What is the easiest cheap costume to make at home?

A classic burglar is incredibly easy: just wear a black-and-white striped shirt, black pants, a black beanie, and carry a pillowcase with a dollar sign drawn on it.

How can I make a costume look good with no money?

Focus on makeup and hair styling, which cost almost nothing but dramatically change your appearance, and use cardboard to craft clean, recognizable props.

Where can I find cheap costume accessories?

Dollar stores, thrift shops, and garage sales are goldmines for cheap hats, glasses, ties, and plastic props that can be repainted.

AI-generated example

Cheap Costumes

Look amazing on a budget with clever closet-staple costumes.

Cheap costumes are the perfect way to join the Halloween fun without breaking the bank. People choose budget-friendly looks to save money while still showing off their creativity and humor. These outfits typically rely on everyday closet staples, simple thrift store finds, and easy DIY cardboard props.

Difficulty: Easy
Time: ~15 min
Budget: $5–20

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Cheap Costumes costume — Example look · AI-generated

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Result

40 Cheap costume ideas

Ranked by how many people are searching for them this season. Open any one for the full guide and to try it on.

What you need for a Cheap Costumes costume

Closet staples
Solid-colored t-shirts, flannels, hoodies, or striped shirts that form the base of your character.
DIY: Use any basic solid-colored or striped shirt you already own.
Amazon
Cardboard or poster board
Sturdy white or brown board used to craft quick, recognizable props, signs, or accessories.
DIY: Upcycle clean shipping boxes or cereal boxes from home.
Amazon
Fabric markers or acrylic paint
Simple paint or markers to customize plain shirts, write funny phrases, or draw details.
DIY: Use a standard black permanent marker.
Amazon
Thrift store accessories
Inexpensive hats, glasses, suspenders, or ties that instantly define a specific character.
DIY: Pop the lenses out of old sunglasses or borrow from a friend.
Amazon

How to put it together

1
Audit your closet for solid-colored basics, stripes, or flannels that can form a base.
2
Select a simple theme, like a burglar, nerd, mime, or tourist, that matches your base clothes.
3
Craft key defining props using cardboard, markers, or household items.
4
Use basic makeup or face paint to add character details like whiskers, scars, or a mask.
5
Assemble the outfit and carry your signature prop to instantly sell the look.

Makeup & hair

Keep it simple with basic face paint or everyday makeup to add quick character details. Messy hair, a simple ponytail, or a cheap beanie can instantly complete the look.

Tips

Focus on one highly recognizable prop to make a simple outfit instantly readable.
Shop your local thrift store on half-price days for cheap base garments and accessories.
Host a costume swap with friends to trade old outfits and accessories for free.

Cheap Costumes costume FAQ

What is the easiest cheap costume to make at home?: A classic burglar is incredibly easy: just wear a black-and-white striped shirt, black pants, a black beanie, and carry a pillowcase with a dollar sign drawn on it.
How can I make a costume look good with no money?: Focus on makeup and hair styling, which cost almost nothing but dramatically change your appearance, and use cardboard to craft clean, recognizable props.
Where can I find cheap costume accessories?: Dollar stores, thrift shops, and garage sales are goldmines for cheap hats, glasses, ties, and plastic props that can be repainted.

Did you know? The classic 'sheet ghost' costume dates back to 19th-century theatrical productions where actors wore white shrouds to represent spirits on stage.