A good party costume has to survive the party. That means a clear idea people get from across the room, and clothes you can still sit, dance and queue in at eleven o'clock. The list below runs from witches and vampires to food costumes, decade looks, fantasy characters and a few easy DIY builds. For each one I've set out the base outfit, the hair or wig, the makeup, the props and the shoes. Almost all of them can take a longer hem, a looser fit or a warm layer underneath without losing the character, so treat them as starting points.
Getting Tails, Spots and Wings to Stay Attached
Most of these costumes rely on something added to ordinary clothes: a tail, felt spots, pom-poms, wings, a key on the back. How you attach it decides whether it's still there at midnight, and whether the clothes survive afterwards.
- Hand stitching is the most secure and the easiest to undo. A few loose stitches at the edges of a felt spot or the base of a tail hold through a whole night of dancing, and a seam ripper removes them in minutes.
- Removable fabric tape and iron-on hemming tape work on cotton and denim, but they struggle on stretchy jersey and slippery polyester, where the edges peel up as the fabric moves.
- Safety pins are quick, but use them from the inside so only the head is hidden, and never on sheer fabric, where they leave holes and pulls.
- Hot glue and fabric glue are for props, crowns and headbands, not clothes you want to keep. Glue stiffens fabric permanently and lets go in the cold.
Wings are their own problem. The elastic straps on shop-bought wings are often loose, so the wings droop backward by the end of the evening. I shorten the straps with a few stitches, and on heavier wings I add a strip of elastic across the chest, joining the two straps, so the weight sits on your back instead of pulling at your shoulders.
1. Classic Black Witch Costume
The witch is where most people start, and for good reason: everything in it can be worn again. A long black dress with lace sleeves, a tiered skirt or a wrap shape makes the base, with a velvet cape and a wide-brim pointed hat for the outline. Loose waves or a long textured black wig suit her. I keep the makeup to smoky grey shadow, plum lipstick and a couple of small stars, rather than green paint. A little broom or a cauldron-shaped bag is easy to carry. Striped tights make her playful and opaque black ones make her sleeker, and lace-up ankle boots or low block heels will last the night.
2. Glam Vampire Costume With Red Cape
Red and black do the heavy lifting in this vampire, so the makeup can stay polished instead of gory. A fitted black midi, a velvet jumpsuit or a lace blouse with tailored trousers all work as the base, with a red-lined cape on top. The red lining is the point, so make sure it shows: I tack the front edges back a few inches so the colour flashes even when you stand still. Add a jewelled choker, ornate rings and small fangs, long smooth hair or a dark wavy wig, burgundy shadow and deep berry lips. A vintage compact or goblet is the prop, and pointed flats, velvet loafers or stable boots finish it.
3. Cute Black Cat Costume
Need a costume from your own drawers by tonight? The cat is it. A black long-sleeve top with leggings, fitted trousers or a skater skirt and tights covers the body, and a faux-fur tail plus a cat-ear headband do the rest. Both must be properly fixed; I stitch the tail to a strip of elastic that goes round the waist under the top, which holds far better than a safety pin through jersey. Draw a little nose and fine whiskers with eyeliner, add shimmery neutral shadow and pink lipstick, and pull on fingerless paw gloves and a collar choker. A ball of yarn or a cat-shaped bag is a cute extra.
4. Friendly Ghost Costume With Tulle Skirt
This ghost is meant to be sweet, not scary. A white fitted top with a layered white tulle midi skirt, or just a flowing white dress, makes the body, and a light sheer cape moves nicely as you walk. A few strands brushed with temporary white hair colour give a misty edge. White shows every mark, so I do my makeup and hair spray before getting dressed, then add pearly highlighter, silver shadow and pale pink lips. Little felt ghost faces on the skirt or a tiny plush ghost to carry tell the story. White tights add warmth and coverage, and clean white trainers or silver flats suit a party or a night handing out sweets.
