So you’re looking to invoke some nostalgia among the masses with a Terminator costume? Well, you’ve come to the right place, because we’re here to help you do just that at your next cosplay event!
I doubt there’s anyone out there who isn’t aware of the Terminator franchise. One of the main reasons for this is Arnold Schwarzenegger’s superb portrayal of the Cyberdyne Systems Model 101 Series 800 Version 2.4 Terminator.
Once famously referred to as “Uncle Bob” by John Connor, he was sent from the future to Acton, California, in June 1995. His mission was to protect John, and he successfully completed his task.
If you’re an undying fan of the Terminator franchise, you probably want to be the most badass bot at the convention. So let us guide you through the unforgettable process!

You’ll Need:
- Black Leather Jacket
- Black T-Shirt
- Black Sunglasses
- Leather Pants
- Black Gloves
- Gun Prop
- Belt
- Black Boots
Terminator Costume DIY Guide
In this cosplay, we’ll be targeting Arnold Schwarzenegger’s look from Terminator 2: Judgment Day. So follow this costume guide to mimic his awesome look with ease.
Get started with a simple grey men’s classic T-shirt—nothing over-the-top. Top it off with the Terminator’s signature black leather jacket, which is similar to a badass motorcycle coat.
Next, put on a pair of simple regular-fit men’s black pants, which have some shine to them. Complement it with a pair of men’s black motorcycle boots.
Moving on, procure a pair of men’s black leather gloves. You’ll also need a simple men’s black leather belt to go with the pants.
Get a pair of badass black sunglasses for his iconic look. The final piece of the puzzle is a gun prop of your choice, preferably a.177-caliber pellet and BB air gun.
TERMINATOR GENISYS Make-up Tutorial | Halloween Costume Ideas
Terminator Costume Cosplay
Schwarzenegger’s Terminator has all the strengths and capacity of the first unit. He is also very logical, but he seemingly had a limited capacity for human emotion and learning at first.
After activating his learning capabilities, he began to show other human traits like humor, quipping “I need a vacation” after defeating the T-1000. He also developed compassion, as clearly seen in how he kindly wiped away John’s tears.
So embrace the badass within yourself and astound everyone with this Terminator costume. Luckily, this is a pretty straightforward ensemble you can put together in record time.
Why not attempt a Terminator Group cosplay while you’re at it? Get your friends to dress up as John Connor, Sarah Connor, T-1000, Miles Dyson, and Dr. Silberman to crash any party with you.
About Terminator from Terminator 2: Judgment Day
Something I loved about Schwarzenegger’s Terminator was how he evolved into a father figure for John over the course of the movie. John even mentions how the T-800 was the closest thing he had to a father later on.
This particular model displayed the most “humanity”, using humor, taunts, and expressions that are unnecessary for machines. How can we ever forget his iconic smirk upon discovering the mini-gun and when asking John to trust him?
This heroic and protective figure eventually understands why humans cry and proceeds to sacrifice itself for humanity, despite its mission being the protection of John. At this point, he defied his hardwired programming for the greater good!
What is the most famous quote from terminator?
1. “Your Foster Parents Are Dead.”
2. “I Know Now Why You Cry, But It’s Something I Can Never Do.”
3. “Come With Me If You Want To Live.”
4. “This Is The World Now. Logged On, Plugged In, All The Time.”