When coming up with a DIY Harry Potter costume, it’s all about combining a little magic with a lot of creativity. Whether you’re aiming to rock Harry’s signature glasses or scar, or channel the mystical charm of Bellatrix Lestrange, create your own DIY Halloween costume to match your wizarding style. You can add a personal touch. You can also imitate your favorite Hogwarts professors, including rumpled Dumbledore and Gryffindor head of house Minerva McGonagall. (In honor of the incomparable Maggie Smith, who passed away this year. 🥲🪄) You can also team up with your friends for a three-person Halloween costume as the iconic trio of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Masu.
Whether it’s transforming a graduation gown into a Hogwarts robe or handcrafting a wand that would make Ollivander proud, there’s something truly special about bringing these characters to life with your own personal flair. Join us as we explore the coolest and most affordable costume ideas that will make you feel like you just stepped out of Diagon Alley with a wand in hand.
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harry potter costume
To make a DIY Harry Potter costume, you’ll need a black or dark gray robe (reusing your graduation gown works great!), a white collared shirt, and a striped tie in the colors of Gryffindor (burgundy and gold). Pair these with black or gray pants and don’t forget the iconic round glasses and lightning bolt scar. For even more charm, wrap yourself in a Gryffindor scarf and never leave home without your trusty wand and broomstick.
gryffindor striped tie
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hermione granger costume
To recreate Hermione’s look, scour your closet for a white collared shirt, a cozy gray or black sweater (bonus points for a V-neck), and a Gryffindor tie like Harry’s. Add a pleated skirt and accessorize with a robe and cane to complete the look. For the best Hermione vibe, be sure to wear a bushy wig!
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ron weasley costume
To channel your inner Ron Weasley, start with a white collared shirt and a Gryffindor sweater (maroon with gold stripes is perfect). Pair these with gray or black pants and a Gryffindor tie, and finish the look with a classic robe like Harry or Hermione. Make your own wand and get a Gryffindor scarf to add some flair. If you want to go even bolder, complete the look with a red wig or a temporary dye job.
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Albus Dumbledore Costume
To transform into Dumbledore, find a regal robe in a deep, enchanting color like purple or maroon (you can sew it together or reuse an old gown). Don’t forget to wear a matching hat with tassels, a clever beard and a shimmering white or silver wig. Accessorize with round glasses, a wand, and a stuffed phoenix to complete this iconic wizard’s look.
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professor mcgonagall costume
To dress up as Professor McGonagall, wear a long-sleeved black robe and glasses. With a flick of your wand, you can look just like her. Here are some fun party ideas. McGonagall is often depicted holding a book in her hand, so imitate her by walking around the room with this book on Harry Potter trivia and quizzing people on their wizarding world knowledge. You can also. (“10 points for Gryffindor!”)
Professor Loeb and the Witch Hat “Surprising Facts for Potter Fans”
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Bellatrix Lestrange Costume
To pretend to be Bellatrix Lestrange for the night, dress up in an old black dress or robes, complete with a bold corset or belt, and throw on fingerless gloves. Embrace your dark side with dramatic makeup, tousled hair (or a wild wig), and a sinister cane. For even more flair, wear a Death Eater mask or carry around a vial of mystical potion. It’s all about portraying Bellatrix’s dark and sinister vibe.
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lord voldemort costume
Shi! Whisper: He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named. To arrive at the party as the Dark Lord himself, you’ll need a stylish black cloak and bald hat. Accessorize with Tom Riddle’s cane, made of yew with phoenix feathers, and you can point it at innocent passersby while shouting “Avada Kedavra!” Bonus points if you can wear a Nagini replica on your arm and speak Parseltongue.
Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and contributor to Country Living and Pioneer Woman, covering entertainment, vacation and recreation, food and drink, design ideas, DIY, and more.
