51 Best '90s Halloween Costumes That Will Have Everyone Feeling Nostalgic
Everyone will call dibs on these nostalgic ideas!
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Trying to pick between '70s Halloween costumes or '80s Halloween costumes this year? Let's toss out a totally different idea instead: Go full-on '90s. This roundup of the best '90s Halloween costumes is packed with nostalgia, guaranteed to make your costume feel like the coolest throwback on the block.
Channel your childhood (or the childhood of your own children!) with DIY Halloween costumes inspired by iconic toys of the era, like Barbie, Beanie Babies, and even a glowing Lite-Brite. Or better yet, round up your crew for best friend Halloween costumes from iconic '90s movies and '90s TV shows: Amber and Cher from Clueless, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, or even the Powerpuff Girls. There's also a colorful Lisa Frank costume that'll really spark your imagination, plus funny Halloween costumes and family Halloween costume ideas, like a punny nod to Vanilla Ice's unforgettable hit, "Ice Ice Baby" or a Where's Waldo? costume you can get the kids in on.
The best part is that most of these outfits can be made with items you already have at home, so they double as excellent last-minute Halloween costumes. It's not difficult to recreate your favorite '90s beauty looks either. So if you thought you'd have to resort to wearing something lame, we have two words for you: as if!
Check out even more costume ideas:
'Jurassic Park' Costume
Dinosaurs ruled the '90s, and Jurassic Park costumes are still roaringly popular—especially with the latest Jurassic movie hitting screens. Whether you're dressed as a rugged park ranger or hopping around in an inflatable T-Rex suit, it's a timeless look that'll have everyone humming that iconic theme song all night long.
Ring Pop Costume
Remember how exciting it was to slip a Ring Pop onto your finger as a kid? This colorful costume is just as fun, turning you into the sugary gem that made every childhood sleepover sweeter. It's cute, playful, and just sparkly enough to make you smile.
Get the tutorial at Studio DIY.
Toon Squad Costume
Space Jam was basically required viewing in the '90s, and dressing up as a member of the Toon Squad feels like stepping straight out of Saturday morning cartoons. Toss on the classic basketball jersey, some sporty shorts, and don't forget to grab a basketball to really sell the look!
1999 Britney Spears Costume
Britney defined the late '90s with her unforgettable schoolgirl look from "Baby One More Time." Pull your hair into those famous pigtails, toss on a cardigan over a tied-up white shirt, and get ready to sing your heart out into a hairbrush microphone.
Lite-Brite Costume
Lite-Brite was the toy that had every '90s kid quietly mesmerized for hours. Now imagine becoming a walking, glowing Lite-Brite board that brings back the best memories for everyone you run into. Instant first place in the costume contest!
Get the tutorial at Studio DIY.
'Men In Black' Costume
Sleek black suits, dark sunglasses, and maybe even a tiny toy alien as a sidekick—there's no denying the cool factor of a Men In Black costume. You'll look sharp enough to take down intergalactic villains or at least impress at your Halloween party.
'Rugrats' Costume
Nickelodeon introduced us to the adorable duo of Phil and Lil back in 1991. Luckily, you only need a few simple clothing items (and some craft supplies) to take on their toddler antics.
Get the tutorial at Living After Midnite.
'Scream' Costume
Get ready to dial up some horror movie nostalgia! You can transform into the iconic Casey Becker with a cropped blonde wig, a tan sweater, and jeans. Just don't forget to scream!
Get the tutorial at Living After Midnite.
'Pretty Woman' Costume
There are so many ways to take your Vivian Ward costume! Attach a white crop top to a blue tie-dyed skirt with a ring for her signature dress or don a red gown to replicate her "transformative" scene. Either way, you'll look just like the star of Pretty Woman.
Get the tutorial at Living After Midnite.
'The Nightmare Before Christmas' Costumes
Fans have loved this Halloween (and Christmas!) movie for 30 years. Going as Lock, Stock, and Barrel will bring out the child-like glee out of everyone who sees you.
Get the tutorial at Studio DIY.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Costumes
Talk about turtle power! Go as four of the '90s favorite super heroes, solving crime and eating pizza. If you have a fifth member, they can dress up as Splinter!
Get the tutorial at Brit + Co.
Furby Costume
One of the most popular (and frankly a little creepy) toys of the decade was the Furby. This is a hilarious nod to childhood, and all you really need is some faux white fur and a foam balls for the face.
Get the tutorial at Club Crafted.
'Dumb and Dumber' Costumes
Hats off to this hilarious idea! Going as Lloyd and Harry will be the hit of any party, especially if one of you is a mini. You can buy suits as is or DIY by buying separate but color coordinated pieces.
Get the tutorial at A Beautiful Mess.
Steve Urkel Costume
You'll assemble this fun look so quickly that you'll wonder, "Did I do that?" Then you'll snort with laughter every time someone recognizes your character, as will they!
Get the tutorial at Oh Happy Day.
Where's Waldo Costumes
Waldo was a worldwide phenomenon back in the late '80s to early '90s and if you go with this family costume, we guarantee you'll be a neighborhood phenomenon! You really just need a red and white striped top, denim, beanies, and of course, the signature glasses!
Get the tutorial at Lovely Indeed.
'Wayne's World' Costumes
These easy Wayne and Garth costumes say both "party time" and "excellent." What makes it is are the wigs and Garth's glasses. The rest you can probably find in your closet!
Get the tutorial at Almost Makes Perfect.
Ariel Costume
Dressing up like The Little Mermaid is both very '90s and very 2023. This easy idea requires little more than a red wig, a pretty blue skirt, and a Flounder doll.
Get the tutorial from Polkadot Chair.
Cosmic Brownie Costume
This costume almost looks good enough to eat! Okay, we said almost. We've been hooked on this galactic treat ever since Little Debbie debuted it. And now, you can wear it! Just grab a few boxes to hand out to trick-or-treaters, too!
Get the tutorial at Studio DIY!.
Daria and Jane Costumes
You won't have to do any convincing to get your BFF to go as this notorious MTV duo. Though they were never impressed, you'll be impressed by how easy their outfits come together. Now that you've got your Halloween plan, go enjoy a slice of pizza (or two).
Get the tutorial at Brit + Co.
Spinelli Costume
Join the Recess gang this Halloween by taking on the feisty character of Ashley Spinelli. All we have to say is, "Get to the end of the line... before I give you the end of my fist!"
See more at @CookieCorp.
Macie Reynolds is the assistant editor of E-Commerce and SEO for The Pioneer Woman.
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