Little Red Riding Hood is the rare costume where one piece does almost everything. Get the red hooded cape right and the dress, shoes, makeup and basket can go in nearly any direction, from storybook to punk. I sew a lot of these capes, so the thirty looks below lean on that: which fabric suits which version, how long the cape should be for the wearer, and what to put under it. You'll find classic and modern takes, cold- and warm-weather versions, kids' and toddler builds, a men's version, maternity, couples, families and even the dog. Each one comes with notes on the base outfit, hair, makeup, accessories and shoes.
Sewing a Hooded Half-Circle Cape in an Afternoon
If you can sew a straight seam, you can make the cape every look below depends on. A half circle drapes well, uses less fabric than a full circle and doesn't swamp a small frame. This is the method I use for adults and kids alike:
- Measure from the base of the neck to where you want the cape to end. That number is the cape's radius. Waist length suits kids and active looks; knee length is the classic adult shape.
- Fold the fabric in half, mark a quarter circle from the folded corner using that radius, then mark a small quarter circle for the neckline. For a half circle, the neck curve's radius is roughly the neck measurement divided by three, plus a little ease.
- For the hood, trace the hood of a hoodie that fits the wearer, add seam allowance and cut two. Sew the back curve, then sew the hood to the neckline with its center seam lined up with the center back of the cape.
- Finish the front edges and hem. Fleece and felt can stay raw; cotton, satin and linen need a narrow folded hem.
- Add the closure last: hook-and-loop for children, a hook and eye or a decorative clasp for adults.
Fabric changes the whole mood. Fleece is warm, cheap and forgiving, ideal for kids. Velvet looks rich but has a nap and shifts under the needle, so pin heavily. Satin shines in photos and slides off a table while you cut. Wool blends are the warmest and the heaviest. Yardage varies with the wearer's height and the fabric width, so measure twice before buying.
1. Classic Little Red Riding Hood Costume
The classic version is a white blouse, a red or black skirt and a laced bodice over the top for the fairy-tale shape. The cape is the piece that matters, and I'd make it bright red and waist or knee length; anything shorter starts to look like a scarf. Loose waves, braids or low pigtails, rosy cheeks and a few drawn-on freckles. Line a wicker basket with a checkered cloth and add some light artificial bread. White knee socks and black Mary Janes finish it, though for a long walk outdoors I'd swap in flats with grippy soles. It's a safe bet for school, parades and community events.
2. Easy DIY Little Red Costume
No sewing machine? Raid the closet for a white button-down, a black skater skirt and a red cardigan. The hood can be a large red scarf or a length of fleece, which is the friendliest fabric for this because the cut edges don't fray. Drape it over the head and shoulders and fasten it under the chin with a brooch, or hide a safety pin on the inside. Black tights and ankle boots, a side braid, mascara, pink blush and a red-tinted balm. A reusable market basket lined with a red-and-white napkin becomes the prop. Everything comes off or adjusts in seconds when the room gets warm.
3. Vintage Little Red Riding Hood Costume
For a vintage feel, I'd reach for softer textures and a longer hem. A cream puff-sleeve blouse with a high neck goes under a calf-length floral or gingham dress, then a red velvet cape with ribbon ties. Velvet has a pile direction, so if you're sewing it, cut every piece with the nap running the same way or the color will look patchy. Add lace-trimmed socks and brown button boots. A low braided bun with a few curls at the face, peach blush, neutral shadow and a muted berry lip. A weathered wicker basket with fabric flowers and a small old-style storybook complete the picture, and the sturdy boots make it good for daytime fall festivals.
4. Modern Little Red Costume
The modern version is clothes you'd wear anyway: a fitted black turtleneck, a red pleated mini and an oversized hooded cape. Sheer black tights and chunky loafers keep it current. A structured red crossbody shaped like a little basket, or a compact wicker bag, replaces the traditional prop. Wear a sleek ponytail or smooth shoulder-length waves, with a clean cat-eye and berry lipstick. If the cape is open at the front, a black belt at the waist sharpens the shape. Oversized capes slide off the shoulders, so I add a small snap inside each shoulder to anchor it to the top.
