14 Last-Minute Halloween Costumes That Only Require A Flannel Shirt

Autumn just wouldn’t be complete without plaid shirts. They’re right up there with cozy cardigans, warm scarves, and knee-high boots. And while all these pieces are classic fall staples, there is just something so timeless about a plaid button-down. There’s also a good chance you own at least one. So, why not make a Halloween costume with a flannel shirt? It's the perfect way to make an outfit with things you already have.

Besides, there are so many reasons why plaid is so popular. The print can feature an endless combination of colors, so there’s something for everyone. It’s also extremely versatile and will never go out of style. Basically, whether you need a casual office outfit or a last-minute Halloween costume, a plaid shirt will come to the rescue.

But, if you need a plaid top in a specific color, check out the thrift store. It's one of the best ways to celebrate Halloween without spending a ton of cash. Plus, after the festivities, you’ll be more likely to wear the plaid shirt again. It sure beats an expensive store-bought outfit that you’ll only wear once.

To make an easy outfit with items from your closet, check out these 14 ideas for flannel Halloween costumes.

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1. Bella Swan From Twilight

“Bella! Where the hell have you been, Loca?” Take part in the Twilight renaissance by dressing up as Kristen Stewart’s iconic vampire series heroine. Grab a brown flannel, a grey long-sleeve tee, and some slouchy dark wash bootcut jeans. Finish the look off with a pair of sneaker or brown boots, and make sure to act super Bella Swan awkward.

2. 2014 Tumblr Girl

It’s true: 2014 “Tumblrcore” soft grunge is on its way back into style. Get ahead of the trend (or just pull out all your old clothes) by dressing up as the Tumblr girl archetype this Halloween. The best part is that there are so many variations you can try with flannels: Tie it around your waist or wear it oversized, pair it with a mini skirt, Dr. Martens, and knee socks or with ripped black skinny jeans and fishnet tights. If you have an old American Apparel tote bag, even better.

3. Beyoncé In "***Flawless" Music Video

Halloween is the perfect time to show off your adoration for Queen Bey. To create a costume inspired by her “***Flawless” music video, wear a red plaid shirt with denim shorts and a chunky silver necklace. If it's chilly out, layer the shorts over black tights.

4. Lobster Fisherman

A lobster fisherman costume is equal parts easy, funny, and comfortable. All you need is a plaid shirt, denim overalls, a bucket hat, and a fake toy lobster. For an extra laugh, you can have someone else dress up as a lobster.

5. Arnold From Hey Arnold!

Pop culture from the ‘90s and early ‘00s is all the rage these days. For those who lived it, the animated Nickelodeon show was a staple on television. To embody Arnold, all you need is to layer a red or orange flannel shirt under a teal sweater and wear a blue baseball cap.

6. Eleven From Stranger Things

While Eleven is known for her pink dress and blue jacket, this plaid getup is just as recognizable. You'll need a brown plaid shirt over a pair of denim overalls. To make the costume even more accurate, wear a short brown wig.

7. Barb From Stranger Things

One of the best ways to support the "Justice for Barb" movement is to emulate her look this Halloween. Technically, you'll need a plaid shirt with a ruffled collar, but you can get away with a top with muted colors. Finally, wear a pair of large glasses, throw on some mom jeans, and pin your hair up.

8. Scarecrow

Come Halloween, there's nothing like a classic scarecrow costume. You'll need a straw hat, denim overalls, and a plaid shirt. Finish off the look by painting on scarecrow details with makeup.

9. '90s Grunge Rocker

For an easy costume with a plaid shirt, dress up as a '90s grunge rocker. You can easily find all the pieces at the mall, thrift store, or your own closet. Wear a shirt with a denim or leather jacket. If you'd like, wear a graphic or band tee. Accessorize with a choker or two.

10. Lumberjack

The lumberjack costume is another Halloween classic. For this one, you'll need a plaid shirt and denim overalls (or jeans with suspenders). Top it off with a beanie and a fake axe.

11. Marshall Lee The Vampire King From Adventure Time

If you have a red plaid shirt, dress up as Marshall Lee the Vampire King from Adventure Time. Pair it with low-top Converse sneakers and a short black layered wig.

12. Jughead Jones

With a plaid shirt and beanie, you can recreate Jughead's typical ensemble. A denim or leather jacket will emphasize the look. Another idea is to wear a t-shirt with an "S" or snake to represent the Serpents.

13. Garth From Wayne's World

Garth from Wayne's World is another easy Halloween costume idea. If you own a blue plaid shirt and graphic tee, you're already halfway there. Accessorize with glasses and a blonde wig.

14. Marty McFly From Back To The Future

For a Halloween costume that's both warm and iconic, dress up as Marty McFly. You'll need to layer a blue plaid shirt, denim jacket, and red puffy vest. That's it!