77 Easy Halloween Costumes You Can Quickly DIY At The Last Minute
77 Easy Halloween Costumes You Can Quickly DIY At The Last Minute
Halloween lets everyone embrace the impossible. At one party, you're dressed up as an 80s rock legend ready to take the stage in front of a roaring crowd. The next night, you're a figment of your own imagination, wearing an outfit that resembles the burrito you ate earlier that day. There's a freedom that comes with picking out a Halloween costume, which means you can go with a nod to pop culture, something food-inspired or a look that's downright meme-worthy. But if you feel like time is ticking, browse through these ridiculously easy Halloween costumes to find your 2021 look.
Before you fill up your Amazon cart with craft supplies, makeup, wigs and other costume accessories, take a closer look at what you already have stashed away in your closet because most of the DIY Halloween costumes on this list can be made with supplies you already have at home. Then work your way through these homemade costume ideas for men, women, couples and friend groups until you find something that catches your eye. With so many options to choose from, you're bound to find the best Halloween costume fit for any party theme: classic crowd-pleasers (cute cats, bats and deer), costumes that bring the puns ("smarty pants") and scary Halloween looks that'll give everyone a thrill (gauzy ghosts). Best of all: You can wait until October 31 to pull together these costumes because they barely take any time at all.
Baby from 'Dirty Dancing' Costume
For all those Dirty Dancing fans, the "I carried a watermelon" scene is easily recognizable and super doable if you want to be Baby this year for Halloween.
Snow White Halloween Costume
You don't need Grumpy, Bashful or another one of the seven dwarves by your side to pull off this enchanting costume. Just grab a wig, ruby red lipstick, blue shirt, and yellow skirt for a DIY Snow White costume. Grab a fresh apple before you head out the door to really slip into character!
Chick Magnet Costume
When you need something quick and easy, go for the chick magnet costume. All you really need for this punny costume is the magnet — it’s that easy! Dress in all black, put the magnet around your neck and have a great Halloween night.
Beth and Rip from 'Yellowstone' Halloween Costume
While you can pair up with your partner for the ultimate couple's costume, it's perfectly fine to fly solo in this Yellowstone look. To look like Rip, wear a fake beard and cowboy hat, along with classic ranch attire: lightweight jacket, loose-fitting jeans and durable boots. For Beth, pair a LBD with an oversized jacket and cowboy boots.
Rapunzel and Her Tower
Make a LOOOONG braid with yellow yarn. You’ll want to loop the yarn about 30-40 times per braid section. Tie off the top to band it together. Do this three times because braids have three sections. Braid the three sections together trying to keep the braid tight and thick. Tie purple bows throughout the braid, but especially to tie the two braids together. Using a yellow beanie, glue yellow yarn to look like “hair” on the top. Leaving some longer strands in the back, tie the braid to the “hair” on the hat and also to the strap on the baby carrier (so it doesn’t weigh on the baby’s head/neck).
Dress the baby in pink or purple long sleeves and cover the front of the carrier in purple felt or fabric. Use pink ribbon make a corset detail with bows.
Emoji Headband Costume
Be every emoji this Halloween with this printable DIY emoji headband. All you need to do is print out the emoji template, assemble the headband and wear yellow clothing.
Queen of Hearts Halloween Costume
Pair this custom collar with your favorite red dress and red lipstick for an easy Alice in Wonderland-inspired costume. To make the collar, wrap a large piece of paper around your neck so you can trim it down to the right size. Then, staple cards from a deck all around the paper collar, layering them for a fanned-out effect.
Starbucks T-shirt Dress
Fall season is all about cozy drinks, so why not dress up as one? Go out this Halloween as your favorite cup of coffee or popular pumpkin spice latte with this easy T-shirt dress.
Holy Guacamole Halloween Costume
This avo-dorable combination is both heavenly and delicious. Just print out avocado illustrations you find online and stick 'em to a green shirt. Add angel wings and a halo to complete the look.
Cat with Yarn Ball Halloween Costume
Classic cat costumes are cute and all, but this pregnant-friendly one plays up your furry friend's spirited personality. To make, loop yellow yarn until you achieve a perfectly tangled mess and attach it to a black shirt, leaving a few strands free to give you something to chase.
"But That's None of My Business" Halloween Costume
Wear this meme-inspired costume to your Halloween party to really see who's hip and cool. And if people don't get it, just tell 'em that you're Kermit the Frog. That works, too.
Operation
Using the Operation board game as your guide, cut out the red felt shapes and then corresponding white shapes that are smaller. Stick the white on top of the red and then the red on top of the pajamas. Using a label maker, write out each part and affix next to the shape. Put the nose on and you’re done!
