A cold October night shouldn't force a choice between a costume people recognize and being able to feel your fingers. The costumes below are built so the warm layers are part of the design: thermal tops, fleece-lined tights, thick socks, gloves and coats that do costume work instead of hiding it. You'll find classic monsters, animals, storybook characters, retro looks and simple homemade builds for different ages. Each one comes with the full outfit, plus hair, makeup, props and shoes, and many of the pieces are probably in your closet or the nearest thrift store already. As someone who sews these, I'll also tell you where the felt, glue and tape will hold and where they won't.
Three Layers Under Every Costume Here
Every outfit in this list is really the same three layers with a costume on top. Getting them in the right order matters more than how thick any one of them is.
- Base layer next to the skin. Wool or a synthetic thermal is best. Cotton soaks up sweat while you walk and then holds the cold against you once you stop.
- A warm middle layer. Fleece is light, cheap and doesn't mind being crushed under a costume.
- The costume itself, which often doubles as the outer layer: a cape, a puffer, a faux fur coat or a robe.
Size the costume piece for what goes underneath. If you're buying or sewing an outer garment, try it on over the base and middle layers, then reach forward and sit down. Tight shoulders and sleeves are where these costumes fail first.
- Hands, feet and head lose heat fastest, so gloves, wool socks and a hat do more than an extra sweater.
- Children in car seats should ride without puffy coats under the harness. Put the bulky costume layer on at the curb.
- Plan where layers come off indoors. A tote bag for gloves and a scarf saves a lot of lost pieces.
1. Classic Witch Costume With Velvet Cape
The usual witch dress is thin, so I swap it for layers that look the part. Start with a black thermal top and fleece-lined leggings, then a long velvet dress or full skirt. A lined purple or forest-green cape gives warmth and the dramatic shape people expect. The pointed hat sits over loose waves, braids or a warm wig cap. Soft smoky eyes and dark berry lipstick keep it pretty rather than frightening. Carry a small decorative broom or a fabric-covered spellbook. Thick socks and flat buckled ankle boots handle the walking, and fingerless knit gloves help on a long night. A wide brim catches the wind, so I sew a length of round elastic inside the hat to go under the hair at the back.
2. Cozy Black Cat Costume With Faux Fur Coat
Soft textures make a black cat naturally suited to cold weather. Build the base with a black turtleneck bodysuit or fitted sweater, insulated leggings and a cropped black faux fur coat. Attach a flexible fabric tail to the waistband and wear a padded ear headband over sleek hair or a high ponytail. Draw a small black nose and delicate whiskers, then add winged liner. Black knit gloves turn into paws with small felt pads on the palms. I'd stitch those pads rather than glue them, because glue on knit cracks the first time you flex your hand. Choose thick socks and combat boots over thin costume shoes. A tiny bell collar goes on last, above the scarf.
3. Red Riding Hood Costume With Wool Cape
The red wool cape is both the signature piece and the warmest part of this storybook costume. Layer a cream thermal under a white blouse, then add a black lace-up vest and a knee-length red or plaid skirt, with fleece-lined tights or leggings underneath. The hooded cape should reach at least the hips and leave room for a thin cardigan. Soft curls or two loose braids suit it, with natural rosy makeup and red lip tint. Carry a lightweight wicker basket lined with a gingham napkin. Brown lace-up boots, wool socks and knit gloves keep it practical. If you're sewing the cape, I'd cut it from wool or a heavy fleece and skip the lining; red satin linings slip off the shoulders all evening.
4. Scarecrow Costume With Plaid Flannel Layers
Few costumes take autumn layers as easily as a friendly scarecrow. Begin with a thermal henley, then an oversized plaid flannel and a quilted brown vest. Wear relaxed denim over long underwear, with patches of colorful felt around the knees and pockets. A floppy hat over braids, pigtails or tousled hair holds heat in. Draw a stitched smile with soft brown liner and put warm orange blush on the cheeks. Tuck short raffia pieces around the cuffs and collar, checking that nothing scratches. A small fabric sunflower is the prop. Wool socks, weatherproof work boots and insulated gloves with felt patches finish it. Raffia sheds everywhere, so I tack a strip of it into the inside of each cuff with a few large stitches.
