A plain pair of denim dungarees is one of the most useful things a costume maker can own. Below are thirty characters, jobs, animals and foods built on blue denim, colored shortalls, striped bibs and utility overalls, mostly by changing the shirt underneath and adding a few accessories. Overalls work so well as a base because they're roomy, they layer over thermals, and the flat bib is the perfect place for a patch or emblem. Nearly everything here can come from your closet, a thrift store and the craft drawer. For each one I've covered the shirt, hair, makeup, prop and the shoes you'll actually survive the night in, plus how to add details without damaging the overalls themselves.
Attaching Patches You Can Peel Off on November 1st
Almost every costume below adds something to the bib or legs: an emblem, felt spots, stripes, seeds or a name patch. How you fix it decides whether you still have usable overalls afterward. Denim is a heavy, slightly textured weave, and that changes which methods hold.
- Safety pins from the inside: my default for anything flat and light. Push the pin through from the back of the bib so only a tiny dot shows on the front, and use two pins per patch so it can't swing.
- Tacking stitches: a few long hand stitches in strong thread hold all night and unpick in a minute with a seam ripper. Best for anything a child will tug at.
- Adhesive fabric tape and craft glue dots: fine on smooth cotton, unreliable on denim. They peel within an hour once the fabric flexes at the knee.
- Iron-on adhesive: holds well but is effectively permanent and leaves a shiny patch when pulled off, so only use it on overalls you're happy to keep as costume overalls.
Felt is the easiest patch material because it doesn't fray, so you can cut a shape and attach it with no hemming. Thicker wool-blend felt keeps its shape far better than thin acrylic sheets, which stretch and curl after an evening of movement.
1. Mario Overall Costume
Mario needs only two colors to read: medium-blue denim overalls over a bright red long-sleeve shirt. The cap does the rest. I cut a white felt circle with a red felt M and stitch it on with a few loose running stitches rather than gluing, because glue soaks through cap fabric and leaves a stiff patch. White gloves and brown work boots finish the outfit, and a stick-on mustache or a quick washable one drawn on is enough. Tuck your hair under the cap or wear a short brown wig. A green cardboard tube or a gold craft-foam coin makes a light prop. Buy the overalls a size loose so you can bend and climb without the straps cutting in.
2. Luigi Overall Costume
Luigi is built exactly like his brother with green in place of red: classic blue overalls, a solid green long-sleeve shirt and a green cap with a white circle and a green L. White gloves, brown ankle boots and a neat painted mustache bring it together, with short brown hair or a tidy wig under the cap. A green paper pipe, a plush mushroom or a handmade question-mark block works as a prop. If you're making both caps, cut the circles from one sheet of felt so the whites match in photos. Full-length overalls suit a cold night; shortalls with green knee socks suit a warm one.
3. Minion Overall Costume
The goggles make the Minion, so that's where I'd spend effort. Round silver costume goggles over a yellow beanie (or a temporary yellow hair spray, which does rub off onto collars) sit above blue overalls and a yellow long-sleeve shirt, with black gloves and black sneakers or lace-up boots. A black felt emblem on the bib, held with two small safety pins from the inside, avoids marking the denim. Yellow face makeup is optional; I'd skip it for kids since a full face of yellow cream paint transfers onto everything they hug. A plush banana is the joke prop. This is a good one for a group, where each person changes goggle style or hair to suggest a different Minion.
4. Chucky Overall Costume
For a playful, non-graphic take on Chucky, the detail lives on the overalls: blue denim decorated with colorful painted or patched shapes on the bib and legs. Underneath goes a striped long-sleeve in red, blue, green and yellow, then red high-tops and bright socks. A short orange-red wig is the signature; budget wigs in this shade shed, so I give them a shake and a light mist of hairspray outside before wearing. Freckles, light brows and a few stitched lines in washable eyeliner keep the face stylized. A small colorful toy box makes a better prop than anything frightening. Cuff the legs once for that childlike shape.
