Halloween has always been one of my favourite times to slow down and get creative. Instead of store bought costumes, I love bringing characters to life with a mix of vintage finds, thrifted treasures, and hand sewn details. Here’s a little trip down memory lane featuring some of my favourite past costumes.

ELSA - ICE QUEEN SPARKLE

Shimmering blue satin and a crystal snowflake cape, this look captured the magic of a certain ice queen. A hand sewn bodice and sparkling overlay made it feel extra special. The best part? Many of the fabrics were leftover scraps, proving that a little imagination can turn remnants into royalty.

Slow Stitch Tip: Save sheer fabrics and tulle off cuts. Layering them creates instant “frozen” sparkle without buying new materials.

QUEEN BEE - REGAL AND BOLD

This costume was a statement piece: layers of glittered tulle, bold yellow and black stripes, and a dramatic crown fit for a queen. The wings were fashioned from repurposed netting and wire, giving the look a handcrafted, one-of-a-kind buzz.

Slow Stitch Tip: Don’t be afraid to combine unexpected textures - netting, glitter, wire - when creating show stopping accessories.

I LOVE LUCY - CLASSIC TV CHARM

Channeling Lucille Ball’s iconic red hair and vintage housewife style was pure retro fun. An old pink dress and apron, paired with victory rolls and a bold red lip, made this look instantly recognizable and timeless.

Slow Stitch Tip: Thrift a vintage-style dress or make your own polka-dot print. Add a simple apron for the perfect “Lucy in the kitchen” touch.

RAGGEDY ANN - WHIMSICAL AND SWEET

With her trademark red yarn hair and a classic pinafore, Raggedy Ann brought childhood nostalgia to life. A blue dress and crisp white apron, both pieced together from thrifted fabric, captured her timeless charm.

Slow Stitch Tip: Red yarn makes the perfect stand-in for Raggedy Ann’s iconic hair. Simply braid or knot strands into a wig cap or beanie. 

VICTORIAN GOTH

Dark lace, high collars, and vintage silhouettes came together for a romantic yet haunting vibe. Sourcing second hand lace and reworking old garments gave this look a slow-fashion edge.

Slow Stitch Tip: Thrifted blouses with interesting collars or cuffs can be reimagined with a bit of dye and creative layering.

VICTORIAN WITCH

Taking the Victorian aesthetic into witchy territory meant plenty of draped black fabrics with ruffles and lace. A vintage hat base was re-covered in lace and tulle for the perfect gothic accessory.

Slow Stitch Tip: Old hats are a blank canvas - add lace, feathers, or beading to instantly elevate them into costume pieces.

WHY I LOVE A HANDMADE HALLOWEEN

Each costume tells a story: fabrics rescued from the scrap bin, thrifted garments reimagined, and hours of slow, mindful making. Halloween becomes less about quick consumption and more about creating memories, and costumes, that last. If you’re planning your own costume this year, start by looking at what you already have. The most enchanting looks often come from what’s hiding in your fabric stash or local thrift store.

Happy Sewing until next Sunday,