If you have red hair, you're starting Halloween with an advantage. Copper curls, auburn waves or bright ginger give a costume its colour before you've chosen a single piece, and plenty of well-loved characters share that hair. The redheads people ask me about most are Merida, Kim Possible, Poison Ivy, Miss Frizzle and Jessie, and they're all here alongside superheroes, sitcom stars, storybook girls and a few easy DIY looks. For each one I've written out the clothes, hair, makeup, props and shoes, with notes on what tends to go wrong. Wig wearers are covered too. Pick by mood and by how far you'll walk.
Which Redheads Suit Your Natural Shade
If you're going with your own hair, start with your shade, not the character you like most. A deep auburn going as a cartoon character with neon orange hair can look odd, while the same auburn reads perfectly as Black Widow or Rose.
- Bright copper and ginger: Merida, Pippi, Annie, Ron and Fred, Archie, Misty.
- Deep auburn and burgundy-red: Black Widow, Scarlet Witch, Rose, Anne Shirley, Mary Jane.
- Strawberry blonde: Strawberry Shortcake, Raggedy Ann with a yarn wig, Giselle, Anna.
- Short red hair: Velma, Lois Griffin, April O'Neil, Elastigirl, Leeloo with a wig.
If your hair is short and the character's is long, a wig is usually easier than clip-in extensions. Clip-ins rarely match red exactly, and red is the hardest colour to blend because natural red has several tones in it.
1. Ariel Mermaid Costume
Ariel works best when your hair gets all the attention. A lavender fitted top and a shimmery green maxi skirt that widens near the ankle give the tail shape while still letting you take normal steps; a true fishtail hem looks great standing still and miserable on stairs. Wear long red hair loose with lots of volume, or a bright copper-red wig with a side part if yours is short. Pearl earrings, a shell purse and soft lavender lids are enough. A rosy lip and a little highlighter keep her fresh. A toy fork makes a sweet nod to the film, and flat green shoes stay hidden under the hem.
2. Merida Archer Costume
Merida suits natural curls, textured waves or a big orange-red wig, but the hair has to look untamed. Separate curls with your fingers instead of a brush, which only turns them into frizz. The dress is a long teal medieval style with fitted sleeves and gold at the neckline, plus a wide brown belt and a small faux-leather pouch. Light freckles, peach blush and soft brows keep her young. I'd carry a foam archery target or a rolled map rather than anything bow-shaped, since many schools and venues turn away anything that looks like a weapon. Brown lace-up boots make her fine for trick-or-treating.
3. Kim Possible Costume
Kim Possible is the costume I'd hand anyone who has a black top and something khaki. A fitted black mock-neck and loose olive cargo pants make the base. Add a brown utility belt with small fabric pouches, kept free of anything sharp. Straighten red or auburn hair and sweep it into a deep side part; a shoulder-length copper wig also gets the cartoon shape. Neutral shadow, black mascara and a natural pink lip keep the face simple. Black gloves add detail. An old phone case stands in for her communicator, and chunky black boots finish it.
4. Daphne Blake Costume
Daphne is about getting purple and green in the right places. Wear a long-sleeve purple dress, mini or knee length, ideally with a lighter lavender hem and cuffs. Tie a lime-green scarf neatly at the neck and push a purple headband into smooth, full red hair. A softly curled copper wig gives the cartoon flip if your hair won't hold a curl. Lavender tights and purple flats or block heels match the palette. Winged liner, rosy blush and a berry-pink lip suit her. A magnifying glass or notebook plays to the mystery, and a structured purple bag holds your phone.
5. Velma Dinkley Costume
Velma's bob is usually drawn a dark brownish shade, and auburn or darker red hair suits her surprisingly well. Start with an oversized orange turtleneck and a deep red pleated skirt to the knee, plus orange knee socks and red loafers or Mary Janes. A smooth bob is right, or a chin-length auburn wig with straight bangs. The thick black glasses are the one piece you can't skip. If you wear prescription lenses, a thick black frame in your own prescription looks better than costume frames over the top. Matte skin, natural brows and a muted coral lip finish her. On a cold night, opaque tights under the socks and a thermal under the sweater stay hidden.
