A Halloween costume should feel like you, survive a whole evening and still make sense to a stranger across the room. I've put together fifty ideas for women here: classic spooky characters, animals, screen favourites, fantasy figures, decades looks, funny concepts and quick DIY builds. Each one is a full plan from hair to shoes, and I've flagged the pieces that tend to fail on the night, from sliding headpieces to transferring makeup. Most can be adjusted for cold weather or more coverage, and plenty start with clothes you already own.
Makeup That Lasts the Party and Comes Off Afterwards
Half the costumes on this list lean on makeup: green skin for Elphaba, white for the skeleton, a painted nose and whiskers for the cat and deer. I'm a stylist, not a special-effects artist, so this is everyday advice for getting through one evening comfortably.
Before the night
- Patch-test any face or body paint on the inside of your wrist or behind the ear a day ahead. Redness or itching means skip it.
- Start with moisturized, clean skin. Paint grabs dry patches and looks streaky.
- Buy paints made for skin. Craft acrylic and markers are not makeup, however tempting they are at midnight.
Putting it on so it stays
Cream makeup gives the most even colour but stays soft and moves as you warm up. I apply it with a damp sponge in thin layers, then press translucent setting powder over the top with a puff. Two thin coats with powder between them beat one thick coat, which cracks around the mouth and eyes. A light mist of setting spray at the end helps on a warm night.
To stop colour landing on your collar, keep a band of bare skin just above the neckline, or wear a dark top under green and white paint. Bring a few cotton buds and a small powder compact for touch-ups.
Taking it off
Don't scrub. Massage an oil cleanser or a balm into dry skin first to break the paint down, wipe it with a soft cloth, then wash with your usual cleanser. Bright greens and blues can leave a faint tint around the hairline; a second gentle round the next morning usually clears it.
1. Classic Witch Costume With Black Dress
A classic witch is the costume I'd hand to anyone who wants something easy to personalize. A long black dress, or a fitted black top with a flowing maxi skirt, sets the base, with a pointed hat, striped tights and buckled ankle boots you can walk in. A velvet cape adds warmth and movement. Loose waves or a long black wig, purple shadow, winged liner and berry lipstick keep her stylish rather than scary. Cheap felt hats collapse at the tip by midnight, so I roll a cone of thin card inside before you leave. A light broom, a crystal necklace and silver star earrings finish her.
2. Glam Vampire Costume With Red Cape
Red and black layers give a vampire an elegant finish. A black velvet midi dress, a fitted jumpsuit or a long-sleeve top with a full skirt sits under a red-lined cape, with sheer black tights and pointed ankle boots. Sleek straight hair or vintage waves with a centre part, a light hand with pale foundation, smoky eyes and deep red lips make the face. Deep red transfers onto glasses and other people's cheeks, so I line and fill the whole lip with liner first, then blot and powder. Small fangs and a jewelled choker say vampire; a vintage compact or a faux red rose is the prop.
3. Wednesday Addams Costume With Braided Hair
Wednesday comes together from closet pieces. A black knee-length dress with a crisp white collar and cuffs is ideal, and if you don't own one, a white button-down under a plain black dress does the same job. I'd iron the collar flat and press it again before leaving, since a curled collar is the thing that makes this look homemade. Opaque black tights and loafers or low Mary Janes go below; two long braids from a neat centre part (a wig if needed), matte skin, grey shadow and muted berry lips go above. A black book or a headless-doll prop, and a blank expression, do the rest.
4. Glinda Costume With Pink Ball Gown
A fan-made Glinda is layers of pale pink and plenty of sparkle. A pink tulle maxi dress, a formal gown or a fitted top with a full tulle skirt goes with silver flats or low block heels. Soft blonde curls or a long wavy wig hold a tall silver crown, and that crown is what slips. I sew two small combs inside the band so it grips the hair rather than sitting on top. Pink shimmer, rosy cheeks and gloss make the face. The wand is cardboard, silver paper and a wooden dowel, and a sheer pink cape covers your shoulders if you'd like.