5. Wednesday Addams Costume
Wednesday is one of the easiest characters to pull off if you get the hair right. A black dress with a crisp white collar and cuffs in an A-line or fit-and-flare shape, opaque black tights and polished loafers or lace-ups cover the clothes. The centre part and two smooth braids are what people recognise, so I braid tightly and finish with a little gel to stop flyaways, or use a braided black wig. Keep the makeup matte with defined brows, soft grey shadow and muted berry lips. Carry an old-fashioned book or a cello-themed accessory that won't get in the way. On a cold night a black cardigan fits under a structured coat, and the unsmiling face does the rest.
6. Barbie Cowgirl Costume
Pink cowgirl is bright, cheerful and very easy to read. A pink denim waistcoat with matching flares, or a pink western jumpsuit trimmed with silver stars and fringe, is the base, with a white cowboy hat, pink bandana, heart earrings and a sparkly belt. Bouncy blonde waves or a voluminous golden wig finish the hair, and rosy blush, glossy pink lips and soft shimmer suit the face. Cowboy hats from costume shops are often too shallow and blow off outdoors; a thin elastic under the hair at the back fixes that. Carry a small star purse, and wear white western boots, or white ankle boots if you'd rather be comfortable.
7. Disco Queen Costume With Silver Jumpsuit
The disco queen is all about movement and shine. A wide-leg silver sequin jumpsuit, or a metallic halter with high-waisted flares, is the base, with a sparkly belt, big hoops and tinted round sunglasses. The hair has to be big, so tease your own or wear a full curly wig in whatever shade you like. Silver shadow, defined liner, glowing cheeks and a glossy neutral lip complete her. A mirror-ball handbag is a clever prop that still carries your phone. Platforms suit the era, but choose a low, stable pair if you'll be standing for hours, and a cropped faux-fur jacket keeps you warm without hiding the sequins.
8. Audrey Hepburn Breakfast Costume
Audrey Hepburn's breakfast look is vintage polish with very little effort. A sleeveless black column dress at knee or ankle length, long black gloves and several strands of costume pearls make the outfit. The high bun with a small jewelled tiara at the front is the detail I take most care over; I build it on a padded bun ring so it holds its height, or use a neat dark-brown updo wig. Softly arched brows, winged liner, rosy cheeks and pale pink lipstick suit the face. Oversized black sunglasses and a little pastry bag tell people who you are, a structured mini bag holds the essentials, and kitten heels or pointed flats keep you comfortable.
9. Rosie The Riveter Costume
Rosie the Riveter can come almost entirely from your own wardrobe. Tuck a denim shirt into dark high-waisted jeans and roll the sleeves well above the elbow. The red polka-dot bandana goes around an updo or ponytail with a few curled pieces left at the face; I knot it at the top of the head, as she wore it, rather than at the nape. Defined brows, mascara, red lipstick and a light flush give you the 1940s finish. A vintage lunch box doubles as a bag, and a brown utility belt is optional. Sturdy lace-ups or canvas trainers are fine, and practise that flexed-arm pose for photos.
10. Flapper Costume With Fringe Dress
The flapper's charm is the swing of the fringe. A knee-length dress in black, gold or a jewel tone with beading, fringe or geometric trim makes the shape, plus sheer tights, long pearls, art deco earrings and a feather headband. Short hair can go into finger waves, long hair pins into a faux bob, or a sleek bob wig saves the effort. Smoky shadow, thin curved brows and a berry lip set the decade. Beaded dresses are heavier than they look and can stretch on a hanger, so I store mine folded flat. Carry a beaded bag or folding fan, wear T-straps, Mary Janes or embellished flats, and add a faux-fur wrap when it's cold.
11. Greek Goddess Costume With Gold Accessories
The Greek goddess is soft white fabric and gold. A draped white maxi, a one-shoulder gown or a simple white dress with a light fabric sash is the base, with a gold braided belt at the natural waist, cuffs, drop earrings and a leaf crown. Loose waves, a low braided bun or a long curled wig suit her. Warm gold shadow, highlighter and a glossy neutral lip match the palette. Draping is where this one goes wrong; I pin it from the inside with safety pins hidden in the folds, and check it in a mirror while sitting and raising both arms. A golden apple or scroll is the prop, and gold flat sandals or metallic ballet flats finish it.
