Choosing Perfect Halloween Costumes for Adults on the Spectrum

Halloween isn’t just for kids! Many adults love to celebrate the spooky fun as well. And one way to get into the “spirit” is by wearing Halloween costumes for adults to embrace the season.

Halloween costumes for adults can add to the seasonal fun for all ages.

After all, there are parties to attend, fall harvest events, and haunted houses to consider, scary movies to watch, and trick-or-treating activities—grown up style!

While the end of October is a favorite time for all ages, filled with spooky and not-so-scary decorations, tasty treats, creative costumes, and pumpkins galore.  For many neurotypical adults, picking out Halloween costumes for adults for an upcoming party is a fun experience.

However, for adults with autism, the selection process for finding Halloween costumes for adults can be stressful and overwhelming.

Costume shops tend to be crowded, loud, and visually stimulating environments. Dressing rooms are often small, underlit, and have tons of previously tried on and left costumes by customers.

In addition, individuals with autism may have challenges of finding something to wear because it’s too uncomfortable or doesn’t meet their tactile requirements due to fabrics that don’t breathe or scratchy materials. They may also struggle with finding something that fits their special interests.

The good news is that with some planning and accommodation, adults with autism can find comfortable, creative costumes that align with their sensory requirements and comfort levels.

Here are some tips to make finding ideal Halloween costumes for adults less daunting so you can have a fun Halloween!

Halloween Costumes for Adults: Focus on Interests and Passions

A great place to start when looking for Halloween costumes for adults is thinking about topics you already enjoy or feel passionate about. Basing a costume around a special interest can make the process more engaging and enjoyable.

For instance, if you love Star Wars, dress up as your favorite Jedi or Sith. If trains are your thing, go as an old-timey train conductor. Pokemon fans could go as their top gym leader.

Feed your existing passions and let them guide your costume selection.

Lean into your obsessions and deepest interests to find a costume idea that excites you. Not only will this make prep more fun, but it will ensure you feel confident and comfortable wearing the costume.

You want to avoid picking a random costume that doesn’t speak to you just for the sake of having one. Let your passions drive the process. Plus, a costume you like can serve as a great conversation starter!

Consider Sensory Issues When Choosing Halloween Costumes for Adults with Autism

Another factor is considering potential sensory issues with various costume options. For example, bulky costumes that limit mobility may not work well. Tight-fitting outfits or wigs and masks that overstimulate the senses are also difficult. Fabrics that are scratchy or irritating are a no-go.

Basically, any costume that decreases comfort and ramps up stress should be avoided. 

Instead, look for lightweight, breathable costume materials that don’t pinch, scratch, or irritate. Test out any accessories or props ahead of time to gauge sensory reactions. Modify or omit pieces as needed to reduce sensory discomfort.

Autistic adults may also benefit from costumes with pockets to hold essentials like fidget toys or headphones. The goal is minimizing triggers and maximizing fulfillment.

Don’t be afraid to alter a costume to optimize sensory needs.

Shop Strategically When Seeking Halloween Costumes for Adults

It’s ideal to shop for a costume online or during off-peak store hours. Brick-and-mortar costume stores can be loud, crowded, and overwhelm the senses. If possible, browse costume options on your computer where you control the experience. Shopping online allows you to take your time evaluating choices without pressure.

If you must shop in-person, aim to go on a weekday or at times when stores are less busy. Avoid peak Halloween season hours.

Bring noise-cancelling headphones or sunglasses to help manage sensory stimulation. You may also want to take a trusted friend along for support. Call ahead to ask staff when their slowest hours are so you can plan accordingly.

Drawing inspiration online can provide great costume ideas that align with your interests and comfort levels. Spend time looking through autism blogs and forums for suggestions.

Check social media for pictures of adults in Halloween costumes that speak to you. Connect with other autistic adults online to swap costume ideas and recommendations.

