Cosplay Ideas for the Vikings and Valkyries Ball
- Jun 10
- 11 min read
Norse Mythology Characters, Book Inspired Cosplays, TV & Game Inspired, and Outside The Box Cosplay Ideas!
Whether you're stepping into the role of a legendary shield maiden, a fierce Norse god, or a beloved fantasy character, the Vikings & Valkyries Ball is the perfect opportunity to embrace your inner warrior.
The best thing about fantasy balls is that there are no strict rules. So while Viking and Valkyrie-inspired costumes fit the theme perfectly, you're also welcome to put your own spin on it. Here are some of our favourite cosplay ideas (including some outside the box ones!).
NORSE INSPIRED
Freyja – Goddess of Love and War
From: Norse Mythology
Freyja is one of the most important goddesses in Norse mythology. Associated with love, beauty, fertility, magic, and battle, she is said to receive half of the warriors slain in combat, sharing them with Odin.
Outfit Idea: For cosplay, consider flowing gowns combined with armour elements, gold jewellery, feathers, and symbols associated with cats or falcons.
Odin – The Allfather
From: Norse Mythology
The ruler of Asgard and chief of the Norse gods, Odin is the god of wisdom, war, poetry, and magic. Known for sacrificing an eye in pursuit of knowledge, he is one of mythology's most fascinating figures.
Outfit Idea: A dramatic Odin costume might include a long cloak, raven imagery, a spear, and a single eye covering to represent his legendary sacrifice.
Thor – God of Thunder
Thor remains one of the most popular Norse-inspired characters in modern culture.
Outfit Idea: Whether you choose the mythological version or a Marvel-inspired interpretation, Thor's iconic hammer and warrior appearance make for an instantly recognisable costume. Think muscular armour, red cloaks, lightning motifs, and of course, Mjölnir.
Loki – The Trickster God
From: Norse Mythology, Marvel Comics, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe
Mischievous, clever, and unpredictable, Loki is the ultimate trickster. Sometimes villain, sometimes ally, he is one of the most complex figures in Norse mythology.
Outfit Idea: A Loki costume allows for plenty of creativity, from elaborate green and gold attire to a more mythologically inspired wanderer aesthetic.
Hel – Goddess of the Underworld
From: Norse Mythology
Hel rules over the realm of the dead that bears her name. Daughter of Loki, she is often depicted as half living and half dead, representing the boundary between life and death. While she may not be as celebrated as Odin or Thor, Hel is one of the most intriguing figures in Norse mythology.
Outfit Idea: A Hel-inspired costume could feature dramatic black, silver, and icy blue tones, skeletal jewellery, dark crowns, and an ethereal underworld aesthetic.
Frigg – Queen of Asgard
From: Norse Mythology
Frigg is the wife of Odin and the queen of the Norse gods. Associated with wisdom, foresight, motherhood, and royalty, she is a powerful figure often overshadowed by other mythological characters.
Outfit Idea: For a regal look, consider elegant gowns, gold detailing, fur-lined cloaks, and crown-like headpieces fit for the ruler of Asgard.
Idunn – Keeper of Eternal Youth
From: Norse Mythology
Idunn is the goddess responsible for the magical apples that grant the gods their youth and vitality. Without her, even the gods would age and weaken.
Outfit Idea: Idunn's costume lends itself beautifully to fantasy-inspired designs, featuring golden apples, nature motifs, flowing fabrics, floral crowns, and woodland goddess energy.
Sif – Goddess of Harvest and Golden Hair
From: Norse Mythology
Known for her legendary golden hair, Sif is associated with fertility, family, and the harvest. She is also the wife of Thor and plays an important role in several Norse myths.
Outfit Idea: Sif-inspired costumes can combine warrior elements with elegant gold accents, braided hairstyles, and sunlit colours.
Heimdall – Guardian of the Bifrost
From: Norse Mythology
The ever-watchful guardian of Asgard, Heimdall protects the rainbow bridge known as the Bifrost. Gifted with extraordinary senses, he can see and hear across vast distances and stands ready to sound the horn that heralds Ragnarök.
Outfit Idea: A Heimdall costume can feature white, silver, or gold armour, ceremonial cloaks, runic details, and a striking horn prop.