5. Elphaba Costume With Green Makeup
Elphaba's black outfit is the easy half; the green makeup is where the time goes. A high-neck black dress, a long pleated skirt or a blouse and skirt, a structured black jacket, pointed hat, opaque tights and lace-up boots form the base. Use a skin-safe green made for faces and patch-test it on your inner wrist a day ahead. I apply it with a damp sponge in thin layers, carry it down the neck and onto the hands, then press translucent powder over the top so it doesn't rub onto the black collar. Deep green shadow, black liner and a neutral lip balance her. A broom and a worn costume book finish it.
6. Barbie Cowgirl Costume With Pink Flare Pants
Barbie cowgirl is all bright pink western pieces. Hot-pink flare pants with a matching vest over a white fitted top, or a light jumpsuit, go with a white cowboy hat, pink bandanna, star earrings and white western boots with a heel you can manage. Smooth blonde waves or a long wig, rosy blush, pink lips and a little shimmer give the doll face. I'd match the vest and pants in the same shop if you can; pinks from two places almost never agree in daylight. A heart-shaped purse and a soft rope lasso work for photos, indoors or out.
7. Velma Costume With Orange Sweater
Velma is comfortable, clever and assembled from everyday separates. An orange turtleneck, a red pleated skirt and knee-high orange socks are the base, with red Mary Janes or flat loafers. A short brown bob wig with blunt bangs, or longer hair pinned under into a faux bob, comes next. The square black glasses matter most, and I'd buy a cheap frame and pop out the lenses so they don't fog in a warm room. A magnifying glass or mystery notebook is the prop, with peach blush and a natural lip. Fleece-lined tights under the socks cover a cold night of handing out candy.
8. Daphne Costume With Purple Mini Dress
Daphne's palette gives you a polished retro costume. A long-sleeve purple mini dress, or a purple top with a matching A-line skirt, goes with pink tights, lavender low heels or flats and a bright green neck scarf. Her red hair needs volume and an outward flip; a shoulder-length wig holds that flip better than most natural hair, and a purple headband frames it. Violet shadow, mascara, peach blush and soft pink lips finish her face. The scarf is the detail I fuss over: tie it to the side, not the front, which is how she wears it. A knee-length dress and opaque tights give more coverage.
9. Morticia Addams Costume With Long Black Gown
Morticia suits anyone who wants elegance with an edge. A floor-length black gown with long sleeves and a fitted shape is the base, ideally with flared cuffs or a soft fishtail hem. Pointed flats or low heels hidden under the skirt keep you steady. Long, straight black hair with a centre part, natural or a sleek wig, light contour, smoky grey eyes and rich red lips make her face. Carry a single faux rose with the bloom snipped off, which is her joke. A fitted gown is hard to sit in, so I check the side seam has some stretch before committing. Long red nails, a silver ring and a slow walk complete her.
10. Ghost Bride Costume With White Lace Dress
A ghost bride looks haunting without any gore. A secondhand white lace dress, a vintage nightgown or a simple maxi dress is the base, with a soft grey or white veil over loose waves. Pale foundation, cool grey shadow, light contour and a muted mauve lip give her that faded look. I distress the hem with grey fabric chalk rather than tearing it, which looks aged without leaving threads to trip on. White ballet flats or lace-up boots, a bouquet of white and grey faux flowers tied with faded ribbon, pearl earrings and lace gloves finish her. Veils pull at the hair, so anchor the comb with crossed bobby pins.
11. Black Cat Costume With Tail And Ears
A black cat is the quick costume that comes straight from your wardrobe. A black fitted top with black jeans, leggings or a midi skirt, black ankle boots or flats and a matching belt make the base. Clip a flexible fabric tail to the waistband, and add a cat-ear headband over a high ponytail, waves or two small buns. A drawn nose, whiskers, winged liner and a neutral lip do the face; I use a gel liner because pencil whiskers smudge off on the first warm drink. Black gloves with felt claws are optional, and a bell choker finishes her. If you'll walk outside after dark, add a reflective detail.
