9 iconic DIY Halloween costume ideas that are scary good
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Are you looking for one of the best DIY Halloween costume ideas? You should be. Halloween is the one night of the year when you can be anything you want, so why be boring? Don't. This year, celebrate the holiday by stepping out of your comfort zone and into something a bit more memorable—after all, there are plenty of options.
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Instead of opting for something simple like an athlete or witch, why not channel Selena Gomez's character in Only Murders in the Building—assembling an outfit with Dr. Martens and a sherpa coat are just as effortless as settling into your favorite athlete's jersey. Or what about a Risky Business-inspired look? An oversized button-up and high socks are bound to be as comfortable as your favorite sweatpants—only a bit more creative.
Simple and effective, DIY Halloween costumes are a win-win all-around. The no-lift approach is a foolproof way of holiday dressing and for those looking for the spookiest, most stylish DIY Halloween costume ideas, here are nine of them.
1. Britney Spears (as herself) in the '(You Drive Me) Crazy' music video
Pay homage to the one and only legendary pop princess Britney Spears by recreating her iconic '(You Drive Me) Crazy' music video. Available in one size, the scoop neck metallic green crop top is a doppelgänger for Spears' version and according to reviewers, the stretchy silhouette "fit just right."
Continue making comfort a priority with SATINA's best-selling palazzo pants. Earning the praise of more than 23,400 reviewers, the high-waisted top covers and conceals midsections, while the flared leg is long enough to work with heels and short enough to wear with sneakers.
The key to executing this costume to perfection relies heavily on Spears' unforgettable hair. Part crimp, part curl, the done-but-undone stylis easily replicated with Amika's high tide deep wave crimper. Suitable for all hairstyles, this easy-to-use hair tool creates crease-free waves free of frizz.
2. Margot Robbie as Barbie from Barbie
Life in plastic is fantastic—and we'll prove it with this Barbie Halloween costume idea inspired by the viral Margot Robbie Barbie movie pictures. Channel the '80s by building a base with these knee-length neon pink biker shorts. The buttery-smooth, moisture-wicking fabric stretches in all directions while remaining opaque and ideal for pairing with bodysuits like this one. Available in sizes XS to 2X, the all-over multi-colored print is as close to identical to Margot's version that's all over the internet.
Appropriately accessorize with this two-pack of multi-colored multi-colored visors and reach for this all-inclusive set of neon green/yellow protective gear, featuring wrist, elbow and knee pads for just $15. Spell out who you are with this Barbie necklace and opt for this four-pack of hoop earrings. While Margot wears neon green/yellow hoops in the photos, we love that this pack offers four different colors to add your own personal touch.
Swipe on Pat McGrath's legendary oil-infused powder lipstick in the Barbiecore-inspired dusk rose shade. The creamy matte formula provides one-swipe coverage that is perfect for those who don't want to worry about reapplication throughout the day (or night).
Last but not least, pull your costume together with four-wheel roller skates. Suitable for outdoor and indoor use, the bold neon yellow base is elevated with bright blue laces, keeping this Barbie-inspired costume on-trend.
Shop the Skylety Store Pack of 4 Women's Hoops for $11 at Amazon
Shop the SOHOUR Home Protective Gear Set for $15 at Amazon
Shop the Rbenxia 2 Pieces of Adjustable Sport Visors for $11 at Amazon
3. The Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus
You won't have to wait 300 years for a virgin to light the black face candle to summon the Sanderson sisters; we've found an easier way. This Halloween, bring Hocus Pocus to life by dressing up as the legendary sisters. Great for solo or trio costumes, Amazon's all-inclusive Sanderson Sisters costumes have everything you'll need to go as Winifred, Sarah, or Mary this holiday season. Available in women's sizes XS to 3X, each costume is designed in the Sanderson sister's respective shades and features gemstone earrings and a full-skirt dress. Additionally, you'll find brunette, blonde and red wigs that'll completely bring your costume to life.
4. Tom Cruise as Joel Goodsen in Risky Business
Like a fine wine, this Risky Business costume idea only gets better with age — and no matter what age you are, this traditional idea will never go out of style. Grab your favorite oversized white button-up, white spandex shorts, pair of high socks, and off you go. All that's left to do? Have Alexa play Good Times Rock and Roll — sunglasses and the living room trophy doubling as a microphone are optional.