12. Woodland Fairy Costume With Green Dress
Think leaves, translucent wings and small botanical details. The woodland fairy starts with a green, brown or muted pink dress with a flowing skirt, a leafy garland at the waist and light wings on comfortable shoulder straps. Weave artificial flowers and tiny leaves into loose waves or a textured braid; small bobby pins through each stem keep them from working loose. Green and gold shadow, a touch of face shimmer and rosy lipstick keep it fresh. Carry a flower wand or a little basket of faux mushrooms. Sheer tights add warmth, and brown ankle boots, green ballet flats or lace-up sandals suit whatever weather you get.
13. Red Riding Hood Costume
A strong red cape is what makes Red Riding Hood read across a room. Put a hooded red cloak over a white blouse and a black or red knee-length skirt, or over a plain black dress if you want fewer pieces. A wide belt, white socks or opaque tights and a small woven basket lined with gingham finish the outfit. Soft curls or a medium brown wig with a gentle wave, rosy cheeks, defined lashes and classic red lips suit her. Fill the basket with artificial flowers or wrapped sweets rather than loose food, which ends up crushed in the bottom. Hoods slip back constantly, so I sew a small comb into the front edge to grip the hair. Brown lace-up boots or black Mary Janes are steady to walk in.
14. Snow Queen Costume With Icy Blue Cape
Icy blue layers turn a simple gown into a snow queen. A pale blue or silver maxi with a flowing skirt and a sheer icy-blue cape make the base, with crystal appliqués or removable snowflake pins at the neckline and shoulders. A platinum wig in a long braid, or your own hair in a braided updo with silver clips, suits her. Blend icy blue shadow with pearly highlighter and a cool pink lip. Sheer capes slide off the shoulders, so I stitch them to clear bra-strap elastic or attach them under the dress straps. A clear acrylic sceptre or snowflake wand is light to carry, pale tights add warmth, and silver boots or low metallic heels finish it.
15. Mermaid Costume With Sequin Skirt
A mermaid can look lavish and still let you walk. Pair a fitted teal, lavender or turquoise top with a high-waisted sequin maxi skirt that flares below the knee. Check the stretch and the hem before you buy; a narrow tail hem means shuffling all night, so I'd pass on any skirt you can't take a full stride in. Add a shell necklace, pearl hair clips and a shimmering waist chain, then beachy waves or a pastel blue, purple or red wig. Iridescent shadow, pearly highlights and scales pressed through a mesh stencil give the face. A shell bag is a handy prop, and metallic flats or low platform sandals stay mostly hidden.
16. Pirate Captain Costume
The pirate captain is built from layers, so it suits a cold night. Wear a white ruffled blouse with black trousers, a striped midi skirt or a dark fitted dress, then add a burgundy or black waistcoat, a wide belt, a long coat and a tricorn hat. Loose, tousled waves with a few thin braids and gold cuffs work well. Smudged brown liner, bronzed cheeks and deep red lipstick look adventurous without looking messy. A rolled treasure map or coin pouch replaces any weapon. Knee-high boots give the captain silhouette, though flat riding boots are kinder on your feet, and a crossbody satchel with a few costume rings keeps your hands free.
17. Ringmaster Costume With Red Tailcoat
The red tailcoat is the whole idea here, and everything else should support it. Wear it over a white blouse with fitted black trousers, a black jumpsuit or a modest black skater dress, then add gold braid trim, shoulder details, a small top hat and white gloves. If you're adding braid yourself, sew it rather than gluing, because glued trim lifts at the curves after an hour of movement. A sleek ponytail, smooth waves or an updo suits the hat. Sharp winged liner, warm gold shadow, red lips and extra blush are stage-ready. A light hoop or printed show card is an easy prop, and black knee-high or lace-up ankle boots ground the jacket.
18. Circus Clown Costume With Colorful Tulle
Skip the creepy clown entirely and go for a bright circus one. A polka-dot blouse or striped top with a colourful layered tulle skirt and opaque tights makes the base, plus braces, oversized fabric buttons, striped socks and a mini party hat on a headband. Two high buns or a short curly wig in a strong colour suit the hair. Rosy cheek circles, colourful shadow, a tiny painted nose and a cheerful defined smile keep it friendly. Hold a few light balloons or a pinwheel. My one rule with clowns is three main colours at most; any more and it just looks like a jumble sale.
