31 Trendy College Halloween Costumes That’ll Turn Heads

Every year, as Halloween approaches, I find myself rummaging through old boxes, hoping to uncover something fresh and exciting for a new costume.

Last year, I had this wild idea to turn my living room into a makeshift studio filled with fabric scraps, glitter, and the smell of hot glue.

My friends and I spent hours piecing together costumes that were not only unique but also totally budget-friendly.

The best part?

We managed to create looks that had everyone asking where we got our costumes.

This year, I’m diving back into the world of DIY Halloween fashion, ready to share some trendy costume ideas that’ll make you the star of any spooky celebration!

I mean I can’t wait to glitter it all up, aren’t you?

Let’s go!

Solo Halloween Costumes to Copy

Creating a standout solo Halloween costume doesn’t have to drain your bank account.

With a little creativity, you can repurpose items from your closet or thrift store finds to craft a look that’s both unique and budget-friendly.

The key is to focus on simple but effective details that capture the essence of your chosen character without overspending.

1. Witch

A witch costume is timeless and easy to put together. Grab a black dress you already own, pair it with a pointy hat, and add some dramatic makeup. Finish the look with a broomstick or a faux spellbook for an enchanting touch.

2. Vintage Starlet

Channel the glamour of old Hollywood with a vintage starlet costume, using a chic dress, some pearls, and a touch of red lipstick. This look is all about elegance and sophistication, perfect for someone who wants to feel like a movie star. Think Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s for inspiration.

3. Video Game Character

Step into the shoes of a video game character with a costume that’s both adventurous and bold. Use simple pieces like a tank top, shorts, and boots to recreate the look, and add accessories that match the character’s signature style. For example, dressing up as Lara Croft from Tomb Raider is always a hit.

4. Pop Star

A pop star costume lets you embrace your inner diva with flashy clothes, bold makeup, and some iconic accessories. You can have fun mimicking the look of your favorite music icons. For a nostalgic twist, try going as Britney Spears in her iconic schoolgirl outfit from the “…Baby One More Time” music video.

5. Movie Character

Recreating a movie character’s look can be a fun way to bring some cinematic flair to Halloween. You can use pieces you already own and just add a few key accessories to complete the transformation. For example, Sandy from Grease is easy to pull off with some black leggings, an off-the-shoulder top, and red lipstick.

6. Superhero

Superhero costumes are always in style, and you can make your own using colorful clothing and some DIY accessories. Focus on the signature elements that make the character recognizable, like a cape or a mask. For a strong and iconic look, try dressing up as Wonder Woman with a red top, blue skirt, and a DIY tiara.

7. Greek Goddess

A Greek goddess costume is both elegant and easy to create with a simple draped fabric or a white dress paired with gold accessories. This look is all about grace and beauty, with a touch of divine inspiration. A laurel headband and some metallic sandals can help you achieve this timeless look.

8. Literary Character

Bring your favorite book character to life with a costume inspired by classic literature. Use simple, recognizable elements to capture the essence of the character. For example, you can dress up as Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz with a blue gingham dress, red shoes, and pigtails.

9. Horror Movie Villain

If you’re looking for something a bit more sinister, a horror movie villain costume is the way to go. You can create a creepy look with dark clothing, eerie makeup, and some DIY props. You could go as Jigsaw from Saw with a black suit, red bow tie, and some haunting face paint.

Cute Halloween Costumes

Cute Halloween costumes are all about adding playful and fun elements to everyday outfits without spending much.

You can easily transform a basic dress or t-shirt into an adorable look with a few DIY touches like felt cutouts, headbands, or glittery makeup.

It’s all about being creative with what you have and making small, affordable additions to bring your costume to life.

10. Bubble Tea

Transform into a cute bubble tea by starting with a simple dress and adding felt circles to represent the tapioca pearls. It’s a fun and playful costume that’s easy to DIY. Just like those boba drinks everyone loves, this look is all about being cute and trendy.

11. Fruit Loops

Get colorful with a Fruit Loops costume by attaching multi-colored felt rings to a dress or shirt. This costume is bright and fun, perfect for anyone who loves a super simple and cute look. Think of it as a cereal box come to life, with a playful and creative twist.

12. Beehive

A beehive costume can be as sweet as honey with a yellow dress and some tiny bees glued on. It’s a quirky and adorable look that’s sure to buzz with creativity. Just imagine yourself as the queen bee, ruling the Halloween hive with style.

13. Princess

Repurpose an old prom dress to become a royal princess for the night. With the addition of a tiara and some sparkly shoes, you’ll be ready to rule your Halloween kingdom. This costume is all about elegance and a touch of nostalgia, making it perfect for anyone who wants to feel like royalty.

14. Fairy

Create a magical fairy look by adding wings and some glittery makeup to any outfit. It’s a simple and enchanting costume that lets you bring a bit of fantasy into your Halloween.

15. Alien

An alien costume can be easily achieved with shiny clothes, glittery makeup, and a pair of antenna headbands. This look is out of this world, combining futuristic elements with a touch of sparkle. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a fun and cosmic look that’s both simple and effective.

