Instead of going out and buying a brand-new costume for Halloween [1] this year, consider using something you already have [2] packed away. Without fear of having to get too crafty, it's possible to repurpose [3] an old princess dress into a fresh costume that your little one is excited to wear. With the addition of some clever accessories or a few easy embellishments, you can recycle that overplayed gown into a creative look that beats a pricey new option. Check out these 23 clever ways to refresh your child's old princess dress into an entirely new ensemble.
Bride of Frankenstein
Get into the Bride of Frankenstein [4] look by adding some black accents and playful makeup.
1950s Sock Hop Girl
With the addition of a belt and some fun decals, you can make any frock into a cool sock hop dress [5].
Sofia the First
Add a special headpiece or trim to your little one's favorite gown to transform her into Sofia the First [6].
Goldilocks
A sweet apron and a head of curls are all this Goldilocks [7] look needs.
The Little Mermaid
To create your own take on The Little Mermaid [8], simply add two seashells to a colorblock gown.
Russian Doll Costume
With a dress as your starting-off point, it's easy to create a Russian doll costume [9] by adding an apron and headscarf.
Cinderella-Inspired Gown
Turn your princess dress into a gown worthy of Cinderella [10] by enhancing it with some butterflies or animal friends.
Fairy Pixie Princess
Any dress is worthy of a fairy pixie princess [11] as long as you have wings and a wand to complete the ensemble.
Little Miss Muffet
Little Miss Muffet [12] looks adorable in her pretty dress and matching apron.
Little Ghostbuster
Even if you aren't into the Little Ghostbuster [13] idea, get inspired to add a special decal to the dress.
Cleopatra-Inspired Look
Whether you DIY [14] or add gold accessories to your daughter's old dress-up look, you can easily make a Cleopatra-inspired [15]costume.
Fairy-Tale Dragonfly Wings
With just a set of dragonfly wings [16], your child's costume can go from boring to brilliant.
Cheshire Cat
Who would've thought that a princess dress paired with ears could make an adorable Cheshire Cat [17]?
Fairy Godmother
This fairy godmother [18] costume might be your easiest Halloween [19] idea yet!
Princess Ballerina Costume
You'll love how easy this princess ballerina costume [20] is just as much as your little one will love twirling with her sparkling accessories.
Swan Princess
The more feathers you add the better when it comes to turning an old dress into the ultimate Swan Princess [21].
Doc McStuffins
Give Doc McStuffins [22] a feminine look by pairing a white coat and stethoscope over a purple gown.
Zombie Princess
Get in on the spooky fun and give your little one's innocent dress new life as a zombie princess [23].
Prom Queen or Pageant Winner
DIY [24] a sash for a cost-effective prom queen or pageant winner [25] costume.
Angel
With angelic wings and a heavenly headpiece, it's easy to let your kiddo shine as the angel [26] you already know they are.
A Flower Girl
Whether your little one has already been a flower girl [27] and absolutely loved it or has always wanted to take that walk down the aisle, this is the perfect idea. Plus, that basket is ideal for collecting candy!
Glinda the Good Witch
Take advantage of that pink dress you already have to create a Glinda the Good Witch [28] costume.
Greek Goddess
The right headpiece can give any dress a Greek goddess [29] feel.