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DIY Halloween Costumes for Moms (Straight From Your Closet)

ByPaige

While some people don’t mind spending $40+ on a store-bought costume they’ll only ever wear once, I’m a bigger fan of DIY Halloween Costumes. You can live a beautiful life on a budget without spending a ton of money. I’d much rather shop my own closet, see what I already have, and get creative. It’s more fun this way—even if it takes a little imagination.

Another reason I skip store costumes? Many are over-sexualized for women, which I find frustrating. Not because a momma can’t look sexy, but because she shouldn’t be forced to. On top of that, store-bought costumes usually aren’t very creative. You won’t often find niche TV, book, or historical characters—they go for what’s mainstream and commercial.

If you’re going the DIY Halloween costume route, here’s one thing to remember: your costume doesn’t need to be perfect. As you’ll see in my examples below, my outfits clearly hint at the character without being an exact replica. That’s the beauty of DIY—you’re dressing up for the joy of becoming someone you admire, not for others’ approval.

So here are some of my favorite DIY Halloween costumes straight from the closet—budget-friendly, creative, and mom-approved.

DIY Halloween Costume Idea: Chessy (Jessie) from The Parent Trap

Confession: I was today years old when I learned that her name is actually Chessy, not Jessie. But no matter what you call her, Chessy is more than just the world’s best housekeeper for the Parker family—she’s also the ultimate stand-in mom for Hallie. She radiates California cool, warmth, and down-to-earth vibes. Honestly, I’d break my vegetarianism to eat her bacon and chili if it meant having a kitchen chat with her.

How to Dress Like Chessy:

  • Denim boyfriend shirt with rolled-up sleeves (oversized if possible)
  • Khaki or tan pants (green works too)
  • White tank top, tucked in
  • White sneakers, loafers, or Keds
  • Dangly earrings or hoops (not too fancy)
  • Simple watch or bracelet
  • Glasses or sunglasses perched on your head.

Jane Goodall

Jane Goodall may only be the mother of one human, but she’s been a mother and friend to countless chimpanzees. As one of the most famous researchers in the world, she dedicated her life to sustainability and improving our relationship with nature. She’s also the perfect example of how a costume can be inspiring as well as creative.

Jane Goodall Costume

How to Dress Like Jane Goodall:

  • Pull your hair into her signature low ponytail with no loose strands
  • Earthy green or khaki button-down shirt (short or long sleeves)
  • Khaki shorts or pants
  • Gold or dainty analog watch
  • Accessorize with binoculars or a stuffed monkey

Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales

Most of us dream of being a princess at some point, but the reality of constant public scrutiny is not so dreamy. Still, Kate Middleton embodies grace and resilience—especially as a mom of three who endured hyperemesis gravidarum with each pregnancy and faced cancer treatment with dignity. She’s strong, approachable, and the perfect “modern princess” to emulate.

How to Dress Like Kate Middleton:

  • Search Google or Pinterest for Kate-inspired outfits you might already own. I chose this one.
  • If not, opt for your fanciest dress or skirt + stockings + polished shoes
  • Pale pink/nude nail polish (like Essie’s Ballet Slippers)
  • Simple, classic jewelry
  • Optional: a tiara—because why not?

Lorelai Gilmore (Winter Version)

Gilmore Girls has been trending basically since it went off the air, and for good reason. The cozy small-town vibes and mother-daughter banter are irresistible. While Lorelai’s immaturity sometimes made me roll my eyes, she’s still funny, relatable, and iconic—especially when she’s bundled up in Stars Hollow waiting to “smell snow.”

How to Dress Like Lorelai (Winter Look):

  • A beanie in any color (black, brown, blue, purple, pink—she wore them all)
  • Scarf (skinny or chunky—bonus if it’s blue)
  • Black or brown classic-style coat, OR a blue puffer jacket, OR a pink jacket with a gray pom-pom hat
  • Accessorize with a Luke’s Diner logo taped to a mug or takeout bag
  • Hair down and wavy if possible

DIY Halloween Costume Idea: Ruth Bader Ginsburg

The late Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a powerhouse. Not only did she defend women’s rights at the highest level, but she also made her way through law school while caring for a newborn—a feat in itself. Dressing up as RBG is a way to honor her brilliance, resilience, and advocacy.

How to Dress Like RBG:

  • Black judges robe or black dress suit–or cheat like I did by wearing a black sweater over a fancy dress.
  • White collar (lace or crocheted works best, or even a DIY paper version). I opted for a statement necklace to save time
  • Bold glasses
  • Statement earrings (often round or turquoise)
  • Low ponytail or bun (with or without a scarf, scrunchy, or bow)
  • Optional: carry a gavel, briefcase, or one of her books

Final Thoughts

Homemade Halloween costumes aren’t about perfection. They’re about creativity, joy, and sometimes even paying tribute to the women who inspire us—whether they’re fictional characters or real-life icons.

So the next time you feel pressure to grab a pricey costume off the rack, take a look in your closet first. You might be surprised at what you can create with what you already own. And remember: whether or not anyone else recognizes your look, you’ll know who you’re channeling—and that’s what makes it fun.

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