5. Lumberjack Costume With Sherpa Jacket
When the forecast feels more like winter, the lumberjack turns your warmest clothes into the costume itself. Wear a red-and-black plaid flannel over a thermal crewneck, then a sherpa-lined denim or canvas jacket. Straight-leg jeans hide long underwear without bulk. Top it with a knit beanie and a beard, drawn on with makeup or a removable faux one. Suspenders and a foam or cardboard ax make the theme clear; keep the prop light and family-friendly. Leather-look insulated gloves, thick hiking socks and lace-up boots handle damp sidewalks. Most of it comes straight back out of the costume and into your wardrobe. A faux beard's elastic digs behind the ears after an hour, so I swap it for a wider band or a hook at the back.
6. Snow Queen Costume With White Faux Fur Cape
Plush layers give a snow queen a real cold-weather advantage. Start with a pale blue thermal top and fleece leggings under a long gown in silver, white or ice blue. Add a full white faux fur cape with a lined hood or high collar. Hair goes in a smooth braid, a pale wig or a jeweled updo, topped with a lightweight crystal-style crown. Silver shimmer on the eyes, cool pink lips and a few face gems give a frosted look. Carry a cardboard snowflake wand dusted with glitter, and keep exposed skin covered with white gloves and lined silver boots. With a wide enough gown, an extra knit skirt hides underneath. Cutting faux fur makes a mess, so I cut from the back with a craft knife through the backing only, never through the pile.
7. Viking Explorer Costume With Faux Fur Vest
This Viking-inspired explorer works because every warm layer suits the theme. Wear a long-sleeve thermal tunic over fitted leggings or thick dark trousers, with a wide faux leather belt and a brown faux fur vest past the waist. A heavy woven cape pinned at one shoulder blocks the wind. Braid the hair or wear a low ponytail or textured wig, and skip horned helmets in favor of a plain faux leather headband. Earthy contour and smudged liner give a weathered face. Carry a rolled fabric map or a light cardboard shield. Wrapped leg warmers, wool socks, gloves and flat brown boots finish it. A one-shoulder cape drags the fastening side down, so I sew the brooch to a small tab of felt rather than pinning straight through the cape.
8. Medieval Archer Costume With Hooded Cloak
Long sleeves, tall boots and a substantial cloak make the archer one of the warmer picks here. Begin with a fitted thermal and insulated leggings in black, brown or forest green, then a long tunic, a faux leather vest and a wide belt. A lined hooded cloak is the main visual piece and covers nearly everything. Keep the hair in a braid or low ponytail and the makeup earthy. Make a safe quiver from painted cardboard and fill it with soft foam-tipped arrows, never real equipment. Fingerless gloves go over thin thermal gloves. Thick socks and knee-high riding boots finish it. Cloak hems pick up mud on wet grass, which is why I'd cut it to hang just above the ankle.
9. Pirate Captain Costume With Long Brocade Coat
The pirate captain's warmth lives in one ornate coat. Wear a cream turtleneck or thermal blouse under a dark waistcoat, with black trousers over a fitted base layer. Choose a knee-length brocade, velvet or wool-look coat in burgundy, navy or black, then add a wide belt, a sash and tall boot covers if you like. Loose curls, a low ponytail or a tucked wig fit under a tricorn-style hat. Smudged liner and warm contour make a sea-worn face. Carry a rolled treasure map or a light foam telescope rather than a weapon. Lined gloves, thick socks and sturdy black boots handle uneven paths. A sash tied over a coat keeps loosening, so I stitch the knot closed and slide the sash on and off like a belt.
10. Detective Costume With Plaid Trench Coat
A good detective costume is warm and still looks dressed, not like a coat thrown over clothes. Start with a neutral turtleneck, wool trousers and a button-front sweater vest, then a long plaid or tan trench with room for a thin insulated jacket underneath. A classic ear-flap detective cap covers a low bun, short hair or tucked braids. Keep the makeup natural with defined brows. A magnifying glass, a small notebook and a pencil tell the story, while leather-look gloves and a plaid scarf add warmth. Thick socks and brown ankle boots or loafers with grippy soles finish it. Trench coats are cut for rain, not cold, so the insulated layer underneath is the part that matters. It's a good fit for schools and offices.
11. Mad Scientist Costume With Puffer Vest
The mad scientist hides a whole winter outfit under one white coat. Wear a thermal mock-neck, warm trousers and a lightweight puffer vest, then an oversized lab coat a size up so the insulation doesn't restrict your arms. Tease the hair up, wear a messy white wig or add temporary silver color. Smudge gray shadow at the temples and draw raised brows for the expression. Safety goggles, rubber-look gloves and plastic measuring cups are the accessories, with a clear container of colorful pom-poms instead of liquid. Patterned wool socks and sneakers finish it. Reflective tape on the coat helps after dark. Iron-on reflective tape doesn't stick well to cheap polyester lab coats, so I sew it on with a long machine stitch.