Smarty Pants Halloween Costume
Dip into your Halloween candy stash before the festivities really begin to DIY this punny costume. Attach a dozen Smarties candies to an old pair of jeans with glue dots or double-sided tape, and then throw on a pair of glasses to really play the part.
Candycorn Halloween Costume
It wouldn’t be Halloween without tons of candy! Chocolates, lollipops and of course, candycorn! If you have a sweet tooth, this candycorn dress is the perfect way to dress up on Halloween.
Bat Halloween Costume
Don't throw out your broken umbrella just yet! Cut it in half and use use black safety pins or hot glue to attach it to the arms of a black hoodie. Fasten the hinges of the umbrella pieces with black electrical tape, so you can open your wings to get the full bat effect. Finish it off with black foam ears, dotted with black feathers.
Gauzy Ghosts Halloween Costume
The bedsheet ghost has met its match: Drape and pin a layer of cheesecloth over an all-black outfit, followed by a layer of distressed white gauze (like the kind you use for decorating windows, doorframes and mantels). To make it even spookier, paint your face with white face paint and circle your eyes with black eyeshadow.
RELATED: Cute Family Halloween Costumes
Error: Costume Not Found Halloween Costume
You can literally make this costume a minute before you walk out the door. A+ for hilarity, but maybe not effort.
Ceiling Fan Halloween Costume
Another pun costume that'll steal the show: Add some school — er, ceiling — cheer with this sweatshirt and poster combo. Don't forget the pom poms!
Instagram Filter Halloween Costume
At this point, there are zillions of Instagram filters to choose from, but the original ones are still instantly recognizable. Pull up Instagram stories on your phone and select one of the OG filters, including the dog. Point your phone to a blank surface like a table or wall, and take a screenshot. Print the screenshot on a thick board and cut out the middle to fit your face. Complete the look by adding makeup and accessories to mirror the filter's.
Goose and Maverick Halloween Costume
You and your movie buddy will experience the silver screen from all angles as soon as you throw on these fighter pilot outfits. Just like Tom Cruise and Anthony Edwards, no?!
Sea Anemone Halloween Costume
Here's one way to make an entrance. Blow up long, pink balloons and attach them by the knot to a pink shirt with safety pins. Sprinkle in a few context clues, so people can figure out what you're dressing up as, like a felt crown embellished with plastic fish.
Carpool Karaoke Hallowen Costume
Take your karaoke skills on the road with this clever DIY. Here, silver and black paint transform a yellow presentation board into a paper taxi. Attach velcro straps, so it can rest comfortably on your shoulders. Wear normal attire or come up with a themed look based on your playlist.
Jack 'o Lantern Halloween Costume
A pregnant belly is basically asking to be dressed up as a jack o'lantern. Throw on an orange dress, add a felt face and wear a green beret to look like a stem.
Rock Legends Halloween Costume
You're a legend in your own right, but Halloween is the time to channel your inner star power by dressing up as David Bowie, Freddy Mercury, Elton John or another famed rocker. It's up to you: Shine solo or create a band of your own.
Polka Dots Halloween Costume
Fun wig? Check. Dots? Check. Sugar & Cloth has the perfect recipe for a truly dotty getup that takes very little time to put together (and won't leave you running around in circles at the last minute).
Farmer Halloween Costume
Most guys probably have everything they need to make this costume come to life. Just layer a flannel shirt under a pair of overalls and attach a homemade USDA Organic pin to the strap.
Burrito Halloween Costume
You are what you eat, so this burrito costume is only fitting. Pair a tan (read: burrito-colored) top with a silver skirt and shoes to mimic your Chipotle order.
Cloud and Rainbow Halloween Costume
Since your kid brings color to your world on the daily, this adorable rainbow and cloud duo makes the perfect statement. Using multi-colored construction paper and a leftover cardboard box, make your little one a rainbow "dress." Then, add polyester batting to your umbrella for a makeshift cloud.
'Men in Black' Halloween Costume
Couples and BFFs can easily recreate the iconic movie look with all-black suits, ties, sunglasses and — if you have one — a pup!
Smart Cookie Halloween Costume
No diploma required: Tape cookie cut-outs to an old cap and gown for a hilariously sweet costume. But if you really want to win "Best Costume," show up to the party with a plate full of warm cookies.
Bob Ross and a Happy Little Tree Halloween Costume
Because every Halloween party would benefit from some happy trees. Throw it back to your childhood with this clever couple's costume. Bonus: If you have a little critter of your own, you can dress him or her up as Bob's squirrel, Peapod.