5. Glam Little Red Riding Hood Costume
Velvet and satin take Little Red to a dressy party. A red velvet midi with a fitted waist and soft flare, then a floor-skimming satin hooded cape. Satin is slippery to sew and frays quickly, so finish every edge or line the cape so the raw edges are enclosed. Black or red block-heel pumps give height without wobbling. Glossy curls tucked under the hood, soft shimmer on the lids, winged liner and classic red lipstick. Crystal earrings and a small basket bag with a satin ribbon on the handle are enough sparkle. Hold back on embellishment and let the cape lead; it suits costume dinners and evening photos.
6. Gothic Little Red Costume
Black and crimson give the gothic take its mood without any gore. A long black lace dress, or a high-neck blouse with a flowing black maxi, goes under a deep red velvet cape fastened with an antique-style clasp. Heavy velvet pulls a cape backward at the throat, so choose a wide clasp and sew it through two layers. Patterned black tights and lace-up ankle boots keep it walkable. Soft waves, or a black wig with a red streak, plus smoky gray eyes and a deep berry lip. Carry a dark basket of red fabric roses and faux leaves, and add a ribbon choker or cameo. It stays family-friendly.
7. Cottagecore Little Red Riding Hood Costume
Cottagecore suits Little Red better than almost any style, because the fairy tale already lives in the woods. A cream prairie blouse goes with a long gingham skirt in beige, brown or muted red, plus a knitted vest and a soft red linen cape. Linen wrinkles the moment you sit, which actually helps the homespun look. Brown clogs or lace-up boots, two relaxed braids tied with narrow red ribbon, light foundation, peach blush and a tinted balm. Fill the basket with artificial apples, fabric mushrooms and wildflowers over a folded linen cloth. A small embroidered apron adds a layer. It's the one I'd wear to a pumpkin patch.
8. Plus Size Little Red Costume
For plus-size Little Red, the cape's neckline is where the fit is won or lost. A cape cut too narrow at the neck pulls back and chokes, so I'd choose or sew one with a generous neck curve that sits smoothly on the shoulders. Underneath, a wrap dress or fit-and-flare midi in black, red or a small floral. Waist length shows off the dress, while a longer cape gives more swing. Opaque tights and cushioned knee-high or ankle boots. Loose curls, a braided crown or a sleek bun all sit well under the hood. Rosy blush, mascara and a satin berry lip, and carry a medium basket rather than a tiny one so it looks in proportion and actually holds your things.
9. Modest Little Red Riding Hood Costume
Long layers make the modest version easy to wear to school, work or a community event. A high-neck white blouse goes under a sleeveless burgundy maxi or a full-length pinafore, then opaque tights, flat knee-high boots and a long red cape with a roomy hood. I fasten the cape at the collar with a hook and eye so it stays closed without pulling. Hair can sit in a low braid, a covered bun or tucked under the hood. Natural makeup with warm blush and a soft rose lip. A wicker basket lined with gingham is the classic touch, and a thermal layer under the blouse handles a cold evening.
10. Cold Weather Little Red Costume
On a cold night, build warmth into the costume instead of hiding it under a winter coat. A red or black sweater dress with fleece-lined tights, then insulated knee-high boots with room for thick socks. A long wool-blend cape is the star and keeps you far warmer than thin satin; wool blends are heavy, so fit a sturdy closure. Red gloves and a neutral knit scarf can go underneath when it really drops. A low braided bun won't tangle against the wool. Cream blush, waterproof mascara and a tinted balm hold up outdoors better than a full face. A lidded basket keeps candy and your phone dry.
11. Warm Weather Little Red Costume
Warm days call for the opposite approach. A breathable white cotton blouse goes with a red A-line skirt or a loose sundress, and the cape should be short and thin: cotton, chiffon or light jersey, not velvet. Jersey is a nice choice here because it drapes and doesn't need hemming. White ankle socks and flat black Mary Janes keep the classic finish. Two neat braids or a high ponytail sit under the loose hood. Water-resistant mascara, cream blush and a lip stain survive heat better than powder. Carry a small open basket with a gingham handkerchief, and skip corsets and petticoats when it's hot.
