Picking a Halloween costume should be fun, and the quickest way to keep it fun is to start from something you can actually wear for a whole evening. The looks below run from spooky classics and film characters to glamorous fantasy figures and decade outfits you can pull mostly from your own closet. When I style a costume, the dress or jumpsuit is only the start; hair, makeup, shoes and one good prop are what make people name the character on sight. I've also kept comfort in view for every idea, since a costume for a cold sidewalk, an office party or a five-hour night out each asks for something a little different.
Wigs That Survive a Whole Evening
Almost half of these costumes lean on a wig, and an inexpensive wig straight out of the bag usually looks shiny, flat and too thick at the hairline. A little prep makes a big difference.
- Shake it out and brush it gently with a wide-tooth comb, working up from the ends. Brushing from the root tears out fibers and makes the wig shed.
- Dust a little dry shampoo or translucent powder over a very shiny synthetic wig to knock back the plastic look.
- Wear a wig cap and pin the wig to it at the temples and nape. Two crossed bobby pins on each side hold far better than one.
- Keep synthetic wigs away from candles, ovens and curling irons unless the label says heat-friendly; the fibers frizz or melt at surprisingly low heat.
- If the bangs hide your eyes, trim them a little at a time with sharp scissors, cutting vertically into the ends so the edge looks softer.
After the night, wash the wig in cool water with a little shampoo, let it dry on a stand or a tall bottle, and store it in a hairnet so it's ready for next year.
1. Classic Witch Costume With Black Dress
The witch is the costume I'd recommend to anyone who wants a classic that bends to any body and budget. A long black dress, a velvet midi or a black blouse tucked into a flowing maxi is the base, with striped tights if you want some playfulness and buckled boots you can walk in. The wide-brim pointed hat is the silhouette, so buy the stiffest one you can find; floppy brims droop by the second hour. Soft waves or a long black or purple wig, green eyeshadow, winged liner and a plum lip. A small broom or a fabric-covered spellbook is plenty, and a velvet cape with star jewelry dresses it up.
2. Glam Vampire Costume With Red Cape
A vampire looks expensive when the fabrics do the work. Start with a black velvet maxi, a fitted jumpsuit or a lace blouse with tailored black trousers, then a cape with a red lining that flashes when you turn. I'd pick a cape that ties or clasps at the front of the shoulders rather than the throat, so it doesn't pull at your neck all night. Pointed ankle boots or block heels, glossy waves or a sleek updo, a light pale base, smoky eyes and a deep berry lip. Costume fangs and a vintage pendant make the theme clear, and a high collar adds drama if you want it.
3. Wednesday Addams Costume With Braided Hair
Wednesday is mostly a collar and two braids. A black knee-length dress with a crisp white collar and cuffs is the cleanest version; a black sweater over a white collared shirt and pleated skirt works too. Opaque black tights and sturdy loafers or lace-up boots finish the clothes. For the braids, part the hair dead center and braid tightly; loose braids lose the severe look, and a braided black wig is the answer if your hair is short. Keep makeup matte with cool blush and a muted berry lip, carry a small old-looking book or a black umbrella, and hold a flat, unimpressed expression.
4. Morticia Addams Costume With Long Black Gown
Morticia lives in the silhouette: long, narrow and floor-length. Choose a fitted long-sleeved maxi with flared cuffs or a gentle fishtail hem, and stretch velvet if you can find it, because it moves and you can sit down in it. Pointed flats or low heels under the gown keep you steady. Long, straight black hair with a center part is essential; a sleek waist-length wig saves a lot of flat-ironing. Cool contour, smoky liner, deep red lipstick, red nails and a dark ring. A single artificial rose with the bloom snipped off is the in-joke fans will catch.
5. Bride Of Frankenstein Costume With White Streak Wig
The Bride is all about that hair, so I'd spend most of the effort there. A tall black wig with bold white streaks at each side is the easy route; teasing and temporarily coloring your own hair is possible but takes time and a lot of spray. The dress is a long white gown with draped fabric, long sleeves or a high neck, with narrow strips of clean white gauze wrapped loosely at the arms and bodice. Keep the gauze loose enough to bend your elbows. White or silver ankle boots, pale makeup, sharply arched brows, gray shadow and a dark red lip, plus a white shawl for warmth. Leave out graphic effects; the hair does the talking.
6. Black Cat Costume With Tail And Ears
Black cat is the most dependable last-minute costume I know. A black jumpsuit, a long-sleeve top with leggings or a fitted sweater with a skater skirt, opaque tights and flexible flats or ankle boots. A cat-ear headband and a light fabric tail are all the costume you need. Pin the tail to a belt loop or the waistband from the inside; tails clipped to the outside drop off when you sit. Draw a small nose and fine whiskers with skin-safe makeup, wing the liner and add a pink or berry lip, then black gloves and a bell choker that isn't tight.
