Jill A. Chafin
Halloween has a way of creeping up on us, leaving many scrambling for last-minute costume ideas. But we’ve got you covered—these six easy costumes can be made using materials you have at home.
And the greatest part is that no one will know you threw it together without planning or thought. What a great way to be resourceful (and to save the stress about brainstorming about costumes for weeks on end).
Ghost
Dressing up doesn’t get much easier than this. Cut eye holes out of an old sheet, toss it over your head, and away you go. You can use a sharpie to add a smile, frown, or a wide mouth. Try to wear all white clothing underneath, if possible.
Jellyfish
If you have an old umbrella lying around, then you’re all set!
Simply hand stitch or pin on cut up strips of fabric (an old sheet will work), ribbon, string, even toilet paper! We suggest using blue, white, or pink colors. Then wear something black, white, blue, or pink. You can even spray paint your umbrella to match (or buy a clear umbrella).
If you have time, order LED battery operated light strands to glue to the outside of your umbrella or to use as the dangling strands. This will help your costume stand out in the dark.
Men in Black
Both men and women, as well as kids, can use this classic, DIY option. All you need are black pants, a white button-up shirt, a black jacket (a cardigan will work too), and black sunglasses. A black tie is a nice touch.
Don’t forget to include the tough look on your face.
Scarecrow
If you have a pair of overalls lying around, then your costume is almost complete. They don’t even have to fit—use your husband’s if you have to. Wear a flannel or plaid shirt, a straw hat (or make your own scarecrow hat), and some boots.
If you have old material to cut up, you can hand stitch or pin on some patches. Yellow yarn can be used as straw, or you can order a pack of fake straw in advance.
Greek Goddess
Use a white flat sheet and wrap it around your body like a toga (watch the tutorial here). Use a gold belt, ribbon, or even twine to secure it around your waist. Add in any gold jewelry—such as earrings, a headband, bracelets, and stick some real leaves into your hair. Wear brown sandals if you can.
A plain white slip or sundress will work, too.
Corpse Bride
If you’re not attached to keeping your old wedding dress in pristine condition, then pull it out of the closet and put it to use. Otherwise, you can use any white dress; even a nightgown will work. Check out the thrift store in advance; you can often score an old wedding dress at an affordable price.
Slip on some black or white gloves, mess up your hair, add a few leaves, apply black make-up, and make a bouquet out of wilted flowers.
You can also squirt fake blood on to your dress for extra effect.