12. Skeleton Costume With Black Jumpsuit
A skeleton is graphic and easy to move in. A black long-sleeve jumpsuit, leggings and top or fitted coveralls is the base, with white felt bones on removable fabric tape or a printed skeleton outfit. Black sneakers or combat boots, a sleek ponytail, a tight braid or a black hood keep it clean. White face makeup with black eye sockets and neat lines at the cheeks and mouth makes the skull. White cream makeup is the hardest to get even, so I apply it with a damp sponge in two thin layers and powder between them. White gloves with bones continue the pattern for a night of dancing.
13. Scarecrow Costume With Plaid Shirt
A scarecrow is the warm choice for a cold October night. Denim overalls over a plaid flannel, brown lace-up boots and patchwork socks form the base, with raffia or tan felt strips at the cuffs, pockets and hat brim. Raffia sheds everywhere, so I tie it in tight bundles and stitch those inside the cuffs. Two braids with orange ribbon go under a floppy straw hat. A triangle nose, stitched smile lines and freckles in brown and orange face makeup keep it friendly. Gardening gloves, a fabric sunflower and sewn patches on the knees add character, and thrifted clothes are all you need.
14. Red Riding Hood Costume With Cape
Red Riding Hood mixes fairytale charm with real autumn layers. A white blouse with a black or brown fitted vest and a knee-length red skirt is the base, with opaque tights, sturdy lace-ups and a hooded red cape to the knee. Soft curls or two loose braids, rosy cheeks and berry lipstick finish her. The basket is the clever part: line a light wicker one with a checked cloth and it holds your phone, wallet and keys all night. Tuck a small storybook inside too. Keep the cape off the floor, and you've got a modest, warm costume that reads from the street.
15. Snow White Costume With Blue And Yellow Dress
A fan-made Snow White starts with a blue fitted top and a full yellow midi skirt. Short puff sleeves in blue and red go on next, sewn on or held with removable fabric tape. The high white collar is what makes the silhouette, and I cut it from stiff felt with a strip of buckram or card stitched inside, because plain felt sags forward by the end of the night. Nude tights, red flats, a curled black bob or glossy wig with a red bow headband, red lips and soft blush finish her. An artificial apple or a small basket is the prop, with a navy cape for warmth.
16. Cinderella Costume With Blue Midi Dress
Cinderella doesn't need an expensive ball gown. A pale blue midi dress with a fitted waist and a softly flared skirt, a sheer blue wrap, white elbow-length gloves and silver flats or low block heels are enough. A polished high bun with a pale blue headband, using a bun piece if your hair is fine, comes next, with icy blue shadow, pink blush and neutral gloss. The black ribbon choker is the detail most people forget, and it's the one I'd insist on. A clear acrylic shoe or a silver evening bag is the prop, and a small tiara finishes her for dinner, dancing or family parties.
17. Tinker Bell Costume With Green Mini Dress
Tinker Bell is soft greens and light details. A sleeveless green dress with an uneven petal hem goes over a fitted long-sleeve layer if it's cold, with nude tights and green flats topped with white pom-poms. A high blonde bun tied with green ribbon, shimmery shadow, peach blush and glossy pink lips make the fairy face. I'd test the wings at home by walking through a doorway sideways; if you have to think about it, they're too wide for a party. Translucent wings on comfortable elastic, a small star wand and a little biodegradable shimmer on the shoulders finish her.
18. Maleficent Costume With Black Horn Headpiece
Maleficent gets her drama from shape. A floor-length black dress or wide-leg jumpsuit under a structured black cape, black boots and long gloves form the base. The horns are the build: I shape them from light foam over a headband, then wrap the base in black fabric so the join doesn't show, and pull the hair back tightly underneath. Cool-toned contour, violet shadow and bold red lips sculpt the face. A high collar cut from black craft foam frames it, and a staff made from a decorated cardboard tube keeps things light. Purple accents on black give the outfit depth.