12. Astronaut Costume With Insulated Jumpsuit
An astronaut suit has room for serious layers. Begin with a moisture-wicking thermal shirt and leggings, then an insulated jumpsuit in white, silver or orange. Add homemade mission patches and strips of reflective tape. A silver puffer vest can go over or under the suit, depending on fit. Wear a snug beanie under a lightweight costume helmet that leaves the face open. Silver eye makeup and small star stickers keep it fun. A painted cardboard control panel or a small backpack becomes the prop. Insulated gloves, thick socks and white snow boots or high-top sneakers finish it. I make the patches from felt with a fabric glue border and then a running stitch around the edge, since glue alone peels on a slick jumpsuit.
13. Retro Ski Instructor Costume With Puffer Jacket
Bright color blocking turns real winter clothing into a retro ski instructor. Wear a fitted thermal turtleneck with high-waisted stirrup leggings or insulated ski pants, then a cropped color-block puffer in bold shades like pink and turquoise. Hair goes in a high ponytail or under a ribbed headband. Mirrored sunglasses, rosy cheeks and glossy lips complete the throwback. Carry light ski goggles or a cardboard trail map rather than real equipment. Knit gloves and leg warmers add texture and warmth, with thick socks and snow boots. Nearly every piece is genuine cold-weather gear, which is why I rate it so highly for outdoor events. Thrift stores often have old ski jackets in exactly these colors in autumn.
14. Mountaineer Costume With Quilted Parka
For properly cold weather, dress as a mountaineer and let the heavy outerwear tell the story. Start with thermal base layers, fleece pants and a thick half-zip pullover, then a quilted parka in a bright color so you stay visible after dark. A knit beanie, a neck gaiter and clear-lens goggles keep the face unobstructed. Wind-reddened blush and tousled hair suggest you just came down the mountain. Strap a rolled foam sleeping mat to an empty backpack. Gloves should be insulated but flexible enough to hold treats or a phone. Wool socks and hiking boots finish it, and a paper summit sign makes a fun photo prop. Leave the backpack mostly empty; a loaded pack gets heavy fast on a long walk.
15. Park Ranger Costume With Fleece Jacket
Earth tones and practical layers make the park ranger simple to put together. Wear an olive thermal under a tan button-front uniform shirt, then a dark green fleece or lined utility vest, with brown cargo pants over long underwear. Pin a homemade ranger badge on the chest and wear a wide-brim felt hat over a braid, bun or short hair. Natural makeup and warm blush suit the outdoorsy character. Carry binoculars, a folded trail map or a plush woodland animal. Add a neck scarf and thin insulated gloves as it gets colder, with hiking socks and trail boots. Keep every patch obviously fictional so nobody mistakes it for a real uniform. I cut badges from felt with a cardboard backing so they don't droop on fleece.
16. Cozy Bear Costume With Brown Teddy Coat
A brown teddy coat is the fuzzy base for a warm bear. Wear a chocolate turtleneck and fleece-lined brown leggings underneath so the color runs head to toe, then a long sherpa or teddy coat that closes fully. Round felt ears go on a knit headband or a matching beanie, with the hair in a low bun or tucked inside. Brown face makeup draws a rounded nose, a short muzzle line and soft cheek shading. Knit mittens become paws with small felt pads. Carry a light honey-pot bucket for treats. Wool socks and flat brown faux fur boots finish it. Single-layer felt ears flop, so I sew two layers together with a strip of stiff interfacing between them.
17. Polar Bear Costume With White Puffer Coat
A white puffer coat makes the polar bear a strong choice for freezing weather. Layer a cream thermal and white fleece leggings under a long insulated coat. Add a white knit beanie with rounded fabric ears sewn or clipped on top, and tuck your hair away or wear a short white wig underneath. Paint a small black nose with pale gray shading at the cheeks. White mittens with gray felt paw pads protect your fingers, and a plush fish or snowflake treat bag is the prop. Thick socks and white snow boots finish it. White disappears against pale surroundings at night, so add reflective accessories. White also shows every smudge; I'd clip the ears rather than sew them so you can wash the beanie.