BOOKISH INSPIRED
Nesta Archeron – The Valkyrie Warrior
From: A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas
Nesta Archeron transformed from a sharp-tongued survivor into one of the most formidable warriors in the ACOTAR universe. Alongside Gwyn and Emerie, she helps revive the ancient Valkyrie fighting techniques and trains to become a true warrior.
Outfit Idea: For cosplay, think dark leathers, silver accents, a sword or dagger, and a fierce, commanding presence. Nesta is perfect for those who love strong female characters with a powerful redemption arc.
Gwyneth Berdara (Gwyn) – The Courageous Valkyrie
From: A Court of Silver Flames
Gwyn is known for her resilience, kindness, and determination. Despite enduring tremendous hardship, she becomes one of the new Valkyries and proves that courage isn't the absence of fear—it's overcoming it.
Outfit Idea: A Gwyn-inspired costume could feature teal or blue accents, practical training leathers, and subtle nods to the Valkyrie sisterhood.
Emerie – The Winged Warrior
From: A Court of Silver Flames
Emerie is a shopkeeper, Illyrian female, and one of the three women who rebuild the Valkyrie tradition. Her story is one of strength, friendship, and defying expectations.
Outfit Idea: Leather armour, braided hair, and warrior-inspired accessories make for a striking Emerie cosplay that fits perfectly into a Norse-inspired setting.
Imagine all 3 Valkyries together for a group cosplay?!
Rey Stjerne – The Fallen Goddess
From: The Fallen Gods series by Rachel Van Dyken
Rey Stjerne is a fierce and compelling character from Rachel Van Dyken's mythology-inspired fantasy romance series. Surrounded by gods, prophecies, and ancient power struggles, she embodies the blend of strength and vulnerability that fantasy readers adore.
Outfit Idea: This costume offers plenty of creative freedom with celestial details, divine-inspired jewellery, flowing fabrics, and hints of both mortal and godly power.
TV INSPIRED
Lagertha – The Legendary Shieldmaiden
From: Vikings (TV Series)
Few characters embody the spirit of a Viking warrior quite like Lagertha. Based on a legendary figure from Norse sagas, she is fearless in battle, fiercely loyal to her family, and one of the most iconic women in Viking fiction.
Outfit Idea: Her look combines practical armour, leather, furs, intricate braids, and a battle axe. Lagertha remains one of the most recognisable Viking-inspired cosplay choices.
Bjorn Ironside – Son of Ragnar
From: Vikings (TV Series)
The son of Ragnar and Lagertha, Bjorn grows into a renowned explorer, warrior, and king. His adventures take him far beyond Scandinavia, cementing his place as one of the series' most beloved characters.
Outfit Idea: To cosplay Bjorn, focus on rugged furs, leather armour, arm rings, and weathered warrior styling.
Uhtred of Bebbanburg – The Saxon Raised by Danes
From: The Last Kingdom (Books and TV Series)
Although not technically a Viking, Uhtred is deeply immersed in Norse culture after being raised by Danish warriors. Torn between two worlds, he becomes one of historical fiction's most compelling heroes.
Outfit Idea: Uhtred's costume combines practical warrior gear, a sword at your side, and the confidence of someone destined to reclaim his homeland.
Want to bring a prop sword or weapon? Check out our FAQs for guidelines.
Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III – The Reluctant Dragon Chief
From: How to Train Your Dragon franchise by DreamWorks
Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III is the inventive and underestimated Viking who grows into a visionary leader. Defined by ingenuity rather than brute strength, he bridges the world between humans and dragons with empathy and intelligence.
Outfit Idea: This costume leans into rugged Viking tailoring with a softer, layered silhouette—leather armour pieces, fur accents, hand-forged details, and subtle dragon-scale textures.
Astrid Hofferson – The Storm Warrior
From: How to Train Your Dragon franchise by DreamWorks
Astrid Hofferson is fierce, disciplined, and unwaveringly loyal. A master of combat and strategy, she represents strength balanced with emotional depth and trust earned through action.
Outfit Idea: This costume focuses on sharp Viking warrior aesthetics—braided hair, layered leather armour, metal detailing, and icy blue or storm-toned fabrics. Add rune markings or shield motifs to elevate the mythic warrior energy, with practical, battle-worn textures that still feel heroic and refined.
