When I was younger, I used to dread Halloween—not because of the scary elements (though, I admit, I am easily spooked) but because I could never think of a clever or amusing costume. Whatever ideas I did come up with were either too complicated or expensive. It wasn’t until adulthood that I discovered my knack for finding low-cost, effortless Halloween costumes. And don’t worry, these “cheap” Halloween looks do not involve intricate DIY projects or elaborate makeup. You’re welcome!
When I say “cheap Halloween costumes,” I mean outfits that are both budget-friendly and require minimal effort. Many of these can be found on Amazon or pieced together with items you probably already have in your closet. The key? Work with what you’ve got! Whether it’s old clothes or an Amazon Prime membership, you’ll be able to pull together these easy Halloween costumes faster than you can say, “Trick or treat!”
1. Regina George from Mean Girls
For a simple yet instantly recognizable look, dress up as Regina George in her cut-out top scene. Grab an old white tank top, cut two circles over the chest, and pair it with a brightly colored bra (purple works best). Effortless and iconic, this look will turn heads.
2. Squid Game
While the Squid Game craze peaked in 2021, this look is now easier to pull off. Hunt for an affordable green tracksuit that you can wear again for lounging or pajamas. Accessorize with white sneakers and add a number on your tracksuit to complete the character look. Comfortable and on-trend!
3. Wednesday Addams
Channel the spooky vibes with a black dress featuring a crisp collar, black braids (or wig), dark nails, and a deathly glare. Add lace-up black boots to enhance the gothic vibe. Bonus: You can DIY the collar with a simple white button-down shirt underneath for extra contrast.
4. Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen
Recreate Lindsay Lohan’s iconic look with an old pair of fishnets, a chunky belt, and a DIY Coca-Cola bottle-cap necklace. This early-2000s Disney throwback will stand out, and all you need is a mix of bold, clashing accessories to get that “teenage drama queen” aesthetic.
5. Elvira Hancock from Scarface
Transform into Elvira Hancock with any sleek blue dress (preferably satin), and top off the look with a short blonde bob wig with bangs. Channel her glamorous attitude by accessorizing with gold jewelry and a confident smirk. Pair with strappy heels for that full ’80s glam effect.
6. Anna Wintour
Channel the queen of fashion herself with a tweed jacket, black dress, or pencil skirt. To really capture Anna’s look, add oversized black sunglasses, a blunt bob wig, and your most unimpressed facial expression. Style tip: A statement necklace will make your Anna transformation stand out.
7. Amanda Seyfried as Elizabeth Holmes
Recreate Elizabeth Holmes’ look by opting for her iconic all-black attire—turtleneck, blazer, and red lipstick. Or, for a subtle twist, wear one of Amanda Seyfried’s college-inspired outfits from The Dropout, like a rust-colored sweater layered with an Oxford shirt. Keep practicing that signature deep voice!
8. Little Red Riding Hood
For a fresh take on the classic character, wear red leather or pleather pants and a matching cape. Accessorize with a picnic basket (bonus points for including a faux loaf of bread and flowers) to complete the “going to grandma’s” look. You’ll be the fairest in the woods!
9. Pamela Anderson in Barb Wire
Kendall Jenner made this Barb Wire look famous, and you can too! Grab a leather corset, black fishnet tights, and black gloves. Complete the outfit with a faux barbed wire tattoo for authenticity. This costume is sexy, fierce, and pays tribute to Pamela Anderson’s cinematic badassery.
10. A Bride
Turn yourself into a beautiful bride (no wedding required) with a white dress and an inexpensive veil. You can make your own veil by gluing tulle to a headband. Carry a bouquet and add sparkly rings for an authentic bridal look, or splatter red paint for a zombie bride twist.
11. Elle Woods
For Elle Woods, go all-out pink! Choose from her legendary outfits—like a pink power suit, sparkly swimsuit, or that memorable pink bunny costume. With her signature blonde curls and confident attitude, you can channel your inner law student turned fashion icon at any Halloween party.
12. Cupid
To embody Cupid, craft simple wings by cutting cardboard, covering it in feathers, and using ribbon to tie them on. Pair with a red outfit, heart stickers, and a toy bow and arrow with a heart tip. You’ll be spreading love and charm wherever you go!
13. Maleficent
Maleficent’s horns are the key to this costume. Make your own using wire wrapped in foam and shiny black tape, or buy them online. Pair the horns with a black dress, dark makeup, and winged eyeliner to capture her iconic look. It’s dark elegance at its finest.
14. Skeleton
Skeleton makeup is a classic for a reason. If you have great makeup skills, all you need is black eyeliner, face paint, and creativity. This look is spooky, cost-effective, and doesn’t require any special clothes—just your artistry and imagination.
15. GRWM Morning Routine
For a comfortable costume, go as your morning self! Wear your favorite pajamas, add a towel wrap around your head, and accessorize with skincare products. Think of it as the ultimate “Get Ready With Me” look for a chill, cozy night out.
16. Ariana Grande
Transform into Ariana Grande by sporting a pink mini dress, over-the-knee boots, and a high, sleek ponytail. Don some winged eyeliner, and you’re ready to slay as this pop queen. Make sure to practice your best “thank u, next” poses and vocals.
17. A Unicorn
For the most magical costume, layer on body glitter, accessorize with crystals, and pop on a unicorn horn headband. Go wild with pastel colors, metallics, and sparkles to be the ultimate mystical creature at any Halloween event.
18. Party Animal
Combine two themes with a party animal costume! Wear a fun dress or suit paired with animal ears or animal print. Top off your look with a party hat and a drink accessory. Easy, fun, and sure to make you the life of the party.
19. Gomez and Morticia Addams
A classic couple’s costume, this look is all about elegance and dark glamour. Morticia needs a long black dress, red lips, and dramatic makeup. Gomez only needs a pinstripe suit and a thin mustache. It’s a stylish yet simple homage to the ultimate spooky family.
20. Bride of Frankenstein
Recreate this timeless monster bride by adding a white streak to dark hair or attaching a white hair extension. Wear a long, flowy white dress and dark, gothic makeup to nail this classic character. Don’t forget the attitude—dramatic poses are highly encouraged.
FAQs
Q: What’s a quick costume idea I can make last-minute?
A: If you’re short on time, go for simple options like a skeleton (with makeup), Regina George (with a cut-out tank top), or a morning routine (pajamas and a towel wrap). Each of these requires minimal effort but maximum effect.
Q: How do I make a DIY costume stand out without spending much?
A: Focus on the small details! Props like wigs, accessories, or themed makeup can transform even basic outfits into recognizable costumes. For example, adding a picnic basket to Little Red Riding Hood or a unicorn horn to a glittery outfit makes a big impact.
Q: How do I repurpose clothing for Halloween costumes?
A: Think outside the box! Look for staple items like black dresses, jackets, and colorful accessories in your closet. Pair them with wigs, makeup, or props to create a range of costumes without needing to buy new clothes specifically for Halloween.