19. Cruella Costume With Half Black Half White Hair
Cruella is sharp tailoring and that two-tone hair. A black fitted dress, a wide-leg pantsuit or a pencil skirt goes under a dramatic faux-fur coat in white or black, with red gloves, pointed black ankle boots and an emerald statement necklace. The half-black, half-white bob wig carries the character, and cheap two-tone wigs often have a messy parting, so I'd brush it into place and set it with hairspray the night before. Smoky eyes, strong brows and bright red lips make the face. A structured red bag, or a long holder with nothing in it, is the prop, and spotted fabric can appear on a scarf.
20. Queen Of Hearts Costume With Red Skirt
Red, black and white make a dramatic Queen of Hearts. A black fitted top with a full red midi skirt gets a white ruffled collar and heart decorations, with black-and-white striped tights and red flats or low heels. A high heart-shaped updo, or a red wig with a small gold crown, comes next, with careful red shadow, defined brows and a small heart painted at the centre of the lips. I build that updo around a foam doughnut pinned in place, since teased hair alone loses the shape within an hour. Oversized poster-board playing cards are the prop, plus heart earrings and a gold belt.
21. Alice Costume With Blue Pinafore Dress
Alice is sweet, practical and good for daytime events too. A pale blue knee-length dress goes under a crisp white pinafore apron, with white tights, black Mary Janes and a black ribbon headband. Straight blonde hair with softly curled ends or a shoulder-length wig, pink blush and rosy lips keep it light. A plastic teacup, an oversized costume key or a fabric-covered storybook is the prop. I starch the pinafore so it holds its shape, because a soft apron crumples into a kitchen look. A white cardigan fits under it on a cold night, and thrift shops have every piece.
22. Mermaid Costume With Sequin Maxi Skirt
A mermaid can be glamorous without hobbling you. A fitted lavender, turquoise or sea-green top pairs with a stretchy sequin maxi skirt that leaves room to walk, and metallic sandals or low silver boots under the hem. Before buying, I'd take a big step in the fitting room; sequins on a tight skirt pull the seams open fast. Loose waves with pearl clips and small shells, blended blue, purple and green shadow and a little shimmer at the temples finish her. A shell purse keeps things practical, and a star wand works for photos. A fitted mesh top underneath adds coverage.
23. Fairy Costume With Tulle Skirt And Wings
Pastel layers make a fairy costume that suits almost any style. A fitted lavender or sage top, a layered tulle midi skirt and matching flats are the base, with translucent wings that have flexible edges and comfortable straps. Loose curls, a crown braid or a low bun dotted with faux flowers, shimmer shadow and rosy blush finish her. I place face gems along the cheekbone, well away from the eyes, and stick them with lash glue so they last. A flower wand or a little battery lantern is the prop. Sheer tights and a cropped cardigan add warmth, and compact wings suit a crowded room.
24. Woodland Elf Costume With Green Cape
A woodland elf is natural colours, practical layers and a few fantasy touches. A forest-green tunic dress over brown leggings or trousers, a braided belt, a short green cape and brown lace-up boots form the base. Long waves with small braids and faux leaves threaded through finish the hair, and pointed ear cuffs give the elf without glue. I'd try the cuffs on for an hour at home; some pinch the top of the ear after a while. Bronze shadow, peach blush and a little gold highlight suit her. A cloth map, a faux-leather pouch or a cardboard walking staff makes a safe prop.
25. Greek Goddess Costume With White Draped Dress
A Greek goddess comes from a few flowing pieces. A white maxi dress, or white fabric draped and pinned over a sleeveless column dress, goes with a braided gold belt, cuffs and flat metallic sandals. Soft curls gathered into a low updo with a gold leaf headband, bronze shadow, highlighter and a neutral lip keep it refined. Draping slips as you move, so I pin it at the shoulder from the inside with a large safety pin and add a second one at the waist under the belt. A gold-painted laurel or a cluster of faux grapes is the prop, and a cream shawl adds warmth.
