Halloween sneaks up on us every year, doesn’t it? One minute we’re soaking up the last bit of summer sun, and the next, we’re scrambling to come up with a costume for the kids, the party, or even just to answer the door. No worries, though, because I’ve got you covered with some fabulous last-minute Halloween costumes that are easy, creative, and sure to impress.
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The Classic Ghost
Nothing beats a classic. Grab an old white sheet, cut out a couple of eyeholes, and boom, you’re a ghost. It’s the easiest costume ever, and it’s timeless. If you want to spice it up, you can add chains or a fake spiderweb draped over your head. You might feel a bit like Charlie Brown, but hey, that’s part of the charm.
Black Cat Halloween Costume
A black cat is sleek, simple, and always a hit. If you have black clothes, you’re already halfway there. Make a tail out of an old black sock filled with stuffing or paper. Attach it with safety pins. Use a black eyeliner to draw whiskers and a cute little nose. Top it off with a headband with ears, which you can find in any craft store or make yourself with some felt and glue.
Mummy
The mummy look is a great way to use up those extra rolls of toilet paper or gauze. Wrap yourself up, leaving your eyes uncovered, and you’ll have an impressive costume in minutes. Just make sure the wrap is not too tight, so you can move and breathe easily. This costume is perfect for last-minute Halloween costumes because it’s made from materials you already have at home.
Rosie the Riveter
Channel your inner strength with a Rosie the Riveter costume. You need a blue denim shirt, red bandana, and some red lipstick. Tie your hair up with the bandana, roll up your sleeves, and strike the iconic pose. It’s empowering and instantly recognizable.
Scarecrow Halloween Costume
For a scarecrow, all you need is a plaid shirt, overalls or jeans, and some straw. You can stuff straw into your pockets and sleeves, or use yellow yarn if you don’t have straw. Add a floppy hat and draw a patchy face with makeup. This costume is charming and perfect for fall.
Athlete
If you have any sports gear lying around, you can quickly become an athlete. A basketball player, soccer star, or even a marathon runner can be easily put together with items you already own. Throw on a jersey, shorts, and sneakers. Don’t forget a water bottle and a sweatband for authenticity.
Pirate
Pirates are always a hit and a super easy last-minute Halloween costume to put together. Grab a white shirt, a vest, and some dark pants. Make an eye patch from black fabric or paper, and tie a bandana around your head. If you have an old belt, use it as a sash. A plastic sword or a stuffed parrot can complete the look.
Witch
A witch costume can be as simple or elaborate as you want. A black dress and a pointy hat are the basics. You can add to it with striped stockings, boots, and a broomstick. Green face paint or dark makeup can add a spooky touch.
That is my last-minute Halloween costume from October 2023, shown above. I had a black dress and a crinoline in my closet. The crinoline is meant to be worn under a dress, but I wore it over the witch costume. I had the shoes and belt in my everyday closet, and the witch’s hat I had from a previous year’s costume.
Nerd
This one’s fun and easy. Pair high-waisted pants with a tucked-in shirt and add some suspenders. Big glasses (with tape in the middle for the classic nerd look) and a few pens in your pocket will finish it off. You can even add a calculator or a stack of books.
Last-Minute Tourist Halloween Costume
Dress up as a tourist with a Hawaiian shirt, shorts, and sandals with socks. Add a sunhat, sunglasses, and a camera around your neck. Carry a map and you’re all set. This Halloween costume is funny and simple to put together.
Zombie
Turn any outfit into a zombie costume with some makeup and fake blood. Tear up some old clothes, smear on some red paint or ketchup, and use dark eyeshadow to create a sunken look around your eyes. Walk slowly and moan for effect.
Social Media Influencer
With a few trendy items from your closet and some over-the-top accessories, you can become a social media influencer. Think big sunglasses, a stylish hat, and lots of attitude. Carry a selfie stick and keep checking your phone. It’s a funny and timely costume.
Emoji
Dress as your favorite emoji with just a yellow shirt and some black marker or felt. Draw the emoji face on the shirt and you’re ready to go. It’s simple, fun, and recognizable.
TV or Movie Character Halloween Costume
Think of a character from a popular TV show or movie that you love. Chances are, you can put together a costume with items from your wardrobe. For example, dressing up as Eleven from Stranger Things requires just a pink dress, a blue jacket, and a box of Eggo waffles.
Final Thoughts on Last Minute Halloween Costumes
These last-minute Halloween costumes are easy to throw together with things you already have or can quickly get. They let you join in the fun without having to worry about planning every detail. Halloween should be about creativity and enjoyment, not stress and expense. So, pick one of these ideas and have a blast at your next Halloween event!