6. Poison Ivy Costume
Poison Ivy doesn't need a revealing bodysuit to read. A fitted forest-green top with high-waisted green trousers, or a knee-length skater skirt over opaque tights, gives the colour. Attach artificial ivy at the neckline, belt and cuffs with fashion tape or a few hand stitches; a stitch at each leaf base holds far longer than tape on stretch knit. Smooth waves or a long crimson wig with a few light leaves tucked in finish the hair. Green shadow, defined lashes and a deep rose lip add drama while staying family-friendly. Leaf earrings and a small faux potted plant make her a villain you can bring to a family party. Green ankle boots or flats finish it.
7. Black Widow Costume
Black Widow should look sleek, but she's a character who runs, so dress for moving. A long-sleeve black jumpsuit works, or a fitted black athletic top with straight black cargo pants. Add a wide belt and plain wrist cuffs. A shoulder-length wavy auburn bob matches one of her best-known looks. Softly smoky eyes, defined brows and a muted red lip finish her. Skip the action props and carry a black ID folder or a small communicator. Flat black knee boots or lace-up combat boots handle a long walk. A fitted black jacket keeps you warm without changing the line.
8. Scarlet Witch Costume
Scarlet Witch is rich red and black, which makes her easy to shop for. A deep red fitted top with black leggings or dark red trousers forms the base, and a long crimson coat or light cape goes over it. The headpiece is the part that names her: a simple red foam shape cut into pointed curves. Foam with a stretchy elastic at the back stays on better than a hair comb, which slips out of long hair. Soft loose auburn waves, burgundy shadow, black mascara and a berry lip suit her. Red fingerless gloves suggest her magic. Carry a clear orb or a small battery red light, and wear ankle boots with a stable heel.
9. Jessie Cowgirl Costume
Jessie is a great showcase for a red braid. Decorate a white button-front shirt at the shoulders and cuffs with yellow panels and red trim. High-waisted jeans, a big western buckle and spotted chaps strapped over the legs do the rest. I'd attach the chaps with wide elastic at the thigh, not just at the belt, or they twist round to the back as you walk. Braid the hair and tie the end with yellow ribbon, or use a long braided copper wig. A red cowgirl hat and freckles with rosy cheeks finish her. A soft rope loop or plush horse is a friendly prop, and cow-print or brown western boots complete it.
10. Anna Adventure Costume
Anna's adventure outfit is layered, which makes it warm. A black fitted vest goes over a long-sleeve pale blue blouse, with a full royal-blue skirt trimmed with flowers near the hem. Drape a magenta cape over the shoulders. Two neat braids are her signature, and a pale streak at the front from temporary hair chalk gives her white lock. Chalk wipes off on a pale cape, so do the streak first and let it set. Soft pink blush, freckles and a rose lip keep her friendly. A fabric satchel or plush reindeer makes a good prop. Black tights and low ankle boots keep her practical for school or a family night.
11. Giselle Fairytale Costume
Giselle is a full storybook gown, so think about where you'll be wearing it. A full-length pale blue dress with puffed sleeves, a fitted bodice and a flowing skirt is the classic version. The curtain dress in cream and florals is the other one fans spot quickly, and it's a fun thrift project. Wear long red hair in soft curls with the front pulled back by a blue ribbon. Peach blush, fluttery lashes and a pink lip keep her romantic. Carry a small basket of artificial flowers or a few sewing supplies. A ribbon choker suits a lower neckline. Pale blue ballet flats under the skirt keep you from tripping on all that fabric.
12. Miss Frizzle Costume
Miss Frizzle is one of my favourite costumes for teachers, because it's bright, comfortable and passes at school. Wear a blue or purple fit-and-flare dress covered in felt planets, stars, numbers or animal shapes. Pick one subject and stick to it, or the dress looks like a jumble sale. I stitch the felt shapes with a few tacks in the centre rather than gluing them; glued felt peels at the edges on most dress fabrics. Pile curly red hair into a high, slightly messy bun with a pencil-shaped clip. Blue tights, bright flats, coral lips and a touch of blue liner suit her. Carry science books, a toy globe or a plush lizard.
13. Pippi Longstocking Costume
Pippi is a playful DIY project for long red hair. Wear a colourful patchwork dress or an oversized pinafore over a striped long-sleeve shirt, with mismatched bright knee socks and brown lace-up boots. Split the hair into two braids and shape them outwards with light costume wire wrapped in ribbon. A braided red wig gets the same effect if you'd rather not wire your own hair, and you can bend it into shape before you put it on. Freckles, rosy cheeks and a natural lip are all the makeup she needs. A small suitcase or plush monkey tells people who you are. Sew a few patches onto the skirt and pockets for extra colour.