5. Scarecrow Overall Costume
The scarecrow is the classic overall costume, and the one where comfort is easiest to get wrong. Real straw scratches and sheds everywhere, so I tie raffia or soft yarn at the cuffs instead. A red, orange or brown plaid flannel goes under faded or patched overalls, with a floppy straw hat, a fabric sunflower and comfortable brown boots. Loose braids or hair tucked under the hat both work. A small triangle nose, freckles and gentle stitched lines around the mouth in washable makeup finish the face. A little fabric crow or a light basket makes the prop. Leggings under the overalls add warmth at a pumpkin patch.
6. Farmer Overall Costume
A farmer is the costume you can make in ten minutes from what's already in the closet. Overalls go over a gingham button-down or plaid flannel with the sleeves rolled neatly at the wrists, then a straw hat, a red bandana and work boots or clean rain boots. Natural hair, low braids or a casual ponytail suit it, with minimal makeup and maybe a few freckles. A small empty produce basket, a plush farm animal or a toy watering can makes it clear. I like a felt name patch on the bib, pinned from behind so it lifts off afterward. Full-length overalls are warmer outdoors; shortalls are fine indoors.
7. Rosie The Riveter Overall Costume
Rosie the Riveter is mostly about the head scarf, so I spend my time getting the knot right. Fold a red-and-white polka-dot square into a triangle, tie it at the nape over an updo, then bring the ends up and knot them on top with the little ears showing. Dark denim overalls or a blue utility jumpsuit go over a fitted navy or chambray shirt with sleeves rolled above the elbow. Red lipstick, defined brows and clean skin give the 1940s face. Brown lace-up work boots or black ankle boots finish it. A removable workshop name badge is a neat touch. Keep jewelry off; it's workwear, and that's what makes it suit a work party.
8. Bob The Builder Overall Costume
Bob the Builder needs blue denim overalls, a red-and-orange plaid shirt, a bright yellow construction hat and brown work boots. A light fabric tool belt filled with foam or cardboard tools is far kinder than real ones, which pull the belt down and bruise hips by the end of the night. Short brown hair or a wig, natural makeup and rosy cheeks keep it friendly. Yellow felt knee patches, pinned rather than glued, add detail. Wear a green undershirt under the plaid if you need warmth. For kids it's especially practical, since the helmet and tools come off as soon as they get fussy.
9. Mechanic Overall Costume
A mechanic looks convincing with almost no preparation. Dark blue, gray or black utility overalls over a fitted white or charcoal tee, a removable embroidered-style name patch plus a second patch reading “Mechanic” on the chest, black boots, a canvas belt and clean work gloves tucked into a pocket. A low ponytail or a bandana over the hair suggests a day in the garage. For grease, I use a little gray eyeshadow on cheeks and hands; it gives the smudged effect and won't stain the overalls the way real grease or dark face paint can. A foam wrench or small empty toolbox finishes it, with one cuff rolled.
10. House Painter Overall Costume
White painter's overalls are the base, and the splashes are where you have a choice. If you want to reuse the overalls, cut paint-splash shapes from bright felt and pin or tack them on; if you don't mind, real fabric paint dabbed on and left to dry looks the most convincing. Put a solid red, blue or yellow T-shirt underneath so the white bib stands out, then add a canvas painter's cap, white sneakers and a light apron with empty pockets. A braid or bun keeps hair practical. Small streaks of bright face paint on the cheeks, kept well away from the eyes, and a clean foam brush with an empty miniature paint can make the props. It's a good pick for spirit days and last-minute plans.
11. Gardener Overall Costume
A gardener is a sweet alternative for anyone who doesn't want spooky. Sage, tan or classic denim overalls go over a floral blouse, green henley or striped long-sleeve, with waterproof ankle boots and a broad-brim straw hat trimmed with fabric flowers. I attach the flowers to the hatband with a few stitches so they can be snipped off and the hat reused. A braid or low bun sits under the brim; rosy cheeks are all the makeup needed. Gardening gloves go in the bib pocket, with a small watering can or basket of artificial vegetables in hand, and paper seed packets in another pocket. Keep props light; this one suits daytime and classrooms.
