Create Your Own Halloween Originals with Mightly Basics
Every year, Halloween brings a fun opportunity for my kids and I to showcase our creativity and bond over the joy of crafting and the fun of Halloween. Since becoming a mom, I've found it so fulfilling to create my little ones' costumes myself. Rather than buying expensive costumes that will be worn just once, we use this as a time to create something unique, memorable and a bit more sustainable.
I'm excited to share our DIY costumes for this Halloween! You can use a variety of Halloween costume ideas using Mightly basics, infused with a touch of creativity and household items. Whether you're looking to transform your little one into a magenta building brick (like my oldest), a classic Waldo (like my youngest), or an adorable black cat (like my middle), this guide has got you covered. Let's get started on a Halloween adventure that combines fun, sustainability, and a whole lot of heart.
The Charm of DIY Costumes
Creating DIY Halloween costumes with my kids is an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only does it allow for quality family time, but it also lets us all get creative and resourceful. Plus, using Mightly basics means your children will continue to wear these pieces long after Halloween is over.
Sustainable Clothing Choices
Mightly basics are made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, ensuring that the clothes are not only comfortable but also eco-friendly and safe for even the most sensitive skin.
Cost-Effective Solutions
DIY costumes save money by utilizing items you already have at home. Instead of buying single-use costumes, you can create something unique and reusable, reducing waste and maximizing value.
Personalized Creativity
Your child's imagination knows no bounds, and DIY costumes allow them to express their individuality. They can choose their favorite characters and themes, resulting in a costume that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Building Brick Costume with Mightly Hoodie
Transforming your child into a Building Brick piece is easier than you might think. All you need is a Mightly organic cotton fleece hoodie and some household items.
Materials Needed
- Mightly organic cotton fleece hoodie (whichever color you want!)
- Matching sweatpants
- 2 x Cardboard egg crates
- Kids project paint (create your own blend if needed)
- Scissors, a hole punch and string
Step-by-Step Guide
- Hoodie Transformation
Start with your child's favorite pink Mightly hoodie. This piece will serve as the base of the Lego costume.
- Crafting the Lego Bricks
Remove the top of the cardboard egg crates. Paint them pink to match the hoodie. Once dry, attach the two egg crates together, we used string. Next punch a hole in the two top corners of your egg crates and tie a string to create a necklace that can be worn in front of the hoodie to mimic the look of Lego bricks.
- Finishing Touches
Encourage your child to wear the hoodie and show off their Lego transformation. This costume is not only adorable but also allows your child to continue wearing the hoodie throughout the season.
Waldo with Red Striped Holiday PJs
Creating a Waldo costume is a fun and easy way to repurpose holiday pajamas. With a few simple additions, your child will be ready to blend into any crowd.
Materials Needed
- Mightly red striped holiday PJ top
- Chambray or navy sweatpants, or navy blue leggings
- Black face paint or eyeliner for glasses (or real glasses if your child wears them!)
- Red and white beanie (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
- Pajama Base
Use the Mightly red striped holiday pajamas as the base of the costume. These PJs are perfect for creating the iconic Where's Waldo look. We'll also be wearing these all holiday season.
- Drawing the Glasses
Instead of purchasing glasses, draw a pair of round glasses on your child's face using black face paint or eyeliner. This adds to the charm and simplicity of the costume.
- Optional Accessory
If you have a red and white beanie at home, it can complete the look. However, it's not necessary for your child to enjoy their Where's Waldo adventure.
Black Cat Costume with Mightly Pullover Hoodie
A black cat costume is a timeless choice that can be easily crafted with Mightly basics and a few accessories. This costume is both cute and comfortable for your little one.
Materials Needed
- Mightly organic cotton fleece pullover hoodie (black)
- Mightly black sweatpants or leggings
- Black cat ears headband
- Black tail or tutu (if available). You can also make your own tail and safety pin on.
- Black eyeliner for whiskers
Step-by-Step Guide
- Hoodie and Tutu Base
Start with the Mightly black pullover hoodie. If you have a black tutu, have your child wear it over leggings to add a playful touch.
- Adding Cat Ears
Place the black cat ears headband on your child's head. You can also make your own from construction paper and a plain headband if you have one. Attach with a hot glue gun. A third option, make little pig tails or two pigtail buns as “ears”. To transform your little one into a cute kitty.
- Drawing the Kitty Face
Using black eyeliner, draw a small nose and whiskers on your child's face. This completes the look and adds an extra layer of fun.
More Creative Costume Ideas
Here are a few more ideas to spark your imagination. Each costume can be created using Mightly basics and items you likely already have around the house.
Corn Cob
Shop corn cob look: Shop Hoodie, Shop Pants, Shop Tee
Retro Weight Lifter
Shop Weight Lifter Look: Shop Shorts, Shop PJs
A Pencil
Shop Pencil Look: Shop Tee, Shop Pants
A Deck of Cards
Shop Deck of Cards Look: Shop Tee, Shop Pants
DIY Craft Tips
To make the DIY costume process even smoother, here are some additional tips:
Use What You Have
Look around your home for materials that can be repurposed. Old clothes, cardboard, and craft supplies can all be used creatively.
Get the Kids Involved
Encourage your children to participate in the crafting process. It not only makes the experience more enjoyable but also allows them to take pride in their creations.
Keep It Simple
Sometimes, the simplest costumes are the most effective. Focus on key details that convey the character without overcomplicating the design.
Safe & Easy Removal of Face Paint
I remember my mom scrubbing my face raw after trick or treating, because the day after Halloween was often Picture Day for us! I found my own tricks to gently remove post-Halloween face paint and makeup. Here's a pro tip:
Use Aquaphor or Coconut Oil
Apply a small amount of Aquaphor or coconut oil to a cotton pad or a washcloth and gently wipe away the face paint. This method is effective and gentle on your child's skin.
Happy Costume-making
Creating DIY Halloween costumes with Mightly basics is a fantastic way to celebrate the season in a sustainable and creative manner. By using pieces that your children will continue to wear, you're making a smart investment that pays off long after Halloween is over.
We hope these costume ideas and tips inspire you to craft unforgettable memories with your little ones. If you need any assistance or additional ideas, feel free to reach out to our team. Happy Halloween!
- Candice, Mom to Addie, Ellery & Lilah
Mightly Chief Marketing Officer