10 Last-Minute Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids and Adults: My Go-To Options for a Spooktacular Celebration

Halloween is almost here, and if you're feeling the last-minute rush to find the perfect costume, you’re not alone! Many people are in the same boat, scrambling for ideas that are easy to put together and fun to wear. Luckily, I have ten fantastic last-minute Halloween costume ideas for both kids and adults. Best of all, these ideas utilize items you probably already have at home. Let’s jump into these creative options that will make your Halloween unforgettable!

1. The Classic Ghost

The ghost costume is a timeless favorite, perfect for all ages and exceptionally easy to assemble.

Grab an old white sheet, cut two eye holes, and drape it over yourself or your child. To add a spooky touch, make a chain from aluminum foil. This classic look is not only simple but free, making it ideal for last-minute planning.

2. Mummy Madness

If you have a roll of toilet paper or some old bandages lying around, you can create a fun and spooky mummy costume.

Wrap the toilet paper around the body, leaving open gaps for the eyes and mouth. This costume works for both kids and adults. For an exciting twist, use black face paint to create shadowy eyes, enhancing the spooky effect.

3. A Witch (or Wizard)

Dressing as a witch or wizard is always a crowd-pleaser.

All you need is an old black dress or robe and a pointed hat—many stores offer affordable hats around Halloween time. You can complete the look with accessories like a broomstick or toy wand.

This look is perfect for conjuring up some Halloween fun!

4. The Scarecrow

If you're looking for a sweet and simple costume, consider being a scarecrow!

Combine an old flannel shirt and denim overalls, then stuff them with straw or crumpled paper. A hat and some face paint can add that authentic, 'just out of the cornfield' look.

It’s a fun, comfortable option for kids who love the fall season!

5. Superhero from Everyday Objects

Everyone loves a superhero!

Let your kids choose their favorite hero, then use colored t-shirts as the base. Use old bedsheets or towels for capes and paper or cardboard for masks. This costume is not only a fun one, but hands-on for the kids!

6. Undead Diva

For adults wanting a glamorous look, consider a "Undead Diva" costume.

Take an old formal dress and add striking makeup that creates a ghostly appearance. Use dark eye shadow and pale foundation for the best effect. Additionally, you can customize the dress by adding elements like tattered lace, faux cobwebs, or even a sash if you're going for a prom or pageant queen look.

7. Cowboy

Time to round up the fun with a quick cowboy or cowgirl outfit!

Grab a plaid shirt, denim jeans, and a cowboy hat. If you own cowboy boots, add them for extra flair. A toy lasso is a fun finishing touch. This costume is comfortable enough for hours of wear while trick-or-treating and is also easy enough that most people can find the costume pieces already in their closet!

8. A Picnic Table

For a truly imaginative costume, try being a picnic table!

Start with a simple brown t-shirt and attach brightly colored plastic utensils and a small tablecloth to create the picnic look. Throw a small blanket over your shoulders for added effect. This quirky idea is sure to draw smiles, making it a unique option for parties.

9. Detective

For a touch of classic mystery and sophistication, consider a retro detective look.

All you need is a trench coat, a hat (preferably a fedora), and a magnifying glass! This costume is so versatile, you can switch out any of the elements for whatever you have at home. Don't have a trench coat? You can use any long jacket you may have laying around at home like a pea coat. The fedora can also be swapped out for another wide-brimmed hat for a similar hat. I always suggest sourcing a magnifying glass from one of your kids' science kits, since we always seem to have one around the house. If you don't have one of those, though, you can always carry around a pen and paper for taking down clues.

10. Mime

No wonder this one's a classic, it's both simple and timeless!

To embody the classic mime aesthetic, opt for form-fitting black and white striped clothing, such as a striped shirt and black pants. Complete the look by adding black suspenders and a beret. Use white face paint to cover your entire face, exaggerating your features with black eyeliner and red lipstick. Remember to focus on exaggerated facial expressions and fluid movements to truly sell the costume.

Ready for Halloween?

Halloween can sneak up on us faster than we anticipate. However, with these ten last-minute costume ideas for kids and adults, you are well-prepared for a spooktacular celebration.

From classic ghosts to creative picnic table outfits, each option allows you and your loved ones to express yourselves uniquely. Whether you throw together these costumes at the last minute or spend time personalizing each look, I hope this guide inspires you to have a memorable Halloween.

Happy haunting!