These Easy Halloween Costume Ideas for Men Are Perfect for Procrastinators
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."
It's an all-too familiar scene: Come October 31, you're frantically rummaging through the back of your closet for that years-old costume or trying to learn how to make a toga out of a bed sheet in twenty minutes. But this time around, you're going to do better. After all, you made it here months before All Hallow's Eve, which means you're already on the right path to planning ahead.
Not only is Halloween a great time to try a new spooky cocktail or watch a scary movie, but it's also a prime moment to get creative. We understand not wanting to spend a fortune on a costume you'll only wear once, but showing up to a party not dressed up isn't the move, either. Whether you want to go the spooky route as a classic horror movie villain or opt for a romantic couples costume with your partner, there are so many great Halloween costume ideas for men to peruse this year. From the hilarious to subtly punny and the trendy to niche, here are the 58 best last-minute Halloween costumes to put together now before you forget.
Ken
Be the ultimate boy-toy this Halloween by dressing up as Ken. Not only does it offer a plethora of styling options—the Barbie movie brought an absolute plethora of costumes, from cowboy Ken to rollerblading Ken to mojo dojo casa house Ken—but it's also a great couples costume option.
I am Kenough Hoodie
You're not just Ken, you're Kenough.
More: The Best Barbie Merch You Can Buy Right Now
J. Robert Oppenheimer
It's not often that a theoretical physicist is one of the year's hottest costumes, but with the arrive of Christopher Nolan's hit biopic Oppenheimer, about the titular "father of the atomic bomb" all bets are off.
Felt Fedora
The best part about an Oppenheimer outfit is that aside from a classic suit and the right attitude, the only thing you need to pull it off is one essential accessory: the iconic hat.
A Gold-medalist Olympian
The Olympics took place in Paris this year. Experiment with the memorable image of the Olympian. Put on your favorite athleisure-wear (preferably in flashy colors and representing the country you’re from), make yourself a little olive wreath (or buy it) and get the gold medal to become the winner of your dreams. If you play it off right (and work out bef0re), people might actually believe you!
You could make this humorous by drawing on fake abs, buying muscle padding, or drawing on a French moustache.
Gold Medal
This fake medal carries the Olympic torch symbol, adding an extra touch of effort. However, you may already have a gold medal lying around from your childhood days, and if so, order the olive wreath instead.
Jason Dean
Jason Dean (played by Christina Slater) is one of the eeriest, best dressed villains of all time. Lucky for us, copying his signature look from the cult-classic 1988 film Heathers means stocking up on everyday basics, like an all-black tee and a fantastic leather jacket.
Men's Classic Faux Leather Jacket
If you're shopping on a budget, this sleek jacket offers the look of genuine leather at a much more accessible price point.
Deadpool
After watching the new Deadpool vs. Wolverine movie this year, pick your side, and your costume. A little special effects makeup can make you Wade Wilson, but throwing on a mask is a bit easier. Sarcastic humor sold separately.
Superhero Wade Wilson Costume
Go for a head-to-toe look by grabbing the entire costume, or keep it simple with this superhero mask.
V
Released nearly two decades ago, V for Vendetta is the action-packed thriller that's keeps getting more relevant as time goes on. You can go full-on V with a wig, hat, and mask or simply opt for just the mask. The look is simple, affordable, and instantly recognizable.
Guy Fawkes Mask
Behind this mask there is…someone angling for more Halloween candy.
The Brawny Man
Picture this: It's the night before the Halloween party, and you have zero clue what you're going as. You take a look in your pantry, and inspiration strikes. Some stubble and a red plaid shirt are all you need to go as the Brawny Man this year.
Caden Plaid Button-Up Shirt
Bonus points if you bring a roll of paper towels with you.
Ghostface
The iconic villain from Scream is a costume that takes little to no effort to assemble. Just grab a mask and a fake knife, and you're done. If you're really feeling festive, bring a retro phone around with you for an even more authentic touch.
Ghost Face Mask Costume Accessory
Here's an officially licensed mask on Amazon for under $30.
Zorro
Want a costume that says suave and debonair without having to hunt down a bunch of complicated pieces? Swordsman Zorro not only has charm and flair, his look is also basically all black essentials.