26. Medusa Costume With Green Snake Headband
A stylized Medusa uses green fabric, gold accents and a safe snake headpiece. An emerald maxi dress, a draped jumpsuit or a fitted top with a flowing skirt goes with a gold belt, cuffs and metallic sandals. Twist flexible rubber snakes around a padded headband and keep them away from the face. I secure each snake with a few wraps of thin florist wire, since glue alone gives up as the band bends. A textured updo sits beneath. Green and gold shadow, a subtle scale pattern at the temples pressed through mesh and deep berry lips finish her. A mirrored compact is the clever prop.
27. Cleopatra Costume With White Column Dress
Cleopatra looks regal with a white base and bold geometric accessories. A sleeveless white column dress or a flowing jumpsuit cinched with a wide gold belt goes with flat gold sandals, stacked cuffs and a broad blue-and-gold costume collar. A sleek black bob wig with blunt bangs takes small gold beads along the sides. Extended black liner, gold shadow, sculpted brows and a warm neutral lip make the face. That long liner flick wears off at the corner, so I set it with a little black shadow pressed on top. A light gold headband, a fan or a paper scroll finish a screen-inspired version rather than an imitation of a culture.
28. Pirate Captain Costume With Striped Pants
A pirate captain is layered clothes and bold accessories. A white ruffled blouse with black-and-white striped trousers or a full black skirt, a burgundy vest, a wide belt, tall brown boots and a long light coat make the base. Loose waves under a soft tricorn, smudged brown liner, bronzed cheeks and berry lips give a weathered polish. A rolled treasure map, canvas pouch or foam telescope replaces any weapon, with gold hoops and scarves tied at the waist. I'd choose flat boots with a grippy sole; heeled pirate boots look the part and slide on wet leaves.
29. Ringmaster Costume With Red Tailcoat
The ringmaster is built around a structured red jacket. A red tailcoat with gold trim over a white button-down and black high-waisted trousers, a black bow tie, tall black boots and a mini top hat clipped to a headband form the costume. Mini top hats tip backwards, so I angle mine forward and anchor it with two clips at the back of the head. A sleek ponytail, polished curls or a low bun, defined liner, red lips and a little gold shadow finish her face. A light dowel baton or a paper ticket is the prop, and white gloves add flourish. Full coverage and free movement make it good for hosting.
30. Circus Clown Costume With Rainbow Tulle
A circus clown can be bright without being frightening. A striped fitted top with a rainbow tulle skirt or bright suspender trousers, patterned knee socks and supportive colourful sneakers form the base. High pigtails, playful curls or a bright bob wig come next, with rosy cheek circles, a small red nose and neat lines around the eyes in skin-safe makeup. A ruffled collar, a mini hat and a big fabric bow tie bring the classic details. I keep one part of the outfit fitted, usually the top, so the mixed patterns look deliberate rather than overwhelming. Paper balloons on ribbon or a pinwheel finish her.
31. Flapper Costume With Fringe Dress
A flapper brings movement to a party outfit. A knee-length black, gold or silver fringe dress with comfortable lining goes with opaque tights, low T-strap heels and a long strand of costume pearls. Finger waves, a tucked faux bob or a short wavy wig sits under a sequined headband with a soft feather. Smoky eyes, defined brows and deep red lips finish her. I check the inside of fringe dresses before buying: if the fringe is glued rather than stitched, it sheds on the dance floor. A beaded bag, long gloves and an art deco bracelet complete her, with stable heels for dancing.
32. 1950s Poodle Skirt Costume
A 1950s poodle skirt is bright, modest and comfortable all day. A fitted pastel sweater or collared blouse goes with a full felt skirt and a poodle applique, plus a wide belt, white ankle socks and saddle shoes or loafers. A high ponytail tied with a chiffon scarf, winged liner, rosy blush and red or pink lips finish the look. Felt skirts are easy to make from a circle of fabric with no hem needed, since felt doesn't fray. A soft underskirt gives swing without huge volume, and a cropped cardigan adds a layer for school, office or family events.
