5 Last-Minute Halloween Costume Ideas That’ll Save the Day

people dressed like ghosts

Halloween is just around the corner, and if you’re still trying to pull together a costume, don’t panic! There are plenty of easy costume ideas that you can put together with what you already have at home. Here are 5 easy options that will save the day for your Halloween party or gathering. So, grab your closet staples, some makeup, and a few accessories, and let’s get a little creative with these last minute adult Halloween costume ideas:


The Classic “Error 404” Costume Not Found

black asus laptop computer showing 3 00Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash

What you’ll need: A white T-shirt, a black marker, and a sense of humor.

For the ultimate last-minute costume, go meta with a DIY “Error 404: Costume Not Found” look. Just grab a plain white tee and write “Error 404: Costume Not Found” on the front. Simple, clever, and guaranteed to get a few laughs. Plus, it’s the perfect conversation starter!

This is funny, effortless, and it will keep you from standing out like a sore thumb at whatever Halloween costume party you’re going to.

Rosie the Riveter

Woman wearing makeup

Photo by Jimmy Elizarraras

What you’ll need: A chambray or denim shirt, a red bandana, and some red lipstick.

Rosie the Riveter is an easy-to-assemble costume that’s iconic and empowering. Throw on a denim or chambray shirt, roll up the sleeves, and tie a red bandana around your head, leaving a little knot at the front. A swipe of red lipstick completes the look, and you’re all set. You can make it creepy by splashing some red paint on you and using makeup to make you look deceased.

This is classic, recognizable, and great for a quick costume that still looks kind of thoughtful. Plus, who doesn’t love a little girl-power energy on Halloween?

Where’s Waldo?

red and white striped umbrellaPhoto by David Tip on Unsplash

What you’ll need: A red and white striped shirt, blue jeans, a red beanie, and round glasses (optional).

“Where’s Waldo?” is a go-to for quick costumes because it’s simple and instantly recognizable. All you need is a red and white striped shirt (or any striped shirt in a pinch), some blue jeans, and a red beanie. If you have round glasses, even better! Add a camera or backpack if you want extra “explorer” vibes, and you’re good to go.

Everyone loves a good Waldo sighting, and this costume is easy to put together! If you don’t already have a red and white striped shirt but you have a white shirt, some red paint can go a long way.

The Dead Tourist

rack of shirts

Photo by Willo M.

What you’ll need: A Hawaiian shirt or any loud-patterned shirt, a camera, a sun hat or visor, socks with sandals, and a little makeup.

You can embrace your inner tourist with this fun and easy costume. Throw on a Hawaiian shirt (or any colorful shirt you have), some shorts, and the biggest sunglasses you can find. Don’t forget to wear socks with sandals to complete the look! Add a camera, a fanny pack, and maybe even a map to sell the whole “lost tourist” vibe.

When you have the outfit together, make yourself look pale or dead like a zombie with a little makeup. You can even make the shirt look tattered by ripping it a bit or making it dirty with a little soil from your plants to make it look like you crawled out of the grave to be at the party. It’s all about getting creative!

The Banshee

woman with dirty hands

Photo by Thirdman

What you’ll need: White or pale clothes, messy hair, and dark makeup.

The Banshee is known for her terrifying screams and looking pale as a ghost. Wear all white or gray clothing and mess up your hair, making it look wild and untamed. Bring the look together by darkening your eyes with smudged black or gray makeup, and give your skin an ashen, pale look.

For an extra scare, break out into a scream every once in a while to give people a real fright!

Those are the 5 quick and easy Halloween costume ideas that you can put together in minutes! So, whether you’re hitting a party, joining a virtual hangout, or just passing out candy, these costumes will help you get into the Halloween spirit without any stress.

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