Dressing in costume barely needs an excuse, but Halloween is my favorite one on the planet because it’s a whole MOOD. Funny, spooky, fierce, supernatural, hot mess, or wicked? There are endless options for everyone. Even with no time and even less of a budget, you can pull off some of the best costumes for grownups.
Here are 8 DIY Halloween Costumes for Grownups – including 1 Family option – that require minimal work and minimal expense.
Jenny
Gen Xers and Millennials might remember Jenny in “The Green Ribbon” story from the beloved book, “In a Dark, Dark Room” by Alvin Schwartz. This story is one I’ve known and enjoyed for decades, and this simple costume is a perfect tribute to both Jenny and the author, who faced endless criticism for his other books. Once the ribbon went around my neck, the nostalgia flooded in. Amazing how one simple accessory can make a huge impact.
The Look::
Wear a long skirt, a light-colored blouse, and boots. Add a green ribbon around your neck. I found mine in my craft cabinet, but dollar stores will have some. Hair is long and dark. Add bangs if you can.
Resort Royalty
If you’ve watched the most recent season of The White Lotus, you might have been captivated by Parker Posey’s character, Victoria Ratliff. I certainly was and immediately looked into her wardrobe. {In fact, I went a little coocoo for kaftans this past summer.} This Resort Royalty costume is my homage to that character and the perfect storm of comfortable, classy, and sassy. Fortunately, I didn’t need to do much to my hair!
The Look::
Wear a colorful kaftan {mine is here}, some retro hexagonal shades, minimal jewelry, and sandals. Hair is in a dark bob style with a side part.
The Final Girl
The Final Girl is a staple in nearly every slasher horror film. She outlasts everyone else through sheer power of will. She’s fast, resourceful, and possibly a bit lucky. This costume captures her vibe, and if you’re okay with getting a little messy, it’s simple to put together.
The Look::
Wear a white tank top or ratty T-shirt with jeans and military boots. Add fake blood to face, body, hands, hair, and clothing in a way that fits the horror narrative. I went for a smear/splatter arrangement. Add gel to your hair and tease it, spray it, scrunch it, do a messy braid – anything to make it look like you’ve “had a day”. {Optional :: Apply “dirt” using dark eye makeup or stage makeup to face, arms, and clothing. Find a “weapon” to carry around. Remember, the Final Girl is resourceful! My character found a stick.}
**Pro tip for cleanup :: Baby oil will remove just about any makeup from the skin.**
Rock Bottom
Something that always cracks me up is TV and film’s representation of a female “at rock bottom”. {Specifically, this image of Anya Taylor Joy comes to mind.} They sport slightly glamorous loungewear and make odd choices {like drinking Dr. Pepper out of a margarita glass at 8:00 am}, and although they appear depressed, they look quite adorable and more put-together than I do on any given day. This costume is a parody of those cinematic sisters.
The Look::
Pair a sassy nightie or PJ set with a luxurious kimono-style robe. Matching not required. Tack on some self-care accessories like slippers and an eye mask, and some more naughty ones :: a martini glass, a bag of powdered sugar donuts, and some bad decisions. Hair and makeup can be glamorous but with a day-old, slept-in quality. I didn’t opt for hair and makeup in these photos but for Halloween parties, I would. Optional prop :: I rolled my prop ciggie out of junk mail and now my cat has repurposed it as a toy to kick around. That’s a double upcycle! *self high-five*
Pedro Wears Prada
As soon as Pedro Pascal’s Vanity Fair photos came out, I was obsessed. I also joke that in some of them, he is doing his own interpretation of a female at rock bottom. Here, I have lovingly recreated this image from that photoshoot. {This one is also great}.
I’m calling it Pedro Wears Prada because the sweater and socks he wears are…you guessed correctly, Prada. Mine, of course, are not.
The Look::
A dark brown or black long-sleeve sweater, light gray micro shorts, and black crew socks complete the outfit. Tie back hair or wear a short, dark wig for added texture. I used dark eyeshadow for the mustache and facial hair. And finally, you don’t actually have to do a photoshoot, but why wouldn’t you?!
Retail Associate
Have you ever accidentally matched the employees of a retail store while shopping there? And spent the entire errand worried you’d be asked to open a register or do a price check? With this retail associate costume, however, playing that role is part of the fun.
The Look::
I borrowed a red polo-style shirt from my husband and put on jeans and sneakers, although the bottom half doesn’t matter as much as the signature red shirt. For the logo, I cut a circle out of a white sticky label, drew the inner red ring with permanent marker, and stuck it on. So, so easy to do. Add a shopping bag prop, maybe a walkie talkie if you have one, and you’re ready to clock in!
Content Creator
While I personally don’t follow any Gamers, I’ve had plenty of exposure to their videos through my kids. Hot tip :: This costume may require permission from whichever kid you borrow headphones and controllers from.
The Look::
Easy hairstyle, backwards hat, gaming headset with mic, casual clothing, and a wireless controller. To “level up” your character, tell all your friends to Like and Subscribe!
Modern Family
While very, very minimal DIY, it’s the family element that makes this one special. Who says Horror can’t live that suburban life? Not me! {We had one non-participant, but I can’t ever blame anyone for marching to the beat of their own drum.}
The Look::
Get matching horror masks for you and your family. Wear with any clothing you want – I recommend anything that emphasizes your “Mom” style.
Looking for more ideas of costumes for grownups? See 11 Grownup DIY Costumes for Moms Who Love Halloween.
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