Instant Halloween costumes that are truly easy for quick tricks and treats

October 30th may not be the best time to begin concocting the world’s spookiest monster get up for the Masquerade Party. If you have fun places to go and not a witchy hat to wear, instant Halloween costumes are in order.

Quick and simple doesn’t mean your ensemble won’t be clever. In fact, being tight on time will bring out your resourceful, creative side far better than any elaborate seasonal store can. These suggestions are based on common clothing and other articles you may have on hand. Embrace the DIY spirit and craft your one-of-a-kind Halloween costume creations. Unleash your creativity!

Super hero

Even if you don’t happen to have a pair of bright spandex on hand, you can still save the world from fiendish foes, or at least look the part. Superhero pajamas are multi-functional in that way. Trick or treat in them and you won’t even have to change out before drifting off in a candy coma.

This goes for adults, too, if you’re lucky enough to have a Batgirl nightshirt with a hood and cape. Wonder Woman-themed robes will also do the trick, simply adjust the role to a super sleepy hero.

Grunge rock star

Got plaid? Pair a flannel button-down with an oversized tee and slightly dirty jeans. No need to wash your hair and the longer the better. Carry around a guitar if you really want to go all out, but it’s the rebellious attitude that’ll pull this one together. Looking for a group costume idea? Go as a whole band like Pearl Jam or Mudhoney.

Quarterback

Halloween.com proposes adhering a quarter to your back as a literal quarterback. This would work for men and women alike, and it’s about as easy as instant Halloween costumes get. The only drawback is you’ll probably spend the whole night pointing to the quarter on your back and hoping no one grabs it otherwise you’re a former quarterback.

Statue

Wear white tights and a long-sleeved white shirt on a cool night. Then drape a preferably stark white sheet around yourself in the style of a fierce Greek goddess. Grab a bendable stick and tie some gold and red leaves around it as your crown and be Demeter, goddess of the harvest.

Spa Addict

No need to hide your vices on Halloween, especially if hitting up the spa is one of them. And why shouldn’t you take advantage of the one night a year when it’s socially acceptable to wear a mud mask, hair wrap, and fuzzy slippers in public? Wrap yourself in a plush robe and let your date know he’s required by All Saints. Day law to give massages upon request.

Athlete or Superfan

On this night of choosing your own adventure, choose to be either a star athlete or a team’s craziest super fan. The first requires your best gym clothes and maybe a sweatband around the head for good measure. Being a super fan calls for at least a team jersey and bonus points if your wear a team hat and serious team-colored face paint.

50 Shades of Grey

Whether you’ve read the book or not, this is one of the instant Halloween costumes bound to elicit plenty of intellectual groans. Yay for bookish funny costumes! Pull every grey accessory and clothing article from your closet and find a way to wear as many as possible. Paint each finger a different shade and don’t forget about grey eye makeup and silver jewelry.

Target practice

A solid black shirt and pants are the best bottom layer for this one. Use three different colors of masking tape to create three concentric circles with a black circle in the middle. Congratulations, you’re a walking bullseye. Beware of flying arrows, chocolates, and anything else all the Katniss Everdeen will be tempted to send soaring your way.

Halloween is a time to let loose and transform yourself into someone or something completely unexpected. It may be hard to find time to sew something spectacular or paint your face to look like a nightmare incarnate, but don’t let that stop you from getting into the spirit of looking a little nutty for one glorious night.