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Teenagers are picky, and that's the simple truth. That doesn't really change when it comes to choosing a Halloween costume, either. While younger kids costumes might be easier to create, teens and tweens may have a harder time deciding. Do you go with something funny and silly or scary and spooky? Luckily, this list of very best and most creative teen Halloween costumes is here to help. We're talking solo costumes, best friend costumes, and even group costumes to get the whole crew together.
Whether you're the teen in question or the parent of one, this list will be your best source of inspiration. For the creative types, try out one of these DIY costumes for everyone from beginners to more advanced crafters. (Who doesn't want to be Barbie or their favorite TV character?) Though, if the goal is to look for something store-bought, there are plenty of options for that, too.
One of the best things about these ideas is that they're budget-friendly and can easily take your teen from the classroom to a spirited night out without missing a beat—in fact, some only require a few accessories! (Don't you love when things are just easy like that?) Now, that's Halloween magic that will impress even the hardest-to-please teen.
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1
Glinda Costume
She's bound to be in the most popular costume in class thanks to the new release Wicked. Of course, with plenty of Glinda and Elphaba costume options, you could DIY one or just order one online!
2
Nintendo Switch Costume
What's a video game you like playing with your best friend? Well, that doesn't matter too much here, because whatever it is, you're sure to enjoy this DIY Nintendo Switch costume.
Get the tutorial at Club Crafted.
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3
Beetlejuice Costume
Go as the ghost with the most this Halloween! The most important item? The striped suit, of course. Use temporary dye to get the green hair or just go with a wig. Either way, this look is sure to impress.
Get the tutorial at Dandy in the Bronx.
4
Lydia Deetz Costume
Here's another Beetlejuice-inspired costume! It's super fun (and easier than it looks) to DIY this Lydia Deetz red wedding dress. Just don't say his name three times!
Get the tutorial at All The Little Happy Things.
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5
'Teen Wolf' Costume
This would be a hilarious costume for a basketball player! Play tribute to Michael J. Fox's memorable role as an ordinary teenager who discovers he's a werewolf. It'll have everyone howling with laughter.
6
Roller Disco Barbie Halloween Costume
There are so many Barbie costume ideas you can go with—but this DIY Barbie look is definitely a show-stopper. There's a lot that goes into this one (outfit curation, craftsmanship... rollerskating skills 😂), but it'll definitely be worth it in the end.
Get the tutorial at Aww Sam.
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7
Nail Polish Costume
If you're a teen gal, there's a good chance that you have a favorite nail polish color. It might seem niche, but why not dress up as exactly that for Halloween? You'll just need some cardboard and paint to create the look.
Get the tutorial at Club Crafted.
8
Wednesday Addams Costume
She's creepy and she's kooky, which makes Wednesday Addams the perfect Halloween character. Plus, it's super simple to put the look together. The braids are the most important part!
Get the tutorial at Lyndsay Picardal.
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9
Rock Candy Costume
Go ahead and show everyone else how much you rock by putting on a solid colored outfit, then creating some DIY shimmery boxes over your clothing to recreate the iconic candy. A painted aluminum foil tube and foam sphere will work just fine for the hat.
Get the tutorial at Club Crafted.
10
Harry Potter Hogwarts Student Costume
So you got into Hogwarts, now what? Well, you'll need a wand and uniform, for starters! Choose from Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Slytherin, and Ravenclaw houses.
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11
Eddie Munson From 'Stranger Things' Costume
Eddie Munson is the unspoken hero of Stranger Things, and it's time to give credit where credit is due. You can do just that by copying his look this Halloween. As long as you have the "Hellfire Club" T-shirt and a jean jacket, you'll be okay.
12
Cupcake Costume
Cupcakes are sweet, but you'll look even sweeter when you take on this costume. Poster boards and tulle will be your BFFs when recreating this treat. Cherry on top finishes the look!
Get the tutorial at Club Crafted.
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13
Mario Kart Costume
This costume will work great for any teen! All you need are some basic clothing items, a box, and paint. The hardest part–choosing their favorite Super Mario character.
Get the tutorial at Girl Loves Glam.
14
Cher from 'Clueless' Costume
One of the best teen characters of all time is Cher from the 1995 classic Clueless. Her yellow plaid outfit is iconic! Don't forget white knee socks to complete the look.
Get the tutorial at Andie Sparkles.
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15
Dionne from 'Clueless' Costume
Cher and Dee would make great best friend costumes! And you'll feel like a total Betty this Halloween when you dress up as Dionne from Clueless.
16
Girl with a Pearl Earring Costume
Was art your favorite elective in school? Then honor that by going as the "Girl with a Pearl Earring" this year. Fabric, fabric, and fabric is what you'll need. (Oh, and a pearl earring, of course.)
Get the tutorial at The House That Lars Built.
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17
Food Truck Costume
Get your order ready, everyone. The food truck is here! Have the guests at any Halloween party lineup to you when you show up with some treats and snacks, dressed as a culinary mobile.
Get the tutorial at The Merrythought.
18
Princess Mia from 'Princess Diaries' Costume
Look like cinematic royalty by dolling up as Princess Mia of Genovia. The Princess Diaries character is beloved by many—making this a sure-to-be-hit with any of your friends.
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19
Rory From 'Gilmore Girls' Costume
Gilmore Girls fans, rise up! If there's any memorable outfit from the show, it's the Chilton Preparatory School uniform. Prep it up this holiday when you remind everyone of this wholesome show.
Get the tutorial at Polka Dot Chair.
20
Daphne from 'Scooby Doo' Costume
You'll be both a detective and a fashion icon when dressing as Daphne from Scooby Doo this Halloween. A purple dress, scarf, boots, and a red wig will make you identifiable from miles away.
Tierney McAfee
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment,holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.