Toothless – The Night Fury Spirit
From: How to Train Your Dragon franchise by DreamWorks
Toothless is the last known Night Fury, a dragon defined by intelligence, loyalty, and near-mythical stealth. He embodies both raw power and playful personality, forming one of the most iconic bonds in modern fantasy storytelling.
Outfit Idea: This costume concept works best as a stylised creature-inspired look—sleek black fabrics, iridescent scale detailing, glowing teal accents, and wing-like silhouettes. You could incorporate subtle prosthetics or dramatic makeup to echo his expressive eyes and dragon features .
Game of Thrones – Rule the Seven Kingdoms
Game of Thrones offers a wealth of characters that fit seamlessly into a Vikings & Valkyries aesthetic. Whether you channel the wild spirit of Ygritte with rugged furs and leather, the quiet strength of Jon Snow in dark cloaks and battle-worn armour, the northern elegance of Sansa Stark with embroidered gowns and rich velvet layers, or the commanding presence of Daenerys Targaryen in flowing silhouettes with dragon-inspired accessories, there’s a style to suit every fantasy fan.
Each look can be adapted with medieval textures, statement jewellery, cloaks, braids, or armour details to create a costume that feels both authentic and ball-ready while staying true to the character’s iconic identity.
GAME INSPIRED
Eivor
Eivor is a Viking raider who leads their clan from Norway to England in Ubisoft's popular video game. Players can choose either a male or female version, making Eivor a versatile cosplay option.
Outfit Idea: Furs, armour, axes, and Viking-inspired tattoos make this an excellent choice for gamers attending the ball.
Kratos
From: God of War
Kratos is the legendary Spartan warrior turned god, known for his immense strength, relentless determination, and hard-earned wisdom. In the Norse saga, he navigates a world of gods, monsters, and destiny while protecting those he loves.
Outfit Idea: This costume combines rugged leather armour, fur-lined cloaks, weathered bracers, and bold red body markings with heavy belts and battle-ready accessories for an unmistakably powerful look.
Senua
Senua is a fierce Celtic warrior on a deeply personal journey through myth, grief, and survival. Guided by determination and haunted by visions, she faces impossible trials with unwavering courage.
Outfit Idea: A hand made head piece and lot's of eyeshadow.
OTHER - OUTSIDE THE BOX
Looking for some more outside the box cosplay ideas? These are the kinds of characters that make people stop and say, "That's such a good idea!" They're not strictly Viking or Norse, but they fit the atmosphere of a Vikings & Valkyries Ball beautifully.
Fantasy-ball guests adore recognisable book & film characters, and these naturally fit the warrior atmosphere while still feeling fresh and unexpected.
The Morrigan (Mor) – Phantom Queen of Battle
From: Irish Mythology
The Morrigan is a powerful goddess associated with war, fate, prophecy, and sovereignty. Often appearing as a raven or crow on the battlefield, she represents both destruction and transformation. Fantasy readers may also recognise similarities between the legendary Morrigan and beloved characters inspired by her myths, including Mor from the ACOTAR series.
Outfit Idea: A Morrigan-inspired costume can feature black feathers, raven imagery, dark crowns, flowing capes, and an air of mystery.
Manon Blackbeak
From: Throne of Glass
A witch queen who rides wyverns, commands an elite warrior clan, and looks like she walked straight out of a Norse saga. Manon's iron teeth, white hair, black leathers, and warrior aesthetic fit perfectly among shieldmaidens and Valkyries.
Why it works: She has the same fierce, battle-hardened energy as Lagertha or a Valkyrie captain.
Ciri
From: The Witcher
With her white hair, swordsmanship, and destiny-driven story, Ciri looks surprisingly at home in a Norse setting.
Why it works: Her rugged traveller aesthetic, scars, and warrior training blend seamlessly with Viking-inspired costumes.
Roran Stronghammer
From: The Inheritance Cycle
Often overshadowed by Eragon, Roran is a fan-favourite because he achieves incredible feats with determination, leadership, and his iconic hammer.
Why it works: A giant hammer, fur cloak, leather armour, and village-hero energy make him feel like a legendary Viking chieftain.
Rowan Whitethorn – The Fae Warrior of Ice and Blood
From: Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
Rowan Whitethorn is a powerful Fae warrior shaped by centuries of war, loyalty, and survival. Controlled and deadly in battle, he is as much a force of nature as he is a protector of those he chooses to stand beside.