14. Annie Orphan Costume
Annie's red dress does almost everything, so choose one with a clean shape. Knee length, fit-and-flare, short puffed sleeves and a crisp white collar are what you're after, tied with a wide white belt. White ankle socks and black Mary Janes finish her legs. Short red hair in tight curls is the giveaway, or a curly copper bob wig with round volume. Light freckles, pink cheeks and a soft red lip suit her. A heart locket or plush dog makes the prop. For a cold night, slip a white long-sleeve tee under the dress; it disappears against the collar.
15. Strawberry Shortcake Costume
Strawberry Shortcake has a sweet palette that's easy to build: pink, red and white with a little green. Wear a pink pinafore over a red-and-white striped top and add striped tights or white knee socks. Style red hair in loose curls or two low pigtails tied with green ribbon. The bonnet or soft cap with strawberry appliqués and a green brim is the detail that names her. Rosy cheeks, a few freckles and glossy pink lips finish the face. Felt strawberries in a small basket are lighter than plastic ones. Green flats or red Mary Janes complete her, and a strawberry crossbody bag frees your hands.
16. Anne Shirley Costume
Anne Shirley is a modest, old-fashioned look built around two braids. Wear a long-sleeve white blouse under a brown, grey or forest-green pinafore, and add a straw boater with a simple ribbon and small flowers. Let the braids fall over the shoulders. Freckles, rosy blush and a natural pink lip match her country look. A stack of old books, a slate or a small wicker basket of wildflowers supports the story. Brown lace-up boots and cream knee socks finish it. She's a good pick for a chilly October night, since a fitted cardigan or wool-look coat fits right in with the outfit.
17. Ginny Weasley Student Costume
Ginny pairs red hair with a school uniform most people know at a glance. A white button-front shirt and grey V-neck sweater go with a black pleated skirt or tailored trousers. Add a red-and-gold striped tie and a long black robe. Natural red hair can be loose and wavy, in a low ponytail or one simple side braid. Soft brown liner, light blush and a neutral lip keep her understated. An old book, a feather pen or a plush owl works as a prop. Black knee socks and flat lace-ups finish the uniform, and a red-and-gold scarf adds warmth and colour.
18. Ron Weasley Student Costume
Ron is an easy costume for men, teens or anyone who wants something comfortable and unisex. Wear a white collared shirt, charcoal trousers and a grey V-neck sweater with a red-and-gold tie, a long black robe and a matching knit scarf. Short ginger hair should look a little tousled; a too-neat copper wig makes him look like a shop mannequin, so rough it up with your fingers. Light freckles across the nose and clean skin are enough. A stack of worn schoolbooks, a toy chess piece or a plush rat makes the prop. Black lace-ups finish it. For a casual version, swap the robe for a burgundy jumper with a big felt letter.
19. Fred Weasley Costume
Fred is cheekier than his brother, and the props are where that shows. The uniform version is black trousers, a white shirt, grey sweater, striped tie and a long black robe, with a red-and-gold scarf for colour. Short ginger hair should look a bit untidy, with light freckles to match. To set him apart from every other student, carry a box of homemade paper joke products or brightly wrapped empty packages. Keep everything soft and decorative, with nothing that pops or sprays. Black oxfords or lace-up boots finish it. A friend in the same outfit makes the twin pair.
20. Archie Andrews Costume
Archie is a costume made of normal clothes, so he's a good fit for anyone who hates dressing up. Wear a royal-blue varsity jacket with yellow trim over a plain white tee, dark jeans, a brown belt and white sneakers. Style short red hair upward with soft texture. Light makeup and lightly defined brows are plenty. A football, notebook or empty guitar case makes the school prop. A stitched letter patch can go on the jacket with removable fabric adhesive so you can take it off afterwards. Teens, men and couples like this one because it's comfortable and it still shows up clearly in group photos.
