23 Ways to Repurpose an Old Princess Dress Into a Fresh Halloween Costume

Instead of going out and buying a brand-new costume for Halloween this year, consider using something you already have packed away. Without fear of having to get too crafty, it's possible to repurpose 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.

01
Bride of Frankenstein

Bride of Frankenstein

Get into the Bride of Frankenstein look by adding some black accents and playful makeup.

02
1950s Sock Hop Girl

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.

03
Sofia the First

Sofia the First

Add a special headpiece or trim to your little one's favorite gown to transform her into Sofia the First.

04
Goldilocks

Goldilocks

A sweet apron and a head of curls are all this Goldilocks look needs.

05
The Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid

To create your own take on The Little Mermaid, simply add two seashells to a colorblock gown.

06
Russian Doll Costume

Russian Doll Costume

With a dress as your starting-off point, it's easy to create a Russian doll costume by adding an apron and headscarf.

07
Cinderella-Inspired Gown

Cinderella-Inspired Gown

Turn your princess dress into a gown worthy of Cinderella by enhancing it with some butterflies or animal friends.

08
Fairy Pixie Princess

Fairy Pixie Princess

Any dress is worthy of a fairy pixie princess as long as you have wings and a wand to complete the ensemble.

09
Little Miss Muffet

Little Miss Muffet

Little Miss Muffet looks adorable in her pretty dress and matching apron.

10
Little Ghostbuster

Little Ghostbuster

Even if you aren't into the Little Ghostbuster idea, get inspired to add a special decal to the dress.

11
Cleopatra-Inspired Look

Cleopatra-Inspired Look

Whether you DIY or add gold accessories to your daughter's old dress-up look, you can easily make a Cleopatra-inspired costume.

12
Fairy-Tale Dragonfly Wings

Fairy-Tale Dragonfly Wings

With just a set of dragonfly wings, your child's costume can go from boring to brilliant.

13
Cheshire Cat

Cheshire Cat

Who would've thought that a princess dress paired with ears could make an adorable Cheshire Cat?

15
Princess Ballerina Costume

Princess Ballerina Costume

You'll love how easy this princess ballerina costume is just as much as your little one will love twirling with her sparkling accessories.

16
Swan Princess

Swan Princess

The more feathers you add the better when it comes to turning an old dress into the ultimate Swan Princess.

17
Doc McStuffins

Doc McStuffins

Give Doc McStuffins a feminine look by pairing a white coat and stethoscope over a purple gown.

18
Zombie Princess

Zombie Princess

Get in on the spooky fun and give your little one's innocent dress new life as a zombie princess.

19
Prom Queen or Pageant Winner

Prom Queen or Pageant Winner

DIY a sash for a cost-effective prom queen or pageant winner costume.

20
Angel

Angel

With angelic wings and a heavenly headpiece, it's easy to let your kiddo shine as the angel you already know they are.

21
A Flower Girl

A Flower Girl

Whether your little one has already been a flower girl 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!

22
Glinda the Good Witch

Glinda the Good Witch

Take advantage of that pink dress you already have to create a Glinda the Good Witch costume.

23
Greek Goddess

Greek Goddess

The right headpiece can give any dress a Greek goddess feel.