5 Easy Halloween Costumes You Can Whip Up in 24 Hours

It’s Halloween eve, and panic sets in as you realize you don’t have a costume. Don’t worry! I’ve been there, and I’m here to save your spooky night with some wickedly easy last-minute costume ideas. Whether you’re aiming for scary, funny, or pop culture-inspired, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the world of quick and creative costumes!

1. The Classic Ghost Gets a Makeover

Two ghosts chilling at the lake | Julia Senyuk

Remember the bedsheet ghost? It’s time for an upgrade! Grab that white sheet and transform into a glamorous ghost or a hipster specter.

  • Drape the sheet over yourself, leaving holes for eyes.
  • Use face paint to create dramatic eye makeup or a handlebar mustache.
  • Accessorize with sunglasses, a hat, or even a cardboard coffee cup for that hipster vibe.

Pro tip: Add some rips or paint splatters to the sheet for an extra eerie effect!

Pink robot | Maureen Jeffery

2. Cardboard Box Transformers

Turn that Amazon delivery into a costume sensation! With some cardboard boxes and creativity, you can become a robot, a vintage TV, or even a giant smartphone.

  1. Cut holes for your head and arms in a large box.
  2. Paint or cover with colored paper.
  3. Add details like buttons, antennas, or a screen using markers or additional cardboard pieces.

3. Face Paint Fantasia

With just a palette of face paint, you can transform into a variety of characters:

  • Scary Monster: Use dark colors to hollow out your cheeks and eyes, add fake blood for extra horror.
  • Cartoon Character: Bright colors and exaggerated features can turn you into your favorite animated icon.
  • Half-Face Skull: Paint one side of your face as a skull for a dramatic effect.

Remember, practice makes perfect, so do a quick test run before the big night!

4. TV Show Character in a Flash

Channel your inner couch potato and become a beloved TV character:

  • “Stranger Things” Eleven: Grab a pink dress, add fake blood under your nose, and carry around some Eggo waffles.
  • “The Office” Jim Halpert: Wear a white shirt, tie, and name tag. Don’t forget the iconic Jim look to the camera!
  • “Game of Thrones” Jon Snow: All black clothes, a faux fur rug as a cape, and a brooding expression. You know nothing, Jon Snow!

5. Punny and Fun

Who says Halloween can’t be hilarious? Try these pun-based costumes:

  • Cereal Killer: Attach mini cereal boxes to an old t-shirt and carry a plastic knife.
  • Smart Cookie: Tape cookies to a graduation gown or “nerdy” outfit.
  • Social Butterfly: Pin social media logos to a shirt and add butterfly wings.

These costumes are guaranteed to get a chuckle and show off your witty side!


Remember, the key to a great last-minute costume is confidence and creativity. Use what you have, think outside the box (or inside it, if you’re going as a robot!), and most importantly, have fun with it.

Don’t let the lack of preparation scare you away from the Halloween festivities. With these ideas and a dash of imagination, you’ll be the talk of the party faster than you can say “Boo!”

Share Your Costume Ideas!

Happy Halloween, and may the spooky force be with you in your last-minute costume creation!