12 Easy Last-Minute Halloween Costumes to Let That Geek Flag Fly
Last-minute Halloween costumes don't have to come down to old bed sheets and a haphazard use of scissors. You can throw together great same-day costumes using basic wardobe pieces you already have -- just look to your favorite movies, TV shows, and comics for outfit inspiration! Sure, most recognizable superheroes are costumes -- in all their one-size-fits-all, spandex-y polyester glory -- and are easy to find on the walls of your local Halloween store -- but where's the creativity in that?
If you're not up for pushing past other procrastinators at the mall at 3 p.m. on Halloween, we've got some suggestions for you. Just pick a costume that's based on a character with a real-world look --- plus, of course, a defining detail or two.
For example: An all-white ensemble (topped off with a big white hat, while you carry around a bag of popcorn or a glass of red wine) will score you points with fans of Scandal. Try out a grease-smudged tank top, dog tags necklace, camo cargo pants, and combat boots to cosplay Letty from Fast and the Furious. (If you're feeling ambitious, you can carry around one of your kids' matchbox cars so people really get the point.)
For more easy-peasy pop culture looks, we're brought back inspiration from New York Comic Con and its infamous cosplayers. Their costumes might be a little more ornate than you'd need, but their use of readily available materials is genius!
Gender-Bent Joker
Why should female Batman fans be stuck playing Catwoman or Harley Quinn? You can take on the Joker himself -- all you need are any arrangement of clothes in the colors purple, green, white, and gold. Green hair (a wig or temporary spray color) and white face paint should be your only expenses here -- and you'll def want to take your favorite red lipstick out for a spin!
Barb from 'Stranger Things'
Pour one out for poor Barb! Commemerate your fave Stranger Things character by pilfering your great aunt's closet full of ruffled button-down tops. While you're in there, grab a pair of high-waisted jeans and some '80s-style, big-as-saucers glasses. If you want to absolutely nail the look, you'll have to track down a Casio watch and a Trapper Keeper. Get ready to flash your best "I am so not amused" face!
More from CafeMom: 20 Kids' Comic Con Costumes That Totally Stole the Show in New York
Agent Carter
Got a classy blue suit? Maybe some cute Mary Jane or t-strap heels? Borrow a red hat and you'll be a perfect image of iconic WWII secret agent Peggy Carter. Whether you know her from the comics, movies, or TV show, Agent Carter is an easy woman to admire (and cosplay!).
Russell from 'Up'
Dressing as Russell from *Up* isn't just easy, it's oh-so-fun! Take a yellow oxford (or a polo would work, too), and borrow your kid's scout sash. A bright necktie, khaki shorts, and (of course) a cluster of brightly colored balloons, and you'll be on your way. Bonus points if you have a stuffed animal of a bird that could stand in for Kevin.
Linda and Bob From 'Bob's Burgers'
You could argue that Bob's Burgers is the best animated family comedy on TV right now -- and also the easiest to cosplay! You'll only need a few key items: aprons, red framed glasses, a fake moustache, and maybe a spatula for a prop. The white T-shirt, red long-sleeve top (or sweater), black slacks, and jeans should be pretty easy to hunt down, too.
Yip Yip from 'Sesame Street'
This costume will be a SURE hit, especially with anyone who was a kid in the '70s or '80s. You'll probably have to hit the craft store and have at least an elementary understanding of sewing to knock these bad boys out -- but it really can't be simpler. A long bolt of shiny or velvety fabric and a smaller portion of black mesh that you can see through will be your base. White foam balls with some Sharpie-made pupils work for the eyes, and you'll want to be sure to grab pipe cleaners to make the antennae. Underestimating the impact of this costume is a big nope nope nope nope.
Marvel Crew
In this Marvel group, Mom gets the superhero seal of approval with her spot-on costume of Jessica Jones as Jewel. But the tiny Riri Williams with a simple clipped-on arc reactor on a basic red tank takes the winner for easiest costume to replicate! Grab a cheapie Iron Man mask (or helmet) and you're all set. Luke Cage is known for his yellow T-shirt and metal arm bands -- both easy-to-find items. A silver headband (not shown here) would also work well, but just don't forget the signature facial hair! (Whether you go real or drawn-in is up to you. Or your hubs.)
Tina and Gene from 'Bob's Burgers'
Bob's Burgers has too many great characters to stick with only two! Here we have a perfect (and perfectly easy) version of two of the Belcher children. Tina's blue top and navy skirt combo is simple enough to re-create, and the classic black bob with barrette and black-rimmed glasses will also be easy to find. Don't miss the chance to carry around a composition book for Tina's "Erotic Friend Fiction" obsession. Gene, with his yellow top and blue shorts, is only missing a melodica (or hamburger) as a prop to clearly identify him, should he wander away from the more iconic Tina.
More from CafeMom: 16 Halloween Costumes That'll Prove Your Pop Culture Knowledge Is On Point
Scooby Doo Crew
This classic group getup is as fun as it is effortless. Whichever character you choose here will be pretty easy to pull together at the last moment, as long as you pay attention to the color scheme and get the hair right. Total double-date material.
Lady Hobbit
The true genius behind this costume is its subtlety. Passersby can easily miss the elf ears and "hairy" feet that signify a hobbit, which makes this a perfect costume for the geek who prefers not to be the center of attention. Wear just about any cute ol' dress you have, top it with a flower crown, and add some fake hair to last year's sandals. Don't forget to smile -- and help yourself to seconds!