10 Top Halloween Costume Ideas for Students on a Budget

Halloween is just around the corner, and for students, this means spooky parties, themed nights out, and the excitement of dressing up in creative costumes. 

However, being a student often comes with the challenge of sticking to a tight budget. But fear not! You don’t have to break the bank to look fantastic this Halloween. With a little creativity and some DIY spirit, you can put together a standout costume that’s both affordable and unique. 

In this guide, we’ve rounded up 10 top Halloween costume ideas that won’t dent your wallet and will have you ready for any ghoulish celebration.

1. Zombie

Zombies are a timeless Halloween classic, and the best part is that you can create a creepy undead look using clothes and makeup you already have. 

Start with old clothes (the more worn out, the better), tear a few holes in them, and add some fake blood or red paint. 

To create a ghastly look, use pale face powder or white foundation, darken your eyes with black eyeliner or eyeshadow, and add “blood” around your mouth or hands. Zombies don’t need to be perfect, which makes this costume ideal for last-minute planning.

Pro tip: Use food colouring mixed with corn syrup/golden syrup to create homemade fake blood.

2. Ghost

Perhaps one of the simplest and most cost-effective costumes is the classic ghost. Grab an old white sheet, cut out eye holes, and voilà – you’ve got a ghost costume. 

For a more creative twist, you could use safety pins or fabric glue to fashion the sheet into a flowing cape or toga-style outfit. If you want to add an eerie touch, use face paint to darken the area around your eyes, giving you a more spectral appearance.

Pro tip: For a unique spin, consider a “fancy ghost” – add a top hat, monocle, or scarf to make your ghost costume one of a kind.

3. Mummy

A mummy costume is another fun, inexpensive option that you can put together using materials you already have at home. 

Take some old white or cream-coloured sheets or bandages and wrap them around your body. Don’t worry about being too neat – the messier, the better! To finish the look, apply white face paint or powder, darken your eyes with black makeup, and walk with an eerie, slow shuffle.

Pro tip: If you don’t have enough fabric, toilet paper or medical bandages can also work. Just be cautious in case of rain!

4. Cat

The cat costume is a quick and easy option that’s both classic and stylish. Most of us have a pair of black leggings or trousers, along with a black shirt. 

Use black eyeliner to draw whiskers and a small nose, and if you want to go the extra mile, pick up some cheap cat ears from a discount store or make your own from black cardboard and a headband.

Pro tip: If you want a fancier cat look, consider going as a black panther by adding some faux leather or metallic accessories.

5. Superhero in Disguise

No need for a full-on superhero costume – going as a superhero in disguise is both creative and budget-friendly. 

All you need is a shirt in the colour of your favourite superhero (think Superman or Wonder Woman) and an open jacket or blazer on top. This gives the effect of a superhero just about to reveal their identity. If you want to take it further, print out the logo of your chosen superhero and pin it to your shirt.

Pro tip: Use face paint or eyeliner to draw a small mask around your eyes to add some superhero mystique.

6. Vampire

Vampires have been a Halloween favourite for generations, and you can achieve this look with minimal effort and cost. 

Start by dressing in black – think a black shirt, trousers, or dress. Apply pale foundation, darken your eyes with eyeliner, and use red lipstick for a dramatic effect. To complete the look, use dark eyeshadow to create sunken cheeks and some fake blood around your lips.

Pro tip: Make your own vampire fangs using white press-on nails by trimming them to resemble sharp teeth and attaching them with dental adhesive.

7. Scarecrow

A scarecrow costume is an excellent option if you want something unique yet budget-friendly. 

Start with a flannel shirt, jeans, and a straw hat if you have one. Use face paint or eyeliner to create stitch marks across your face and add some hay or straw around your wrists, collar, and hat for authenticity. You can find inexpensive faux straw at craft stores or use yellow yarn as a substitute.

Pro tip: For an extra creepy look, darken your eyes with black or brown eyeshadow to create a hollow-eyed, spooky scarecrow.

8. 80s Workout Enthusiast

For a fun, colourful costume, why not go as an 80s workout enthusiast? Raid your wardrobe for anything neon, grab some leggings or tights, and throw on a brightly coloured tank top or crop top. 

Add some leg warmers (if you don’t have them, knee-high socks can work as a substitute) and a headband. Style your hair in a high ponytail or tease it to give that signature 80s volume.

Pro tip: If you don’t have neon items, use fabric markers or paint to create colourful designs on old clothes.

9. Mad Scientist

Transform into a mad scientist with items you already own. Wear a white shirt or, even better, a lab coat (or fashion one out of an oversized white shirt). 

Mess up your hair to create a wild, frazzled look and use eyeliner to create dark circles under your eyes. Carry a beaker or test tube (empty water bottles can do the trick), and you’ll instantly be recognisable as a quirky scientist.

Pro tip: Add some glowing green liquid to your “science equipment” by mixing water with a drop of food colouring and a glow stick for added flair.

10. DIY Mash-Up Costume

If you’re feeling extra creative, try mixing and matching different elements from several costumes to create something entirely new. 

For example, combine the vampire look with a superhero cape or mix zombie makeup with a 1920s flapper outfit. The possibilities are endless, and you’re guaranteed to have a one-of-a-kind costume that no one else will be wearing.

Pro tip: The key to a successful mash-up costume is creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with accessories and makeup to make the look come together.

Conclusion: Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative!

Halloween costumes don’t have to be expensive or elaborate to be impressive. 

With a little creativity, some DIY spirit, and clever use of items you already own, you can create a standout look that’s both budget-friendly and unique. 

Whether you’re going for a classic ghost, a stylish superhero, or a quirky mash-up, the most important thing is to have fun with it. So dive into your wardrobe, get creative, and get ready to turn heads this Halloween!