If you really want to add some bite to your Halloween costumes, it's time to channel your inner creature of the night with the best DIY vampire costume ideas. Thanks to this shoppable guide, you can sink your teeth into the iconic styles of some of the most beloved bloodsuckers. From the classic Count Dracula to the charming Edward Cullen of Twilight, we've got your vampiric transformation covered.
That's fright! Whether you're aiming for infamously creepy characters or leaning towards contemporary pop culture costumes, you'll find ideas here. You might even try a mix of both by taking on the haunting Count Orlok from the upcoming remake of Nosferatu. There's ideas for both costumes for women and costumes for men, along with options for the teens, too (in the form of fun getups from The Vampire Diaries and Monster High). No matter which you choose, you're sure to make a fang-tastic impression.
So, grab your cape, make some fake blood, and get ready to transform into the vampire of your dreams—or nightmares.
Count Dracula
Take yourself to Translyvania by taking on the legendary title character from Bram Stoker’s 1897 gothic horror novel Dracula. After all, Count Dracula is probably who comes to mind when you first think of the chilling creatures. Though their have been many adaptations of the horror legend, he's always the epitome of old-world elegance. To dress like Dracula, you can wear a Victorian man's uniform consisting of a black three-piece suit with a jacket, vest, and trousers. Add to the eerie look with fangs, a cape, and a medallion.
Vampire Costume - Shirt, Waistcoat, Cape, and Cane
Dracula Wig
Faux Fangs
Edward Cullen
We can't talk vampires without talking Edward Cullen! Basically, we're still unconditionally and irrevocably in love with him. If you want to copy the mysterious, brooding, and oh-so-alluring teen heartthrob from Twilight, start with a simple sweater and skinny jeans layered with a dark-colored peacoat. And you can't forget his effortlessly tousled tresses! For accessories, grab a pair of dark sunglasses and spritz yourself with body shimmer for killer skin.
Gray Sweater
Black Skinny Jeans
Edward Cullen Wig
Bella Swan
From an ordinary teenage girl to a remarkably fierce vampire, Bella Swan Cullen is the character to be! After her transformation, Bella becomes even more beautiful with her signature long brunette hair and light makeup—only now, she has crimson red eyes to match her bloodthirsty behavior. For her iconic transformation, you'll need a bright blue dress and contacts. And for those looking for a couples costume, it hardly gets more romantic than Bella and Edward's immortal love.
Draculaura
A whole lot of sweet and a little bit spooky, Draculara is creepin' it real with her stylish ghoul gang over at Monster High. The best part of copying her character? You get to wear the most fabulous gothic meets glam attire. Her signature outfit includes a black fishnet shirt topped with a pink vest and lacy details. Pair that with a white skirt, matching black fishnet tights, and pink combat boots. For her hair, you can grab a wig for her pink and black pigtails. Just don't forget her BFF (Bat Friend Forever), Count Fabulous!
Fishnet Top
White Pleated Skirt
Fishnet Tights
Pink and Black Wig with Pointed Ears
Pink Combat Boots
Silver Safety Pin Earrings
Bat Purse
Count Orlok
One of the most iconic iterations of Bram Stoker’s creature of the night is seen in the 1922 film Nosferatu. As the first ever cinematic depiction of Dracula, the character Count Orlok is as faithful to vampire folklore as they come. Better yet, this chaos-causing creature is sure to be a popular pick this Halloween thanks to the Nosferatu remake set to release in December 2024. The eerie Orlok wears a long mandarin coat with pants. To really play the part, grab some white face makeup, fake fangs, and a bald cap.
Mandarin Coat
Elena Gilbert
One of the most well-known vampires in television is that of Elena Gilbert: the perfect girl-next-door until her life gets flipped upside down when she meets the Salvatores. If you too want to face the challenges that come with a new supernatural life, just step into her sneakers! Along with those, Elena's casual style includes a tank top, flare jeans, and of course, a leather jacket. Finish off her outfit by donning her everyday necklace (filled with vervain) known as Esther's Talisman.
Faux Leather Moto Jacket
Vervain Locket
Macie Reynolds is the assistant editor of E-Commerce and SEO for The Pioneer Woman.