Black Bandit Costume Mask
It's the mask that makes the man.
Arthur Ashe
Maybe you haven't put in enough time on the courts this year, but that's no reason you can't look like a tennis pro. Dig your racket out of the back of the closet and get your hands on a pair of some of this tennis great's signature aviator sunglasses for a look that will make the crowd go wild.
Ray-Ban Aviator Matte Black/Gold
You probably needed a pair of aviators anyway. It helps to buy costume pieces that you can wear in real life too.
Rip Wheeler
What Yellowstone fan hasn't wanted to embody some of Rip's effortlessly in-charge brand of cowboy cool? Consider this Halloween a good excuse to break out (or invest in) your best western gear.
Western Cowboy Hat
A cowboy hat is an essential for Rip (and most of the other Dutton ranchers, for that matter). Pair with a dark beard (painted on or otherwise) and perhaps a Yellowstone branded shirt to complete the effect.
Travis Kelce
The Eras Tour ends this year, so this Halloween costume is very relevant yet timely: you only have 2024 to pull this off! The costume works especially well if your partner is a Swiftie. Maybe they can be Taylor, and you Kelce: the football tight end.
Couple Costume Taylor + Travis
Mens/Youth Kansas City red Football Stitched Jerseys
This is the perfect replica of Travis' jersey. Even if you dislike Taylor Swift's music, you can still pay homage to the athlete, and maybe even re-wear this jersey to one of Kelce's games.
Jay Gatsby
Take a page from The Great Gatsby for a classically cool Halloween look, old sport.
Men's Linen Blazer
White is Jay's beloved Daisy's favorite color, so it's a natural pick for a Gatsby look.
Ted Lasso
The much-loved Apple TV+ series finished its run this year, but Coach Lasso will always be in our hearts. Bring some of that Richmond positivity to Halloween this year (and maybe a few biscuits for the boss, too.)
Ted Lesso Track Suit Jacket
Look like you're part of the team with a Richmond Greyhounds jacket.
"Maverick"
Halloween is the perfect time to break out your best fighter pilot gear, and embrace your inner Top Gun hero.
Men's Deluxe Long Sleeve Coverall
All it takes to quench your need for speed is a pair of coveralls and some colorful patches (or even paper cutouts, if you're really running behind.)
Feyd-Rautha
In 2024, Dune: Part 2 was released, and became a massive success. Some new characters were unveiled, especially evil ones. In the film, Austin Butler plays Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen, the younger nephew and heir of the Baron who kills mercilessly.
White face & body paint
To dress like Feyd-Rautha (and any of the evil Harkonnens), simply layer all of your most threatening black leather clothing, put on a pair of combat black boots, grab some plastic daggers, shave your head if you're committed, and finally, paint your skin fully white. After pasting on a R.B.F., you will be ready to fight.
Marty McFly
You might still be waiting on science to finally crack hoverboard technology, but that's no reason to hold back from getting a little Back to the Future into your Halloween.
Red Men's Puffer Vest
The fashion world is having a blast from the past of its own, so you might as well make the trend work in your favor. Layer to the max with Marty's quintessential jean jacket/down vest combo for the ultimate throwback flare.
Jon Snow
If you've finished watching House of the Dragon's season 2 and you're feeling nostalgic of the earlier days of Game of Thrones, then don a big fur cloak, black clothes, and keep your beard unshaven to portray Jon Snow this Halloween. A plus: you definitely won't be cold for the lower October temperatures.
Black Cloak
There are many options online for fur capes. This one is the easiest, most complete set. Otherwise, black leather, a cape, and fur should do it.
Doc Emmett Brown
Or you can throw things back to a different time by channeling your very best Doc Emmett Brown. Great Scott!
4 Pieces Mad Scientist Costume Set
This set has everything you need to embody your own Doc Brown: a long white coat, retro goggles, facial hair, and a mad scientist wig.
Elvis Presley
One of the great things about dressing up as Elvis is all of the options it gives you. Choose the version that suits the level of effort you care to put in—shop your closet for a blazer and slick loafers for early era clean-cut Elvis, or go all out with a scene-stealing look from his bedazzled Vegas tenure.