Shop the Maeve Maxi Tunic Buttondown for $120 at Anthropologie
Shop the THE GYM PEOPLE High Waist Yoga Shorts from $18 at Amazon
5. Selena Gomez as Mabel Mora in Only Murders in the Building
The second season of Only Murders in the Building might have just ended, but there's no reason to bid the Arconia goodbye just yet. Channel Selena Gomez's beloved Mabel Mora by starting with this sherpa coat designed in her signature golden mustard shade. The modern-minimalist silhouette is crafted from a warm sherpa material that will keep you warm and looking cool.
Much like Mabel did this season, gravitate towards more versatile layers, like this Pippa Pyne Collared Argyle Sweater. Perfect for layering under your jacket, the black and white print is noticeable without being too overwhelming. Pair your sweater with Alo's high-waisted pants crafted from French terry cloth for a street-to-lounge-approved ensemble and top it off with Mabel's go-to Doc Marten's 1460 Pascal boots.
Add Mabel's signature Jennifer Fisher mini Samira hoops and recreate her glamorous yet casual makeup. According to Rare Beauty's Instagram page, Mabel uses this exact mascara, eyeliner, lip soufflé , blush, and liquid eyeshadow in every episode this season.
Shop the High-Waist Dreamy Wide Legging Pant for $108 from Alo Yoga
Shop the Pippa Pyne Collared Argyle Sweater from $30 at YesStyle
Shop the 1460 Women's Pascal Virginia Leather Boots for $170 at Dr. Martens
Shop the Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Liquid Eyeshadow in Nearly Neutral for $20 at Sephora
Shop the Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Matte Liquid Eyeliner for $19 at Sephora
Shop the Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Cream Lipstick in Brave for $20 from Sephora
Shop the Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Melting Cream Blush in Nearly Apricot from Sephora for $21
Shop the Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Universal Volumizing Mascara from $11 at Sephora
6. Wednesday Addams from Netflix's Wednesday
Netflix's Wednesday hasn't even premiered yet, but the latest Addams Family installment has everyone talking, particularly when it comes to Wednesday Addams' makeover. Departing from Wednesday's tried-but-true black fit and flare dress, Jenna Ortega's new-and-improved Wednesday dawns a longer silhouette like this one. Much like Netflix's poster, this softer, more feminine design has a black base, embellished white florals, and a white collar around the neckline.
Split hair in half and braid each side, then swipe on this Nars velvet matte lipstick pencil in Train Bleu. The deep aubergine shade is a cult favorite and the long-lasting formula provides a velvety-smooth finish that will wow.
7. Kate Sharma from Bridgerton
You don't need Lady Whistledown's approval to be this season's diamond; all you'll need is this dress from Amazon. This Halloween, channel Bridgerton's Kate Sharma by stepping into this richly-colored plum and purple satin dress.
Elevate this regency-inspired look by incorporating this earring and necklace set. Made from cubic zirconia, both handmade pieces are gold plated and look far more expensive than they are.
Sweep hair out faces and use this pack of four floral purple hair clips to secure your updos; the delicate design is so stunning and fit for royalty.
8. Buffy from Buffy the Vampire Slayer
You won't have to travel to the Hellmouth to find Sunnydale's most sought-after vampire slayer; this Halloween, slay in more ways than one and go as Buffy Summers. Step into her signature red leather pants, toss on this black ribbed top, and don't forget this cross pendant; slaying will never look so good.
9. Anna Delvey from Inventing Anna
Sure, the wire transfer might not ever be coming, but that doesn't mean you can't fake that it still is. This Halloween, dress up as everyone's favorite fake heiress Anna Delvey from Netflix's Inventing Anna.
Build a base with Reformation's Alden Dress in black. The slim-fitting silhouette perfectly showcases your figure, while the mock neck captures Anna's sophisticated style. Stay warm by adding No Nonsense's black control-top tights and these faux leather black gloves. While Anna's character opts for Valentino's houndstooth cape in the series, houndstooth black and white version from Karen Miller will get the job done.
Forgo Anna's signature Celine sunglasses and reach for this affordable pair from Amazon. Step Into these leather booties and reach for this classic tote bag and consider your look complete.
Shop the Houndstooth Jacquard Military Trim Knit Cape for $128 from Karen Miller
Shop the FEISEDY Vintage Women Butterfly Sunglasses from $16 at Amazon
Shop the VIKIDEER Black Long Leather Gloves from $33 at Amazon
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This article originally appeared on Reviewed: DIY Halloween costume ideas 2022: What to shop for this year