33. 1960s Mod Costume With Go-Go Boots
A 1960s mod look is all geometric pattern. A colour-block mini or an A-line shift in black, white, orange or yellow goes with opaque tights and white knee-high go-go boots with flat or low heels. A high ponytail, a flipped bob or a beehive-style updo held with a wide headband sets the shape. Graphic black liner, pale shadow, thick lashes and a soft nude lip make the face; I draw the crease line with a liner pencil first, then go over it with liquid once it looks even. Big round earrings and white sunglasses finish her. Two or three colours at most keeps it from looking busy.
34. 1970s Disco Costume With Sequin Jumpsuit
A 1970s disco costume sparkles under party lights. A silver, gold or jewel-toned sequin jumpsuit, or a metallic top with high-waisted flares, goes with stable platform-style shoes and big hoops. Voluminous curls, feathered layers or a rounded natural shape, shimmer shadow, gloss and glowing cheeks finish the face. Hem the trousers with the shoes on; flares that drag catch under the platform and send you over. A mirrored-ball purse or a glittering belt adds the last shine, and a light faux-fur jacket covers you outdoors. It moves well, which is the point of disco.
35. 1980s Aerobics Costume With Leg Warmers
1980s aerobics is easy, bright and made for dancing. A colourful leotard over opaque leggings, with high-waisted shorts if you'd like more coverage, slouchy leg warmers over white high-tops and a wide elastic belt form the base. A high side ponytail with a big scrunchie, bright blue or purple shadow, pink blush and gloss finish the 1980s face. Sweatbands, wristbands and a reusable water bottle carry the theme. I bend and stretch in the leggings in front of a mirror before wearing them out, because thin bright fabric goes sheer under strain. A cropped sweatshirt off one shoulder finishes her.
36. 1990s Grunge Costume With Plaid Shirt
1990s grunge is the costume for when comfort matters most. An oversized plaid flannel over a faded generic graphic tee and distressed straight-leg jeans, black combat boots, a knit beanie and a simple choker are all you need. Loose, slightly undone hair or a messy half-up, smudged brown or charcoal liner, bare skin and a muted brick lip finish it. I'd smudge the liner on purpose with a cotton bud rather than trying to make it neat, since neat looks wrong for the era. Tie a second flannel around your waist for more layers, and carry a small backpack. Warm enough for any outdoor gathering.
37. Y2K Pop Star Costume With Metallic Pants
A Y2K pop star leans on shiny textures and colourful accessories. Metallic cargo pants with a bright fitted tank over a long-sleeve mesh top, platform sneakers, a cropped faux-fur jacket and a mini shoulder bag form the base. A high ponytail with face-framing strands, tiny clips or two mini buns, frosted shadow, gloss and face gems finish the look. Butterfly clips are cheap and slide out of fine hair, so I put a tiny bobby pin through each one. A headset microphone with no working parts or a glittered cardboard mic, coloured bangles and narrow sunglasses complete her.
38. Audrey Hepburn Costume With Black Dress
Audrey Hepburn's look relies on a few simple black accessories. A sleeveless black midi dress with pumps or pointed flats, long black gloves, a layered pearl necklace and oversized dark sunglasses form the costume. A polished high bun with a small sparkling tiara at the front, defined brows, clean winged liner, peach blush and soft pink lips finish her. I'd build the bun over a doughnut so it holds its height all night. A small black clutch or a paper coffee cup is the prop. On a cold evening, a fitted black cardigan under a structured coat keeps the shape for formal parties or a last-minute invite.
39. Marilyn Monroe Costume With White Halter Dress
Marilyn centres on a flowing white halter dress and classic beauty details. Choose a knee-length dress with a full pleated skirt and a neckline that feels secure, with nude tights and white or metallic low heels. Short vintage curls, natural or a wig, black liner, lashes, softly arched brows, red lips and a small beauty mark finish her. Halter necks drag on the back of the neck after a few hours, so I add a wide strip of ribbon inside the tie to spread the pull. Pearl studs, a white faux-fur wrap and a silver clutch finish her, with fashion tape where you need it outdoors.
