Totally Bitchin' 'Stranger Things' Halloween Costume Ideas

In the realm of binge-worthy shows, Stranger Things — with its retro feel, close-knit friendships, and creepy alien undertones — is definitely among the best of them. Now three seasons in, it’s no wonder that Stranger Things costumes are so popular this year, something to keep in mind when deciding on a tween costume that’s worthy of their approval. And the best part? Many of these looks are cheap and easy to put together yourself with a few accessories and things that are already in your kid’s closet.

Sure, Halloween 2020 may be different than ever before, but it doesn’t mean your fam can’t enjoy dressing up. Maybe you’ll celebrate with spooky crafts, a haunted house candy hunt, or a socially-distanced Halloween parade. And at the very least, channeling your Stranger alter-egos will make for some pretty cute photo ops, right?

Ahead, you’ll find the best out-of-the-box outfits and some easy-to-assemble looks for your Stranger Things fans. It may even inspire you to re-watch the seasons to get everyone into the spirit.

The Best Unique Stranger Things Costumes

Eleven

Dustin Henderson

Steve Harrington

Robin Buckley

Demogorgon

Best Stranger Things DIY Costumes & Accessories

Erica Sinclair

Oh, Erica. We caught glimpses of your charm in Seasons 1 and 2, but in Season 3, we saw you in all your sassy glory. (And we’re crossing our fingers for more in Season 4.) While there are a few Erica costumes out there, this one’s super easy to make on your own: Start with your kid’s blue overall shorts or grab this super-cheap pair from SheIn. Then pair it with a yellow T-shirt and belt!

Of course, we can’t forget Miss Sinclair’s Russian spy mission safety gear. Grab your kid’s knee and elbow pads, then get a white bike helmet like this pick from XPRIT and tape flashlights to either side. Bonus: You’ll be happy when your youngster wants to suit up for bike and scooter rides even after playing dress-up.

Nancy Wheeler

If you’re feelin’ a little crafty, adding blue trim to the bottom of a purple short-sleeve A-line dress like this one from HUHOT will mimic Nancy’s striking frock. From chasing a story to prove to herself to her sexist boss, to chasing down the Demogorgon with little bro Mike (and crew), Nancy does it all — and in dress shoes, no less. Don’t forget the big ’80s hair, too!

Mike, Will & Lucas

We hate to lump these BFFs together because they’re each awesome in their own right. However, emulating some of the gang’s ’80s-tastic style is super easy with the help of a few accessories.

Pretty much any retro-looking striped T-shirt or rugby shirt with khaki shorts or wide-leg jeans will fit the boys’ style. If you can’t find one in your kid’s closet, get an affordable option like this one from Hope & Henry, which is especially very “Mike.” (FYI, Max’s look can easily be re-created with a striped tee and cutoffs, too.)

Snag some over-calf striped socks like these Pareberry Classical Triple Stripes Socks to add rad decade vibes to your kid’s costume.

When there’s a chill in the air, the boys often wear their windbreakers. Pick up this classic Dickies jacket, which doubles as the perfect back-to-school layer for fall. (You can check out similar styles in kids sizes, too.)

And don’t forget some throwback kicks. This pair of Saucony Originals are almost identical to the ones worn by Lucas, and they also happen to be perfect for back-to-school. (See, we moms know how to stretch a dollar.)

But whatever you do, DO NOT forget the calculator watch! This affordable one from Casio is an absolute necessity for any ’80s nerd.

See more brilliant, mom-approved ideas by checking out our other kid gear picks!