Super Quilter Halloween Costume
Super Quilter to the rescue! You always knew your crafting skills would come in handy, and this ultra-comfy costume lets you put your quilting skills to work.
50 Shades of Grey Halloween Costume
Even though it may feel like Fifty Shades of Grey came out a lifetime ago, the story is timeless, especially come Halloween. For a PG version, pick up some grey paint swatches — say, 50 shades? — at your local hardware store and tape them to a plain tee.
Sabrina Halloween Costume
Give Sabrina, the Teenage Witch a chilling twist ... get it? The red dress, blonde curls and black headband are pretty generic, so go the extra mile by serving a cake similar to the one on the hit Netflix show.
Hawaiian Punch Halloween Costume
Think outside of the (juice) box with this costume inspired by your go-to childhood drink: Hawaiian Punch. While you're at it, dust off your trusty pair of boxing gloves and get a workout in.
Cool as a Cucumber Halloween Costume
Everyone already knows just how cool you are, but this clever costume will seal the deal. Cut out wavy strips of light green felt, and stick them all over your dark green ensemble. Throw on a baseball cap and shades to really live up to the costume's name.
Helga Pataki Halloween Costume
Even if you're celebrating Halloween solo, you can still wear a satin pink bow, stick-straight yellow hair and unibrow like Arnold's arch rival-turned-girlfriend. Practice saying "Move it football head!" to get into character.
Green with Envy Halloween Costume
Be the punniest pair at the party with this simple t-shirt costume. Yep, even the headband is optional.
Bread Winner Halloween Costume
You're bound to fall in loaf with this sporty, gluten-tolerant costume. Plus, who doesn't want to spend a day pretending they've won Olympic gold? Exactly.
Mary Poppins and Bert Halloween Costume
When you pair a dark midi skirt and blazer with a white button-down, it may just look like another office look. If you add a red ribbon around your neck, then you instantly transform into Mary Poppins. Same goes for your chimney sweepin' pal: With ash-colored eyeshadow and a broom, they'll become a Bert look-alike.
American Gothic Halloween Costume
Get a print-out of Grant Wood's painting and cut a hole in it for your face. It's quick, easy and a soon-to-be American classic.
She Sells Seashells Halloween Costume
Summer may have come and gone, but Sally is still selling seashells down by the seashore on October 31. Give the other party-goers a good chuckle with this tongue twister.
Formal Apology Halloween Costume
With an easy DIY costume like this, you (and your wallet) will have nothing to be sorry about. Just grab a nice dress or suit from your closet and pair it with a handwritten sash.
Miss Universe Halloween Costume
Since your puns are out of this world (sorry, we had to), make your pageant dreams a reality with this cosmic-inspired costume, complete with a sparkly tiara and personalized sash.
Chip and Joanna From 'Fixer Upper' Halloween Costume
Because your party guests need more Chip and Joanna Gaines in their life now that Fixer Upper is off HGTV. This straight-from-your-closet costume will give them the Waco fix everyone needs.
Cactus Halloween Costume
This easy-t0-make costume isn't nearly as prickly as the real thing, but you'll still look sharp.
Pantone Color Combo Halloween Costume
Put on your best dress, convince him to wear his favorite suit and then call your pairing the ultimate color combo. It'll help if you go for complementary colors, of course.
Blessing in Disguise Halloween Costume
Even if you waited until the last second to pull something together for Halloween, you'll feel #blessed for coming up with this genius idea. Get creative with different wigs, hats, glasses and accessories.
Arthur Halloween Costume
Score major cool points with all the teens in your neighborhood by wearing this meme-worthy costume.
'Troop Beverly Hills' Halloween Costume
Grab your best friend and create a troop of your own for a 90s-inspired look. Like your Girl Scouts days, but way more chic.
Starry Goddess Costume
Ideal for the Zodiac-obsessed, simply add temporary star stickers to your favorite black jumpsuit to transform into the ultimate gold-dusted goddess (as if you weren't already).
Old Married Couple Halloween Costume
There's something fun about being young and trying to age yourself forty (or more) years in the future. Show up to the party looking like you're ready for bed, so that you can crash as soon as you get home
Plant Lady Halloween Costume
Since your green thumb is greener than most, show it off this Halloween by dressing as the ultimate #PlantLady, faux leaves and all.
Interchangeable Letter Board Halloween Costume
For a modern take on the classic t-shirt costume, use pre-cut letters and Velcro to make a walking letter board. What's more, you can refresh your costume throughout the day.