21. Cheryl Blossom Costume
Cheryl Blossom wants a polished look with no loose ends. Start with a fitted red sweater and a black plaid mini or knee-length skirt, plus opaque black tights, a pearl headband and a small structured red bag. Long red hair should be in sleek curls with a precise side part. I'd curl it with a larger barrel than you think and brush the curls out, because tight ringlets look wrong for her. Defined brows, black mascara, smooth foundation and a bold red lip match her. A red cape coat adds warmth. Carry a binder or a faux maple leaf and finish with black block-heel boots. Red and black alone are enough for fans to place her.
22. Mary Jane Watson Costume
This Mary Jane uses clothes you'll wear again in November. Wear a fitted purple or burgundy top with blue jeans and a cropped black jacket, or a black tank with a red skirt and denim jacket. Long, smooth red waves with a side part are the key. Warm neutral shadow, rosy blush and a muted red lip finish her. Carry a theatre script, small camera or folded newspaper. Black ankle boots or sneakers keep it comfortable. If you're going as a couple, your partner can wear a red-and-blue superhero outfit without a full face mask, which makes it easier to see, eat and talk.
23. Jean Grey Superhero Costume
Jean Grey's blue and yellow look depends on bold colour blocks and an athletic shape. Wear a dark blue long-sleeve jumpsuit or a fitted top and leggings. Add yellow fabric panels at the waist, shoulders and wrists and a light yellow belt. Stretch fabric pieces need stretch stitching, or the seams pop when you raise your arms. Style long auburn hair in brushed-out waves. Warm copper shadow, black liner and a rose lip finish the face. A simple yellow foam eye mask adds a comic touch, but cut the eye holes wide so you can still see to the side. Carry a translucent orange orb, and wear yellow boot covers or gold high-tops.
24. Starfire Superhero Costume
Starfire's purple and silver look strong next to bright red or copper hair. Start with a high-neck purple jumpsuit, a matching top and leggings, or a modest fitted dress over opaque tights. Add silver cuffs, a wide metallic belt and a purple gem necklace. Her hair is long, straight and full, so use a vivid crimson wig if yours isn't. Lavender shadow, lashes and a glossy berry lip suit her. I'd skip coloured contacts unless you already wear lenses and get them from an eye care professional; green liner gives the effect without the risk. A glowing green orb and flat-soled boots finish her.
25. Leeloo Orange Suspender Costume
Leeloo's strappy outfit can be made public-friendly with a few layers. Wear a white fitted tee or tank over a white bodysuit, then add bright orange suspender-style straps around the body and legs. White leggings give more coverage and help on a cold night. Her hair is a short, choppy orange-red bob with straight bangs. Strong black liner, warm orange shadow and a neutral lip finish her. A futuristic ID card or foam multipass is the prop people expect. White platform sneakers or chunky boots complete it. Use soft fabric strapping, not rigid plastic, or you'll find out how hard it is to sit down.
26. Wilma Flintstone Costume
Wilma is a simple outline that's easy to spot. Choose a white one-shoulder midi dress with a jagged or uneven hem and an oversized white bead necklace made from light plastic or foam. Pile red hair into a high round bun so your neck and the necklace show. A structured orange-red wig is the easiest way to get the cartoon shape, since most natural hair won't stand that high for long. Sky-blue shadow, black liner, peach blush and a coral lip add a retro feel. A grey felt stone-print bag or a soft foam club shape works as a prop. White ballet flats or low sandals finish her.
27. Pebbles Flintstone Costume
Pebbles suits adults, children and parent-and-child pairs. Wear a bright green sleeveless top and matching shorts, or a soft tunic with black felt triangles sewn across it. Blue leggings or a blue short layer bring in the cartoon version. Pull red hair into a ponytail right on top of the head and fix it with a light foam bone clip. For a little one, use a soft scrunchie under the clip so it doesn't pull. Rosy cheeks, freckles and a soft pink lip are enough. A plush dinosaur or stone-print treat bag adds fun, and stretchy fabric means she can run around all evening.
28. April O’Neil Reporter Costume
April O'Neil is a reporter, so she needs pockets. A bright yellow jumpsuit or a matching yellow utility shirt and trousers is the base. Roll the sleeves, add a white belt and pin a press badge near the chest. Style auburn hair in a shoulder-length bob with curled ends. Brown liner, peach blush and a warm red lip keep her professional. A toy microphone, notebook or small camera makes the prop. White sneakers or yellow boots make it fine for walking. If a jumpsuit feels too warm indoors, yellow cargo pants with a yellow zip jacket let you take a layer off.