12. Last-Minute Little Red Costume
In a hurry, a black dress, or a white top with a black skirt, is the starting point. Add red tights, red shoes or a red belt to carry the color through. A red zip hoodie, worn with the hood up and the sides draped back over the shoulders, makes a surprisingly good cape stand-in, and a red throw pinned at the neckline works too. A side braid, rosy blush and red lipstick do the storybook part. Tie a gingham scarf around the handles of a tote bag for the basket. The hood is the single strongest clue, so keep it up rather than letting it slide back.
13. Teen Little Red Riding Hood Costume
Teens usually want the costume to look like their own clothes, and this one does. A white puff-sleeve blouse with a red plaid skirt and black bike shorts underneath, then opaque tights, combat boots and a waist-length red cape that won't drag. Bubble braids, loose waves or a high ponytail under the hood. Subtle winged liner, pink blush, faux freckles and a tinted gloss. Battery string lights wound through a small basket with red ribbons and gingham add a little glow for group photos. A cropped black cardigan under the cape handles a cold walk around the neighborhood.
14. Kids Little Red Costume
With kids, I sew the cape short and the hood loose. The cape should stop at the knee at the latest, because anything longer gets stepped on at the first curb. A roomy hood that doesn't block side vision matters more than a neat one, and a hook-and-loop closure at the neck is safer than ties, since it pulls apart if the cape gets caught. Underneath, a soft cotton dress in red, blue or gingham over a white long-sleeve shirt, with stretchy leggings and sneakers or flexible Mary Janes. Simple braids and a little cheek color if they want it. A foam or fabric basket is far easier for small hands than heavy wicker. Sew reflective trim along the hem for the walk home.
15. Toddler Little Red Riding Hood Costume
Toddlers need everything soft. A red jersey dress or romper over a white long-sleeve bodysuit, cotton tights and flexible sneakers that look like Mary Janes. I make a toddler cape from fleece or felt, both of which need no hemming, with a wide hook-and-loop tab at the neck. Leave out long ribbons, scratchy lace and anything heavy. Tiny pigtails or natural hair under a loose hood. Makeup isn't needed, though a dab of child-safe cheek color is fine. A small plush basket with fabric food inside lets them crawl, sit and toddle up to doors without anything in the way.
16. Maternity Little Red Costume
For a maternity Little Red, the closure is the key change. Fasten the cape above the bust rather than tight at the throat, and it hangs open around the belly instead of pulling across it. A soft black, burgundy or floral empire-waist maxi leaves plenty of room, with supportive flat boots or cushioned loafers for a long night. Loose waves, a side braid or a low ponytail sit easily under the hood. Rosy blush, defined lashes and a berry-tinted balm. Keep the basket light with just a few fabric apples or flowers, and for a laugh, add a little felt sign on it reading “Grandma’s Delivery.”
17. Men’s Little Red Riding Hood Costume
The men's version swaps the dress for tailored separates. A white grandad-collar shirt, black trousers, a deep red vest and sturdy brown or black boots, then a knee-length red hooded cape that makes the character clear. For a broader frame, I widen the hood and give the cape a bit more length at the back so it doesn't ride up across the shoulders. A wide leather-look belt holds a small fabric pouch. Short hair as it is, longer hair tied back under the hood, and makeup optional. A large market basket lined with red gingham, with faux bread and apples, finishes it.
18. Little Red And Big Bad Wolf Couple Costume
Red and gray make this couple easy to read across a room. Little Red gets a white blouse, black skirt, red cape, tights and lace-up boots, with a gingham-lined basket, loose curls or braids, rosy makeup and berry lipstick. The wolf wears gray jeans, a gray sweater, a faux-fur vest and dark boots, plus a soft ear headband, a removable tail, gray gloves and gentle face shading around the eyes and nose. Faux fur sheds badly when you cut it, so cut from the back with small scissor snips through the backing only. Skip full masks, and add a nightcap or checked scarf to hint at the wolf's disguise. It works for any two people.
