Halloween Costumes Fit for a Bookworm
This post contains affiliate links. Please check out my privacy policy & disclosures page for more information.
Needing some inspiration for your Halloween costume this year? Why not look to one of your favorite literary characters for ideas?
As I brainstormed ideas for bookish costumes, I realized that a big bonus to dressing up as a book character is that you can likely put together a costume with items that may already be in your closet—making this both an affordable and thrifty approach to Halloween costumes!
Here are 10 Halloween costume ideas inspired by some of my most beloved literary characters:
All of the looks featured here are with items I found on Amazon but you can easily find similar pieces and props at your local Goodwill or Dollar Tree. Embrace the treasure hunt!
Daisy Jones
There are so many outfit possibilities for Daisy Jones! Whether it’s one of her funky daytime outfits, risqué recording outfits (ahem—button down with boots sans pants), or one of her iconic concert looks. Bonus if you can add a Billy Dunn or the whole Six crew!
Buy the book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
Finlay Donovan
The relatable, barely-holding-it-together mom turned contract killer is both an easy and iconic costume choice. Also an easy way to incorporate your kids’ diaper bag into a costume (just toss in some duct tape for good measure).
Buy the book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
Evelyn Hugo
Undoubtedly one of the most glamorous options but what better time to embrace the glitz and glam of Evelyn Hugo than Halloween?
Buy the book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
“Bunny”
A great group costume option—the bunnies. Cupcake and Creepy Doll call for more of a white and pink outfit vibe, whereas Vignette and the Dutchess call for darker, more gothic looks. You could even include some sugary baked goods or fruity drinks to really get into these characters!
Buy the book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
Molly the Maid
Sweet and precise, Molly the Maid is the perfect option if you want to embrace a literary character with an old costume you may already have.
Buy the book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
Sophie
Had to draw some inspiration from one of my favorite fall reads this year! If you’re looking for a more alluring costume idea, then Sophie fits the bill—all you need is a slinky black dress, jewelry adorned with big charms, a faux spider or two as your sidekick(s), and a cup of tea to offer the town newcomer.
Buy the book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
Vivienne Jones
Obviously I had to include a classic witch costume but this idea comes with a modern spin in the form of Vivi Jones from The Ex Hex. Donning a witch’s hat and broom, just add a dress or skirt and top to match the cover’s aqua blue text, and bonus if you can find an orchard hayride scented candle to match the one used for the ex-boyfriend curse gone wrong.
Buy the book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
Violet Sorrengail
The modern day’s Katniss Everdeen, this costume is both badass and of the times. Unless you happen to have access to legitimate flight leathers, wearing as much black leather as possible can achieve Violet’s look—complete with a braid, daggers, and, of course, a dragon in some form.
Buy the book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
Jo March
The most classic costume idea of this round-up, and would also make a fun group costume option with each person embodying their favorite sister! (Personally, I’ve always felt a pull towards Jo but apparently am a Meg, per a Buzzfeed quiz from five years ago).
Buy the book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
Gretchen
An homage to my most recent fall read, this costume idea is an opportunity to embrace horror and gore! Any 80s inspired attire would suffice with exorcist style make-up topping this look off. Of course, a more complete look would also include your bff as Abby!
Buy the book: Amazon | Bookshop.org
We bookworms know that there’s something special about literary characters, so I hope this got your wheels turning for how you can honor your favorites this Halloween. If you end up dressing up as one of these characters, be sure to send me a message or Instagram DM!
