This post includes a round up of 17 fun & flirty halloween costumes perfect for a college party.
Halloween is basically the Super Bowl of college parties—you’ve got one shot to nail the look, and yes, it needs to be cute enough for pictures but comfortable enough to dance in all night.
The tricky part? Doing it without draining your bank account. But that’s why we’ve rounded up the perfect costume ideas that you can throw together with pieces you already own (or can grab last-minute on Amazon or at the thrift store), plus a few fun accessories to pull it all together.
Whether you’re aiming for flirty, spooky, or somewhere in between, these looks are guaranteed to get compliments—and maybe even win you “best dressed” without spending a fortune.
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1. Barbiecore Barbie
The Barbie movie got us all in our pink feels. If you’re feeling like going for girly and flirty go for a hot-pink bodycon dress or skirt, sparkly heels, and oversized sunglasses.
Accessorize with chunky jewelry and maybe even a blowout wig if you want to nail that polished doll vibe.
2. Cowgirl Chic
Western style is always a win at college parties. Throw on denim shorts, a tied button-down or crop top, cowboy boots, and of course—a wide-brim cowboy hat.
A fringe jacket will always add that extra touch of western flair – and is perfect for cooler weather.
3. Catwoman
Black leggings or a leather catsuit, cat ears, and winged eyeliner are all you need to transform into Catwoman.
Add some sleek black boots and a belt for a low-effort but sultry Halloween costume that never fails.
4. Greek Goddess
Drape a white or gold dress with metallic sandals, a gold leaf crown, and bold cuffs or bangles.
Add shimmering makeup and a golden belt to cinch your waist—you’ll look like you stepped right out of Olympus.
5. 2000s Pop Star
Think Britney, Christina, or Paris Hilton. Mini skirts, rhinestones, butterfly clips, and a bedazzled choker make the look.
You know what would make this costume even better? Props! Grab a toy microphone or a plush toy snake for the Britney Spears Slave 4 U look.
6. Vampire Vixen
Pair a lacey black dress or coset top with dramatic red lipstick, fake fangs, and maybe a little fake blood at the corner of your mouth.
A cape and fishnet tights take the outfit to the next level.
7. School Girl (Classic Britney Style)
Mini skirt, button-up shirt tied at the waist, knee-high socks, and pigtails with ribbons.
Pair it with chunky loafers and pink lipstick to channel that iconic “Baby One More Time” vibe.
8. Angel
White mini dress or romper, fluffy angel wings, and a halo headband—you’re glowing already.
Add soft curls and shimmery highlighter for the ultimate ethereal effect.
9. Devil
On the flip side, grab a red dress, devil horns, and maybe a pitchfork prop. Add bold red lipstick and heels—you’ll definitely turn heads at the party.
10. ’90s Clueless Vibes
Channel Cher Horowitz with a plaid skirt set, knee-high socks, and a cute cardigan. Don’t forget the fluffy pen for a finishing touch. It’s preppy, cute, and totally recognizable.
11. Skeleton Babe
Go for a black bodysuit or dress with skeleton print, or use face paint to create a spooky skull look.
This is a great choice if you want something edgy and comfy at the same time.
12. Space Cowgirl
Metallic shorts, holographic top, cowboy hat, and boots—this costume combines the best of two worlds. Add glitter makeup and rhinestone face stickers for an intergalactic glow.
13. Taylor Swift (Eras Tour Edition)
Channel your inner pop queen with a sparkly mini dress or sequin bodysuit, paired with knee-high boots. Add a red lip, winged eyeliner, and carry a toy mic for the ultimate finishing touch.
If you want to go full Swiftie, throw on friendship bracelets stacked up your arm—everyone will get the reference.
14. Fairycore
A pastel slip dress or flowy skirt instantly transforms into a fairy look when paired with glittery wings, sparkly makeup, and dainty jewelry.
Add a flower crown or rhinestone face stickers to lean into the magical, whimsical vibe.
15. Pirate Queen
A corset top, black skirt (or cutoff shorts), and knee-high boots make a great base. Add a wide belt, gold hoop earrings, and a bandana or pirate hat.
A toy sword or chalice prop makes the look extra fun for photos.
16. Bridgerton-Inspired Duchess
Step into the Regency era with a pastel or floral maxi dress (bonus points if it has puff sleeves). Add a pearl necklace, gloves, and soft curls or a chic updo.
Carry a lacy fan or teacup as a prop, and you’ll look like you’re ready to gossip with Lady Whistledown herself.
17. Wednesday Addams
Simple yet iconic: black dress with a white collar, braided pigtails, and a deadpan expression.
Pair it with tights and Mary Jane shoes (or tall boots) and dark lipstick if you want to modernize it a little.
Cute & Flirty Halloween Costumes on a Budget
Halloween costumes for a college party don’t need to be stressful or pricey. Most of these ideas can be pulled together with things you already own or can grab on a budget.
Pick something that feels fun, easy to move in, and matches your vibe—whether that’s Taylor Swift, a vampire, or a Bridgerton duchess. At the end of the night, it’s about enjoying the party, not overthinking the outfit.
These ideas are easy to recreate with pieces you probably already own (or can thrift for cheap), and they’ll definitely help you stand out at your college Halloween party.
