24 DIY Mermaid Costume Ideas for Halloween to Get that Ariel Look
There's nothing scaled back about these fanciful costumes.
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If you're looking for a classic Halloween costume that is never boring, look no further than a DIY mermaid costume. There are plenty of ways to make the outfit your own, whether you're going for an Ariel from The Little Mermaid look or something a bit different. We have fun mermaid costumes for kids and ideas for adults.
Because Halloween is all about transforming into something dreamy with angel costumes, DIY Frozen costumes, or best DIY superhero costumes. But there's just something about the magic of mermaids that inspires us. With a little crafty know-how, you can easily make these DIY mermaid costume ideas come to life with some shimmering fabric, shiny store-bought leggings, seashell accents, a glittering crown. Don’t have a creative bone in your body, not even one to tackle no-sew projects? We’ve included some already-made options to buy now that include everything you need to transform into a mythical sea creature. Add some sparkly makeup or Halloween face paint ideas to take your mermaid costume to the next level.
To stand out and shine this Halloween, here are 24 DIY and store-bought mermaid costume ideas that will inspire you to truly seas the day.
DIY Coffee Filter Mermaid Costume
You can make your little mermaid's fishtailed fantasy become a reality by coloring coffee filters in ocean hues for an artistic, whimsical look. It's a creative costume that’s sure to make waves! We especially love the starfish hair and jewelry accessories.
Get the tutorial at Hello, Wonderful.
DIY Crochet Mermaid Costume for Babies
Oh, baby! This 100-percent crochet costume is a soft, cuddly, and oh-so-cute choice for Halloween photo op!
Upside-Down Mermaid Costume
A mermaid tail makes a statement, but it can making getting around on Halloween night a challenge! This cute idea flips the idea on its head with a blue bodysuit, tulle skirt, and mermaid headband.
Mermaid Dog Costume
Who says humans should have all the mermaid fun? We love this funny ideas for dogs. Simply pair a shell top and a grass skirt, and you have a pet-approved mermaid costume. As with any costume for dogs, make sure your pet is comfortable, and only allow him to wear the costume when you can watch him.
DIY Adult Mermaid Costume
Although this mermaid costume is created with everyday items you can find around your house, there’s nothing ordinary about this gorgeous getup.
Get the tutorial at The House That Lars Built.
DIY No-Sew Mermaid Crown
Layer felt seashells, starfish, and seaweed to create a perfectly royal under-the-sea-inspired crown. Dot pearl beads on top for a fancy finishing touch.
Get the tutorial at Lia Griffith.
For a semi-homemade mermaid costume, start with this dress. Add a crown and shell accessories and ta-da!
No-Sew Mermaid Costume Tutorial
This step-by-step video for a no-sew DIY mermaid costume makes for an easy, one-of-a-kind look using fusible bonding web (hem tape) and fabric glue.
DIY Tween Mermaid Costume
Here's a fin-tastic idea—craft a costume that has a mermaid tail and leggings for easy walking during Halloween trick-or-treating. This mermaid costume will undoubtedly stand out from the crowd.
Get the tutorial at A Girl & A Glue Gun.
DIY Baby Mermaid Costume
Dress your little minnow in this mermaid costume that will keep them feeling comfy and cozy on Halloween night.
Get the tutorial at See Kate Sew.
DIY Mermaid Makeup
For a look that's Ariel-approved, complete your mermaid costume with some iridescent makeup. You'll look like you just emerged from the water, with flawless mermaid hair intact, of course.
Get the tutorial at Dawn P. Darnell.
DIY Mother-Daughter Mermaid Costume
There's so much adorableness going on here that we don't know where to start! Match up with your mini mermaid by donning matching seashell shirts and tails.
Get the tutorial at A Beautiful Mess.
DIY Fancy Mermaid Costume
Between the sequins, tulle, and gold fabric, your mermaid-in-training will feel like the belle of the ball…or in this case, the coral reef!
Get the tutorial at Heather Handmade.
Pair a ruffled sea-quin top with a mermaid-tail skirt and a few other accessories for a magical mermaid costume. The shirts are lined in comfortable cotton and are available in lavender, blush, and gold.
Mermaid Makeup Tutorial
The key to the scale-design is, get this—a fishnet stocking! Glittery accents make your face seriously sparkle.
DIY Maternity Mermaid Costume
If you have a mermaid or merman on the way, you can still show off an ocean-inspired costume this Halloween. With stretchy, shimmering fabric that captures your mom-to-be glow, your baby bump will take center stage.
Get the tutorial at Kara Metta.
DIY Mermaid Costume With Leggings
With a little tulle here and some mermaid makeup there, you can help your child transform a pair of easy-peasy leggings into a maritime masterpiece. There's a good chance she'll want to wear this costume long past Halloween.
Get the tutorial at Brie Brie Blooms.
DIY Mermaid and Merman Couple Costume
With this Halloween costume for couples, a shell-embellished trident is a serious prop! We also love the wispy and beautiful take on this mermaid costume.
Get the tutorial at The Effortless Chic.
DIY Seashell Mermaid Costume
Festooned with faux shells, silver coral, and real starfish, this costume is truly an ocean fantasy come to life.
Get the tutorial at Staffordable Blog.
DIY Mermaid and Sailor Couple Costume
This might be one of the cleverest Halloween costumes for couples we've ever seen! Doll yourself up in all your mermaid glory, while your partner dresses up as your dapper sailor sidekick. Ahoy!
Get the tutorial at The Felt Habit.
Shelby Deering is a lifestyle writer who specializes in decor, home tours, wellness, travel, vintage, and feel-good stories for national publications. She’s from Madison, Wisconsin, and when she’s not writing, you’ll find her running local trails, shopping flea markets, or going for walks with her husband and corgi.
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