19. Little Red And Grandma Couple Costume
If the wolf feels overdone, pair Little Red with Grandma. Little Red wears a gingham dress, a red hooded cape, white socks and black flats, with a small basket, braids, pink cheeks and soft red lipstick. Grandma goes for a long floral nightgown under a knitted shawl, cozy slippers with real soles and round costume glasses. A gray bun wig or temporary silver color defines the role. A light storybook or a ball of yarn makes a good prop; leave knitting needles at home in a crowd. Tie the pair together with matching red ribbons or gingham trim. It's gentle, funny and needs no animal pieces.
20. Little Red And Woodland Fox Duo Costume
A woodland fox makes an unexpected partner. Little Red can wear a cream blouse, a brown pinafore, a red cape and lace-up boots, with a basket of artificial flowers, relaxed braids and freckled cheeks. The fox wears rust trousers or leggings with a matching sweater, a cream chest panel, a soft ear headband, a fabric tail and brown ankle boots. Felt is my pick for the chest panel and ear linings because it cuts cleanly and needs no hem. Warm orange shading on the cheeks and a little black liner on the nose give the animal face without a mask. A few small leaf accessories on both outfits pull the forest theme together.
21. Little Red Wolf And Grandma Trio Costume
Three people can cover the whole cast: Little Red, the wolf and Grandma. Little Red wears the red cape over a white blouse and dark skirt, with braids, rosy makeup, black boots and a wicker basket. The wolf combines gray clothes with a faux-fur vest, ears, a tail and friendly gray face makeup, and Grandma wears a floral nightgown, shawl, slippers, round glasses and a gray bun wig. The trick that makes a trio look planned is one repeated fabric. I'd buy a single length of red gingham and use it for the basket lining, Grandma's shawl trim and the wolf's nightcap. Give each person one light prop so the group moves easily.
22. Little Red Family Costume
Add a woodsman and the family costume covers four roles. Little Red wears a hooded red cape, a simple dress, boots and braids, with the basket as the main prop. The wolf has gray layers, faux-fur cuffs, ears, a tail and soft animal makeup. Grandma needs a floral maxi or nightgown, a cardigan, glasses and a gray bun. The woodsman takes a plaid shirt, suspenders, brown pants, a beanie and work boots, with a rolled paper map instead of any tool. Repeat red, brown and gray across the group. Separate roles let each person, adult or child, pick how much dressing up they actually want.
23. Little Red Woodland Group Costume
A bigger group can bring in the rest of the forest. One person wears the full Little Red look with cape, dress, basket, braids, natural makeup and boots. Around her, a gray wolf in faux fur, a rust fox with ears and a tail, a brown deer with antlers and a raccoon in gray-and-black layers. Every animal works the same way: comfortable clothes, matching shoes, an ear headband, a fabric tail and simple face shading instead of a mask. Antlers are the one piece that catches on things, so keep them short and soft. Grandma can join in a floral gown and shawl if you need another role, and scattered fabric leaves tie the whole group together.
24. Steampunk Little Red Costume
Steampunk turns the story industrial. A cream ruffled blouse, a brown high-waisted skirt and a fitted burgundy vest go under a cropped red hooded cape with brass-tone buttons or gear shapes sewn along the front. Brown lace-up boots, striped tights, fingerless gloves and a wide utility belt build the base. Pinned curls or a loose side braid, bronze shadow, defined liner and muted red lipstick. Decorate the basket with faux gears, leather-look straps and an old compass. Goggles can rest on the hood, never over the eyes while you walk. It keeps the fairy-tale red and stays free of anything weapon-like.
25. Punk Little Red Riding Hood Costume
Plaid, faux leather and heavy boots give the punk version its attitude. A plain black tee with a red plaid skirt or distressed black jeans, a cropped red hooded cape, a studded belt, patterned tights and combat boots. A high ponytail, textured waves or temporary red streaks, smudged black liner, strong brows and dark cherry lipstick. Swap the basket for a small wicker backpack covered in fabric patches, ribbons and a few removable chains. Faux leather can't be pinned without leaving holes, so use clips if you're altering a jacket to sit under the cape. Choose rounded studs over sharp ones; sharp ones snag the cape.