18. Red Fox Costume With Rust Faux Fur Coat
Rust, cream and black make a fox that looks more put together than an animal onesie. Begin with a burnt-orange turtleneck, thermal leggings and a rust faux fur coat. Pin a cream faux fur panel down the front for the lighter chest. Pointed fabric ears go on a knit headband, with a high ponytail or soft waves underneath. Orange blush, a black nose and fine whisker dots handle the makeup. Fix a full fabric tail to a sturdy belt rather than to delicate clothing. Black gloves stand in for paws, with thick socks and black knee-high boots. A small woodland treat basket finishes it. A full tail swings and pulls, so I sew it to a belt loop of strong webbing and stuff it lightly so it doesn't drag.
19. Gray Wolf Costume With Hooded Sherpa Jacket
A gray wolf can look dramatic without scary makeup or uncomfortable pieces. Wear a charcoal thermal, gray fleece leggings and a hooded sherpa jacket in mixed grays. Put the pointed ears on the hood itself so the wind can't blow them off. A long faux fur tail fastens to a hidden belt at the back. Braid long hair or tuck it in the hood, leaving the face clear. Silver-gray shadow, a black nose and extended eyeliner suggest the wolf. Gray knit gloves with felt pads keep it coordinated, with thick socks and winter boots. A fabric moon bag holds treats. Sherpa is thick to sew through by hand; I use a heavier needle and stitch the ears through the hood's lining only so the stitches don't show outside.
20. Penguin Costume With Black Puffer Coat
A black puffer already has the rounded shape a penguin needs. Wear a white thermal sweater and black fleece-lined pants, then zip the black puffer over the top. Add a removable white felt belly panel to the front. A black beanie with small felt eyes and a soft orange beak above the forehead covers the head, with hair tucked in or in a low bun. Orange-tinted blush and simple liner are enough makeup. Black mittens read as flippers without limiting your hands. Orange boot covers go over lined snow boots; check they don't drag. Carry a plush fish or an icy-blue bucket. Don't sew through a puffer's shell, because the needle holes leak filling; I attach the belly panel with safety pins through the outer fabric only.
21. Fuzzy Bumblebee Costume With Sherpa Hoodie
Stripes and wings go over a warm hoodie, which is what makes this bumblebee cold-friendly. Start with a black thermal and black fleece leggings, then a yellow sherpa hoodie or fleece jacket with wide black felt stripes across the body. A padded antenna headband sits over a high bun, braids or a black knit hat. Yellow shadow, rosy cheeks and a small black nose keep the makeup sweet. Fasten lightweight fabric wings with elastic straps sized to go over the jacket. Black gloves, thick striped socks and supportive boots finish it, with a flower bag or honeycomb bucket. On sherpa, felt stripes sink into the pile and look patchy, so I'd cut them from black fleece, which sits on top more cleanly.
22. Ladybug Costume With Red Quilted Jacket
A red quilted jacket gives the ladybug structure and warmth at once. Wear a black turtleneck and insulated black leggings as the base. Add round black felt spots with removable fabric tape or safety pins placed from inside. A black beanie with soft antennae covers the head, and a low ponytail or tucked braid prevents tangles. Red blush, fine black liner and small dots at the outer corners of the eyes handle the makeup. Light red wings can go over the jacket, kept short enough for doorways. Black knit gloves, wool socks and flat ankle boots finish it, with a leaf-shaped treat bag. I cut the spots in slightly different sizes; perfectly identical circles look printed rather than handmade.
23. Monarch Butterfly Costume With Orange Cape
Instead of bare arms and thin wings, this butterfly is built around a warm orange-and-black cape. Begin with a black thermal bodysuit or turtleneck and fleece-lined leggings, then a fitted black cardigan under a wing-shaped cape painted or appliqued in symmetrical orange, black and white. An antenna headband goes over a sleek bun, curls or a black knit ear warmer. Copper shadow and small white dots echo the wings. Black gloves keep hands warm, with a light flower prop or floral bucket. Thick socks and lace-up boots give secure footing. Closed at the front, the cape blocks the wind. I add a wrist loop at each wing tip so you can open the wings for photos and drop them to walk.