29. Lois Griffin Costume
Lois Griffin is a last-minute costume from very ordinary clothes. Wear a mint or pale teal button-front blouse with the sleeves rolled to the elbow, beige high-waisted trousers and teal flats. The hair is the clue: a smooth chin-length bob with ends curving under, or a bright copper costume wig. Lightly defined eyes, peach blush and a coral lip keep the cartoon feel. A grocery bag or a family photo frame makes the prop, and round earrings add a finish. No heavy makeup and nothing tight, so it's a good pick for a long family night or a crowded party.
30. Elastigirl Superhero Costume
Elastigirl gives a redhead a superhero look on an athletic base. Wear a long-sleeve red athletic top and leggings with black briefs or high-waisted shorts over them. Cut the chest emblem from orange and black felt; felt holds a clean edge and doesn't need hemming. Long black gloves, a simple black eye mask and a wide yellow belt finish the suit. Style auburn hair in a smooth shoulder-length bob with flipped ends. Neutral shadow, mascara and a classic red lip suit her. A red resistance band is a funny stretching prop. Black knee boots or sneakers finish it, and the whole family can match in red.
31. Bloom Fairy Costume
Bloom's look suits bright orange-red hair with plenty of sparkle in blue. Wear a fitted aqua top with a matching knee-length skirt, skater skirt or shorts over shimmery tights. Translucent pale blue wings should attach firmly at the shoulders and stay close to your back. The cheap elastic loops on most party wings dig into your armpits within an hour, so I'd swap them for wider elastic or ribbon. Smooth flowing hair with a small blue crown or butterfly clip finishes the head. Aqua shadow, silver highlight and a rose lip suit her. Carry a blue light or star pouch, and wear boots, flats or high-tops.
32. Misty Trainer Costume
Misty is sporty and cheap to put together. Wear a yellow cropped tank over a fitted white tee, with high-waisted denim shorts and red suspenders. Bike shorts or opaque tights underneath add coverage. Pull orange-red hair into a high side ponytail with a blue elastic. Light freckles, peach blush, mascara and clear gloss keep her fresh. A red-and-white foam ball or a small water-creature plush makes it clear who you are. Red high-tops and white ankle socks finish the trainer look, and a small yellow backpack carries your things without spoiling the outfit.
33. Sally Patchwork Costume
Sally is spooky but gentle, with lots of handmade detail. Start with a knee-length or maxi dress made from pastel panels in blue, pink and yellow with some black, and draw swirls and stripes on with fabric markers. Pale blue opaque tights and long sleeves under the dress mean less body paint. Long dark red hair goes straight with a centre part, and a red yarn wig gives a more storybook texture. Light blue face makeup, purple shadow and neat black seam lines replace any wounds. Set the blue with translucent powder or it ends up on your collar. Carry a basket of faux leaves and wear black lace-up boots.
34. Chucky Doll Costume
This Chucky is all doll clothes and no horror. Layer blue denim overalls over a bright striped long-sleeve shirt and decorate the overalls with colourful fabric shapes and cheerful buttons. A short messy orange-red wig is easiest; natural ginger hair can be roughed up with a little texture spray. Freckles, rosy cheeks and exaggerated lower lashes make the doll face without scars. Carry a soft toy block or an empty colourful toolbox rather than anything shaped like a weapon. Red sneakers with white soles finish it. It's a good fit for a themed party where gore isn't welcome.
35. Raggedy Ann Costume
Raggedy Ann can be sewn, thrifted or put together from separates. Wear a long-sleeve blue floral dress under a white ruffled pinafore, with red-and-white striped tights, optional white bloomers and black Mary Janes. A bright red yarn wig is the classic choice; natural hair can go in two low braids with thick red ribbons. Paint round rosy cheeks, lower lashes, freckles and a small red heart lip. A white bonnet frames the face. Carry a cloth doll or a fabric heart. All the loose cotton layers make her comfortable and modest, and you can add a cardigan without spoiling the look.
