2023 Halloween costume ideas on a budget

Halloween is fast approaching, which means that there will soon be plenty of parties, club nights, and events to dress up for. It can be challenging to find a good outfit on a budget, with retailers charging more extortionate prices as Halloween draws nearer. 

But a good Halloween costume shouldn't have to break the bank. There are plenty of fun and interesting costumes you can pull together on a student budget. So, if you're tired of recycling the same tired devil horns, we've got some creative ideas that you and your friends can try this Halloween, all while on a budget. 

5 Halloween costume ideas on a budget

1. Barbienheimer

Following the huge success of the Barbie movie and Oppenheimer this year, what list of 2023 Halloween costume ideas would be complete without outfits inspired by the films? This is the perfect group costume, and it's super easy to achieve. With so many different iterations of Barbie displayed in the new film, you can really go in any direction with your outfit (but of course, you have to include some pink!). It should be easy to dress as Barbie or Ken using clothes you already have in your wardrobe - perfect if you're pulling something together last minute or facing budget restrictions. 

For Oppenheimer, you really just need a suit and a hat and you'll be good to go. If you've got a few different parties coming up over the week of Halloween, you can even repurpose your Oppenheimer outfit and go as the Peaky Blinders gang. 

2. Men in Black

If you're looking for another easy win based on a popular film, Men in Black is a great costume option. This is perfect for you and your best friend or could be a fun twist on a couples costume. All you really need is a black suit and tie. If you don't already have a suit in your wardrobe, you can find really cheap options on Amazon - maybe not suitable for your next black tie event, but perfect for Halloween.

If you want to deck out the costume a little more, you can buy some cheap fake guns or inflatable aliens. A simple way to make your Instagram photos pop!

3. Wednesday Addams

Wednesday was released on Netflix in November 2022, which means fans just missed out on the opportunity to cosplay as Wednesday Adams for Halloween last year. So, why not go for a Wednesday-inspired costume this year? All you really need is a black dress, a bit of eyeliner, and a black wig. Or, if you've already got long hair, you can braid it and still emulate Wednesday vibes.

4. Pirates

A pirate is one of the most tried and tested Halloween costume ideas on a budget. All you really need is a white shirt and a bandana to wear round your head. Then you can accessorise exactly as you please. An eyepatch, a corset, jewellery, or fishnet tights can help really bring the outfit to life. Another great thing about this costume is that it works individually or in a group, so if you want you can get a whole crew of pirates together!

5. Scooby Doo

Another iconic group costume is the Scooby Doo gang. Each member has a distinctive look that you can recreate. You'll have a fun, highly recognisable costume that requires minimal effort and costs. 

You might be able to pull something together with clothes you already own, but if you need to supplement anything you should be able to find options cheaply and easily. That's the beauty of the gang wearing regular clothes! If you're missing any pieces, then charity shops are a great source for clothes, costumes, and accessories. 

Get the best Insta pics this Halloween

We hope this list has given you some inspiration! Stay tuned on our Instagram for more Halloween tips and tricks (or treats!).