19. Scarecrow Costume With Plaid Shirt
The scarecrow is the most relaxed costume on this list, and it suits a casual or outdoor gathering. A plaid flannel shirt and loose denim overalls with patches in orange, yellow and brown are the base. Raffia or soft yarn at the cuffs, pockets and ankles stands in for straw; real straw itches and sheds everywhere, so I never use it. Braids or low pigtails under a floppy brown hat, warm shadow, peach blush and stitched lines around a triangle nose make a friendly face. Carry a small bunch of artificial sunflowers or a fabric crow, tie a bandana at the neck, and wear work boots or hiking boots.
20. Pumpkin Queen Costume With Orange Dress
The pumpkin queen mixes a Halloween icon with a proper party shape. A burnt-orange velvet dress, a structured orange jumpsuit or a flowing midi with a defined waist makes the base, with a green leafy collar, vine belt, gold earrings and a small crown of miniature pumpkins. Hot glue holds tiny foam pumpkins to a crown fine indoors, but it goes brittle in cold air, so for an outdoor night I add a twist of florist wire around each one. Soft waves or a crown braid with green ribbon, copper shadow, glowing skin and an orange-red lip follow. Carry a round orange bag with a jack-o'-lantern face, and finish with green ankle boots, gold flats or brown block heels.
21. Disco Pumpkin Costume
The disco pumpkin is retro sparkle in Halloween colours. An orange sequin mini or midi over orange tights, or a shimmering orange jumpsuit with big flares, is the base, plus a green scarf, leaf earrings and a headband topped with a curled vine. Big curls or a fluffy copper wig suit it, with gold shadow, bright blush and glossy orange lips. A mirrored pumpkin purse or round metallic bag is the key prop. Platform boots fit the theme, but choose a stable heel and cushioned sole. Sequins scratch the inside of the arms after a few hours of dancing, so a thin long-sleeve layer underneath is worth considering.
22. Candy Corn Costume With Color Blocks
Candy corn is three colours in the right order, and that's all it needs. A white top, orange skirt and yellow tights reading from head to toe is the simplest version; a tiered dress with white, orange and yellow panels is another. Check the order before you leave, because it's surprisingly easy to get it upside down. A candy headband, matching bangles, a small striped bag and a high ponytail tied with ribbon finish it, with warm orange shadow, golden highlighter and a peach gloss. An oversized foam candy corn is a light prop. White trainers or yellow ballet flats make it easy for a long party, a classroom event or the school run.
23. Gumball Machine Costume
The gumball machine is a fun one to make at home. A white or red fitted top with a red A-line skirt and matching tights is the base, and multicoloured felt circles or soft pom-poms across the top become the gumballs. I sew pom-poms on with a few stitches through the centre; glued ones get pulled off by every child who sees them. A silver cardboard dispenser panel sits at the waist, and it must bend when you sit, so score it in a couple of places. A high bun with a few matching pom-poms, bright liner, rosy cheeks and a glossy pink lip finish it. Carry a clear bag of extra coloured balls and wear red trainers, flats or ankle boots.
24. Strawberry Costume With Red Dress
The strawberry is built on one red dress and some seeds. A comfortable fit-and-flare or T-shirt dress works, with small white or yellow felt teardrops held on with removable fabric tape so the dress survives afterwards. A green leafy collar and a strawberry-stem headband finish the shape. Soft curls, a high ponytail or two braided pigtails all suit it, and rosy blush, green liner and berry gloss keep the face light. Carry a small red basket purse or a tiny watering can of artificial flowers. Green tights push the theme further; bare legs or neutral tights keep it simpler. Red trainers, green flats or white ankle boots go well.
