You Only Need a Few Items to Assemble These Unique DIY Mermaid Costumes (2024)

There's nothing fishy about scrambling to find your perfect Halloween costume. If you want an adorable look that doesn't require too much time to assemble, we recommend throwing together one of our favorite costumes: a DIY mermaid.

These DIY mermaid costumes are easy to recreate and so cute. No matter if you want to replicate classic Disney characters or want to put your own unique spin in this classic, see how you can craft (or buy) your own below. Now, go re-watch The Little Mermaid so you know all the lyrics to "Part of Your World" and "Under the Sea" for October 31.

DIY Glam Mermaid Costume

For a glam approach to the classic mermaid costume, Lauren Conrad crafted a DIY look we can't get enough of. Decorate a bodice with seashells and make your tail out of sequined fabric for your most Insta-worthy costume yet.

DIY Mermaid Costume with Leggings

If you're dressing up super last-minute, you might be able to find items in your closet that help you put together your costume. Mermaid leggings are popular for working out, but they make a quick alternative for a mermaid's tail. Pair with a purple top and, if you have, a seashell purse and some colored hair spray to finish the look.

DIY Mermaid Costume with a Skirt

Whether you're dressing up your toddler, or looking for an easy way to really nail the mermaid tail (sans tail), a skirt is a great option. Just note that some mermaid skirts will cinch below the knees and flare at the bottom, slightly restricting movement. If you have a green or blue maxi skirt, that can work as well.

DIY Mermaid Costume with a Tail

A handful of websites — including Amazon and Walmart sell — full-on mermaid tails. Match it with a bathing suit or bandeau top and accessorize with shell jewelry. The commitment is sure to win you Best Costume.

DIY Mermaid Dress Costume

For an outfit that's no frills but still clearly portrays that you're dressing up as a mermaid, you can opt for a mermaid scale dress. Just make sure to apply colorful lipstick and maybe add a flower crown to finish the look.

DIY Ariel Costume

It's pretty easy to replicate the Disney princess, even if you don't have time to buy extra accessories. You can sub in a seashell bra with a purple crop top or tube top, and wear a green maxi dress for the tail. The wig might be the only prop you need to buy!

DIY Mermaid Man Costume

Let's not forget about the iconic character in Spongebob, Mermaid Man. His costume is relatively easy to emulate with a few basic essentials you probably already have at home. For the star face mask and belt, you can use purple felt.

DIY Kids' Mermaid Costume

In this tutorial, The Sewing Rabbit shows us how to turn your little one into a mermaid. Your child (and everyone you see on Halloween) will be wowed by how you transform organza into an incredible tail. If you follow the directions, you should be able to finish in 90 minutes!

DIY Mermaid Costume for Toddlers

You can actually purchase mermaid swimsuit sets that come with mermaid tails that flow beautifully in water. For something more foot-friendly, opt for a mermaid dress paired with an ornate floral crown.

DIY Mermaid Costume for Babies

A ton of mermaid tail crochet tutorials live on YouTube — you just need a little patience and a lot of yarn. If you're running low on time, Etsy has quite a few adorable mermaid sets that easily slip on your baby. As always, make sure the costume doesn't include small parts that your baby can chew on.

DIY Mermaid Makeup

If you're swimming in beauty products, you may consider copying this makeup design by YouTuber Valerie Pac. Follow along in this video to see her scaly, stunning look.

DIY Mermaid Face Paint

A good face paint job can elevate a costume tenfold (or make up for a lack of one). You will need a little patience and artistic skill, but the results will be worth it. Add face jewels or pearls for extra points.

DIY King Triton Budget Costume

In times that we don't have the resources, we need to get creative. We love how this man used a broom and trash bag to recreate King Triton's trident and beard. If you have a little more time, you can quickly purchase the merman's props on Amazon.

DIY Scary Mermaid Costume

Not all mermaids are friendly. The fantasy creatures can be scary too, especially if you go a little daring on the makeup. Wear clothing and accessories of deeper green, blue, and purple shades.

DIY Mermaid Costume for Pets

Yep, even pets can join in on the mermaid fun — if they're up for it! Beyond two-piece mermaid costume kits, you can dress your dog or cat in mermaid blankets, collars, and even life jackets. Just remember if your dog is feeling uncomfortable in the costume, don't force him or her to stay in it.