Need a Last Minute Halloween Costumes idea that doesn’t scream “I tried too hard… or not at all”? You’re in the right place, friend!
We all know that feeling of Halloween creeping up faster than a ghost in a haunted house. Don’t sweat it.
This year, you can totally nail a costume that’s chic, fun, and looks like you planned it for weeks, even if you just thought of it. Get ready to transform everyday items into show-stopping looks.
Trust me, you’ll be turning heads without breaking a sweat (or the bank!).
Last Minute Halloween Costumes Ideas
1) Vampires by Raegan
Vampires are such a great last minute costume because they’re so easy to recreate! All you need are some special teeth (we linked out favourites below) and some fake blood. We recommend wearing all black and perhaps some fake leather to complete the entire look.
Image and halloween costume via @raemadibain
2) Angel & Devil via Finley
This costume can work with your best friend or on your own! An angel or a devil is a great last minute halloween costume, especially if you have white or red already in your closet. All you need is a halo or devil ears and you’re good to go.
Image and Halloween costumes via @finley22_
3) Beautiful Butterfly by Anna Grace
Be a beautiful butterfly this Halloween! Wear whatever you have in your closet and just wear a set of wings to complete the look. If you want to elevate this costume you can try something unique with your makeup.
Image and nail art via @annagracehay
4) Sun & Moon via Gracie
If you and your bestie are both looking for a last minute costume and want to coordinate, then the sun and moon is a great choice. You don’t even need a sequin top, if you have something yellow, orange, white or silver that can work as well .
If you’re into DIY you can make these crowns yourself however if you’re in a rush, check out the crowns we’ve linked below.
Image and Halloween costume via @gracierrichards
5) Yearbook via Lauren
This might be the most creative Halloween costume of all time and it’s so easy to recreate. All you really need is an oversized t-shirt and a black sharpie. Make sure to write Yearbook in large letters and a couple of messages to encourage others to write their own!
Image and Halloween costume via @laurenwineman
6) Oh Deer by Shay
A deer is such a great costume to recreate! All you really need are some deer antlers and creative makeup. Get a black and white palette for your deer nose and spots, wear a beige shirt and throw on some antlers.
Image and Halloween costume via @shayelizabeth_
7) Football Players by Maddi
The ultimate last minute costume for Halloween has to be a football player. If you have a jersey, throw it on over top of leggings or bikers shorts. If you want to get a bit more creative add eye black (the black stripes under your eyes).
Image and halloween costumes via @maddi_wong
8) Spring Break via Meghan
Whether you’re creating a costume just for you or your entire group. spring break is a quick one to recreate! All you ready need is a bright beanie or mask, a bathing suit top and sweat pants. If you really want to sell the look carry around a water gun.
Image and Halloween costume via @meghancampbell_
9) Toy Story Aliens via Shay
Doesn’t get better than a Toy Story Halloween costume and the Aliens are the cutest! This look is easily recreated with a blue dress and an alien headband, all linked below!
Image and Halloween costume via @shaylacook33
10) Orange Cuties via Maddie
Just like the name, this is a really cute Halloween costume you can throw together really quickly! All you need is an orange dress or shirts and a green headband. Next print of the orange cuties logo and stick it to your outfit.
Image and costume idea via @maddie.presson
11) Mummy via Sidney
A Mummy is one of those costumes you can easily throw together last minute. It’s pretty DIY, all you need is a base skirt and crop top some bandages and bronzer. Wrap the bandages around your outfit, add on some bronzer to make it look like you’ve been underground for the last couple centuries and you’re good to go!
Image and halloween costume via @sidneymarieduke
12) Cinderella via Livi
Cinderella is such a cute and easy costume to create last minute! All you need is a light blue dress, a crown and some sparkle blue eye shadow. If you have a couple of friends that are also looking for costumes you can all be Disney princesses!
Image and Halloween costume via @livi.thomas
13) The Purge via Taylor
One of the easiest costumes to create with items currently in your closet, is The Purge. There’s so many different ways you can dress up as characters from this movie. The easiest is a ripped up white shirt with some blood and fishnets.
Image and Halloween costume via @taylor.bolinn
14) Greek Godess via Devon
A greek goddess is such a great costume to do on your own or with a friend. Everyone usually has a white dress in their closet which makes this costume that much easier to create. Throw in a gold crown and some pieces of gold jewelry and you’ll be glowing all night long.
Image and Halloween costume via @devon.kessler
Final Thoughts
So, you’re armed with ideas for Last Minute Halloween Costumes that truly shine. It’s totally possible to pull together something amazing even when the clock is ticking.
The real trick is to think resourcefully and embrace your inner costume designer. You don’t need a massive budget or endless time to create a memorable look.
Here are some actionable tips from someone who’s been there, done that, and totally rocked the last-minute costume game:
- Raid Your Closet First: Before you even think about buying anything new, take a good, hard look at what you already own. You’d be surprised how many costume components are hiding in plain sight. A simple black dress can be anything from a witch to a cat, depending on the accessories.
- Focus on Key Accessories: Sometimes, one or two standout accessories are all you need to transform an everyday outfit into a costume. Think a bold wig, a distinctive hat, oversized glasses, or even unique jewelry. These small additions can make a huge impact and tie your whole look together.
- Makeup is Your Friend: Seriously, don’t underestimate the power of makeup. With a few basic products, you can create incredible transformations. Think dramatic eyes for a vampire, exaggerated blush for a clown, or intricate lines for a skeleton. There are tons of online tutorials for inspiration.
- Borrow From Friends: Don’t be shy about asking your pals if they have anything you can borrow. A simple prop, a specific color of clothing, or even a wig from a previous Halloween can be exactly what you need to complete your last-minute masterpiece.
- DIY is Doable: You don’t need to be a crafting genius to DIY some elements. Simple cut-outs from cardboard, a quick stitch here or there, or even just creative pinning can turn ordinary items into costume elements. Think about simple shapes or iconic symbols.
- Comfort is Key: Remember, you’ll likely be wearing this costume for a few hours. Make sure it’s something you can comfortably move, sit, and socialize in. There’s nothing worse than a costume that’s constantly shifting or uncomfortable.
- Embrace the Theme: Even with a last-minute costume, try to lean into the theme. If you’re going for a specific character, consider their most iconic features and highlight those. A little bit of commitment to the character goes a long way.
- Don’t Overthink It: The best last-minute costumes often come from simple, clear ideas. Don’t get bogged down in trying to create something overly complex. Sometimes the most effective costumes are the most straightforward.
- Have Fun with It: At the end of the day, Halloween is about having fun! Don’t let the pressure of finding a costume ruin the spirit of the holiday. Your confidence and enthusiasm will make any last-minute costume look amazing.
- Confidence is the Best Accessory: No matter what you choose, wear it with confidence. Your attitude is truly the most impactful part of any costume. If you feel good in what you’re wearing, everyone else will pick up on that vibe too.