7. Skeleton Costume With Black Jumpsuit
A skeleton can look striking without anything gory. Start with a black jumpsuit, a fitted sweatsuit or a long-sleeve top and leggings, and add white felt bone shapes, stitched or held with fabric tape if you want it removable. Felt bones on stretchy fabric need to be cut a touch shorter than the limb, or they buckle when the knit stretches. Black sneakers or combat boots, a smooth ponytail or a white bob wig, then white face makeup around the eyes and cheekbones with black lines for a stylized skull. Set the face makeup with powder; white cream makeup creases fast on a warm night.
8. Friendly Ghost Costume With White Tulle Dress
This ghost swaps the sheet for tulle, which means you can see, eat and talk. A white tulle dress, a flowing maxi or a white blouse with a layered skirt, white tights and flat silver, white or pale gray shoes. A sheer white cape adds movement without covering the face. Temporary white hair color tends to flake onto dark clothing and can look patchy, so I'd go for a wavy silver-white wig if you want the full effect. Pearly eyeshadow, luminous skin, a cool pink lip, pearl earrings and sheer gloves. A battery lantern is a safe prop that glows nicely in the dark.
9. Little Red Riding Hood Costume With Cape
The red hooded cape is the whole character, so get a good one. Layer it over a white puff-sleeve blouse and a black, brown or red knee-length skirt, or a simple red dress with a fitted waist. Check the hood depth: a shallow hood slides off and a deep one swallows your face, and you want it to frame the face when it's up. Opaque tights, lace-up walking boots, soft curls or loose braids, rosy cheeks and a red lip. Carry a wicker basket lined with gingham with flowers or wrapped treats inside; a lace-up bodice is a pretty extra, but the cape and basket carry it.
10. Dorothy Costume With Blue Gingham Dress
Dorothy reads from a distance because of one fabric. A blue-and-white gingham pinafore over a white puff-sleeve blouse is the canon look, and a gingham sundress over a fitted white shirt is a fine substitute. The red shoes are the second signal, so choose sparkly red flats with secure soles over heels you'll regret. Two center-parted braids tied with blue ribbon, natural makeup and rosy blush. A wicker basket with a plush dog finishes it, and I'd bring a cardigan, because cotton gingham is cold on an October night.
11. Pink Cowgirl Barbie Costume
Pink cowgirl Barbie is a Western outfit turned up to doll volume. A pink vest with matching flare pants, or a pink button-down with a white denim skirt, plus a white cowgirl hat, star earrings and pink or white Western boots. The hair has to be big: large blonde waves or a long, full blonde wig, which I'd tease at the crown so the hat sits on volume rather than flattening it. Rosy makeup, glossy pink lips, a pink bandana at the neck and a small heart-shaped purse. Rhinestones and fringe are fun, but keep them light or the vest starts to drag.
12. Elle Woods Costume With Pink Suit
Elle Woods is a fashion character, so the pink has to look pulled-together rather than costume-shop. A bright pink blazer with a matching skirt or tailored pants, a fitted pink top underneath and nude, white or pink pumps with a heel you can manage. I'd match the pinks in daylight before buying; three slightly different pinks look accidental. Smooth blonde waves or a shoulder-length blonde wig with a side part, luminous makeup and glossy lips. A structured handbag, a pink notebook and a little plush dog tucked in the bag make her recognizable, and it's tidy and non-scary enough for school or work.
13. Cher Horowitz Costume With Yellow Plaid Set
Cher's yellow plaid is one of those outfits people know instantly from the colors alone. A yellow plaid blazer with a matching pleated skirt over a white top or sweater vest, white knee-high socks and black Mary Janes or loafers. Plaid sets from different shops rarely match, so buy the blazer and skirt as a set if you can. Long blonde layers or a smooth blonde wig with a center part, peach blush and a glossy neutral lip. A small fuzzy backpack, a toy flip phone, a slim headband and simple gold jewelry set the period. On cold nights, skin-tone thermal tights under the socks keep the shape and the warmth.
14. Velma Costume With Orange Sweater
Velma is the closet costume I'd hand to anyone heading out into the cold, because it's a big sweater. An oversized orange turtleneck, a red pleated skirt around the knee, orange knee socks and red or brown loafers. The glasses are the key piece, so choose thick black frames that sit firmly; costume frames often slip down the nose, and a small dab of clear silicone on the nose pads helps. A short dark brown bob wig with bangs, simple makeup and a natural lip. Carry a magnifying glass and a small notebook, with a crossbody satchel for your real things.