Why it works: Rowan fits the theme perfectly because he embodies both Viking-like warrior brutality and Valkyrie-adjacent mythic energy. His icy, battle-forged presence mirrors Norse winter symbolism, while his Fae heritage adds that otherworldly, divine warrior feel the Valkyries represent. It’s a look that feels both feral and regal—perfect for a mythic battlefield in the sky.
Kida (Princess Kidagakash)
This is the unexpected choice. Kida's warrior-princess appearance, tribal-inspired jewellery, white hair, and ancient magic aesthetic create a look that feels both mystical and powerful.
Why it works: She brings a goddess-like presence that fits perfectly alongside Freyja, Idunn, or a Valkyrie while being something guests won't expect.
Feyre Archeron
From: A Court of Thorns and Roses Book by Sarah J Maas
While Feyre isn't a Viking or Valkyrie, she makes a fantastic choice for a Vikings & Valkyries Ball thanks to her journey from mortal huntress to High Lady of the Night Court.
Why it works: Feyre bridges fantasy romance and warrior fantasy perfectly. She also pairs beautifully with other characters for group costumes. Plus, if you're looking for a costume that's instantly recognisable to fantasy book lovers while still fitting the atmosphere of a hall filled with gods, warriors, and legends, Feyre is an excellent choice. So, will you go for black leathers or a starry ballgown?
Bonus "everyone will love it" idea:
Create a "Valkyrie Feyre" by combining her Night Court aesthetic with Nordic-inspired armour, furs, braided hairstyles, and warrior accessories for a unique twist on the character. This works especially well alongside Valkyries Nesta, Gwyn, and Emerie.
The Bat Boys - Great for group or couple cosplays (especially the romantasy readers!)
From: A Court of Thorns and Roses Book by Sarah J Maas
For those wanting to combine fantasy romance with the Vikings & Valkyries theme, Any of the bat boys will be a popular choice. Would you choose the powerful High Lord of the Night Court, the Ilyrian warrior, or the shadowed Spymaster?
Why it works: They may not be Vikings or Valkyries, but they are Illyrian warriors through and through, training in the snowy mountains, making the bat boys a perfect fir for this fantasy ball (and honestly, any fantasy event).
Rhysand Outfit Ideas: Dark leathers, silver details, crowns, and large black wings create a dramatic entrance worthy of any fantasy ball. Gender swap cosplays are a lot of fun too so if you want to make a feminine version of Rhysand you totally can!
Cassian Outfit Ideas: Leather armour, battle-ready styling, and enormous black wings make Cassian one of the most exciting costume options for guests who want to channel true warrior energy.
Azriel Outfit Ideas: Azriels dark aesthetic translates beautifully into fantasy ball attire. Imagine black leather, shadow-inspired accessories, elegant armour, and large Illyrian wings make for an unforgettable costume.
GET CREATIVE!
If you keep thinking about it, there are so many possible characters to bring to the Vikings and Valkyries Ball. You can always experiment with crossovers between cosplays, imagining characters in an alternate universe, or simple twists like what would Aelin from Throne of Glass look like if she was a Valkyrie? What would Cinderella look like if she stepped through a portal and suddenly had to disguise herself as a viking? There's so many ideas you could play with!
MAKE YOUR OWN VIKING OR VALKYRIE
You don't have to portray an existing character to fit the theme. Many of the most memorable costumes come from original creations.
Design your own Valkyrie, warrior, or seer chosen by the gods. Add meaningful details such as runes, family crests, magical relics, or legendary weapons to create a character uniquely your own.
Need more inspo? Check out our Pinterest.
OR… DO SOMETHING ELSE ENTIRELY!
While we set the theme (and dressing on theme can be super fun) we ultimately just want every guest to feel their best. Whether that means grand ballgowns or bat wings, tunics or tiaras, whimsical fairy wings or masquerade masks! This is your evening to enjoy, and to write your own saga.
Need more inspo? Check out our Pinterest.
A NIGHT WORTHY OF THE SAGAS
Whether you arrive as a goddess of Asgard, a famed television warrior, a beloved fantasy heroine, or a Valkyrie of your own creation, the Vikings & Valkyries Ball is your chance to step into legend.
Gather your clan, braid your hair, and prepare for a night of dancing, and adventure worthy of the halls of Valhalla.
