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A List of My Childhood Halloween Costumes (Last-minute Inspiration?)

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Waterloo chapter.

We’ve all been there: the days, hours and minutes leading up to Halloween festivities, digging through your closet for something to wear. Your costume has to be cute, trendy, creative, easy to move in, and something that will keep you warm. Sound scary? I know how you feel. 

Well, there’s no need to feel spooked this season, because I’ve got you covered! Below you’ll find a list of some of my most “memorable” Halloween costumes over the years. If you don’t find something you like for this season, I hope this list is at least amusing to you. Note that I haven’t included any photos — you’re welcome. 

1.Winnie the Pooh

‘Twas my first costume. My brother wore it two years later. Honestly, you could probably get away with just wearing a red t-shirt, and then your friends can play the longest costume-guessing game in existence. 

2. Firefighter

I think I was three or so when I wore this costume. With the right jacket, suspenders and plastic hat, it can be easily re-created. 

3. Dora the Explorer

This was a long phase in my life (*sigh*). This works especially well if you have short hair and a purple backpack. Throw on a pink t-shirt, orange pants (not sure how common those are), some white sneakers, and you’re all set!

4. Atomic Betty

A Canadian icon. If you don’t know who she is, look her up and thank me later. Guaranteed to be a conversation starter, this could work out well if you have amazing DIY skills. 

5. A Witch

It’s basic, but hey — in my head, I was Alex Russo from Wizards of Waverly Place. I just thought my neighbours wouldn’t get the reference. 

6. A Fairy-Princess-Butterfly

Not only was this my costume, but it’s also what I wanted to be when I grew up. I mean, why be one when you can be all three? I’m picturing some strap-on wings, a ballerina bun and a tiara. What about you?

7. Orange Crayola Crayon

This costume was a bristol board that I wrote “Crayola” on and tied around my waist. I made a hat out of a small traffic cone, and wore an orange vest. Colour, of course, is completely up to you.

8. Katniss Everdeen 

I had a Mockingjay pin, okay? What was I supposed to do — waste it? Other than the essential pin, just throw in a braid, an army jacket and some cute fall boots, and you’re there!

9. Flora from the Winx Club 

She was my favourite fairy from that show! This could also be a cool group costume. Everyone can pick their favourite character and boom — you’ll arrive as the Winx Club! 

10. Cat

Yes, I have cat ears somewhere. I know you do too. 

If you don’t love these options, some more relevant costumes for this year could be: Olivia Rodrigo (particularly in the “good 4 u” music video), a Squid Game participant, Kim Kardashian at the Met Gala, or just a preppy fit in homage to the Gossip Girl reboot this year!

Happy Halloween everyone! Have fun and stay safe. 

Emma Johnston

Waterloo '22

Hi! My name is Emma, and I am completing my Bachelor of Arts in English Rhetoric, Media and Professional Communication at the University of Waterloo. I love journaling, peanut M&Ms, and collecting fashion magazines from around the world!