15. Daphne Costume With Purple Dress
Daphne is purple head to toe, with a green scarf as the accent. A long-sleeve purple shift dress gives the best silhouette, with lavender tights and purple flats, low boots or block heels. Tie the green scarf to the side of the neck rather than the front; that's the detail people remember. Smooth, voluminous red waves or a copper-red shoulder-length wig with a purple headband. Violet eyeshadow, peach blush and pink lipstick keep it fresh. If you need a layer, pick a purple coat, since a black one breaks up the palette that makes her readable.
16. Holly Golightly Costume With Black Dress
Holly Golightly is the most elegant costume here and needs almost no crafting. A sleeveless black midi or maxi with a clean fitted line, long black gloves, low black heels, pearl-style necklaces and oversized dark sunglasses. The French twist is the hard part; a brunette updo wig with short bangs is the shortcut, and a small sparkling clip near the front finishes the hair. Classic liner, softly shaped brows and a pale pink lip. Carry a small black handbag and a paper coffee cup, and a cropped black coat keeps you warm without hiding the dress.
17. Marilyn Monroe Costume With White Dress
The white halter dress is the foundation, and fit matters more than anything. Choose a knee-length version with a full pleated skirt and a halter that gives comfortable coverage; halters pull at the back of the neck, so try sitting and reaching in it before the night. White, silver or nude closed-toe heels, a short platinum curled wig or soft vintage waves. The makeup carries the transformation: winged black liner, defined lashes, arched brows, classic red lips and a small beauty mark above the lip. Sparkling studs and a faux-fur wrap for cold weather finish it, and the dress and curls do the work without any posing.
18. Princess Mia Costume With White Dress
Princess Mia's makeover look is pretty and very wearable. A modest white strapless-look dress over a supportive matching top, or a white sleeveless gown with a structured neckline, plus long white gloves, a small silver tiara and white or metallic low heels. Pin the tiara through the updo with bobby pins crossed at each end; a tiara resting on top of the hair slides off by the first dance. A smooth brunette updo with a few curled pieces, natural foundation, pink blush and a rose lip. Oversized sunglasses and wired headphones are fun props for photos, and a small silver bag holds your essentials.
19. Kim Possible Costume With Green Cargo Pants
Kim Possible is practical clothing in two colors, which makes it one of the easiest to move in. Olive-green cargo pants with a fitted black long-sleeve mock-neck, a brown utility belt and sturdy black combat-style boots. The red hair is what tells people it's her, so if your hair isn't red, choose a long copper-red wig with a side part. Defined brows, soft brown liner and a peach lip. Black fingerless gloves and a toy communicator or an old flip phone are the props, and a crossbody utility pouch carries your real things without breaking character.
20. Lara Croft Costume With Cargo Shorts
Lara Croft is an adventure outfit, and I keep it that way by leaving out anything weapon-like. An olive or teal fitted tank, high-waisted brown or black cargo shorts, a sturdy belt, black crew socks and lace-up hiking or combat boots. The long braid is her signature; a dark brown braided wig gives you the length, and I'd add a small elastic at the very end so it doesn't unravel. Bronzed cheeks, defined brows and smudge-resistant liner. Fingerless gloves, a compact backpack and a rolled paper map tell the story, and on a cold night skin-tone tights and a fitted thermal top underneath keep you warm.
21. Wonder Woman Costume With Red And Blue Outfit
Wonder Woman reads through color: red on top, blue below, gold everywhere else. A red fitted top with gold trim, a blue knee-length skirt or blue shorts over tights, red flat or low-heeled boots, metallic cuffs and a gold headband with a small star. Gold trim from a fabric shop is easier to work with than gold paint, which cracks on fabric that bends. Voluminous dark waves or a long wavy brunette wig, glowing skin and a strong red lip. A coil of soft gold cord stands in for the lasso. Adjust hem and coverage to your comfort; the colors and accessories hold the character.
22. Poison Ivy Costume With Green Dress
Poison Ivy can be glamorous and fully covered at the same time. A green midi, a fitted jumpsuit or a long-sleeve top with a flowing green skirt, with artificial ivy leaves at the neckline, waist and sleeves held by fashion tape or a few loose stitches. Snip the leaves off their plastic stems first; the stems are stiff and scratch the skin. Green tights, ankle boots or leaf-trimmed flats, long red waves or a copper-red wig with small faux leaves, emerald shadow and a berry lip. Carry a small potted artificial vine, and keep greenery from trailing near your feet.