Premium Barber Grade Hair Styling Shine Pomade
Whatever version of The King you choose to embody, one thing remains the same: his iconic pomaded hair.
Carmy
While chef's coats make more of an appearance in the second season of The Bear, fans of the show will always recognize Carmy's mainstay look of a white tee and blue apron. Just don't forget to say "yes, chef."
Restaurant Bib Apron
Bonus points for a functional Halloween costume—you can use this apron for your culinary adventures long after October's gone.
Indiana Jones
There's really only one instance in which "archaeology professor" is synonymous with "cool Halloween costume" and Indiana Jones is it. For the full effect, we suggest a tiny golden statue (a whip might just be asking for trouble).
Men's Fedora Hat
The good news is that you can never go wrong with a stylish fedora, which means not only have you found a uniformly flattering Halloween costume accessory, you've also got your go-to headwear for fall locked in.
Harry Styles
Admittedly there are many looks that can evoke Harry Styles, from pearl earrings to wild suits. But the simplest, and one of our favorites to date, is his get-up for the 2021 Grammy Awards: a simple feather boa and leather jacket.
Ostrich Feather Boa
You'll be the life of the party with this boa, trust us (and Harry).
Oscar Wilde
Mirroring this infamously stylish and style-obsessed writer ("a well-tied tie is the first serious step in life," he once said) calls for embracing the full dandy. Think: velvet blazers, fur-trimmed coats, pinky rings—anything that screams opulence.
COLLECTION Velvet Loafers
The blue trim on these velvet loafers add a theatrical flair that Wilde would appreciate.
James Tiberius Kirk
Boldly going where only this iconic Star Trek captain has gone before is just one yellow sweater, a pair of black pants, and a glittery Star Fleet badge away.
Men's Long-Sleeve Soft Touch V-Neck Sweater
A yellow wool sweater can pull double duty as a Halloween costume and a seasonal staple thanks to it's on-trend autumnal shade.
Crowley
A costume that works on its own or paired, the snake-eyed demon from the Amazon Prime series Good Omens, based on the bestselling book by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett is a Halloween win for low-key cool.
Round Vintage Sunglasses
A black suit requires only Crowley's signature glasses to complete this demonic look.
Aziraphale
Of course, if you're feeling more angelic this Halloween, Crowley's heavenly cohort Aziraphale is the way to go. Pull something out of the very back of your closet to emulate this slightly behind-the-fashion-times angel.
Bow Tie
Stick to a palate of golds and cream for full angelic impact.
James Bond
Let's be honest, you've always wanted to be 007. And while we can't promise the cars, gadgets, or martial arts skills, we can guarantee that you'll be the (shaken, not stirred) toast of any party you turn up to in a Bond-style tux.
Tanner Stretch Sport Coat
After Halloween, it's just a great blazer.
Julius Caesar
Impress all of your friends (Romans, countrymen) with a truly regal nod to Roman history as one of history's most famous emperors.
Leaf Wreath
No resting on your laurels, the gold crown makes this classic Roman costume royal.
Elton John
There's no better night of the year for going for it with glitz and glam than Halloween, and few rockers have done it quite as well as this British superstar.
Oversized Crystal Sunglasses
Hello, Rocket Man.
The Dude
Want to be comfy—and we mean really, really comfy—at your Halloween soiree? May we suggest taking a page from The Big Lebowski playbook. Throw a chunky sweater or slouchy robe on over your coziest pajama pants and an old tee. Just add a White Russian and you're good to go.
Men's Original Westerley Sweater
A signature patterned sweater? The Dude abides.
Andy Warhol
Find a spot near a painting and let the artwork do the talking when you're adopting this pop artist's penchant for all-black ensembles.
Men's Short Straight Costume Wig
The simplicity of this artsy costume makes sporting a wig entirely worth it.
Ferris Bueller
Who better to be for Halloween than everyone's '80s teen hero from the beloved film Ferris Bueller's Day Off?
Ferris Bueller's Day Off Faux Leather Jacket
You just couldn't be the coolest kid in town with Ferris's signature jacket.
Obi-Wan Kenobi
Channel your inner Jedi with a simple trousers, boots, and belted tunic ensemble, and you're almost party ready. May the Force be with you.