36. Queen Of Hearts Costume
The Queen of Hearts can be theatrical without being dark. Wear a red-and-black fit-and-flare dress with a high white collar and gold trim, heart appliqués on the skirt and a wide black belt. Sweep red hair into a big bun, curls or a heart-shaped updo. A small gold crown held with hidden clips sits on top; I'd add a bobby pin crossed over each clip, because a crown on top of an updo wobbles every time you laugh. Sharp black liner, rosy cheeks and a small red heart at the centre of the lips finish her. Carry a heart fan or a big playing card, with black tights and red block heels or ankle boots.
37. Mad Hatter Costume
Start the Mad Hatter with the tailcoat, in green, purple or burgundy, over a patterned vest, ruffled white blouse and cropped striped trousers. Add mismatched socks, fingerless gloves and a big top hat with a paper price card in the band. A frizzy orange-red wig, or natural red hair teased round the face, gives him his wild look. Peach blush, purple shadow and a pink lip suit him. Stick a plastic teacup to its saucer with removable adhesive so nothing breaks. Brown or black lace-up boots finish it. Mixing patterns works best if they share one colour, like a stripe and a check with the same purple.
38. Ginger Spice Costume
Ginger Spice's flag dress is easy to make family-friendly. Wear a red sleeveless mini over opaque blue tights, or a knee-length red dress for more coverage. Add a white fabric panel and blue accents for the flag design; you don't need an exact copy. Big red waves with two lighter streaks at the front, made with temporary colour, are her hair. Smoky brown liner, warm blush and a brick-red lip match the 1990s. A rhinestone toy microphone makes the prop. White platform sneakers are easier to walk in than boots, and a red faux-fur jacket adds warmth.
39. Lucille Ball Costume
A Lucille Ball costume is vintage comedy in a tidy 1950s shape. Wear a navy or black polka-dot tea dress with a white collar and full knee-length skirt. Add a white apron for her sitcom scenes, or pearls for a dressier version. Style bright red hair into a curled updo with rolled bangs, then tie a printed scarf round the crown. Rolled bangs drop in damp air, so I set them with a strong-hold spray and a couple of hidden pins. Winged liner, arched brows, rosy cheeks and a classic red lip finish her. A vintage bag or an empty candy box works as a prop. Nude stockings and low black pumps suit an office or family party.
40. Rose Titanic Costume
Rose is an Edwardian evening look, and it needs a long gown. Choose a floor-length burgundy, deep red or black gown with delicate beading and sheer cap sleeves, then add long black gloves, a jewelled comb and a blue pendant necklace. A soft pinned updo with loose curls framing the face suits auburn hair. Luminous skin, muted rose blush, soft eyes and a berry lip give the period feel. Carry a paper ticket, a small evening bag or a fan. Low black heels stay hidden under the skirt. A velvet wrap keeps your shoulders warm, and I'd hem the gown to just above floor level so the beading doesn't snag.
Faux Freckles That Last Until Midnight
Freckles turn up in nearly half of these costumes, and they're also the first bit of makeup to smudge or vanish. A few small habits keep them looking natural.
- Use a soft brown eyebrow pencil or a cream freckle product one shade darker than your skin, not black liner, which looks like dots drawn on with a pen.
- Dot unevenly across the nose and the tops of the cheeks, with different sizes, then press each dot once with a clean fingertip to soften the edge.
- Dust a little translucent powder over them, or mist with setting spray, so they don't wipe off with your hair or a scarf.
- If you have sensitive skin, try the product on your inner wrist the day before.
- At the end of the night, take them off with an oil-based cleanser before washing your face; cream products cling to skin and plain water just spreads them.
Redheads Who Work Better in Pairs
Several of these characters are funnier or clearer with a partner. Fred makes most sense next to a second twin, Daphne next to Velma, Wilma next to Pebbles, and Mary Jane next to someone in red and blue. Couples and families don't need to match exactly. Agree on the palette first, and let each person adapt their own outfit for comfort. A group that shares two or three colours looks planned even if every outfit is thrifted.
Red Hair Is Already Half the Costume
With red hair, you're not covering anything up. You're giving the costume its colour. This list runs from cartoon favourites and superheroes to book heroines, sitcom stars and dolls, and many can be built from what's already in your wardrobe. Natural redheads can work with their own shade and texture; everyone else can choose a copper, auburn, orange or crimson wig. Comfortable shoes, breathable layers, light props and makeup that lasts several hours matter more than an exact replica. Adjust each look for the coverage, budget and setting you need, and the hair will do the rest.
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