Halloween is just around the corner, and if you’re looking to put together a fantastic last-minute costume without breaking the bank, you’re in luck! Your closet can be a treasure trove of homemade costume possibilities. With a little creativity and the right pieces, you can transform yourself into iconic characters without spending a dime on expensive costumes. We’ll show you how to assemble some popular Halloween costumes using items you already have at home.
1. Morticia or Wednesday Addams
For a classic gothic look inspired by the Addams family, all you need is a black dress and a pair of black shoes. With the right makeup and a spooky attitude, you’ll be ready to haunt the night. All there’s left to do is practice your creepiest stare!
2. Mario and Luigi from The Mario Movie
Grab a pair of overalls and a colored tee from your wardrobe, and you’re the star of this year’s biggest animated movie! Don’t forget to complete the look with a matching hat (and ideally a matching friend to be the other Mario brother)!
3. Barbie
Channeling your inner Barbie couldn’t be easier, just go into your closet and grab everything pink! Pink boots, pink pants, and a matching pink shirt or vest? Instant Barbie costume! For an extra touch, add western boots for a cowgirl-inspired look, or break out the sweatbands; with so many different Barbies out there, the possibilities are endless.
4. Wreck-It Ralph
Emulate the lovable video game villain (in outfit only, we recommend not destroying your host’s home just to win the costume contest) by wearing brown overalls and a plaid t-shirt. Most people will instantly recognize this iconic character from the hit Disney movie, and, if they don’t, you can hit them with his tagline!
5. Gaston
If you’re feeling confident and boisterous, you can become the self-absorbed Gaston from Beauty and the Beast. Grab your brown pants, black boots, and a red shirt to complete the look (muscles the size of a barge not included).
6. Queen of Hearts
Be the ruler of Wonderland with a simple red, black, or red and black dress. Red lipstick and heart embellishments will add to your look. Add a crown and a scepter for a truly royal effect.
7. Rosie the Riveter
Show off your empowerment with a Rosie the Riveter costume. A denim jumpsuit or denim top and jeans will do the trick. Don’t forget the signature bandana or scarf to tie it all together.
8. Princess Diana
To pay tribute to the beloved Princess Diana, put on a crewneck sweatshirt, bike shorts, and white tennis shoes. Finish with some pearls for a regal touch (if you don’t have a royal budget, fake pearls are just fine).
9. The Little Mermaid
If you like the sound of playing princess this Halloween but were hoping for something a little more whimsical, then why not dress up as everyone’s favorite mermaid? Throw on a pair of green leggings, a purple tee or tank top, then accessorize with sea-themed jewelry and accessories to your heart’s content. Oh, and don’t forget your dinglehopper!
10. Kim Possible
Get ready for action as Kim Possible. All you need is a pair of green cargo pants, a black shirt, black fingerless gloves, and a belt. Bonus benefit of wearing cargo pants: so many pockets you can fill with candy!
11. The Bachelorette
For a touch of reality TV glam, put on your fanciest dress and carry some roses. You’ll look like you just stepped out of the Bachelor mansion, and you can hand out those roses to the people with the best costumes (or the ones who gave you the best candy!).
12. Carmen Sandiego
Become the elusive globe-trotting thief with a red jacket, a black pants, and a big hat. Add an air of mystery to your Halloween night, and even a geography fact or two if you really want to get into character. Did you know that Australia is wider than the moon?
13. Sandy from Grease
A Halloween costume that lets you pair your favorite leather jacket with bold red heels? Tell me more, tell me more! All you need to build this throwback look is a leather or faux leather jacket, matching pants or leggings, a black top, and red heels. You can even get a perm if you’re looking for bonus points at your local costume contest (or a wig, these are last minute costumes after all).
This Halloween, don’t stress about finding the perfect costume in stores. Instead, raid your closet and get creative. With a little imagination and these simple costume ideas, you’ll be all set to enjoy a spooktacular night of fun and festivities. Happy Halloween!