24. Owl Costume With Feathered Poncho
A layered poncho gives this owl soft wings and plenty of room underneath. Wear a cream thermal sweater with brown corduroy pants or thick leggings, then a lined brown poncho covered in overlapping felt feathers in tan, rust and gold. The wide shape leaves space for a fleece jacket. Top it with a brown knit hat with felt ear tufts and large fabric eye circles, hair in two low braids or tucked under. Bronze eye makeup and a small gold beak painted above the lip make a friendly face. Brown gloves, wool socks and flat boots finish it, with a plush mouse or small book as the prop. Feathers take time, so I sew them in overlapping rows from the hem upward, like roof shingles.
25. Fluffy Sheep Costume With Cream Sherpa Set
A cream sherpa set makes a sheep as comfortable as loungewear. Start with a thermal top and leggings, then a fluffy cream zip jacket and matching fleece joggers. A cream beanie gets soft black ears on each side. Natural curls suit the theme, though any hair can tuck under the hat. Paint a small black nose and put pale pink blush across the cheeks. Black knit mittens and black boot covers make the hooves, and a little removable tail pins to the back of the jacket. Thick socks and flat black winter boots finish it, with a basket of faux grass or white pom-poms. Sherpa sets pill and mat where a bag strap rubs, so I'd carry the basket in your hand rather than on the shoulder.
26. Dalmatian Costume With Spotted Faux Fur Coat
A white faux fur coat with removable black spots is warm and easy to read. Wear a black thermal turtleneck and fleece leggings under it, or go all white for a brighter look. Irregular black felt circles go on with temporary fabric adhesive. Floppy spotted ears go on a white headband or beanie, with hair low or tucked away so the ears show. Paint a black nose, a few whisker dots and one spot around an eye. A red collar or scarf adds contrast. Black gloves, wool socks and weatherproof boots finish it, with a plush bone or paw-print bag. Temporary adhesive grips the backing of faux fur poorly, so I part the pile and glue the spot to the backing, then fluff the fur back over its edges.
27. Cozy Dragon Costume With Green Fleece Onesie
A roomy fleece onesie is a good base for a warm dragon. Choose a green or purple hooded one big enough to go over thermal underwear. Sew or pin soft felt spikes down the hood and back, then add a padded tail that ends above the ankles. Braid long hair or tuck it in the hood. Iridescent green shadow, a faint scale pattern at the temples and a glossy lip work for the face. Knit gloves get small, soft felt claws. Wear wool socks and sturdy boots under the wide legs instead of slippery novelty slippers. A glittery foam egg or castle-shaped bag is the prop. Felt spikes flatten when you lean back on a chair, so I stuff each one with a little fiberfill before sewing it shut.
28. Friendly Monster Costume With Colorful Fleece
Colorful fleece makes the friendly monster one of the warmest homemade choices here. Wear a bright thermal and thick joggers, then an oversized fleece hoodie in teal, purple, pink or lime. Decorate it with contrasting felt spots, soft horns and a row of fabric spikes, keeping it cheerful. Tease the hair into a fun shape, color it temporarily or tuck it into the hood. Vivid shadow, rosy cheeks and a few painted freckles finish the face. Oversized knit gloves become paws with soft felt claws. Thick striped socks and supportive boots, plus a fuzzy bucket or plush friend. Fleece doesn't fray, so I cut every shape raw and stitch close to the edge, which is far faster than hemming.
29. Mummy Costume With Wrapped Thermal Layers
A mummy doesn't need thin gauze or bare skin. Start with cream thermal leggings and a fitted long-sleeve fleece top. Wrap wide strips of off-white jersey loosely around the arms, torso and legs, leaving room to bend. Secure every strip with hidden stitches or safety pins. Wrap a cream beanie in the same fabric and tuck the hair inside, keeping the eyes and face clear. Taupe shadow and pale beige makeup give an aged but friendly look. Cream gloves continue the coverage. Thick socks and tan boots finish it, with only the boot shafts wrapped so the soles stay clear. A small fabric scroll is the prop. Jersey curls at cut edges, which is useful here: I tear it into strips and let them roll.
30. Skeleton Costume With Fleece Jumpsuit
A black fleece jumpsuit keeps a skeleton warm and shows the bones clearly. Wear a thermal base first, then attach white felt bones to the front and sleeves of the jumpsuit. Keep the bones bold and simplified so they read from a distance. Tuck hair under a black beanie or add temporary white streaks. White and gray face makeup can suggest a skull with rounded eye shading, a small dark nose and simple tooth lines, nothing graphic. Black gloves with white finger bones finish the top half. Wear wool socks and black boots under the jumpsuit. Reflective white tape next to some bones helps after dark. I lay out the whole skeleton with pins while the jumpsuit is on a person, since bones placed flat on a table end up in the wrong spots once it's worn.