2-in-1 Light Up Saber
Every Jedi needs a lightsaber, after all—everyone at the party (regardless of age) will want a turn playing with it.
Duke of Hastings, Bridgerton
The Duke of Hastings may not be coming back to Bridgerton, but that doesn't mean he won't be a welcome guest at your Halloween-party.
The "Ontario" Slim Fit Mandarin Collar Jacket
A slim-fit Regency jacket and a white shirt, and you are on your way to causing scandals all over aristocratic London.
Men's Pre-Tied Satin Formal Tuxedo Bowtie
All you need for this costume is the right attitude, a good tux, and of course, an encyclopedic knowledge of The Godfather quotes.
Shaggy
Waited until the absolute last minute? The Scooby Gang is here to help you out with some absolutely perfect last-minute options, and none of them are easier than loveable goofball Shaggy.
Men's V Neck T Shirt
Muss your hair, skip the shave, and don a green V-neck with some groovy flares and you've got an instant costume that's also an ideal excuse to hang out by the refreshment table all night—you're staying in character!
Bill Lumbergh
He may not be the character you most want to emulate from Mike Judge's classic Office Space, but for a night of terror it's hard to beat this middle management nightmare for transparent real world misery-infliction.
Red Suspenders
So, if you could go ahead and put on your best white-collared shirt and suspenders, that'd be great.
Clark Kent
No one really wants to walk around all night in a skintight Superman bodysuit, but the man of steel's alter-ego makes life (and costume planning) much easier.
Superman Classic Logo T Shirt
Layer a t-shirt featuring Superman's shield underneath your everyday suit and oxford, then feel free to pull your shirt open at every "rescue" opportunity.
David Bowie
What better time to embrace your inner rockstar? There's no wrong way to Bowie, but we're especially partial to the Ziggy Stardust era for it's myriad costuming opportunities.
Paisley Cotton Long Sleeve Shirt
Halloween is nothing if not an opportunity to go over the top with glitz, glitter, or, in this case, pattern.
A Peaky Blinder
The beloved British gangster show Peaky Blinders may have ended its TV run, but that doesn't mean that you have to give up on your dreams of being as stylish as the Shelby Company Ltd.—they've still got a movie ahead.
Herringbone Newsboy Hat
No Peaky Blinder would be dare be seen without their signature peaked cap. Pair it with your most classic suit and a glass of whisky to complete the look.
John Lennon
Make sure everyone knows where you stand on the "Beatles or Rolling Stones" debate with a costume inspired by this beloved musician and activist.
2 Pairs of Round Wire Costume Glasses
Like David Bowie, there are plenty of iconic John Lennon looks to choose from, but for transparent simplicity (and the imperative to not give yourself a bowl cut) we like anything that includes his famous round framed glasses.
Mister Rogers
A Halloween costume that's simple to throw together for those last minute party invites and won't scare the kids? We call that a win-win. After all, who doesn't want to be a little more like this famously kind TV neighbor?
Cable Stitch Cotton Cardigan
Not to mention, it's just a handsome sweater.
Sherlock Holmes
The game will be afoot when you don the look of one of fiction's greatest detectives.
Classic Deerstalker Hat
Pair a few essential accessories, like Holmes's signature deerstalker cap, with your most dapper suit, and you'll look worthy of 221B Baker Street.
Neo
Everybody loves a simple costume that makes an impact. Enter, The One. Channel Keanu Reeves's famous character from the Matrix series with an all-black look, topped with a long black duster.
Maui Jim Ho'okipa PolarizedPlus2 Rectangle Sunglasses
A sleek pair of sunglasses will have you ready to enter the Matrix.
Gomez Addams
America's favorite creepy, kooky, and altogether doting TV patriarch is the perfect blend of Halloween appropriate and approachable. The keys to the costume? A patterned suit, a killer mustache, and a black-clad "cara mia" to complete the Addams Family vibe.
Skinny Suit Jacket in Black Stripe
Just like the Addams family themselves, this blazer may be out there, but it works. Don't forget that mustache to top it off though.
