If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and last minute Halloween costume, save these recommendations for later! You don’t need a massive budget or pro DIY skills to rock Halloween night. Whether you’re going solo, partnering up with a friend, or coordinating a group, this list of “wow” costumes are sure to make you a star!
Clever & Iconic Solo Costumes: Stand Out
These easy to assemble, non-niche looks will ensure you get noticed in the huge Halloween crowds!
Vampire
A classic Halloween icon that allows you to be both scary and cool. The costume relies heavily on simple colors dramatic makeup. Start by wearing all black (dress, suit, or cape). The real transformation comes from the makeup. You can use pale foundation, a dramatic smokey eye, and, most importantly, accents of red fake blood dripping from the mouth and neck. Fake fangs are definitely the final touch to perfect the look.
1920’s Flapper Girl:
A classy, elegant costume that represents a fun historical era. The look is recognizable by its silhouette and accessories. Find a fringed dress or a skirt with lots of movement. Accessorize with a signature ’20s headband with a feather and long necklaces of pearls. Finish the look with a bold lip to complete this vintage, party-ready vibe.
Mummy:
A low-cost, high-impact Halloween staple. This costume is super cheap and effective, relying on simple materials for a spooky, authentic look. Wear all-white or all-beige clothing as your base. Then, wrap yourself loosely in strips of toilet paper/white gauze. For an extra decaying, ancient look, use brown makeup or soaked tea bags to “age” the strips before wrapping. This will ensure the “mummy effect” is fully present!
Breakfast at Tiffany’s
As the epitome of chic and effortlessly recognizable, this costume is all about simple elegance and a famous silhouette that anyone can pull off with a closet staple. Wear a classic little black dress (LBD). Add a chunky pearl necklace, large black cat-eye sunglasses, and pull your hair into a high bun. Carry a small pastry or a coffee cup to complete the iconic New York morning scene.
The Classic Tourist:
The definition of low effort, high humor. It’s comfortable, funny, and built entirely from common closet items. Start with a bright Hawaiian shirt, khaki shorts or pants, and white socks pulled up high with sneakers. Don’t forget the essential accessories: a camera hanging around your neck, a map unfolded, a fanny pack and visor, and of course, your smiling face!
Good or Bad Sandy (from Grease):
A timeless movie transformation that gives you two easy options: sweet and innocent or fierce and rebellious. (Good): Use a long, pleated yellow skirt, a white button-down cardigan or top, and a simple ponytail for the sweet, innocent look. (Bad): Go all black in form-fitting clothes (black leggings, off-the-shoulder black top). Add red lipstick and big, curled hair for the cool and classic transformation.
Dynamic Duos, Trios & Groups
Rhyme Without Reason:
This is the ultimate viral, low-effort, high-praise costume. The goal is to choose two or more distinct costumes whose names rhyme, creating an instantly clever and surprising pair. Examples: Pair a sweet, whimsical costume like a Fairy (wings, tutu) with a horror icon like Carrie (a simple dress covered in fake blood), or combine a fast-food favorite like Taco Bell with the innocent charm of Tinkerbell. You can brainstorm your own combination using any simple solo costume!
Wicked Duo:
A theatre favorite that’s perfect for a pair of best friends—the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch. It’s definitely recognizable thanks to the popularity of the musical, and especially since the new one is coming so soon. One friend transforms into the green-skinned Elphaba using an all-black wardrobe (witchy skirt, corset, or dress) and green face and body makeup. The other becomes the bubbly Glinda, requiring a pink corset or top, a ruffle skirt, and a toy crown or tiara.
Clueless Crew:
An iconic 90s look that never goes out of style. It works perfectly for a duo or trio and instantly sparks nostalgia. Dress as Cher and Dionne in the famous plaid skirt sets (yellow plaid for Cher, black and white for Dionne), complete with knee-high socks. Expand the group by adding grunge-inspired Tai (flannel, ripped jeans) or turn it into a couple’s costume with Josh or Murray.
3 Blind Mice:
An easy trio that looks chic and coordinated without being complicated. It’s a simple visual that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Everyone wears a sharp all-black base outfit. To complete the look, grab some dark sunglasses, and carry a cane or stick as your prop. Inexpensive mouse ears and small bow-ties add the final layer of flair, and add to the “mousy” look you’re aiming to achieve!
Monster High:
A creative and customizable group look that allows everyone to embrace themselves using bright colors and fun patterns. Choose your favorite character (like Draculaura in pink and black or Frankie Stein in her stitches and plaid) and put your spin on their signature colors. The key is in the details: focus on dramatic makeup, or painted-on character marks (like stitches) to make the characters instantly recognizable!
Whether you’re aiming for spooky, iconic, or hilarious, these simple, clever ideas, guide you towards everything you need for an awesome costume that saves time and money. Now get out there, rock your look, and have the best Halloween night!
