Celebrate your baby’s first Halloween with these simple but adorable costume ideas. Make their first Halloween something to remember!
Halloween Costume Ideas
Your baby’s first Halloween is one you’ll never forget—tiny costumes, adorable photos, and memories to look back on for years. While your baby will be a show stopper no matter the costume, here are some fun ideas to spice up their first night of spooky-cute fun!
1. Classic Pumpkin
A timeless favorite for a reason! A plush pumpkin outfit is cozy, recognizable, and perfect for those keepsake first Halloween photos. Plus, you can easily find sizes that are soft, warm, and baby-friendly.
2. Little Bumblebee
Sweet as honey, a bumblebee costume is playful and instantly recognizable. Bonus: you can coordinate with siblings or parents as a whole garden theme (flowers, bees, butterflies!).
3. Baby Cowboy or Cowgirl
Saddle up! A tiny cowboy hat, bandana, and little boots make for an unforgettable first Halloween look. Pair it with denim or a cozy romper for comfort—and maybe let parents dress as the rest of the rodeo crew.
4. Storybook Character
From “Where the Wild Things Are” to Peter Rabbit, dressing baby as a beloved book character makes the ensemble sentimental and photo-worthy. Perfect for book-loving families.
5. Little Astronaut
Shoot for the stars with a cozy astronaut romper or space-themed onesie. Pair with a soft “helmet” hat for a space explorer look that’s out of this world.
6. Movie Classics
Bring the magic of Disney to your baby’s first Halloween! Whether it’s Simba, Elsa, or a tiny Mickey, character costumes are a hit for little ones and instantly recognizable.
7. Baby Doctor
A tiny set of scrubs or a lab coat makes for an adorable “career day” style Halloween. It’s sweet, simple, and comfortable for your little one.
8. Food-Inspired Costume
Taco, hotdog, avocado, cupcake—there are so many hilarious baby costumes shaped like food. These always get laughs and make for great photo ops.
9. Baby Bat
If you still want a nod to classic Halloween, a baby bat costume is the perfect mix of spooky and sweet. Look for a soft sleeper with wings attached to keep it comfy.
10. Garden Gnome
Whimsical and unexpected, a baby gnome outfit (complete with a little pointed hat and beard bib) will have everyone smiling.
Tip for Parents:
Prioritize Comfort Over Complexity
Babies’ first costumes should feel like clothing, not a costume obstacle course. Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or fleece are gentle on sensitive skin and help prevent overheating or irritation. Avoid scratchy materials, tight elastic, or heavy layers that could make your little one fussy
Choose Easy On & Easy Off Designs
Halloween often involves diaper changes, feeding, and moving between different environments. Costumes with snaps, zippers, or velcro make quick changes a breeze — especially when you’re juggling a fussy baby, a stroller, and a camera.
Skip Masks & Unsafe Headgear
Tiny masks, rigid helmets, and tight headgear can obstruct breathing and vision. They can also cause irritation or leave your baby uncomfortable during photos or outings. Instead, choose a themed hat, hood, or headband that complements the costume without restricting movement.
Avoid Small Parts & Choking Hazards
Babies explore with their mouths, so avoid costumes with loose beads, buttons, sequins, or removable decorations that could detach and pose a risk. Securely attached details are your safest bet.
Think About Temperature & Layers
Fall weather can vary widely — chilly evenings one minute, warm afternoons the next. Plan your costume with comfort in mind: layering allows you to add or remove warmth easily. For cooler nights, try a thermal onesie or cozy layers under (not over) the costume.
Safety First: Flame Resistance & Visibility
Traditional Halloween decorations often include candles or jack-o’-lanterns, so choosing flame-resistant costumes adds peace of mind. Look for flame-retardant fabric labels when possible. For evening trick-or-treating, adding reflective tape or a glow stick to outfits or stroller toys increases visibility in low light — making your baby easier for drivers and other families to see.
Plan for Photos, Then Play
Baby’s first Halloween lasts longer in photos than it does in real life! If they aren’t thrilled about wearing a full outfit for long, plan a quick photo session and follow it with a more comfortable outfit for the rest of the evening. This way, you capture the memories and keep your baby happy.