12. Train Engineer Overall Costume
Hickory-striped bib overalls, the blue-and-white pinstripe kind, are exactly what a traditional train engineer wore, so they're worth finding secondhand. Pair them with a plain white or navy button-down, a matching striped cap, a red neckerchief and sturdy black or brown work boots. Hair tucks under the cap or sits in two low braids. A touch of gray eyeshadow can suggest coal dust. A cardboard ticket punch, a small timetable or a toy train makes the prop, and a silver-tone watch clipped near the bib pocket adds a vintage note. It suits all ages and pairs neatly with conductor or passenger costumes for a group.
13. 1990s Hip-Hop Overall Costume
For 1990s streetwear, go loose: roomy overalls over a bold color-blocked tee or oversized sweatshirt, with one strap left hanging. If you'll be dancing, I'd secure that loose strap to the back of the bib with a small safety pin so it doesn't swing into anything. High-top sneakers, striped crew socks, a bucket hat and a light chain necklace complete the era. A high ponytail, braids or a flat-top wig all work. Bright liner or a glossy neutral lip keeps the face retro. A cardboard cassette player is a light prop. Thrifted men's overalls give a better baggy fit than anything sold as a costume.
14. 1990s Boy Band Overall Costume
A 1990s boy band costume is all about coordination. Baggy blue overalls over a fitted white tank or a solid tee, an open plaid shirt if it's cool, spotless white sneakers, a thin silver-tone chain and narrow tinted glasses. A center part, soft curls or a short frosted-tip wig sets the era; natural, camera-ready makeup with defined brows keeps it neat. A headset microphone or cardboard CD is the stage prop. For a group, everyone wears the same overall cut but a different shirt and hairstyle, which is how real bands of the era dressed. Rehearse one or two poses together and the theme sells itself in photos.
15. Country Singer Overall Costume
To make overalls stage-ready, put something with sparkle or fringe under them: a fitted sequined top, a gingham blouse or a fringed Western shirt. Flared or boot-cut overalls sit better over embroidered cowboy boots than straight legs do, and a coordinating belt finishes the waist. Big curls, a high ponytail or a waved wig give the performance hair, with defined lashes, rosy blush and a berry or red lip. A rhinestone-trimmed toy microphone or small acoustic guitar prop identifies the look without copying a specific star. I add felt star patches to the bib with a few tacking stitches for a handmade touch. It works well for a group of fictional bandmates.
16. Donna From Mamma Mia Overall Costume
Donna's look is relaxed island workwear: faded denim overalls cuffed slightly, a loose aqua or blue shirt and brown sandals or ankle boots. The loose, lived-in fit matters more than any accessory, so I'd choose a pair a size up and let them sit low. A long, softly curled blonde wig or naturally light hair worn in windblown waves gives the hair. Bronzer, soft mascara and a neutral lip keep the face sun-kissed. A small diary, a faux hotel key ring or a fabric tool pouch suggests her busy routine. A white tank under the shirt helps if it's warm. Two friends in colorful retro stage outfits make a good trio.
17. Ghost Pottery Scene Overall Costume
The Ghost pottery scene is a quiet movie reference that only the right crowd will get, which is half the fun. Loose light-wash denim overalls go over a fitted white tank or short-sleeve tee, with plain white sneakers or flat canvas shoes. A dark pixie wig or longer hair pinned back into a cropped shape gives the haircut. Keep the makeup luminous and natural. Carry a lump of air-dry clay on a cardboard wheel, or a finished gray clay bowl. I'd keep any real clay smudges tiny and dry; wet clay on denim wipes off, but on a white tee it leaves a gray stain. Save it for a movie-themed party.
18. Dennis The Menace Overall Costume
Dennis the Menace needs bright blue overalls, a red-and-black striped long-sleeve shirt and white or red sneakers with visible crew socks. The hair is the character: a tousled blonde wig, or natural blonde hair pushed up with a bit of temporary styling product. Freckles across the nose are enough makeup. In place of his famous troublemaking accessory, carry something safe like a toy dog, a crumpled homework page or a cardboard “Oops” sign. Keep the overalls slightly loose and cuffed at the ankle. No crafting is needed beyond finding the shirt, which makes it a quick costume for kids or adults.
