Eleventh Hour Chic: Last Minute Halloween Costumes Made Easy

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Halloween, the night of witches, ghouls and candy, is a beloved global celebration. Dressing up is a traditional part of the festivities, allowing people to transform into their favorite characters, creatures or historical figures. With all the decorating and shopping, you might find yourself with no time to put together an outfit — thankfully, there are tons of DIY last-minute Halloween costumes you can make to be part of the season’s fun.

1. Rosie the Riveter: Bold and Empowering

Rosie the Riveter is a classic, empowering Halloween costume that requires minimal effort but makes a statement. All you need is a pair of jeans, a chambray or denim shirt and a red bandana to tie around your head. Roll up the sleeves, and you’re ready to strike that iconic “We Can Do It!” pose.

The best thing is Rosie isn’t just a costume — she represents strength and resilience. It’s one of the best last-minute costume ideas for females who want something bold, iconic, and easy to assemble.

2. The Classic Cat: A Timeless Favorite

The black cat is a tried-and-true last-minute Halloween costume that always works. Grab a black shirt, black pants or a skirt, and all you need are some simple cat ears — which you can easily made with a headband and cardboard. A little black eyeliner for whiskers, a black nose and you’re all set.

3. Beetlejuice: Spooky and Fun

Beetlejuice is a classic character that’s creepy, playful and perfect for allhallows eve. This is by far the most searched look this year — thanks to the movie premiering just in time for Halloween.

To pull off this look, wear black-and-white striped pants or a jacket — if you have both, even better. A white shirt underneath and messy, teased hair complete the outfit. If you want to go all out, use white face paint to give yourself a pale, ghostly complexion and blend dark makeup around your eyes for that signature Beetlejuice look.

For a fun twist, this costume can be combined with colorful accessories, like green hairspray, to mimic Beetlejuice’s wild hair. If you don’t have stripes, you can use black electrical tape or fabric spray paint to create the lines on a white outfit.

Beetlejuice adult costume – $38.21

4. Deadpool: Edgy and Action-Packed

If you’re a Marvel fan, Deadpool is a fun, edgy option that’s surprisingly easy to DIY. Wear a red hoodie or shirt, black pants and a mask or face covering. Many stores sell affordable Deadpool masks, but you can also make your own with red fabric and black cutouts for the eyes.

For a more casual version, go as “Unmasked Deadpool” — just wear the red and black outfit and use some makeup to recreate Deadpool’s scarred face. This allows you to stay in character while still being comfortable.

Deadpool Halloween costume – $59

5. Wolverine: Rugged and Fierce

If you’re going as Deadpool, recreate your mismatched buddy Wolverine to save the day. Start with a white tank top, jeans and boots. Wolverine’s most famous accessory is his claws, which are available online. If you can’t wait for delivery, make a pair of cardboard or silver-colored paper and attach them to gloves or hold them in your hands.

Add some fake sideburns with makeup or stick-on facial hair. Go the extra mile by messing up your hair for that wild, rugged look. Wolverine’s character is known for his uncompromising, no-nonsense attitude, so this costume is perfect if you want something bold and fierce.

Wolverine cosplay claws – $9.95

6. Wednesday Addams: Mysteriously Easy

If you’ve been eyeing the whimsigoth aesthetic, The Addams Family’s Wednesday Addams is an excellent last-minute put-together that combines gothic effects with whimsical elements.

All you need is a black dress and a white-collared shirt. Braiding your hair in two pigtails and putting on dark lipstick completes the look. This is one of those easy costumes you can pull off with normal clothes that still brings that spooky vibe — plus, it works for any Halloween event.

With the recent revival of The Addams Family and Netflix’s hit show Wednesday, this costume is more relevant than ever.

7. Taylor Swift: Iconic Pop Star

Dressing up as Taylor Swift gives you so many iconic looks to choose from. |What’s more, you can easily recreate her vibe using items you likely already have. Here’s how to channel her most popular eras with minimal effort:

1989: Pop Star Chic

To capture Taylor’s 1989 era, aim for a pop star aesthetic. This means a sparkly crop top or graphic tee paired with a high-waisted skirt or shorts, topped off with a bomber jacket or colorful blazer.

Bold, colorful sunglasses — red or white frames — are nonnegotiable, along with heeled ankle boots. For hair, go for soft waves or a blonde bob, and complete the look with her signature red lip, winged eyeliner and a glowing complexion.

Blonde wig with bangs – $23.99

Reputation Era: Edgy and Bold

For an edgier, more rebellious vibe, Taylor’s Reputation era is a great option. Think dark colors like black and metallics — whether in the form of a bodysuit, dress or oversized hoodie paired with combat boots.

Statement jewelry like chunky rings or chokers completes the look. Add a snake accessory to enhance the theme and pair the outfit with smoky eyes, dark lipstick and either loose waves or slicked-back hair for maximum impact.

Red Era: Classic and Feminine

If you’re drawn to vintage styles, the Red era is perfect for a retro-inspired costume. A striped shirt or polka-dot blouse paired with high-waisted jeans or shorts works wonders. Alternatively, a red dress captures the essence of this era.

Incorporate a wide-brimmed hat or beanie, and black ankle boots, and style your hair in soft waves or curls. Finish with a bold red lip and subtle winged eyeliner to channel Taylor’s glamorous yet approachable look.

Eras Tour: Concert Glam

For a current take on Taylor Swift, recreate her dazzling Eras Tour look. To pull this off, go for a sparkly, glittering outfit like a sequined dress or bodysuit paired with knee-high boots or heels. Put on bold jewelry and style your hair in voluminous curls. Bright red lipstick, glittery eyeshadow, and a glowing complexion are perfect for completing her concert glam.

8. Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s

For a classy, last-minute costume, channel Audrey Hepburn’s iconic Holly Golightly. All you need is a little black dress, black sunglasses, an updo and Ta-da. Add pearls and carry a coffee cup as an extra accessory.

This look is perfect for someone who wants a vintage, glamorous vibe but doesn’t have time for intricate DIY Halloween costumes. It’s a look that screams elegance while still being incredibly easy to pull together with normal clothes.

9. ‘80s Workout Star: Colorful and Fun

Get ready to break out the neon! Dressing up as an ‘80s workout star is a fun, colorful way to embrace the spooky season. If you have a leotard, leggings, leg warmers and some brightly colored headbands, you’re all set for Halloween.

This look is easy to throw together and perfect for a party with upbeat, adventurous vibes. Simply tease your hair, add some big earrings and you’re ready to go.

Workout costume – $26.99 – $27.99

10. Ghost: The All-Time Classic

When time is truly running out, there’s always the classic ghost costume. Take an old white sheet, cut out holes for the eyes and drape it over yourself. While it’s simple, the ghost costume remains a quick, spooky option when all else falls short.