Halloween is, once more, stealthily creeping up on us, and with it comes the annual business of dressing our little horrors up as something suitably spine-tingling. And in these days of full-blown All Hallows' Eve fervour, there's little chance that said small monsters won't be heading out trick-or-treating or off to a Halloween party. A good costume is, of course, half the fun. But for those of us who don't count ourselves among the crafty camp, happily the shops have once again obliged. Here, then, are our favourite finds for this year's festivities.
Little Monsters: The Scariest (Cutest) Halloween Costumes For Kids
From tiny witches and friendly ghosts to pumpkins, bats and all manner of little monsters, we've rounded up the sweetest Halloween costumes for children to wear this spooky season.
FAQs: Kids’ Halloween Costumes
What are the cutest Halloween costumes for children in 2026?
From miniature pumpkins and velvet-clad witches to little bats, black cats and dinosaurs, this year's sweetest Halloween costumes are as playful as they are spooky. Brands such as Meri Meri, Mimi & Lula and Great Pretenders are particularly good for imaginative dressing-up.
Where can I buy stylish Halloween costumes for kids?
John Lewis, Zara Home, H&M and Mini Boden are good places to start for affordable Halloween outfits, while Meri Meri, Souza and Mimi & Lula offer more unusual costumes and accessories.
What can children wear for Halloween instead of a full costume?
A witch's hat, bat wings, a Halloween cape or a suitably spooky headband can transform an everyday outfit. Glow-in-the-dark skeleton pyjamas are another fun option, particularly for younger children who prefer something comfortable.
What are some easy last-minute Halloween costume ideas?
A pair of black leggings and a top can become a cat costume with the addition of ears and a tail, while a simple cape or pointed hat is enough to create a little witch or wizard. Halloween accessories are a particularly useful shortcut for parents who aren't keen on sewing.
Can children wear their Halloween costumes again?
Absolutely. Choosing good-quality capes, hats, wings and dressing-up accessories means children can enjoy them throughout the year. Alternatively, Halloween-themed pyjamas, dresses and joggers can be worn well beyond 31 October.
By
Lucy Abletshauser
·
Updated October 2026
Lucy is The Guide's go-to expert on the best online buys, from fashion to interiors. An aesthete to her core, she does the trawling so you don't have to.