19. Agnes Overall Costume
Agnes is short denim overalls over a yellow-and-brown striped tee, with white crew socks and white sneakers. The ponytail is the hard part: it sits right on top of the head and stands up. On a child with long hair I brush it up tight and use two elastics, one at the base and one an inch higher, to make it stand. On short hair, a long black ponytail extension clipped over a small bun works. Rosy cheeks and soft freckles are all the face needs. The fluffy white unicorn plush tucked under one arm is essential. A yellow button pinned to the bib adds a small extra. Kids and petite adults suit it most.
20. Rag Doll Overall Costume
A rag doll is a good excuse to use up fabric scraps. Loose denim or corduroy overalls go over a striped blouse with puffed sleeves, and gingham, floral and polka-dot patches cover the legs and bib. I tack patches on with big, visible running stitches in contrast thread, since that looks deliberately handmade and the stitches unpick in minutes afterward. Striped knee socks and lace-up ankle boots or Mary Janes finish the feet. Two braids tied with large ribbons or a yarn wig in red, brown or yellow give the hair. Washable makeup draws round freckles, rosy circles and short lower lashes. A fabric heart on the bib and a small plush complete it.
21. Colorful Clown Overall Costume
For a friendly clown, I'd skip the giant novelty shoes; they trip people on stairs and curbs. Colorful high-top sneakers are far safer. Oversized overalls in a bright primary color, or denim covered in removable felt circles, stars and stripes, go over a rainbow-striped shirt with softly ruffled cuffs. A curly wig in blue, pink or rainbow shades gives the hair. Keep makeup cheerful: round blush, a small red nose, defined lashes and a curved smile, not white greasepaint. Large fabric buttons on the bib and a light bunch of faux balloons on short sticks finish it. A tiny party hat can replace the wig. It suits family parties and parades.
22. Pumpkin Patch Overall Costume
Corduroy is my pick for a pumpkin patch costume because it's warmer than denim and the wales look autumnal. Rust, olive or brown corduroy overalls go over a cream-and-orange striped sweater, with orange knee socks and comfortable brown ankle boots. Felt leaves and one small plush pumpkin sit on the bib, pinned from inside so they can be moved around. Relaxed braids under a green beanie or a leafy headband, warm copper eyes and peach blush give the face, plus a small painted green curl on one cheek. A basket of light artificial pumpkins is the main prop. Thermals fit underneath without changing the look.
23. Sunflower Overall Costume
Sunflowers are cheerful enough to wear beyond Halloween. Blue or green overalls go over a sunny yellow shirt, with artificial sunflower heads clipped to the bib pocket and one strap. Before attaching them, I pull off any plastic stem stubs and trim the backs flat so they sit closer and don't poke. Yellow sneakers, green tights or leafy shoe decorations carry the color down. A bun ringed with a sunflower headband, or loose curls with flower clips, suits it; gold shadow and peach blush keep the makeup fresh. A small watering can makes the prop. Use only a few well-placed flowers; covering everything turns it into a blur.
24. Bumblebee Overall Costume
A bumblebee is easiest with black overalls over a yellow-and-black striped long-sleeve top. With only blue denim to hand, felt stripes across the bib still work, but stitch or pin them rather than using adhesive fabric tape, which tends to let go on denim within an hour. Black leggings or knee socks and yellow sneakers coordinate the legs. An antenna headband goes over a sleek ponytail or braids, with soft yellow shadow, black winged liner and rosy cheeks. Attach light sheer wings to the overall straps at the back; that's where they shift least. A small flower or honey-pot bag finishes it.
25. Cow Overall Costume
Cow spots are a quick sewing job. I cut irregular shapes from felt in the opposite color to the overalls, so black on white or white on black, and pin them through from the inside of the bib and legs. A solid T-shirt in the contrast color goes underneath, with black-and-white sneakers or soft ankle boots. A headband with fabric ears and small rounded horns provides the animal detail, over two low buns or braids. Washable makeup adds a pink oval nose, a few freckles and lightly defined lashes. A detachable fabric tail clipped at the back and a small plush milk carton add humor. It pairs naturally with a farmer or scarecrow.
26. Frog Overall Costume
Green overalls start the frog: layer them over a light green or yellow tee, with striped socks and green canvas sneakers. A pale felt belly shape on the bib is the main detail; I baste it on with long hand stitches so it's quick to remove. Big soft frog eyes go on a green headband, or on a matching beanie for a warmer version. Hair can stay loose or tuck under the hat. Green eyeshadow, round pink cheeks and a small curved smile make the face. A plush lily pad or fabric fly is a safe prop. A short rounded felt collar hints at a classic puppet frog without copying a branded character.