16. Starbucks

Show your love for coffee with a Starbucks costume by gluing a printed logo onto a white sweatshirt and adding some creative details. It’s a quirky and recognizable look that’s sure to get a smile. Picture yourself as everyone’s favorite barista, ready to serve up some Halloween fun.

17. Minions

Turn into a lovable Minion with a yellow tank top, jean short overalls, and DIY goggles. This costume is cute, funny, and perfect for anyone who loves these mischievous characters. Add a banana as a prop, and you’re all set for some Minion-inspired Halloween mischief.

18. Ice Cream

Become a sweet treat by painting a white t-shirt with colorful sprinkles and adding a cherry headband. It’s a fun and cute costume that’s sure to make everyone smile. Imagine yourself as a walking ice cream cone, ready to bring some sweetness to Halloween night.

Siren Halloween Costume Ideas

Siren costumes are perfect for those who want to create an enchanting and mysterious look on a budget.

By using shimmery fabrics, DIY accessories, and bold makeup, you can easily capture the essence of a siren without the high cost.

This lets you craft a stunning and otherworldly costume that’s both affordable and mesmerizing.

19. Mermaid Siren

Create a mesmerizing mermaid siren look with some netting, shiny makeup, and a few seashell accessories. This costume is all about subtle elegance and a touch of oceanic mystery. Think of it as a way to channel your inner sea goddess without going overboard on spending.

20. Sea Witch Siren

Go for a darker and more mysterious vibe with a sea witch siren costume, using darker colors and grittier makeup. This look is powerful and a bit edgy, perfect for someone who wants to stand out. Imagine a costume that’s part Ursula, part mystical enchantress.

21. Dark Siren

Embrace the shadows with a dark siren costume that uses heavy black eyeliner and deep colors. This look is all about drama and allure, with a touch of the mysterious. It’s a bold and captivating costume that’s easy to pull together with just a few key pieces.

22. Zombie Siren

Combine the beauty of a mermaid with the creepiness of a zombie for a truly unique costume. A zombified mermaid is both eerie and enchanting, perfect for those who want to mix elegance with horror. Think of it as a siren who’s risen from the dead, ready to haunt the Halloween seas.

Trendy Halloween Costumes

Staying on trend for Halloween doesn’t mean you have to splurge on a brand-new outfit.

By focusing on key accessories and DIY elements, you can recreate popular looks with pieces you already own or can easily find at a low cost.

The result is a fashionable and current costume that’s also budget-conscious, allowing you to turn heads without breaking the bank!

23. Easy DIY Costumes

Sometimes, the simplest costumes are the most effective, like a Hershey’s Kiss made from tinfoil. This costume is quick, easy, and budget-friendly, perfect for a last-minute idea. It’s all about using everyday materials to create something fun and recognizable.

24. Punny Costumes

Punny costumes are always a hit, and they’re usually easy to DIY. For example, you can glue big googly eyes and candy to a t-shirt to become “Eye Candy.” It’s a clever and playful costume that’s sure to get a few laughs without much effort.

25. Subtle Makeup

If you’re not into full costumes, you can keep it simple with subtle makeup that adds just a hint of Halloween spirit. For example, drawing a few lines to create cat features can turn any outfit into a costume. It’s an easy and budget-friendly way to participate in the festivities without going all out.

26. Bestie Costumes

Coordinating with your bestie for Halloween is always fun, and you can keep it simple and budget-friendly with costumes like Salt and Pepper. Just wear matching outfits in black and white and add some creative touches. It’s a cute and easy way to make a statement together.

27. Couples Costumes

Couples costumes don’t have to be complicated or expensive. For instance, one person can dress as a dalmatian with a white outfit and black spots, while the other can be a firefighter with a simple red shirt and hat. It’s a fun and easy way to coordinate with your partner for Halloween.

28. Group Costumes

Get your friends together for a group costume inspired by scary movie villains. Each person can pick a different character and use DIY makeup and thrifted clothes to complete the look. It’s a creative and budget-friendly way to make a big impact as a group.

29. Meme Costumes

Meme costumes are a great way to stay current and get a few laughs. For example, you can dress up as the “This is Fine” dog with a simple brown outfit, a DIY paper hat, and a sign that says “This is Fine.” It’s a funny and relevant costume that’s easy to make with items

30. Gender Swap Costumes

Have some fun with gender swap costumes like Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy. Use simple, colorful clothes and DIY accessories to bring these characters to life in a playful way. It’s an inexpensive and humorous way to switch things up for Halloween.

31. Mashup Costumes

Mashup costumes are a fun way to get creative by combining two different ideas. For example, you could be a zombie Cinderella by taking a classic ball gown and adding some fake blood and torn fabric. It’s a unique and imaginative costume that’s sure to stand out.

Your Perfect Halloween Look Awaits

With these trendy, cute, and captivating costume ideas, you’re all set to make a statement this Halloween.

Whether you’re channeling your inner siren or rocking a trendy solo outfit, the key is to have fun and let your creativity shine.

Halloween is the perfect time to express your unique style, so go ahead and turn heads with a look that’s all your own!

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Hey everyone, I’m Hailey! I’m super passionate about interior design and love to blend budget-friendly solutions with stylish decor ideas. I started my blog as a side project to help other students make the most out of their small living spaces. I 💕 my 🐱 and going 🛍️!