26. Cowgirl Little Red Costume
The cowgirl version is for anyone who'd rather wear jeans than a dress. A white snap-front shirt tucked into a denim midi or bootcut jeans, then a red bandana-print cape with a generous hood, a brown belt and red cowgirl boots. Bandana cotton is light and easy to sew, though it frays, so finish the edges with a narrow hem. Two braids or a low ponytail tied with red ribbon. Warm blush, brown mascara, faux freckles and a tinted balm keep the face sun-kissed. Carry a rustic basket lined with bandana fabric and some light artificial apples, and hang a plain brown hat off the basket so it doesn't fight the hood.
27. Ballerina Little Red Costume
A red tulle skirt makes the ballerina version move. Pair it with a fitted white or black long-sleeve leotard and opaque dance tights, then a light red hooded cape cut to the waist so it doesn't hide the tulle. Tulle catches on velcro and rough fabric, so keep the cape's closure on the inside and away from the skirt. Supportive ballet-style flats survive outdoors far better than real dance slippers. A smooth bun tied with red ribbon, luminous blush, a touch of shimmer, mascara and rose lipstick. A tiny basket with satin ribbon and fabric flowers is the prop, and fitted shorts underneath add coverage. Dancers will love it.
28. Superhero Little Red Costume
The superhero take turns the cape into the costume's power. A red long-sleeve athletic top, black leggings and a fitted black skirt or shorts, then a structured red hooded cape, felt wrist cuffs and black sneakers or knee-high boots. For a cape that holds its shape, I'd interface the hood and the top of the shoulders with a light fusible so they don't collapse. A wide belt carries a pouch. A high braid or sleek ponytail stays under control, with clean liner, bright blush and a long-wear red lip. A light red backpack with a removable gingham panel replaces the basket, and a fabric shield emblem showing a basket or tree ties it to the story. Good for parties with games or dancing.
29. Grandma Disguise Little Red Costume
This one plays both sides of the story in one outfit. A long floral nightgown with the red hooded cape over it, a knitted shawl, round costume glasses, thick socks and soft ankle boots or slipper-style shoes with outdoor soles. Put your own hair in a low bun with a light dusting of temporary silver, or wear a comfortable gray wig. Rosy cheeks, slightly exaggerated brows and pink lipstick keep it funny. A basket holding a folded nightcap and a plush gray wolf makes the joke obvious. It's fully covered, uses no spooky effects and needs nothing handmade.
30. Little Red And Wolf Dog Costume
Matching with your dog works best when the dog's half is tiny. You wear a red cape over a white blouse with a black skirt or trousers, walking boots, braids, rosy makeup and a hands-free basket backpack so the leash hand stays free. The dog gets a soft gray vest or bandana, with light fabric ears on a headband only if your dog accepts it. Skip face paint, tight hoods and anything that blocks movement, hearing or sight. A removable fabric tail can clip to the vest as long as it doesn't drag. Keep the normal harness and leash on under or through the costume. Have the dog try each piece at home first, and take it off the moment they paw at it or start chewing.
Stopping the Hood From Sliding Back
The red hood is the clue that makes this costume read, and it's also the piece that keeps falling down. Slippery fabrics, smooth hair and a deep hood all make it worse. A few small fixes keep it up through a party:
- Sew a small fabric loop inside the hood near the crown, then slide a bobby pin through the loop and into the hair.
- Run a narrow elastic through the front edge of the hood so it hugs the face slightly. Keep it loose enough on kids that it never pulls at the ears.
- Line a satin or velvet hood with cotton. Cotton grips hair far better than a slick lining.
- Braids and buns hold a hood better than loose waves, because they give it something to rest against.
The basket is the other piece that wears people out. A wicker handle digs into the hand after an hour, so wrap it with a strip of felt or ribbon. For trick-or-treating, line it with a cloth that ties at the top so candy doesn't spill when a child swings it, and choose one with a flat base that sits steady while you're busy at a door.
A Red Hood Does Most of the Work
Start with a hood people can see from the sidewalk, and build out from there. A classic dress and basket give you the storybook version, while modern clothes, warm layers or themed details make it your own. Couples can add a wolf, Grandma or a fox, and bigger families can fill out a whole forest. Put comfort first, most of all for kids, expectant mothers and pets. Choose secure shoes, light props and a cape length that lets the wearer move freely. From cottagecore and vintage to punk and superhero, there's a red hood here for nearly any Halloween plan.
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