23. Medusa Costume With Snake Headpiece
Medusa is all headpiece. Attach lightweight rubber or fabric snakes securely around a padded headband, weaving their bodies around the band and stitching through, so they frame the hair without falling into your eyes. Rubber snakes are heavier than they look; a few spaced evenly balance better than a full crown. Under it, a draped green, bronze or black maxi held at the waist with a metallic belt, flat gladiator sandals or metallic ankle boots, and the hair in a loose updo or a dark curly wig. Green and gold shadow, winged liner and a stenciled scale pattern near the temples. A small hand mirror is the clever prop.
24. Greek Goddess Costume With Gold Accessories
A Greek goddess looks polished with very little effort, as long as the drape stays put. A white maxi, a one-shoulder gown or a draped tunic over a long white skirt, a gold rope belt at the waist and comfortable gold flat sandals. One-shoulder styles slip, so I'd add a small safety pin or a bit of fashion tape at the shoulder before leaving home. Loose curls or a braided crown with a gold leaf headband, champagne eyeshadow and a soft rose lip. Gold cuffs, drop earrings and a light shoulder cape add drama, and a laurel branch is the classic prop.
25. Woodland Fairy Costume With Green Tulle Dress
A woodland fairy is soft greens and browns with wings as the finishing touch. A sage-green tulle dress, a layered skirt with a fitted knit top or a flowing green jumpsuit, neutral tights and brown or green lace-up ankle boots that can handle grass. Translucent fabric wings on comfortable elastic straps sit best when the straps cross at the back; straps that run straight down slide off the shoulders. Loose waves or a braid with artificial flowers, soft green eyeshadow, a touch of shimmer and pink gloss. A ribbon-and-dowel flower wand and a cropped brown cardigan keep it pretty and warm, and the wings should stay compact for doorways.
26. Mermaid Costume With Sequin Skirt
The tail is where mermaid costumes go wrong, so choose a skirt you can actually walk in. An iridescent or green sequin maxi with a back slit or a stretchy base fabric, paired with a purple, teal or pearl fitted top. Sequin seams scratch the inner arm, so a long-sleeve top or a smooth lining helps if you'll be dancing. Metallic flats or low ankle boots, long beachy waves or a colored wavy wig, blue-green shadow, pearly highlighter and a few painted scales at the temples. A seashell headband, pearls and a shell purse finish the ocean theme, with a shimmery jacket for cold evenings.
27. Queen Of Hearts Costume With Crown
The Queen of Hearts is red, black and white with hearts wherever they fit. A red fit-and-flare dress or a black blouse with a full red skirt, white tights with small hearts and black Mary Janes or ankle boots. A small gold crown on a dark updo, natural curls or a black-and-red wig; I'd pick a crown on a comb or a headband so it can't tip forward. Bold liner and a heart-shaped red lip on softly powdered skin keep it family-friendly. A ruffled white collar, heart gloves and a fan of oversized playing cards add the storybook detail, and a fitted cape with gold trim takes it further in comfortable fabric.
28. Disco Queen Costume With Sequin Jumpsuit
Disco is shine and wide legs. Pick a silver, gold or jewel-tone sequin jumpsuit with long sleeves and a lining, because unlined sequins are scratchy within the hour. A metallic blouse with high-waisted flares is a softer alternative. White platform shoes with a stable sole, big hoops, full curls or a voluminous 1970s wig, metallic eyeshadow and glossy lips. Carry a mirrored clutch and tinted round sunglasses, and throw on a light faux-fur jacket for warmth. Try the jumpsuit with your shoes before the night; flared hems that drag get stepped on and torn.
29. 1980s Aerobics Costume With Neon Leggings
Aerobics is a costume built from activewear, so it's comfortable and cheap. Neon leggings with a contrasting leotard or fitted tank, a cropped sweatshirt slipped off one shoulder, colorful leg warmers and white sneakers. A high side ponytail, teased a little or boosted with a curly extension, held with a big scrunchie and a stretchy sweatband. Blue eyeshadow, pink blush and a bright lip get the decade with no complicated makeup. Plastic bangles and a belt bag add to it, and a rolled exercise mat is the prop. Sweatbands slip on fine hair; a couple of bobby pins underneath keep them in place.
30. 1990s Grunge Costume With Plaid Shirt
Grunge is the costume for when comfort comes first. A band-style or plain dark tee, relaxed ripped jeans, an oversized red or green flannel tied at the waist and a worn denim jacket if it's cold. Black lace-up boots and a small canvas backpack. Center-parted hair with loose texture, or a temporary dark streak; check that the streak product says it washes out, since some stain light hair. Smudged brown liner, matte skin and a muted berry lip, plus a black choker and silver-colored rings. The outfit should look relaxed and lived-in, never ironed.