Mario
There's probably only one plumber you'd consider dressing up as for Halloween: Nintendo's double-jumping, turtle smashing, mushroom loving superstar, Mario.
Hat Super Mario Cosplay Accessory
It's a-me, Mario!
Robin Hood
Whether you want to rob from the rich and give to the poor or just want to relive some men in tights greatness, Robin Hood is an instantly recognizable Halloween option.
Felt Robin Hood Hat
Wear this iconic hat for your Robin Hood outfit this year, then save it for a Peter Pan look next Halloween.
Richie Tenenbaum
We can' decide whether the best thing about dressing as this troubled Tenenbaum from Wes Anderson's cult classic The Royal Tenenbaums is the ease, the cool-factor, or the built-in couples costume courtesy of Richie's adopted sister/soulmate, Margot.
Terry Sweatband
Add your favorite camel coat and a sleek pair of sunglasses and this costume is ready to roll.
Where's Waldo
Call him Waldo, call him Wally—whatever you call him, this kids book character with his distinctive red and white ensemble is famously hard to find...unless he's at your next Halloween party!
Red and White Striped Tee, Glasses, Hat Outfit
Whoops, didn't see you there!
The Joker
There have been a lot of versions of Batman's arch nemesis over the years, which means you can pick your favorite—Cesar Romero's campy '60s take, Jack Nicholson's '80s maniac, Heath Ledger's gritty Nolan-verse villain—to really make it your own.
Snazaroo Classic Face and Body Paint
Whatever style of Joker you gravitate toward, the clown face paint is a must.
Danny Zuko
Grab your best leather jacket, a load of hair grease, and show off your best hand jive for an electrifying costume idea.
Clay Leather Biker Jacket
And the best part is, you can keep wearing this jacket long after Halloween.
Willy Wonka
You're probably going to be snacking on trick-or-treat sweets and goodies all night long anyway, so why not snack as the one and only Willy Wonka?
Tall Brown Top Hat
This accessory is your (golden) ticket to a memorable Willy Wonka costume.
Harry Potter
Pay tribute to everyone's favorite wizard with round glasses, a wand to cast spells, and drawing a lightening bolt scar at your forehead. It's so easy to DIY, a muggle can even do it!
Harry Potter - Scarf Classic Gryffindor
You'll look straight out of Hogwarts when you wrap this Gryffindor scarf around your neck.
Ghostbusters
When there's something strange, in the neighborhood... dress up as a Ghostbuster!
Ghost Hunter Costume
You'll be ready to take down ghosts and stop crime in no time once you slip into this jumpsuit.
King Charles
Ever wondered what it was like to be a royal? October 31 is your chance.
Royal King Queen Crown
No king costume is complete without a St. Edwards Crown's replica. Don't forget to pop on a pinky ring to really embody King Charles.
Bob Ross
Step into the iconic artist's shoes this Halloween by throwing on a collared shirt, jeans and his signature brown afro. Just don't forget palette for showing off your happy little trees.
80's Painter Brown Afro Wig and Beard Set
The brown afro and beard will be the focal point of the look.
Party Wig
The brown afro is the focal point of the look.
Wolverine
Since the new Deadpool & Wolverine movie released this year, try out your own superhero facade by dressing up as the O.G. Wolverine—in a simple grey tank, jeans, and the famous claws.
DMAR Plastic Wolf Claws Anti-break Claws for Adults, One Pair, Set of 2(Assembly Required)
You only need this accessory to make the costume comprehensible. A nice touch would be to grow out the beard and slightly spike the hair.
Joey Tribbiani
Could this be any more clever? Our suggestion: Throw on your entire wardrobe and give your best "How you doin'?"
Men's Regular-Fit Short-Sleeve Pocket Oxford Shirt
While you likely won't need to buy much to channel Joey, this costume idea is the perfect excuse to stock up on shirts you can wear long after Halloween.
Forrest Gump
Now this one is also quite simple. Everyone has a pair of khakis, a brown belt, white sneakers, and some sort of blue, short-sleeved, plaid shirt. Either puff up your curly hair, or wear a red cap to complete the look. And don't forget to run.
Blue Plaid Shirt
Either scour your grandfather's closet or shop this American staple to complete the retro look.
You Might Also Like