When you're stuck in a Halloween costume rut, you can't go wrong with something classic and scary like a zombie. And the best part is, you can easily customize and DIY your own version for both kids and adults without spending a ton of money on a pricey store-bought option.
There's technically no wrong way to do a homemade zombie costume, especially when you look at all the different examples in television and movies like The Last of Us, The Walking Dead or Disney's Zombies, but if you're in need of some inspiration, we've compiled our favorite zombie looks you can try this Halloween. That said, when it comes to creating the best DIY zombie costumes, don't forget: a lot of the detail is in the costume makeup, which will give it the full effect, so make sure to check out our zombie makeup essentials at the bottom of the list.
DIY Clicker Costume
We know they might not *technically* be classified as "zombies", but the Clickers from Amazon Prime's The Last of Us scare us just as much, if not more, than your typical zombie. If you want to stay on budget, opt for the mask and then pull out some old clothes from your closet that you don't mind cutting and roughing up a bit to create the torn rags infection-ravaged Clickers wear then add some fake scars and fake blood to finish off the look.
What You'll Need for a DIY Clicker Costume
DIY Simple Zombie Outfit
YouTuber Kait Nichole shows how she made a complete zombie outfit in under seven minutes. She breaks down her process, explaining how a craft knife and some food coloring can go a long way in creating a horrifying ensemble.
Some comments also suggested using tea bags to stain your t-shirt, which is pretty smart (just know that the stains likely won't come out).
What You'll Need for a DIY Zombie Costume
DIY Disney's Zombies Costume
The characters in the Disney hit movie Zombies are great sources to draw inspiration from when recreating zombie costumes for teens. Here, actor Milo Manheim wears a faded gray vest, red trucker pants and green hair dye. He also has burgundy eyeshadow dusted on his eyelids. Check Disney's Youtube for the full tutorial.
What You'll Need for Disney's 'Zombies' Costume
DIY The Walking Dead Zombie Costume
For an epic trio group costume, two friends can be the zombies and one can be Michonne Hawthorne. For Michonne, make sure you have your sword, and for the zombies, pick up an inexpensive t-shirt and cut it up. Don't forget the makeup, of course!
What You'll Need for 'The Walking Dead' Zombie Costume
DIY Zombie Costume for Girls
For kids, you want the costume and makeup light and not too scary. For girls, any clothing that's faded, dark or patterned will work. Bonus: You can make this a fun activity for you and your daughter to do together by tie-dyeing a white dress or shirt with blue or green dye. For hair, tease it up and make it as unruly as you'd like.
What You'll Need for a Girl's Zombie Costume
DIY Zombie Costume for Boys
Or they can wear pajamas they might already have in their closet. Use white or green face paint to cover their entire face, plus gray and red marks for a more zombie effect. Just make sure to not get paint too close to the eyes, face or mouth.
What You'll Need for a Boy's Zombie Costume
RKOIAN Pajamas Set
DIY Zombie Costume for Teens
Older kids can start experimenting with more intricate makeup and hair dye, if desired. Many temporary hair colors rinse out within just a few washes and won't cause as much damage as more permanent dyes. Some teens might forego the actual outfit, and just concentrate on the makeup, but if you still want the full look, tatter and stain a worn dress or overalls with food coloring or fabric dye.
What You'll Need for a Teen's Zombie Costume
Dickies Denim Bib Overall
DIY Zombie Costume for Couples
Dressing up as a zombie with your significant other can be fun too — a classic idea is portraying a zombie bride and groom.
Any dress and suit can get the scare factor instantly if you already have a face mask or makeup in play. You can also opt for zombie t-shirts that look realistically horrifying, or fabric dye clothing you no longer care about.
What You'll Need for a Woman's Zombie Costume
What You'll Need for a Man's Zombie Costume
DIY Zombie Costume Makeup
If you're just starting with face paint and character makeup, you can purchase costume makeup kits that include the supplementary items and instructions you need to create basic costume makeup looks, complete with skin prosthetics, hair color and brushes.
What You'll Need for Zombie Costume Makeup
Shanon is a writer and editor who specializes in best-of product roundups and deals. She has over six years of experience, including almost three years as a Good Housekeeping product and reviews editor, covering the best sales and products across home, appliances, health, beauty, parenting and more.