31. 1920s Flapper Costume With Fringe Dress
Fringe is what makes a flapper dress move, so pick one that swings when you turn. A knee-length black, gold, navy or emerald dress with fringe or beaded-look trim, opaque tights and low T-strap heels that stay on while you dance. A faux bob, finger waves or a short wavy wig, a beaded headband across the forehead with a small feather, smoky eyes and a deep red lip with a defined cupid's bow. Long pearl-style necklaces, gloves and a tiny beaded bag finish it, with a faux-fur wrap for warmth. Knot long pearls once at the chest so they don't swing into drinks or tangle in the fringe.
32. Classic Cowgirl Costume With Denim Skirt
A classic cowgirl comes almost entirely out of a normal closet. A plaid button-down tucked into a denim midi skirt or straight-leg jeans, a brown belt with a decorative buckle and comfortable Western boots. Top it with a felt cowgirl hat in brown, cream or red, and check the fit before the night; a hat that's too big blows off, and a ribbon of foam tape inside the band snugs it up. Two loose braids or a low ponytail, warm blush and tinted balm. A neatly tied bandana and a small saddle-style crossbody bag, and a suede-look vest adds texture.
33. Vintage Flight Attendant Costume With Scarf
A vintage flight attendant is all about tidiness. A navy, red or royal-blue knee-length sheath dress with a matching cropped blazer, neutral tights and low pumps or loafers. A smooth bun, French twist or curled bob, then a small pillbox-style hat pinned to the back of the crown and a patterned silk scarf tied neatly at the neck. Silk scarves slide undone, so I tie them in a small knot and tuck the ends into the collar. Classic liner and a rosy lip, a compact rolling bag and a fictional airline badge cut from cardstock. Keep the branding invented rather than copying a real airline.
34. Retro Astronaut Costume With Silver Jumpsuit
Silver is the whole look, and it's easier to wear than it sounds. A zip-front utility suit, or silver pants with a matching bomber and a white fitted top, plus white high-tops or flat silver boots. Metallic fabrics show sweat and don't breathe, so a cotton tee underneath keeps you comfortable at an indoor party. A sleek ponytail or short silver bob wig, cool metallic eyeshadow and pearly highlighter. Homemade mission patches, reflective tape and a name label sell it, and carry a lightweight white helmet under one arm rather than wearing it. A small metallic backpack holds your things.
35. Lydia Deetz Costume With Red Tulle Dress
Lydia's red wedding look closes the list with real drama. A layered red tulle midi or maxi with a fitted bodice and long sheer sleeves, red tights and matching ankle boots or low heels. The hair is the hardest part: a black teased updo with spiky, separated bangs, which I'd do with a wig styled in advance rather than teasing your own hair for an hour. A light pale base, smoky plum eyeshadow and a muted red lip. A short red veil adds the signature detail without covering your face, and a vintage-style camera is the prop. Layers of tulle are surprisingly light, so this is easier to wear than any real formal gown.
Tulle, Capes and Halter Necks on a Cold Night
Many of the prettiest looks here are built from fabrics with no warmth at all: tulle, satin, sequins, sheer sleeves. You can keep the costume intact and still stay warm if you plan the layers before you leave.
- Thermal leggings or skin-tone thermal tights go under almost any long skirt and nobody sees them.
- A fitted long-sleeve base layer in the same color as the dress disappears under halters and sleeveless gowns.
- Choose your coat in the costume's main color; a purple coat over Daphne or a red one over the Queen of Hearts keeps the character intact even when it's buttoned up.
- Capes are warmer than they look if they're lined; an unlined satin cape gives almost no protection from wind.
Feet get cold first on a long walk, so slip thin wool socks under boots wherever the boot shaft hides them. Hands matter too: the gloves on Holly Golightly, Princess Mia or a vintage flight attendant can be lined knit ones in the same color, and they're far kinder on a cold porch than thin satin.
Wear It for an Hour at Home First
Every idea here, from the spooky classics and film characters to the fantasy figures and decade outfits, becomes easier to recognize when the clothes, hair, makeup, shoes and prop all point at one character. Start with what's already in your closet and spend your money on the one or two pieces that carry the look, like the hat, the wig or the cape. Adjust hems, layers and makeup to your comfort and the event. Then do the thing I ask everyone to do: put the whole costume on at home for an hour, sit, walk, climb stairs and eat a snack, and fix whatever bothers you before the real night.
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