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If you’re like me, this post isn’t for you. Because I had my Halloween costume idea all the way back in July. But if you’re one of those sane, busy adults juggling work, life, and everything in between, you might find yourself scrambling for a last-minute Halloween costume when spooky season creeps in. No need to judge. We’ve all been there.
10 last-minute Halloween costumes that aren’t basic
The good news? We’ve rounded up the easiest and most versatile last-minute Halloween costumes to help ease your festive stress. Whether you’re going to a party, going trick-or-treating with the kids, or need something quick for an office potluck, these ideas are designed to spark inspiration without much effort. Masu.
So there’s no need to worry. There’s still time to find a costume that will make you look smart and creative and ready for the celebration. Scroll through our top picks, say yes to the invite, and let the Halloween magic begin!
Cruella de Vil
This Disney villain’s style is timeless. There are several factors that can make or break this costume, one of which is the infamous black and white wig. There are many options online, but make sure the wig is one you can style to your liking. If you choose a faux fur coat that’s on point but understated, you might even be able to make it a winter staple. All you need to complete the look is a red dress, classic red lip, and a little dramatic costume makeup.
edna and jack jack
Even when I was a kid, there was always a family in my neighborhood dressed up in Incredibles costumes. However, if you’re not into the whole bodysuit thing, it’s better to dress up as Edna with (or without) your little one as Jack-Jack, or to dress up as Edna in an uncomfortable polyester costume and dress up as a local spirit for Halloween. Much easier than running to . Just throw on an oversized black button-down, tall black boots, and a black bob and you’re good to go. Bonus points for those who regularly wear glasses, as this final look is easier to pull together.
risky business
Perhaps an over-the-top Halloween costume, but one that never seems to get old is Tom Cruise’s dance costume from Risky Business. Nothing could be easier than this outfit with an oversized button-down and tall white socks. Wearing shorts and a cute bralette underneath can make this outfit public-appropriate while staying true to the well-known look. This closet staple costume is perfect for anyone in need.
Mia Thermopolis
Is anyone else excited about the recently announced Princess Diaries 3? All Mia Thermopolis fans will agree that this last-minute Halloween costume will get everyone excited and bring back some nostalgia. Everyone has a tiara and a simple white strapless dress lying around somewhere, and slicked back buns are all the rage right now. All you need is a pair of inexpensive over-ear headphones and you’ve got yourself a Princess of Genovia.
rosie the riveter
You can’t go wrong wearing this costume right before Halloween. Rosie the Riveter always makes this list simply for the fact that the costume only really requires three things. Jeans, jean shirt, and cherry red paisley bandana. Blue jeans are a staple in almost everyone’s closet, so you can have this costume together for under $50.
audrey hepburn
Audrey Hepburn’s style never gets old. Whether you’re dressing up for a Breakfast at Tiffany’s themed party or just to impress, this costume doesn’t require much forethought if you have an LBD on hand. Match your look with rectangular sunglasses, pearls, and satin black gloves, and BAM, a star is born.
Elle Woods
I don’t want to spoil my Halloween costume for you, but Elle Woods definitely has one of the best last-minute Halloween costumes. If you have hot pink activewear in your closet, grab a pink handbag and a picture-perfect pet to channel everyone’s favorite Harvard Law graduate. Everyone will ask how you came up with such an easy and chic outfit idea. (Eh? Seems difficult?).
taylor swift
Yes, I know. There are plenty of T-Swift looks you can put together as a last-minute Halloween costume. But if I had to choose one, I’d take things back to her Fearless days with a gold fringe dress and white cowgirl boots. Tight curls, a blonde wig, red lipstick, and dangling gold earrings can liven up any party without breaking your Halloween budget.
peanuts characters
No matter which character you, or you and your friends, choose from a bunch of peanuts, these looks are instantly recognizable and easy to mix and match. If you have a plain yellow T-shirt, create a Charlie and Snoopy look by painting black zigzag stripes and catching your pet. Or channel your inner Lucy Van Pelt by opting for a royal blue bubble sleeve dress and white ankle socks. The options in this costume category are nearly endless (fun fact: there are over 70 Peanuts characters to choose from!).
pink panther and inspector clouzot
Couple costumes this last minute Halloween are highly underrated. Wear your loved one with a trench coat and stylish fedora, and dress yourself in a cute pink bob and baby pink (or vice versa) to incorporate compliments. Bonus points if you have a magnifying glass and cute pink cat ears to go with your outfit.
