a neutral, olive-y medium brown or a saturated nutty brown. Even a dark beige can work well, as the coat tends to appear lighter on camera. Avoid chocolate brown, which can look too dark. Faux suede or microfiber are ideal fabrics, but a wool-like texture is also acceptable.
Crucially, avoid 1930s detective-style canvas trench coats, which are often light beige and feature details like buckles and straps (the Castiel look). Also, ensure the coat has a proper lapel and is long enough (ankle-length) for that “epic superhero” feel. A big collar without a lapel can give a Rip Hunter vibe instead.
Affordable and reasonable coat options are available from cosplay shops like Cossky. Look for a coat in your budget range that is faux suede or wool-like, ankle-length, medium brown, sleek, and includes a lapel. The right coat can truly “make or break” a budget 10th Doctor outfit.
7. The Undershirt
Don’t worry about screen-accurate undershirts for a budget 10th Doctor outfit. Use a plain t-shirt or Henley shirt you already own in a neutral or complementary color. This is a detail that is easily forgivable on a budget.
8. The Glasses
Tortoise shell frames are the key for budget glasses. Avoid frames that are too thick or the wrong shape. Slim, rectangular frames in tortoise shell will effectively capture the essence of the Tenth Doctor’s glasses for a budget 10th Doctor outfit.
9. The Socks
Ribbed socks in the correct colors are easily found and very affordable. Retailers like Old Navy offer ribbed socks in suitable colors for just a few dollars, making this a simple and inexpensive detail to include in your budget 10th Doctor outfit.
10. The Sonic Screwdriver
Toy versions of the Tenth Doctor’s sonic screwdriver, like those from Character Options, are widely available and affordable. While often oversized and plastic, they are instantly recognizable and perfectly acceptable for a budget 10th Doctor outfit. For a mid-range option, The Wand Company used to offer excellent replicas (now found on eBay), bridging the gap between toy versions and high-end professional replicas.
Happy Cosplaying!
A group of Tenth Doctor cosplayers, demonstrating the popularity and variety of interpretations of the 10th Doctor outfit within the cosplay community.
The 10th Doctor outfit is incredibly versatile and adaptable to various budgets and levels of accuracy. Whether you strive for screen-perfection or create a fantastic budget-friendly version, the most important thing is to have fun and express your love for this iconic Doctor! While the tuxedo and orange spacesuit are also fantastic Tenth Doctor looks, the pinstriped suit remains the most recognizable and readily achievable, especially on a budget. So, embrace the pinstripes, grab your sonic screwdriver, and get ready to shout “Allons-y!” in style!
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