a crying girl in a luau costume standing on a table

Some kids flat out don’t like to dress up, which can make the search for a suitable Halloween costume tricky. I’m here today to share some “uncostumes” — a few simple ideas for October 31 that look like costumes but don’t feel like costumes. (I bet my mom wishes she had this list back in 1982 when I cried over that itchy hula skirt!)

A Soccer Player. Works just as well for a baby girl as it does for a ‘tween boy. If you need help, check out this great tutorial.

a girl dressed in red soccer jersey with pigtails
Photo credit: www.figtreefreedom.blogspot.com

A Lifeguard. Find a red t-shirt (Old Navy), add some iron-on letters (Joann’s or Hobby Lobby), pull on a bathing suit and some flip flops, add a whistle, and voila.

a boy in a lifeguard on duty shirt blowing a whistle

Charlie Brown is another sweet option (especially on this little cutie pie).  If you need help in the crafting department, similar shirts are on Etsy.

a boy in a Charlie Brown costume sitting by a pumpkin
Photo credit: www.cafemom.com

A referee costume is a comfy and cute, especially if  siblings (and parents!) are willing to dress as football players and/or cheerleaders!

a blonde toddler dressed as a referee with a yellow flag in the shorts
Photo credit: https://www.casacullen.com

Old Navy has a sizable selection of Halloween-themed PJ’s, t-shirts and onesies that could easily double as a costume.  These skeleton PJ’s are $14.94 and available online in black or pink.

skeleton pajamas
Photo credit: www.oldnavy.com

Finally, anything that incorporates a favorite ride-on toy is a slam dunk.  A farmer is an easy un-costume, especially with this tractor as a prop.

a boy dressed as a farmer on a toy tractor

First published by contributor Kristen B on 10/4/13, updated by an Orlando Mom Editor 8/7/25

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