Halloween is the perfect time to get creative, play around with style, and put on some glitter.
If you’re a teen looking for a fun and comfortable costume that doesn’t feel too racy or unwearable, these five ideas fall right in between the two ends of the spectrum.
For each look, I’ll tell you what to wear, simple makeup or hair tips, easy DIY shortcuts, budget DIY options, small safety and comfort notes to help you enjoy the night, and more.
5 Cute Halloween Costumes for Teenage Girls
1. Classic Cute Cat
Very classic and pleasing, customizable, flirty (simple)
What to wear
Skater skirt and black leggings, or an all-black dress or black top.
Fuzzy cat ears headband.
Ballet flats or ankle boots, and a tail (clip-on or tie-on).
Makeup & hair
A black or pink nose; winged eyeliner; and whiskers.
Soft curls or a sleek ponytail are adorable and practical.
DIY shortcuts
You can make ears out of felt or glue faux fur to a headband.
Make a tail from a piece of wire wrapped in cloth and attach it securely.
Budget option
Wear a black outfit and purchase a plain ears-and-tail set from the dollar store.
Safety & comfort tip
Avoid a tail that is too long, as it could trip you; clip it to your belt loop. Wear comfortable shoes for walking or partying.
Variations
Glam cat: add glitter eye makeup.
Gothic cat: swap black for dark purples and add choker jewelry.
Group idea: have each friend pick a colored collar.
Related: Last-Minute Halloween Costumes for Women
2. Retro Roller Girl
Vintage, retro, and ideal for a gang of friends.
What to wear
High-waisted skater shorts or a mini skirt, a fitted crop top or vintage tee, and knee-high socks.
Roller skates (real or faux for the costume effect). Use wrist guards if you will be skating.
Makeup & hair
Glossy lips, winged eyeliner, and tousled hair.
High ponytail or space buns with a scrunchie for extra retro vibes.
DIY shortcuts
Cut patches from an old tee and attach them with fabric glue and felt.
Tie an old sweater around your waist as an accessory.
Budget option
Sneakers and socks with faux skate stripes are a great budget option.
Safety & comfort tip
If you plan to skate, wear proper pads and practice in a safe area.
Variations
Roller disco: add a glitter coat or sequin fanny pack.
80s workout: keep the skates, add leg warmers, and wear a bright headband.
Related: 20 Perfect Halloween Costumes for 2025
3. Enchanted Fairy
Soft and whimsical—great for a romantic Halloween vibe.
What to wear
A pastel or neutral tulle dress or skirt.
Lightweight wings (many places sell them cheaply online) and ballet flats or sandals.
Makeup & hair
Highlight the cheekbones, pale turquoise eyeshadow, and delicate face jewels or shimmer.
Loose waves with a floral crown or vine headpiece.
DIY shortcuts
Use wire hangers, fabric glue, and glitter to create wings by covering them with sheer stockings.
Glue paper flowers to a headband instead of buying an expensive crown.
Budget option
Stick to one color palette using thrifted items and add floral accessories.
Safety & comfort tip
Choose lightweight wings and avoid anything sharp; make sure wings do not block your vision in crowds.
Variations
Woodland fairy: use earth-toned makeup and add leaf accessories.
Urban fairy: wear a leather jacket with a pair of fairy wings.
Related; 8 Fun Halloween Party Ideas for Couples
4. Cottagecore Witch (Cozy Witch)
Not the scary witch—more cozy, sophisticated, and on-trend.
What to wear
Knit sweater, midi dress, or high-waisted skirt.
A casual wide-brimmed felt hat (black or brown) and ankle boots.
Makeup & hair
Warm tones (browns and muted mauves), defined cheekbones, a bold lip, and natural waves.
Wear a pendant or layered necklaces to give off an aura of mysticism.
DIY shortcuts
Use felt and fabric glue to make a witch hat, or decorate a plain hat with ribbon and sprigs of faux herbs.
Budget option
Thrift a long skirt and sweater combo and pair with costume jewelry.
Safety & comfort tip
Avoid hats that hinder peripheral vision if you’ll be in large crowds.
Variations
Glam witch: wear statement jewelry and smoky makeup.
Teen witch: finish the look with a denim jacket and platform sneakers.
Related: 8 Creative Halloween Crafts for Kids
5. Mermaid (Glam or Casual)
Shimmery and lighthearted—full fantasy or low-key fun both work great.
What to wear
Shell or bandeau top with an iridescent skirt (or mermaid-style leggings).
Glitter sneakers or flat sandals for those who want to keep it functional.
Makeup & hair
Metallic eyeshadows, highlighter on the cheekbones, and body glitter.
Finish with beachy waves and shell or pearl hair clips.
DIY shortcuts
Make a shell crown by gluing plastic shells to a headband.
Add sparkle to a thrifted skirt with craft sequins or fabric paint.
Budget option
Wear a long satin skirt and add a sequin belt or panel to complete the mermaid look.
Safety & comfort tip
If your skirt restricts movement, choose a skirt with a slit or wear leggings underneath for ease.
Variations
Dark mermaid: opt for deeper blues and purples for a dramatic effect.
Cute mermaid: pastel scales, lots of pearls, and soft makeup.
Related: 12 Spooktacular Halloween Jokes for Kids
Quick Costume Checklist
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Outfit base (thrifted or store-bought)
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One statement accessory (sequins, wings, hat, or ears)
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Comfortable shoes (break them in before the night)
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Simple makeup plan (practice once before the night)
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Small emergency kit: safety pins, clear lip balm, band-aids
Each of these costumes may be scaled down or up depending on your budget and the amount of time you want to spend on it.
The trick is to choose one or two statement pieces and build everything else around them. Let me know which of the five you’re considering and I’ll help you come up with a shopping list or DIY checklist based on your budget and the weather where you live.
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