20 Easy, Last-Minute Costumes You Can Make Using Your Handbag

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There have been a handful of Halloweens where we've been ready to go, rocking our cutest zombie/baby/teddy bear getups, only to realize a little something: zombies/babies/teddy bears don't carry purses. Crap, we think to ourselves, shoving our makeup, phones, and wallets into our pockets (and the pockets of friends). We should have considered this beforehand, as in way before we picked out our looks.

So this year, we're doing just that and going a step further, too. Ahead you'll find some easy costumes that don't just pair well with your trusty ol' bag, they revolve around it, from Dora the Explorer to Mary Poppins. Now you can hold whatever junk, layers, and candy you don't mind carrying. Ahh, yes. Problem solved.

01
Dora the Explorer

Dora the Explorer

Dora's must-have accessory? A purple backpack, which holds her map and other trusty traveling staples. Otherwise, she's just another chick in a monochrome look!

Fjäll Räven Kanken Mini Backpack ($60)

02
A Smiley Face

A Smiley Face

Trust us — this tote is so large, it'll distract from whatever else you've got on (but we'd stick with one color, such as black, so it really stands out).

Ban.do Super Chill Happy Face Cooler Bag ($34)

03
A Turtle

A Turtle

This backpack may not be big enough to crawl into, but pair the quilted design with a full green look and people will totally get it.

M Z Wallace Oxford Small Metro Quilted Nylon Backpack ($225)

04
A '90s Mom

A '90s Mom

A fanny pack was a '90s parent staple. Rock it with a visor, ribbed ankle socks, and sneakers, and no one will have to second guess who you are *annoyed kid voice*, Moooom.

Patagonia Lightweight Travel Mini Belt Bag ($29)

06
08
A Piano Player

A Piano Player

Maybe pair it with a suit jacket. Now you're a classy piano player.

Love Bravery's Piano Clutch ($30)

09
A Mail Person

A Mail Person

Someone's got a letter from Karl Lagerfeld!

Karl Lagerfeld Postcard Box Clutch ($149)

10
A Monster

A Monster

You've got eyes on your back. And they're winking, too.

Chiara Ferragni Flirting Backpack ($528)

11
A Bride

A Bride

All you need now is a veil.

Scripted Tote ($32)

12
A Hiker

A Hiker

Throw on your fitness gear and you're pretty much set.

Lululemon Run All Day Backpack ($118)

16
A Mermaid

A Mermaid

Styled with a metallic dress or skirt, you'll look like you've just arrived from under the sea.

Missco Girl Shell Clutch ($41)

17
Mary Poppins

Mary Poppins

Rock the weekender with a brimmed hat and long coat and you'll be "practically perfect in every way."

ANDM (Nila Anthony) Clever Endeavor Weekend Bag in Bloom ($70)

18
The White Rabbit From Alice in Wonderland

The White Rabbit From Alice in Wonderland

A clock is a great way to make that trusty ear headband a bit more interesting.

Betsey Johnson Clock Lunch Tote ($48)