Halloween costumes can get expensive. Like, do I really want to drop $80 on a store-bought outfit I’ll probably wear once and then shove in a closet? Nope. Same. But here’s the good news: you don’t need to spend a fortune to look awesome on Halloween, especially if you’ve got brunette hair working in your favor. Dark hair opens up a ton of costume options that look great without a wig. Bonus points: you can pull most of these together using stuff you probably already have at home.
So grab your coffee (or pumpkin spice latte if you’re feeling festive), and let’s talk 12 easy DIY Halloween costumes for brunettes on a budget. Trust me, your wallet—and your Instagram feed—will thank you.
1. Wednesday Addams
I mean, let’s start with the obvious. Wednesday is basically the brunette Halloween queen.
- Black dress (collar optional, but it helps).
- Braids—super easy with dark hair.
- Deadpan face.
If you already rock sarcasm daily (guilty ✋), this one requires zero acting. Honestly, the costume builds itself.
2. Rosie the Riveter
Ever wanted to flex your feminist muscles and save money on Halloween? Rosie is your girl.
- Denim shirt.
- Red bandana.
- Some rolled-up sleeves.
Dark hair works beautifully here because the contrast with the red bandana really pops. Plus, you’ll look iconic in photos—promise.
3. Velma from Scooby-Doo
If you’ve got glasses, congrats—you’re halfway there. Velma’s another brunette-friendly classic.
- Orange sweater.
- Red skirt.
- Knee socks.
Pro tip: carry around a magnifying glass or just shout “Jinkies!” whenever you drop your phone. People will get it. ;)
4. Lara Croft (Tomb Raider)
Want a costume that screams confident and adventurous without being over the top? Lara Croft is the move.
- Tank top (black or dark green).
- Cargo shorts.
- Boots.
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Add some faux holsters if you want to go full 90s Lara, but honestly, the ponytail and tank combo will give it away. And IMO, brunette hair makes this look instantly recognizable.
5. Morticia Addams
Let’s not forget Wednesday’s mom. Morticia is all about sleek and spooky elegance.
- Long black dress.
- Dramatic makeup (dark eyeliner and red lipstick = instant Morticia).
- Let your dark hair flow straight and glossy.
It’s classy, creepy, and cheap. Basically Halloween perfection.
6. Joyce Byers from Stranger Things
Yes, the queen of Christmas lights herself. This is a killer low-cost option.
- Messy dark hair (don’t even bother brushing—easy win).
- Striped sweater or plaid shirt.
- Christmas lights as a prop.
Ever wanted to wear your PJs to a Halloween party and still call it a costume? This is basically that.
7. Hermione Granger
Calling all Potterheads! Hermione is one of the easiest brunette costumes around.
- White shirt + tie (Gryffindor colors if you can).
- Black skirt or pants.
- A wand (stick from your backyard works too).
And if anyone asks why you’re waving a stick at people, just mutter something about Wingardium Leviosa. Works every time. :)
8. Frida Kahlo
If you’re into artsy vibes and powerful icons, Frida Kahlo is perfect.
- Floral headband (DIY with fake flowers).
- Bold brows (yes, go unibrow if you’re brave).
- Colorful shawl or dress.
This one doubles as a history lesson and a chance to rock some killer accessories. Ever wanted to look like a walking painting? Here’s your shot.
9. Katniss Everdeen
Hunger Games fan? Then Katniss is practically a no-brainer for brunettes.
- Black shirt + cargo pants.
- Toy bow and arrow (or DIY with sticks if you’re really scrappy).
- Side braid.
Let’s be honest, you’ve probably done the braid at least once already. Now just add the attitude: “May the odds be ever in your favor.”
10. Esmeralda from The Hunchback of Notre Dame
If you want a costume that’s colorful and fun, Esmeralda is an underrated pick.
- White peasant blouse.
- Colorful skirt.
- Big hoop earrings.
Dark hair makes the look pop, especially if you add a headscarf. And hey, you’ll definitely stand out from the sea of witches and cats.
11. Jessica Jones
For a costume that doubles as your everyday outfit, Jessica Jones is perfect.
- Leather jacket.
- Jeans.
- Boots.
That’s literally it. Bonus points if you walk around with a serious “don’t mess with me” vibe. FYI, it’s comfy too, which is always a win.
12. Witch (but make it personal)
Yes, it’s the classic. But before you roll your eyes, hear me out: witches never go out of style. The trick? Put your own spin on it.
- Long black dress (or black anything).
- Dark lipstick.
- A fun accessory (crystal ball, broom, or even your cat if they’ll tolerate it).
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Brunette hair naturally leans witchy—don’t fight it. Just lean in and own the vibe.
Tips to Make DIY Costumes Work
Alright, before you run off to raid your closet, let’s cover a few quick tips:
- Use makeup strategically. A little eyeliner or lipstick can totally transform a basic outfit.
- Props = magic. Carrying around a random item (like lights for Joyce or a wand for Hermione) makes a costume instantly recognizable.
- Thrift stores are goldmines. Seriously, you can find most of this stuff for under $10.
- Confidence sells it. Honestly, half the costume is how you act in it. Don’t just wear the outfit—play the part.
Conclusion
So there you have it—12 easy DIY Halloween costumes for brunettes on a budget. From spooky (Morticia) to badass (Lara Croft) to quirky (Joyce Byers), you’ve got plenty of options that won’t drain your bank account. And the best part? Most of these are things you can throw together with what’s already sitting in your closet.
Halloween doesn’t need to cost a fortune to be fun. Honestly, the DIY costumes usually end up being the most creative (and memorable) anyway. So which one are you trying this year? Personally, I’m leaning toward Wednesday Addams—mostly because my sarcastic resting face does half the work for me. ;)