40. Rosie The Riveter Costume With Denim Shirt
Rosie the Riveter is a last-minute costume from everyday clothes. Tuck a blue denim or chambray shirt into high-waisted dark jeans and roll the sleeves above the elbows, then add brown work boots or clean sneakers and a sturdy belt. A bun with a red polka-dot bandanna tied over the top, matte skin, defined brows, mascara and classic red lipstick finish her. I tie the bandanna with the knot at the front, on top of the head, which is the detail that makes her read. A vintage lunchbox doubles as a bag, a felt name patch is optional, and the flexed-arm pose does the rest in photos.
41. Ladybug Costume With Red Tulle Skirt
A ladybug brings bright red to a simple black base. A black long-sleeve top goes with a red tulle midi skirt dotted with removable black felt circles, plus black tights and red or black flats. A high bun or two round buns sit under an antenna headband made from pipe cleaners and soft pom-poms. Red lips, black winged liner and tiny dots at the outer eye corners finish the face. Felt dots on tulle tend to fall through the holes, so I stitch them through the top layer only. Compact red-and-black wings and a small red crossbody bag complete this easy DIY.
42. Bumblebee Costume With Striped Dress
A bumblebee comes together fast from black and yellow clothes. A striped sweater dress, or a yellow top with a black skirt and horizontal felt stripes, goes with opaque black tights and yellow sneakers or black ankle boots. A high ponytail with a yellow ribbon, a soft antenna headband, golden shadow, peach blush and a neutral gloss finish her. I'd keep the stripes wide; thin stripes read as a sailor shirt from across a room. Small translucent wings on elastic and a fabric flower are the props, and a cropped black cardigan adds warmth for walking outdoors.
43. Butterfly Costume With Colorful Wings
In a butterfly costume, the wings are the whole show. A fitted black jumpsuit, a long-sleeve bodysuit with leggings or a simple black dress, black ankle boots or flats and a narrow metallic belt make the base. Choose light fabric wings in blue, purple, orange or rainbow, ideally with wrist loops so they open when you lift your arms. Wrist-loop wings tire your shoulders, so I'd pick a pair with a neck strap as well, which takes the weight. A sleek ponytail or waves under an antenna headband, eye shadow matched to the wings and a few face gems finish her. All-black keeps the colour on the wings.
44. Deer Costume With Brown Dress
A woodland deer uses warm neutrals and soft makeup. A brown sweater dress or a fitted brown top with a tan midi skirt, opaque tights, brown ankle boots and a small faux-fur tail on the waistband form the base. Two high buns sit under a headband with felt ears and light antlers. Bronze shadow, a dark nose and white dots across the cheeks and forehead make the face; I dot the white with the end of a makeup brush handle, which gives neat, even spots. A leaf necklace and a bundle of faux branches finish her. Keep the antlers small so they don't catch on decorations.
45. Flamingo Costume With Pink Feather Cape
A flamingo is funny and colourful without a mascot suit. A fitted pink dress or a pink top with matching leggings goes under a light pink feather-style cape or fabric boa, with pale pink tights and flats or sneakers. Feather boas shed constantly, so I'd choose a fabric boa or give a feather one a good shake outside first. A high curled ponytail or a sleek bun with a pink feather clip, rosy blush, pink shadow and glossy lips finish her. A curved felt flamingo headpiece on a headband or a plush bird is the prop, and a black clutch echoes the beak.
46. Strawberry Costume With Red Dress
A strawberry costume turns a simple red dress into something sweet. A red A-line or sweater dress gets small yellow felt seeds on removable fashion tape, with green tights or socks and red sneakers or green flats. A leafy collar and matching headpiece cut from green felt finish the shape; I cut the leaves as one piece with a jagged edge and fix the headpiece to a wide headband. Soft waves, braids or a high bun, rosy blush, freckles, green liner and berry lips suit her. A small green bag or a basket of faux strawberries is the prop.