31. Glam Vampire Costume With Faux Fur Cape
A glam vampire can be fully covered and still look like evening wear. Wear a burgundy velvet turtleneck dress over fleece-lined black tights, with a long black faux fur cape and high collar. A fitted thermal camisole under the dress adds a hidden layer. Hair goes in glossy waves, a smooth updo or a dark wig with a subtle widow's peak. Smoky plum eyes, softly sculpted cheeks and deep red lipstick do the work, no blood effects needed. A jeweled choker and a vintage-style ring add detail. Carry a goblet stuffed with red tissue paper or a small ornate book. Black gloves, wool socks and stable block-heel boots finish it. A heavy fur cape pulls back on the throat, so I sew a hidden hook and bar at each shoulder to share the weight.
32. Victorian Ghost Costume With White Wool Coat
This ghost uses pale layers and old-fashioned shapes rather than scares. Begin with a white thermal and fleece-lined tights under a long ivory skirt, then a high-neck lace blouse, a knitted shawl and a fitted white or pale gray wool coat. Hair goes in loose waves or a slightly undone bun, dusted with temporary white color if you like. Pearly foundation, cool gray shadow and muted lips give a faded look. White knit gloves and an antique-style brooch suit the period. Carry a battery candle lantern or a fabric-covered diary. Thick socks and cream lace-up boots finish it. A long ivory skirt picks up dirt at the hem within minutes outdoors, so I'd hem it to clear the ground by a little.
33. Pumpkin Costume With Orange Puffer Jacket
An orange puffer turns into a cheerful pumpkin with a few additions. Wear a green thermal turtleneck, black fleece leggings and the roundest orange puffer you own. Curved strips of darker orange felt suggest the pumpkin sections. A green knit beanie with a soft brown stem and a felt leaf keeps your head warm and finishes the shape. Tuck hair inside or wear low braids. Orange blush, gold shadow and small green accents make festive makeup. Black gloves and boots keep the base clean, and a vine-wrapped bucket or a mini plush pumpkin is the prop. It's bright, warm and easy to take off indoors. Pinning felt to a puffer works best along the existing quilting lines, where the pins sit flat.
34. Hot Chocolate Costume With Brown Puffer Vest
Plush brown layers and soft toppings make a hot chocolate costume for a cold night. Start with a chocolate thermal set, or a brown sweater with fleece leggings. Add a rounded brown puffer vest with white faux fur trim around the collar for the whipped cream. A white knit hat gets marshmallow-shaped pom-poms. Keep hair in a low ponytail or under the hat. Bronze makeup, rosy cheeks and a glossy neutral lip match the palette. Carry a cardboard mug sleeve or a cocoa-packet bag. White gloves, cream socks and brown boots finish it, and a striped fleece scarf can be the cinnamon stick. Pom-poms made from yarn hold their shape better than store-bought craft ones, which flatten on a hat.
35. S’more Costume With Quilted Layers
This s'more is warm, funny and simple to build from square quilted pieces. Wear a cream fleece sweatshirt and matching insulated pants for the marshmallow, with a brown quilted vest for the chocolate. Make two tan squares from foam board or fabric-covered card, with dotted cracker details, and join them at the shoulders like a sandwich board. Keep the panels above the knees so you can walk safely. A cream beanie, natural makeup and a little toasted brown blush on the forehead and cheeks finish the face. Brown gloves, thick socks and tan boots complete it, with a felt campfire bucket and no real flames. Foam board softens in damp air, so I cover it in fabric or seal it before an outdoor night.
36. Gumball Machine Costume With Clear Raincoat
A clear raincoat traps warmth and still shows off the gumballs. Wear a red thermal turtleneck and warm pants, then a clear vinyl raincoat over a fleece vest covered in multicolored pom-poms. Leave room around the neckline so nothing touches the face. A red knit beanie gets a silver felt coin slot. Tuck hair in or gather it low. Bright shadow and rosy cheeks suit the palette, with red gloves and waterproof boots. A cardboard dispenser label sits at the waist. It suits damp weather well, since the vinyl keeps the design dry. Vinyl doesn't breathe, so the vest underneath gets warm fast indoors; I'd open the coat once you're inside. Hot glue holds pom-poms to fleece, but stitch the ones near the zipper.
37. Crayon Costume With Hooded Sweatshirt
A crayon is color blocking and an oversized sweatshirt that fits easily over thermals. Pick one main shade and wear a matching fleece hoodie with warm leggings or joggers. Black felt bands at the wrists, waist and ankles mimic the wrapper. Make a cone-shaped hat from felt and attach it to a snug knit cap so it stays put. Match the eye makeup to the color and tuck the hair or wear a low braid. Matching gloves and thick socks keep it head to toe, with sneakers or waterproof boots. A cardboard coloring-page folder or an oversized foam crayon is the prop. A felt cone collapses without help, so I roll it around a cone of thin craft foam before stitching it to the cap.
38. Eighties Workout Costume With Leg Warmers
Athletic layers stand in for a thin leotard, which is what keeps this eighties workout look warm. Begin with a bright thermal bodysuit or fitted long-sleeve top and fleece-lined leggings, then an oversized cropped sweatshirt that still covers the waist. Contrasting shorts over the leggings give the aerobics silhouette. Hair goes in a high side ponytail with a scrunchie, or a sweatband over natural curls. Blue or purple shadow, pink blush and glossy lips go bold. Wristbands, fingerless gloves and thick leg warmers add insulation, with high-tops and warm socks. Roll a light foam mat with a bright strap. Leg warmers slide down to the ankle, so I thread a narrow elastic through the top edge of each one.
39. Seventies Disco Costume With Faux Fur Coat
A statement faux fur coat makes this disco costume warm and glamorous at once. Wear a metallic turtleneck or a sequined long-sleeve top with high-waisted velvet flares, with thermal leggings underneath if the trousers have room. Add a long faux fur coat in cream, brown or a bright color. Hair goes in big curls, a rounded natural shape or a feathered wig. Shimmer on the eyes, defined lashes and glossy lips catch the light. Oversized sunglasses and hoops add period detail. Carry a small mirrored clutch. Knit gloves, thick socks and wide-heeled platform ankle boots finish it, and the coat can come off indoors. Sequins scratch under the arms when a coat goes on top, so I'd pick a top with a smooth lining.
40. Cozy Wizard Costume With Starry Robe
The wizard's robe is roomy enough to cover a full winter outfit. Start with a navy thermal sweater and fleece-lined trousers, then a long quilted robe or lined cape scattered with silver stars and moons. A felt pointed hat fits over a close beanie, which keeps it upright and your head warm. Natural waves, a long silver wig or a tucked braid all suit it. Midnight-blue shadow and small star accents make the makeup. Carry a painted cardboard wand or a fabric-covered book, and add silver gloves and a thick scarf. Wool socks and black lace-up boots disappear under the robe. I cut the stars from iron-on metallic vinyl rather than glitter felt, because glitter felt sheds onto everything nearby.
Attaching Felt Without Ruining the Coat
Almost every costume here adds felt spots, stripes, ears or patches to a real coat or hoodie you'll want to wear again. How you attach them decides whether the piece survives the night and whether the coat survives the costume.
What holds, fabric by fabric
- Fleece and sweatshirt fabric: a few hand stitches around the edge hold best. Fabric glue works if you give it the full drying time on the bottle, usually overnight.
- Puffers: never stitch through the shell, because filling escapes through the holes. Use safety pins through the outer fabric only, placed along the quilting lines.
- Faux fur: part the pile and attach to the backing, then brush the fur back over the edges.
- Knit gloves and hats: stitch only. Glue cracks as soon as the knit stretches.
Why hot glue lets you down outdoors
Hot glue goes brittle in cold air and pops off smooth or stretchy fabric. It's fine for cardboard props and craft foam, but for anything on clothing I'd treat it as a temporary tack and add a stitch or a pin behind it. Removable fixings also mean the coat goes back in the closet in one piece on November 1.
Test-Walk the Whole Outfit Before October 31
A cold-weather costume works when warmth is part of the plan from the start, not a coat thrown on at the door. Every costume above leans on capes, coats, fleece, sherpa, velvet, puffers, thermals or sturdy boots to do some of the costume work. Pick one with room for a fitted base layer if you'll be outside for hours. Gloves, thick socks, hats and fleece-lined tights make a real difference and rarely cover the important details. A week or so before Halloween, put the whole thing on and walk around the block, sit in the car and climb a few stairs. Whatever pinches, slips or drops off will show itself then, while there's still time to stitch it.
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