27. Strawberry Overall Costume
A strawberry needs very little sewing. Red shortalls or bib overalls go over a pale pink or green shirt, with small white or yellow felt seeds scattered over the red. Seeds this small peel off when glued, so I sew each with two quick stitches; it takes an evening but they survive the night. Green tights, white socks and red sneakers or ankle boots finish the legs, and a leafy green headband makes the top of the berry. Soft curls or braids, pink blush and a berry lip suit the face. A basket of artificial strawberries explains it at a glance. Denim owners can cover the bib with a red fabric panel, pinned at the corners.
28. Carpenter Overall Costume
Tan canvas overalls are the right base for a carpenter because canvas, unlike denim, actually holds its shape around loaded pockets. A plaid work shirt with rolled sleeves, brown lace-up boots and a light fabric tool belt follow. Foam measuring tools, a plastic level, pencils and folded paper plans fill the belt, and keep it light. Hair goes into a low bun or under a neutral cap. A washable pencil mark near one ear and a little brown shadow smudged on a cheek suggest a busy workshop, and a removable name patch finishes it. Pockets on the bib keep everything organized. It suits adults, kids and a group of trades.
29. Camp Counselor Overall Costume
A camp counselor wears comfortably all night. Khaki or denim short overalls over a forest-green ringer tee, or a tee with a homemade camp emblem, then striped crew socks, trail sneakers and a colorful neckerchief. Braids or a ponytail under a baseball cap, with a little sun-kissed blush. A whistle on a breakaway cord is important if kids are around, since an ordinary cord can catch. A paper trail map, friendship bracelets, a light flashlight and a clipboard with a fake activity schedule add humor. On a cold night, switch to full-length overalls with a fleece underneath. It's a good fit for a group of counselors.
30. Toy Maker Overall Costume
The toy maker is the most hands-on costume here, and a nice one to finish on. Red, green or denim overalls go over a cheerful striped shirt, with oversized fabric buttons sewn to the bib. I use shank buttons and sew them through a small felt backing on the inside so the weight doesn't drag the denim. Striped socks and lace-up shoes, with curled felt toe covers if you like, follow. A tidy bun or a colorful cap decorated with tiny craft supplies, rosy cheeks and a few freckles give the storybook face. Wooden blocks, fabric dolls and cardboard gears fill the pockets. A removable “Toy Maker” patch keeps it from looking like a holiday elf.
Sizing Thrifted Overalls for a Costume
Secondhand overalls are the cheapest route to most of these looks, but fit on overalls is unusual: what matters is torso length, not waist size. If the distance from shoulder to crotch is too short, the straps pull and the bib rides up every time you sit down.
- Try them on and sit down in the fitting room; if the straps dig in seated, go a size up.
- Buckle the straps at their longest setting first. If they're already tight there, no adjustment will rescue them.
- Wide, baggy legs are easy to cuff or hem with a quick running stitch; legs that are too narrow won't fit thermals underneath.
- Check the buckles and buttons on the side openings, because a missing side button is the first thing to fail on old overalls.
Bathroom Breaks and Other Overall Realities
Every overall costume has one honest drawback: getting out of them in a small bathroom. Practice unhooking the straps before the night, and avoid pinning anything that crosses the buckle or the side openings. Long strap ends can drop into the toilet, so I tuck them into the back pocket or clip them to the bib with a safety pin before going in. On little kids, shortalls with snaps at the crotch, or regular overalls with the side buttons left undone, make it far easier for whoever is helping.
One Pair of Dungarees, Thirty Characters
Overalls make such a good costume base because they're comfortable, layer easily and come in plenty of colors and fabrics. Change the shirt, hat, hair, makeup and prop and the same pair becomes a character, an animal, a job, a decade or a piece of fruit. I always start with the colors people recognize first and one clear accessory, then add details only until the costume reads. Pinned or tacked felt and light props protect the overalls and keep costs down, so the next year you can unpick it all and start again with a different character.
Related posts:
