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From a very early age, we've all had a children's book that's pulled on our heart strings. Whether it's Where the Wild Things Are, Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, or another engaging book, the pages make a huge impression on our young minds. And if you're an educator or parent yourself, you've probably also shared the books that meant so much to you with your students or your own child. So it may feel inevitable the characters from your beloved childhood books will become your go-to inspiration for a super-creative DIY book character costume and a memorable Halloween.
Many of these fun Halloween costumes for kids and adults start with a few pieces of clothing from your child's closet (and that means creating a last-minute Halloween costume that’s close to free!). Or, you can use some of the tutorials here to work your very DIY magic. Either way, we guarantee your children will have grins on their faces when they go trick-or-treating and tell everyone about the book characters they're dressed up as.
By the way, kids shouldn't get to have all the fun. As an adult, you likely still have those books that have remained special to you throughout your life, so we have costume ideas for you as well. And if you see a character you like that's only made better by their counterpart or best friend, team up on a group costume. Below, get inspired by some of our very favorite ready-to-wear and DIY book character Halloween costumes!
Are you craving more Halloween holiday content? Visit our gallery of 100+ GENIUS HALLOWEEN IDEAS FOR 2023 to find plenty of costume ideas (for kids, adults, and pets!), party recipes, games, scary movie roundups, and much more!
DIY Nancy Drew Costume
Take inspiration from our favorite teenage detective. Pair a yellow cardigan—this one’s the perfect shade—and a white collared shirt with a plaid yellow pleated skirt. Accessorize with a yellow headband, a vintage flashlight or binoculars, and a couple of vintage Nancy Drew books.
Grab a large umbrella, hat, and a big satchel to complement this classic Mary Poppins ensemble to evoke the spirit of literature's beloved English nanny.
DIY Waldo Costume: Where's Waldo?
If you're an avid crocheter (or want to become one), this DIY Waldo hat is easy to crochet. Pair with a red-and-white striped shirt and round black glasses for the complete look.
Get the tutorial at Repeat Crafter Me.
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Snow White Costume: Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs
Snow White Costume: Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs
Dress up your little one in this adorable "Snow White" inspired gown! Consider adding a dainty red headband and a red apple prop to finish the ensemble.
Ms. Frizzle: The Magic School Bus
Whether you're a lover of the The Magic School Bus book or television series, here's a chance to get dressed like everyone's favorite science teacher! Add a bag full of books with plush green lizard peeking out to pull the planetary themed outfit together.
DIY Musketeer Costume: The Three Musketeers
Round up two more neighborhood kids and whip up three of these easy costumes!
Get the tutorial at Adventure in a Box or get for a ready-to-wear musketeer costume.
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Granny Wolf Costume: The Three Little Pigs
This easy to pull together costume will get you dressed up like the deceptive "Granny Wolf" from the The Three Little Pigs in mere minutes. Don't forget to a woven basket to complete the outfit!
DIY Nancy Drew Costume: The Nancy Drew Mystery Files
If you enjoy some mystery-solving along with your Halloween festivities, we’re thinking you should don a Nancy Drew costume. You can put this together using items that may already be in your closet, like a polka-dot dress, trench coat, and heels.
Get the tutorial at Ashley Brooke Designs.
Ask your friends to sample your plate of ham and eggs while wearing this clever costume! The three-piece accessory bundle is fully adjustable and can be worn by kids and adults.
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DIY Baby Max Costume: Where the Wild Things Are
Let the wild rumpus start! With this DIY book character costume, your baby will look just like Max, roaming among monsters and other fearsome creatures.
Get the tutorial at A Night Owl.
DIY Katniss Everdeen Costume: The Hunger Games
Although she won’t be running into the Cornucopia anytime soon, your tween can look just as tough and strong as Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games. Add a faux bow and arrow set to finish the look.
Get the tutorial at Simple As That.
Harry Potter Costume: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Bring the magic of this beloved character to life with a few extra props! Pair this Gryffindor Cloak with round black glasses and a wand.
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DIY Hedwig Costume: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Whooooooo can make this seriously sweet Harry Potter Hegwig baby costume? Because it's no sew, the answer is everyone, that's who!
Get the tutorial at Make Life Lovely.
Transform your child into a very hungry caterpillar with one extra layer of dressing to celebrate Halloween. Simply add this cute tunic over an outfit with dark pants and a neutral top.
DIY Mr. Fox Costume: Fantastic Mr. Fox
Download blogger Rachel Faucett's printable mask template, grab your sewing machine, and start crafting this classic costume based on the beloved book.
Get the tutorial at Handmade Charlotte.
SHOP FOX MASKS
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Wicked Witch of The West Costume: Wizard of Oz
This adorable outfit is a perfect pick for lovers of the Wicked Witch of the West! Add a black hat, pair of boots, and just maybe a little dramatic makeup to complete the enchanting look.
DIY Tin Man Costume: The Wizard of Oz
The Wizard of Oz was a book long before it was a movie, and your child can represent a story that’s lasted the ages with this Tin Man costume. Silver spray paint and cardboard lend ingenuity to this iconic getup.
Get the tutorial at A Pumpkin & a Princess.
DIY Luna Lovegood Costume: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
There's no one sassier in the Harry Potter series than Luna Lovegood, and this costume based on her character doesn't disappoint. With her copy of The Quibbler and larger-than-life sunglasses, your girl will go from a Muggle to a Hogwarts student in a flash.
Get the tutorial at My Poppet Makes.
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DIY Giving Tree Costume: The Giving Tree
This book is certainly a tear-jerker, but you can celebrate those warm fuzzies by partnering up with your little one for Halloween. As the boy and the tree, all you need is a small pair of overalls, and for you, an all-green outfit covered in felt leaves.
Get the tutorial at the House That Lars Built.
DIY Pippi Costume: The Pippi Longstocking Collection
Pippi Longstocking is one of the most cherished book characters of all time. Your child can mimic her one-of-a-kind look with top-to-bottom stripes and those famous flyaway braids.
Get the tutorial at Positively Splendid.
Shelby Deering
Shelby Deering is a lifestyle writer who specializes in decor, home tours, wellness, travel, vintage, and feel-good stories for national publications. She’s from Madison, Wisconsin, and when she’s not writing, you’ll find her running local trails, shopping flea markets, or going for walks with her husband and corgi.
Janece Maze
Janece Maze is Associate Editor at Country Living, where she covers DIY projects, gardening, and travel. When she’s not in the kitchen creating a new recipe with farm fresh ingredients, you can find her on the road heading to a music festival or browsing a local consignment shop.
