What to Be Instead of a Cat — and 9 Other Nongeneric Halloween Costume Alternatives

The ideal Halloween costume? Something that requires little to no effort to pull together, aka perfect for procrastinators like ourselves. But what do you get when you combine quick and easy? Typically, something generic, like a cat of some sort or an old Hollywood star.

This year, even if we wait until the last possible moment, we're making sure our looks stand out in the crowd. Check out 10 alternatives to common costumes, then see more options you can make with your purse alone.

Instead of a Cat . . .

Be a teddy bear.

What You Need: The same furry coat or vest that works for a cat can be used here, too. Plus, instead of that annoying ear headband? Double buns!

Instead of Cher From Clueless . . .

Be a Chanel from Scream Queens.

What You Need: Stick with the same long socks and bright colors you'd rock for Cher, but add a furry jacket and some pearls. Now you're part of the current It girl group instead of throwing it back to the '90s.

Instead of Sandy From Grease . . .

Be Rizzo from Grease.

What You Need: Many ladies will likely pull a Sandy-at-the-end-of-Grease, so why not be the OG badass? Grab a short-sleeved red button-down and a matching necklace and you're set. Don't have those things lying around? You can also make a Rizzo costume using pajamas!

Instead of Little Red Riding Hood . . .

Be the White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland.

What You Need : The only ingredients you need to nail this look? Bunny ears, a bow tie, a red jacket, and some sort of clock (or a clock bag).

Instead of a Disney Princess . . .

Be an evil prom queen.

What You Need: Stand out in a sea of Ariels and Belles by messing up that princess look — aka a gown and a crown — and adding blood.

Instead of a Hippie . . .

Be an '80s rocker.

What You Need: Peace out, hippies. Go the punk-rock route by styling some leather pants with a graphic band tee, then tease your hair and add a bandana for the full effect.

Instead of a Robber . . .

Be an evil tooth fairy.

What You Need: You're still a thief — you're just stealing teeth this time! Break out your best sparkly or poufy dress, some pliers, and a bag. Want to go really creepy? Add a crown of teeth and some dark, evil makeup.

Instead of an Old-Hollywood Star . . .

Be one of the Men in Black.

What You Need: Skip going glam with a gown and gloves and rock your best suit — with some shades! — instead. Bonus: your pet can double as a cute alien.

Instead of Superman . . .

Be a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle.

What You Need: It's easy to throw on a hero logo and call it a day, but being a Ninja Turtle is pretty simple too. Use a backpack as your "turtle shell," dress in green, and add a colorful head scarf. Boom — you're done.

Instead of a Witch . . .

Be a black widow.

What You Need: Not feelin' the pointy hat? Break out your trusty LBD, then smudge your makeup and mess up your hair. Scaaaryyy . . . but cute, too!