47. Mushroom Costume With Red Spotted Hat
A mushroom starts with an oversized red-and-white cap. I make it from a wide sunhat covered in red felt with soft white circles across the top, which is far lighter than a foam dome. A cream sweater dress, white tights and brown lace-up ankle boots go below, with a short tan cape or textured vest for woodland colour. Loose curls or two braids sit under the hat, with peach blush, white freckles, warm brown shadow and a neutral lip. A wicker basket of faux leaves and fabric flowers finishes her. Check the brim doesn't block your view before you head out.
48. Sunflower Costume With Yellow Petal Collar
Yellow petals turn a green-and-brown outfit into a sunflower. A green long-sleeve dress, a jumpsuit or a top with brown trousers, brown ankle boots and a green belt dotted with faux leaves form the base. The petal collar or headpiece is cut from yellow felt around a soft brown centre. I glue the petals to a felt circle rather than straight onto a headband, then stitch the circle on, so it sits flat. A low bun, natural curls or a side braid fits underneath, with golden shadow, warm blush and coral lips. An empty plastic watering can is the prop for group photos.
49. Rain Cloud Costume With Gray Tulle
A rain cloud is a clever concept that's easy to wear. A grey sweater dress or a grey top with matching trousers, silver sneakers, grey tights and a soft tulle cape give the cloudy texture. Polyester filling on a wide headband makes the cloud, with blue felt raindrops on clear thread around the edge. Clear thread tangles if it's long, so I keep each drop on a short strand and knot it twice. A low ponytail or waves sit underneath, with silver shadow, cool pink blush and gloss. A closed blue umbrella works only where there's room, and iridescent earrings add the last detail.
50. Error 404 Costume With Black Outfit
Error 404 is the genuinely last-minute option made from a black outfit. A black tee with black jeans, a midi skirt or leggings, white sneakers or black ankle boots and a silver crossbody bag are all you need. Print or hand-letter Error 404: Costume Not Found on white paper, mount it on cardboard and fix it securely to the shirt. I pin the card from inside the shirt with two safety pins at the top corners, so it doesn't flap. A sleek ponytail or casual bun, simple makeup, pixel-shaped clips or square silver earrings and a cardboard loading symbol finish the joke.
Making a Cheap Wig Look Like Hair
Many of these looks depend on a wig: Cruella's two-tone bob, Velma's blunt bangs, Cleopatra's sleek black cut, Marilyn's curls. Party wigs come out of the bag flattened, shiny and shedding, and a few minutes of work makes a real difference.
- Shake it out and brush it gently with a wide-tooth comb, starting at the ends and working up. Brushing from the roots pulls fibres out.
- Dust a little dry shampoo or plain powder through it. It knocks back the plastic shine that gives a cheap wig away in photos.
- Trim the bangs a little at a time with sharp scissors, pointing the blades up into the fringe rather than cutting straight across. Straight-cut fibre looks like a doll's.
- Wear a wig cap and pin the wig in place with bobby pins at the temples and the back, so it doesn't creep up your forehead as you move.
Synthetic fibre and heat don't mix. Don't take a hot curling iron or straightener to a costume wig unless the label says it's heat-safe, and keep it away from candles and jack-o'-lantern flames. Afterwards, rinse it in cool water with a little conditioner, blot it in a towel and dry it over a bottle so it keeps its shape for next year.
The Costume You'll Forget You're Wearing
A good costume lets you enjoy the night without fiddling with straps or holding awkward props. Start with a comfortable base, then add the colours, hair, makeup and one prop that tell people who you are. Thrift most of the pieces, borrow from your own closet, and simplify any of these to fit your budget. Test the makeup and headpieces before the night, and wear shoes that suit where you're going. With a little care, even the simplest outfit here turns into a costume people remember.
Related posts:
