Halloween season is basically here if the stores selling decorations and costumes have anything to do with it. While some may feel its a little soon for that (not us), it's never too early to start looking for a costume. If the kiddos haven't already asked or told anyone what they're going to be yet, now is a fine time to get the conversation going. That would put someone into the more Type A parent category — the person who has time to plan and creates a costume that's 'gram-worthy. Of course, we know there's the second type of parent out there who is a bit more last-minute. They're not prone to the costume fails, but every year is a new chance at redemption. There are plenty of costume ideas out there, but they tend to be a bit heteronormative. Also, not culturally appropriating a group's, well, culture, is key. After that, the possibilities are endless and we're here to help.
Now we know princess will be the choice for lots of girls out there (and maybe boys). There's nothing wrong with girls wanting to be princesses, but this list is a reminder there are other costumes out there for girls. If a girl is looking for a Halloween costume that exudes strength, or pays homage to a strong female figure, she should totally be that for Halloween. From historical figures like Harriet Tubman to modern-days ones like Beyoncé and Ruth Bader Ginsberg, to the super heroes she knows and loves, there's a plethora of ideas for interesting and empowering girls Halloween costumes. Pop culture characters are also included. For many of the ideas, mom can buy a costume at a store, but there's no reason why one couldn't get creative with a DIY costume.
After the girls are taken care of, moms can figure out their costume ideas. Some of these ideas could also translate into adult costumes. And if there are any pregnant ladies out there, we have them covered, too. Take a look at the options below to get the Halloween ball turning. Princesses and fairies come and go, but female heroines are forever.
Wonder Woman
Wonder Woman is the epitome of a strong woman (and girl). Dress her up so she can save the world Halloween night and beyond.
Supergirl ($27, Target)
Mary Poppins
Mary Poppins is a Disney favorite of folks young and old, so it's amazing that little girls can dress up like her. too. Party City sells both the iconic dress as well as the flowery hat.
Mary Poppins ($30, Party City)
Captain Marvel
Captain Marvel is another hero that appeals to girls. Lots of traditional costume sites have boys' costumes, but A Mighty Girl made sure to include an image with a girl wearing the outfit, because they can.
Captain Marvel ($19, A Mighty Girl)
Supreme Court Justices
Ruth Bader Ginsberg had a movie come out and is also just generally an important and beloved member of the US Supreme Court. Sonya Sotomayer is another favorite, being the first Latina woman to serve.
Amelia the Aviator
Dress up as one of the most fearless pilots in history? Yes, please. This Amelia Earhart costume comes with the hat, jacket, scarf, and pants.
Amelia the Aviator ($43, Target)
Buzz Lightyear
Buzz Lightyear is a classic hero and little girls should want to rock his uniform. This costume comes with the green, white and purple suit and headpiece.
Buzz Lightyear ($30, Party City)
'A League of Their Own' Player
A League of Their Own is a movie that shows what women had to endure to play sports and be taken seriously while doing it. Little girls can pay homage to those athletes with the outfits they wore on the field.
A League of Their Own Outfit ($30, A Mighty Girl)
Scientist
Scientists are changing the world. They're coming up with new ways to cure diseases and ways to help others — and let's be honest, the kids these days really are little scientists of their own by making slime.
Scientist ($25, A Mighty Girl)
Madeline
Madeline is a beloved children's book and it also makes for an adorable Halloween costume. Bonus: It can make a super cute group outfit with one lucky mama as the line leader.
Madeline ($36, Walmart)
Beyoncé
Beyoncé is the Queen (Bey) for a reason. She's talented, strong, and kind. Daughters can dress up like her by picking one of her signature outfits and matching each piece.
'Star Wars' Chewbacca
Star Wars will never go out of style. And Chewbacca is a great character. Let her be Chewbacca with this costume from Target.
Star Wars Chewbacca ($40, Target)
Ghostbusters
Who ya gonna call?! Ghostbusters! Help her fight ghouls and spirits as a full-fledged member of the Ghostbusters. The outfit includes the dress with matching hat, black backpack, and boot tops (and actual logo).
Ghostbusters ($27, Walmart)
Police Officer
Police officers serve and protect. The qualities they possess should be bravery, strength, and a desire to help others, which is why it makes a great Halloween costume for a strong little girl.
Police Officer ($30, Party City)
Pilot
Pilots travel all around the world and meet new people every day. It's an amazingly cool job and Halloween costume candidate.
Pilot ($25, A Mighty Girl)
Shuri
Shuri is technically a Princess, so this may be cheating, but we feel that she's more of a scientist and warrior. No one will get in the way of little girls rocking this outfit.
Shuri ($35, Party City)
Astronaut
Kids and adults alike think that astronauts, space exploration, and NASA are really cool. Inspire her to plan on making a moon mission someday with with astronaut outfit like this.
Astronaut ($25, A Mighty Girl)
Rosie the Riveter
Rosie the Riveter is an icon and one of the first images that likely comes to mind when thinking of a strong role model for little girls and symbol of women's independence. The outfit includes the jumpsuit and head wrap.
Rosie The Riveter ($34, Walmart)
Doctor
Lots of kids want to be doctors, so why not let their dreams come true (sort of) a little bit early. The outfit comes with scrubs, matching cap, doctor's coat, stethoscope, and badge.
Doctor ($27, Target)
Glitter Emoji
OK, so there's not really much to say here in terms of empowerment, but emojis are cool and there's nothing wrong with a little girl dressing up as one instead of a princess. In fact, this glitter costume encourages it.
Glitter Emoji ($49, Pottery Barn Kids)
Racecar Driver
Danica Patrick paved the way for little girls everywhere to feel like a woman could be a racecar driver. And not just a driver, but a winning one at that.
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