25. Bumblebee Costume With Tulle Skirt
A bumblebee layers easily, which makes it one of the warmest options here. A black-and-yellow striped jumper or fitted top goes with a black tulle skirt, black trousers or leggings, plus sheer rounded wings and an antenna headband. Antenna headbands are often too tight; I bend the band outward slightly before wearing it so it doesn't pinch behind the ears. Keep the hair in a ponytail, curls or a low bun that sits clear of the wings. Golden shadow, black winged liner, peach blush and a soft yellow highlight at the inner eye suit her. A honey-pot bag or artificial sunflower is the prop, striped tights pull it together, and combat boots, flats or trainers all work.
26. Ladybug Costume With Red Skirt
Bright red and big black spots: the ladybug is simple to plan. A black long-sleeve top with a red circle skirt, red overalls or a red fit-and-flare dress makes the base, and large black felt circles go on with removable tape. Round wings and a soft antenna headband follow. Make the spots bigger than feels right; small spots disappear from a few metres away. A polished ponytail or two low buns, red lipstick, curled lashes, rosy cheeks and tiny black dots at the outer corners of the eyes finish the face. Carry a flower or leaf-shaped bag, wear black tights for warmth, and choose black Mary Janes, lace-up boots or plain trainers.
27. Butterfly Costume With Colorful Wings
The wings make the butterfly, so I choose them first and dress around them. Big but light wings with secure elastic straps are the goal, worn over a fitted black jumpsuit, a black top with leggings or a flowing dress picking up one of the wing colours. Add an antenna headband and some crystal jewellery. A braided crown, soft waves or a high bun keeps hair off the straps. Blend colourful shadow outward in a wing shape and dot small white points at the temples. A flower wand or floral clutch is enough to carry. Black ankle boots, ballet flats or matching trainers are practical, and test the wing width against a doorway at home before you go.
28. Retro Flight Attendant Costume
The retro flight attendant is all about neatness. A fitted navy, red or powder-blue shift with a matching cropped jacket, a printed neck scarf, a small pillbox hat, a name badge and white gloves make the uniform. A smooth bun, rolled updo or tidy shoulder-length waves sit under the hat, which I pin through the hair from both sides so it stays at the right tilt. Precise liner, tidy brows, rosy blush and red lipstick finish the face. A vintage-style travel bag is the prop and holds your belongings. Sheer tights keep the uniform look, low pumps or kitten heels are plenty, and a small set of decorative wings on the jacket clinches it.
29. Astronaut Costume With Silver Jumpsuit
The silver astronaut is comfortable, which is rare for a futuristic costume. A white or metallic utility jumpsuit with removable space patches on the sleeves and chest makes the base, plus a wide silver belt, reflective gloves and a light clear helmet or a visor headband. Full helmets fog up and muffle every conversation, so for a party I'd go with the visor. A sleek ponytail, low bun or silver bob wig works, with chrome shadow, graphic liner and pearly gloss. A plush planet or metallic backpack makes a safe prop. Wear white high-tops or silver ankle boots, and reflective tape along the arms and legs adds depth in photos and visibility outdoors.
30. Mad Scientist Costume
The mad scientist is clever and built from things most people own. An oversized white lab coat over a bright shirt with plaid trousers, a fitted jumpsuit or a simple dress is the base, plus goggles, rubber gloves, a bow tie and pens in the top pocket. Tease your hair into a deliberate mess or wear a wild grey-and-white wig. Smudged blue and purple shadow, defined brows and a vivid lip keep it lively. Plastic test tubes of coloured water or glitter are the props; I seal the caps with a wrap of tape, because glitter in a handbag never fully comes out. Colourful socks with white trainers and rolled sleeves finish the character.
31. Pop Art Comic Costume
Pop art is a makeup costume first and a clothing costume second. A bright red, blue or yellow dress with contrasting tights and bold accessories is the start, in a dot, graphic or speech-bubble print, or plain fabric with removable felt shapes. Smooth curls or a sharp bob wig suit the hair. Then outline your features with black cosmetic liner, add white highlight marks and space dots evenly across the cheeks; I stamp the dots with the flat end of a makeup sponge or a round brush so they're the same size. Liner on cheeks smudges with warmth, so set it with translucent powder. A speech-bubble sign, white gloves, a bright belt and single-colour shoes finish it.
