13 Last-Minute, School-Approved Halloween Costume Ideas

By Vesa Bejleri

The Friday night of terror is almost upon us, and with that, the scary realization that you have absolutely no idea what to wear for Halloween! Well fear not, for The Branford Buzz has put together a list of 13, last-minute Halloween costume ideas just for you. And the best part…they’re school friendly!

1. Movie Icons

 When in doubt, go back to the classics. Movie classics. Dress as the iconic Regina George “On Wednesdays we wear pink” outfit, or Rodrick from “Diary of a Wimpy Kid”. Other movies to choose from could include “Harry Potter,” “Wizard of Oz,” “The Addams Family,” “Star Wars,” “The Hunger Games,” “Twilight”, “Clueless,” and many more.

2. Music Personas

 What a better way to throw on a last minute costume than to portray your favourite music artist. No matter what genre it is, dressing like your favourite artist is not only an easy closet-find costume, but a great conversation starter. Whether it’s wearing a baggy, Billie Eilish inspired outfit, or a leather jacket inspired vibe from Alex Turner in the Arctic Monkeys, show off your music taste and a unique fashion style!

3. High School Stereotypes 

Ironically, consider going as one of the countless high school stereotypes for students. Dress up as the academic weapon, the cheerleader, the artsy creative, or the jock.

4. Era-Inspired

From bell-bottoms and fringe for the ’70s or neon, to leg warmers, and oversized jackets for the ’80s, pick your favourite decades from the years and show off your vintage clothing.

5. Pirate

The classic, Captain Jack Sparrow inspired outfit consists of flowy, white clothes, vests, boots, and a red bandana or tie around the head to bring this iconic diva to life.

6. Vampire

Black clothing, red accents, fake fangs, and slicked back- straight hair, instantly give a classic vampire feel for those brave enough to portray the bloodthirsty monsters. 

7. Greek God/ess

For a more divine beauty- vibe, try going for a Greek god/ess look. Flowing white clothes, gold jewelry, and curly hair instantly scream “I am immortality ethereal.”

8. Frat Guys

For a more subtle but funny costume, wear a bright polo, shorts, and a backwards hat for a frat guy staple outfit. Bonus points for throwing a sweater over your shoulders to really nail it.

9. Cowboy/Cowgirl

Use closet staples to turn yourself into a cowboy/girl. Jeans, boots, plaid shirts, and a hat create a classic Western outfit. Braided hair, cow print, bandanas and other finishing touches will bring the costume together perfectly.

10. Lifeguard

Who said you can’t go swimming during fall? This simple yet easily recognizable costume needs red shorts, a white tee, and a whistle to make for a sporty, last-minute look. Carry a water bottle or float and put sunscreen on your nose for maximum authenticity.

11. Rockstar

Dressing up in leather, ripped jeans, band tees, and fingerless gloves instantly give off rockstar energy. Pick your favourite rock vibe and go with it!

12. Sleep-Deprived Student

Let’s be honest; nothing is scarier than studying until midnight and having to wake up in just a couple of hours for school the next day. PJs, unruly hair and dark eyeshadow on your undereyes is the perfect representation of this common yet dreadful phenomenon.

13. Daytime Werewolf

The simpler version of the werewolf costume, the daytime werewolf is the creature in its human form before the moon comes out. Messy hair, red flannel, fake scratches, jeans, and boots make for a spitting image of what the form the monster takes during daylight hours.

At the end of the day, Halloween is about showing your community spirit in participation. So it doesn’t matter if your costume is extravagant or something as simple as the ideas we listed above; remember to have fun, and stay spooky.