Ketchup and Mustard Halloween Costume
She's the peanut butter to your jelly ... or in this case, the ketchup to your mustard (or vice versa). Add some bright color to your Halloween with these simple red and yellow costumes.
Minnie Mouse Halloween Costume
Well gosh — isn't this the cutest DIY costume you've ever seen? We think Mickey would agree.
Get the tutorial at I Am Style-Ish?
Rosie the Riveter Halloween Costume
Nothing says "girl power" quite like Rosie the Riveter. Since every woman already has a little Rosie in her, there's a good chance you already have the makings for this costume in your closet.
Dunkin' Donuts Halloween Costume
If you're Team Dunkin', wear this costume to show your pride with the brand's signature colors and sprinkled donuts.
Betty and Veronica From 'Riverdale' Halloween Costume
Even if your Betty (or Veronica) already has a costume planned for the night, it doesn't mean you can't rock this costume solo. The best part? You probably already own everything you need.
Raining Men Halloween Costume
Hallelujah, here's a costume that's weather-proof and will inspire a night of karaoke. Tape cutouts of your favorite guys — George Clooney, Prince Harry, to list a few — to a clear umbrella, then wear rain boots and a trench coat to complete the look.
Skeleton Halloween Costume
No high school flashbacks here: This last-minute costume takes a more subtle approach to anatomy. To make, cut out sections of a t-shirt to create a ribcage illusion, add some face paint and stick on a paper heart for an especially adorable skeleton.
Queen Bee Halloween Costume
Who doesn't love a good play on words? It's even better when the costume speaks the truth because, well, you're the Queen.
Brawny Man Halloween Costume
Walk around with a roll of paper towels and everyone at the party will instantly love you — especially if their wine takes a spill. To match the Brawny man (or woman), wear a red plaid shirt and look as suave as possible.
Pineapple Halloween Costume
Pretend that you're basking in the tropics with this easy-to-make pineapple costume. Just craft a green crown, throw on a bright yellow dress and go!
Bubble Bath Halloween Costume
No water required! Safety-pin white balloons to a white tee and add a colorful shower cap. Get into character by taking a sudsy bath of your own before you get dressed.
Pink Shirt Girl Emoji Halloween Costume
For a low-fuss costume, just find a pink shirt, strike a pose, and call it day. Bonus points if you bring a pair of scissors to transform into the hairdresser emoji.
Nerd Halloween Costume
Layer suspenders over a white t-shirt and wrap some white tape around the center of thick-rimmed glasses. Don't forget your BFF a.k.a. your calculator!
'The Bachelorette' Halloween Costume
Put on your fanciest dress to see how many people at the party will accept your roses. The flowers won't last long. Trust.
Minion Halloween Costume
This costume is a classic for a reason: It's seriously easy to make, and appropriate for all ages. You can even get your kids or S.O. to wear matching costumes to complete the gang of Bob, Kevin and Stuart.
Pop Art Character Halloween Costume
With this cool costume makeup, you can pretty much wear whatever you want and still look incredibly put-together. It doesn't get any better than that, right?
Sia Halloween Costume
Here's a cheap thrill: The only thing you need to buy for this Sia costume is her signature two-toned wig. If you have a +1, convince them to dress up as Maddie Ziegler, so you can be a well-rounded pair.
Spaghetti and Parmesan Halloween Costume
Celebrate your love of pasta with this anything-but-cheesy food costume idea. Get a green jersey dress and glue on the parmesan label, then use pom-poms and yarn for a spaghetti sweater. Top with a colander and pasta "hair" — we recommend angel hair.
Dancing Girl Emoji Halloween Costume
Prepare for a night of dancing with this comfortable (but chic) look. Pair a black shirt and black shorts to make up the clothing portion of this dancing girl emoji pair, while black card stock attached to headbands serves as bunny ears.
Elaine Benes From 'Seinfeld' Halloween Costume
Pair your best floral dress and blazer with your most awkward dance moves to become this Seinfeld icon.
Wilma and Fred Halloween Costume
Dress up as everyone's favorite prehistoric couple at a borderline-prehistoric price. You've always wanted to test out neon orange hair anyway, haven't you?
Deer Halloween Costume
Perfect for all ages, turn a basic brown dress into a look that everyone will fawn over. Dress it up with a faux fur vest, antler headband and face paint.
Paper Doll Halloween Costume
Because if you can't be the real thing, the paper version is the best option. To create this funky 2-D design, make a dress, handbag and bow out of colored poster board.
Looking for an easy, last minute costume you can quickly DIY for Halloween 2021? We have everything you need to achieve an awesome and creative outfit with these cute and fun Halloween costume ideas!