32. Silent Movie Star Costume
A silent film star is greyscale from top to bottom. A vintage-style black dress with a white collar, grey stockings and a faux-fur stole make the body, with long gloves, pearls and a cloche hat or jewelled headband. A faux bob or softly waved black wig suits her. The grey makeup is what sells it: use skin-safe products, charcoal shadow, defined brows, grey contour and dark lipstick, and remember that colour anywhere, even pink lipstick or bright nail polish, breaks the effect. A small black frame or a white title card with a short, family-friendly line is the prop. Black T-strap shoes or low pumps finish the period shape.
33. Wind-Up Doll Costume
The wind-up doll has a slightly eerie charm that works for Halloween. A puff-sleeve dress with a full skirt, fitted waist and lace-trimmed collar is the base, with knee-high socks and ribbon bows. The key on the back is the giveaway, and it has to be light; I cut mine from foam board, paint it, and attach it to a short belt worn under the dress so it doesn't drag the fabric down. Precise curls, braided pigtails or a smooth wig with a big bow suit her, with round rosy cheeks, defined lashes, tiny freckles and a heart-shaped lip. A miniature toy box or decorated purse, Mary Janes or flat ankle boots, and a few stiff, mechanical poses complete her.
34. Garden Gnome Costume
A garden gnome is unexpected and easy to adapt for the weather. A blue blouse or tunic with a brown skirt, green trousers or loose overalls is the base, plus a wide belt and a tall red felt hat. Tall felt hats flop over by mid-evening, so I stiffen mine with a quick coat of watered-down PVA glue and let it dry over a cone of paper. Two braids or loose waves showing below the hat, rosy blush, small faux freckles and a bright lip look storybook. Carry a basket of artificial mushrooms, small flowers or a tiny watering can. Striped tights or thick knee socks keep you warm, and brown lace-up boots or sturdy clogs suit an outdoor party.
35. Celestial Moon Costume
The celestial moon is a dreamy look built from silver, navy and midnight blue. A flowing dark-blue maxi or a silver jumpsuit with removable star appliqués is the base, under a sheer cape scattered with tiny metallic dots and a crescent-moon headpiece on a comfortable band. Make the moon headpiece from something stiff and light, such as craft foam covered in silver fabric, because a heavy crescent tips forward. Long waves, a braided updo or a silver-grey wig suit her, with blended navy and silver shadow, pearl accents at the temples and glossy mauve lips. A star-shaped clutch is enough to carry, silver tights help under shorter outfits, and metallic ankle boots or embellished flats finish it.
How Sequins, Tulle and Velvet Behave Over a Long Night
Several of these looks depend on party fabrics, and each one has a habit worth knowing before you're three hours in.
- Sequins scratch. The insides of your arms and the sides of your torso take the most friction, so a soft long-sleeve layer or a smooth slip under a sequin dress saves a lot of irritation.
- Tulle crushes and catches. It flattens when you sit for long periods and snags on velcro, rough brick and other people's jewellery. Shake it out when you stand up and keep velcro fastenings well away from it.
- Velvet marks easily. Sitting leaves a shiny patch on the back of the skirt, and it shows every speck of lint, so keep a lint roller in your bag.
- Faux fur sheds onto everything near it, including dark makeup and other guests. Shake it hard outdoors before you wear it.
Think about the toilet too. Jumpsuits, bodysuits and anything with a back zip mean undressing completely in a small space, which is no fun with wings or a cape on. If you'll be out all evening, separates are the kinder choice.
Wings Pinned, Shoes Tested, Ready to Leave
A costume should be fun to look at and easy to live in for the whole night. This list covers the classic spooky looks, colourful DIY builds, fantasy characters and plenty of outfits made from ordinary clothes. Start with the idea that suits you and the party, then think honestly about how long you'll be out, how cold it will be and how far you'll walk. Before you leave, tug every wing, cape, hat and prop to see what moves, and walk around the house in your shoes for ten minutes. Then make sure the hair, makeup and accessories all tell the same story, because that is what turns a plain base outfit into a character.
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