Halloween is around the corner, and for many parents a DIY costume means more than saving time and money, it’s also a fun activity to do as a family. With a few basics, some imagination, and the right colors, you can create a look that works for school parties, neighborhood trick-or-treating, or even the stage at a recital.

1. Start With a Comfortable Base

A solid-color bodysuit or tights set is perfect. Choose colors that match your theme, then build the costume with lightweight add-ons like felt shapes, foam wings, or a simple skirt.
Example: For a little chick, start with ouryellow solid color tights #1008 and pair them with awhite leotard #5077. Add a fluffy white feather boa around the shoulders to create wings, and finish the look with a red felt comb on a white cap.

2. Pick Themes They Already Love

Choose a character, animal, or theme your child is already excited about. This keeps them involved and makes the process more fun.
Animal costumes: Cats, frogs, chicken or ladybugs are easy to build from a single-color base plus small details.
Fantasy costumes: Unicorns, fairies, or friendly dragons, perfect for adding sparkle and color.

3. Use Accessories to Transform the Look

Small details can change everything. Gloves (#3171), hats, capes, or colorful socks can take a plain base and make it instantly recognizable.
Example: Example: For an 80’s aerobics look, start with our purple tights #1008 and matching gloves #3171. Cut off the fingertips for that retro workout vibe, add a neon leotard, leg warmers, and a scrunchie. With just a few accessories, you get a bold, stage-ready costume that pops in every photo.

4. Keep It Weather-Appropriate and Easy to Layer

Halloween nights can be unpredictable. Build costumes that can be layered over a long-sleeve base or tights without losing the look.
For a spooky spider-web look, start with ourwhite leotard #5077as the base. Layer with our Kids Fishnet Pantyhose #1471 for texture, then wrap lightweight spider-web fabric around the shoulders and add a few plastic spiders for detail. Pair with boots for comfort and extra style.

5. Make It a Family Project

Kids love seeing their ideas come to life. Let them help glue on felt pieces, choose colors, or paint props. The process becomes part of the memory and it makes them proud to wear it.
Quick Checklist for DIY Kids Costumes:

-Stretchy, comfortable base (bodysuit or tights, our #1008 and #5077 are perfects)

-Theme your child already loves

-Simple accessories for instant transformation

-Bold colors for visibility in photos and on stage
-Layer-friendly design for changing temperatures