Get Creative with Costume Comfort When Seeking Halloween Costumes for Adults

With some flexibility and customization, you can take almost any costume and make it work for your needs:

  • Substitute scratchy materials for soft, breathable ones
  • Sew flaps of fabric on the inside of a costume to hide fidget tools or snacks
  • Use costume makeup instead of claustrophobia-inducing masks
  • Pick open-finger gloves rather than full gloves to avoid sweaty hands
  • Use costume glasses frames with the lenses popped out as a comfortable alternative to masks
  • Rig up a harness under the costume to attach a weighted lap pad for soothing pressure
  • Use foam floor mats to add padding and cushioning to bulky, hard costumes

The options are endless when you think outside the box. Don’t be afraid to alter pieces or repurpose items to enhance comfort. Any adjustments that allow you to have fun with your costume are worth it.

Find Supportive Friends When Shopping for Halloween Costumes for Adults

Finding Halloween costumes for adults with autism can take some extra effort.
This is a photo of me going to an adult Vampire ball.

Attending costume parties can already feel challenging for some autistic adults due to the social dynamics. Surrounding yourself with supportive, understanding friends makes a big difference.

Reach out to friends you trust and who help you feel accepted. Let them know that you may need some extra assistance or patience as you pick out and wear your costume. 

True friends will be happy to lend an ear and provide positive encouragement.

If you’re concerned about feeling overwhelmed at the party itself, agree on a plan beforehand with friends. They can check in periodically and help redirect you to a quiet area for a break if needed. Or designate a “signal” to discreetly let them know you need support.

Connecting with friends who “get you” and respect your needs means you don’t have to navigate costume shopping or the party alone. Having allies and a support network along the way makes the experience more doable and enjoyable. And, that’s the goal … to enjoy an event filled with pretend and fantasy, to connect with others, and to have a good time!

Practice Wearing the Costume Ahead of Time

Before the big costume party, set aside some time to practice wearing your full costume at home. This gives you a chance to test run the entire outfit and make any additional tweaks for comfort.

Wear the costume for short periods, building up duration incrementally. Pay attention to areas of sensory discomfort – pinching, scratchiness, heaviness, etc. Make more modifications where needed.

Be sure you can see and hear clearly, and are able to eat and drink while wearing the costume. Make sure you can also go the bathroom easily (nothing is worse than not being able to zip or re-connect your costume correctly after answering nature’s call).

Also note what areas of the costume help you feel relaxed. For example, perhaps the fabric has a soothing texture or wearing a character’s gloves provides nice pressure. Take note so these elements can be incorporated.

Gradually acclimate until you can comfortably wear the costume for the duration of the Halloween party. This rehearsal time lets you smooth out any lingering issues beforehand. Showing up prepared and accustomed to your costume will help you feel more at ease.

On Halloween, Focus on Enjoying Yourself

When looking for a Halloween costume, remember it's mostly about just having a great time.With the proper planning and support in place, you’ll be ready to have fun showing off your costume on Halloween! Remember to be gentle with yourself throughout the experience. Don’t worry about perfection – the priority is enjoying yourself.

Use strategies at the party like taking sensory breaks and connecting with your supportive friends. Stimming openly can also help provide comfort and focus. Above all, listen to your needs.

By tapping into your interests for inspiration, optimizing for sensory needs, and utilizing your support system, finding autism-friendly Halloween costumes for adults can be manageable and gratifying. 

Approach it step-by-step and the end result will be an opportunity for awesome self-expression!

Focus on Enjoying the Party

Most importantly, remember that your costume should help you feel happy and confident at the Halloween party. If an aspect of your outfit is causing distress, ditch it. Autistic adults already stretch themselves in social situations – your costume shouldn’t add unnecessary strain.

With the right modifications and choice of costume, you can have an enjoyable time at the party without extra worries. Use your special interests to inspire a personalized costume that fits your comfort needs.

Shop strategically and get creative with tweaks. With the proper costume that is autism-friendly (whether for an adult or a child), you’ll feel ready to mingle, show off your look, and have fun!

More Halloween-Related Blogs for Individuals with Autism

I’ve written other blogs about Halloween and enjoying the holiday safely and comfortably when you have autism.  Check them out:

You might also be interested in the following articles:

Misconceptions That Lead To Autism Stigmas and Stereotypes

Learn more about stigmas and stereotypes that autistics face:

Picture of Connor McClure

Connor McClure

I'm a young adult navigating life with autism. By sharing my experiences and views, I hope to create a better awareness, understanding, and compassion for those on the spectrum. Let's connect!
All Posts »