Dressing up as a character can be a lot of fun. But no matter if you’re just trick-or-treating around the neighborhood or are hopping on a plane to an anime convention, it can be a lot of work to put on a costume. Sometimes, you just don’t have the time to get all decked out, or maybe you just can’t take a lot of stuff with you as you travel. So this year’s Halloween theme is “one & done” — a single piece costume or accessory that gets you into the cosplay spirit without a lot of effort.
Not all of these will be a full outfit, so I do give some suggestions if you can or want to add a little more flair to your one piece. Most will be things you likely already have if you are a fan of the series the character is from or are basic items that most people have.
Also, be aware that if you search for the items below, you can find many similar offerings around the Internet. Be careful; most of them will be unofficial and of questionable quality.
Note that Spencer’s owns Spirit Halloween, so most items available at one are available at the other. You can compare their current offers to find the best one for you, or swing by local branches to see if they have it in stock or can special order for you. There are going to be a lot of coupons popping up as Halloween approaches, so keep an eye at these stores and other retailers for dollar off or reduced/free shipping offers.
Dragon Ball Z Goku Sun-Staches – $8.99 at Amazon
I believe I may have highlighted a set of these before. But whether you are battling the crowds at a party or the sun while walking out in the evening sun on Halloween, this is a simple way to transform into Goku without putting on a full costume or wig. There’s also a Vegeta option. If you don’t want to worry about shipping charges, you may also find a set at your local Party City (perhaps also using a coupon), or if you are ordering other items, you can get them slightly cheaper at HalloweenCostumes.com.
Adult Yoshi Headpiece – $24.99 at HalloweenCostumes.com
Hats are another popular way to dress up without worrying about a full outfit. You’ll be recognized as Mario’s faithful companion with this hat. If you want, you can add on an inflatable shell for $10 more. Otherwise, a green or Yoshi shirt and matching pants if you can, but the hat certainly makes a statement by itself.
Adult Akatsuki Robe – Naruto – $39.99 at Spencer’s & Spirit Halloween
Join the Akatsuki by putting on this robe. In the series, most of the members have their headbands clearly visible, white socks, and black open-toed sandals, so you could add these flairs if you wish. The latter two you likely already own, and you don’t need to modify them if you want to keep them in normal condition. But any anime fan will immediately know that you love Naruto.
Pumpkinhead Keyblade – Kingdom Hearts – $39.99 at Spirit Halloween
Keyblade wielders have existed for generations in the world of Kingdom Hearts, and there have been tons of Keyblades to match. Spirit Halloween offers several different Keyblades, so you have options whether you want to dress up as Sora and friends, want to be your OC from the mobile game Union x, or be a new type of Keyblade wielder. But you won’t get any more Halloween-ish than the Pumpkinhead!
Adult My Hero Academia Gym Tracksuit – My Hero Academia – $49.99 at Spencer’s & Spirit Halloween
This is a unisex costume, and it comes in three sizes so that a wide range of My Hero Academia fans can wear this outfit. If you want to be a specific character, you may want to find a pair of shoes in a specific color. Otherwise, you can just wear your usual sneakers. But if you are in the market for a new pair of shoes and don’t care about looking authentic, you can buy these shoes that match the UA gym uniform.
Sailor Moon Artemis Kigurumi Pajama – $69.90 at BoxLunch
One-piece pajamas (aka union suit or kigurumi) are a popular choice for Halloween. They’re easy and comfy to wear, and after the event is over, you can lounge around the house in them. Pikachu ones have been common over the years, but here you can serve as an advisor to the Sailor Guardians. If you’re looking for Sailor Moon’s companion Luna, check out HalloweenCostumes.com.