Halloween Costume Size Guide for Kids: How to Pick the Right Fit
A costume that is too small rides up, splits at the seams or won't zip. One that is too big trips your kid on the stairs. Kids' costume sizes look simple, but they are not the same from one brand to the next. Here is how to get it right the first time.
Why age is only a starting point
Most kids' costumes are sold in age ranges, such as Small (5 to 7), Medium (8 to 10) and Large (10 to 12). Those ranges guess at an average kid. Your kid may be taller, shorter, broader or slimmer than that.
That's why the best listings also give a height range for each size. For example, one glow-in-the-dark skeleton costume lists 9 to 11 years for kids 54 to 57 inches tall, and 12 to 13 years for 58 to 62 inches. A blow-up dinosaur costume lists its 7 to 10 size for kids up to about 59 inches.
If a listing gives height, trust height over age.
How to measure your kid
You only need a tape measure and two minutes.
- Height. Have them stand against a wall with no shoes. Mark the top of their head and measure from the floor.
- Chest. Measure around the widest part of the chest, under the arms.
- Torso, for jumpsuits. Measure from the top of one shoulder, down between the legs, and back up to the same shoulder. A one-piece suit that is short here will pull, even if the height is right.
Write the numbers down and compare them with the size chart on the listing, not just the size name.
When to size up
Go one size up if any of these are true:
- They're between two sizes. A costume that's a bit long can be rolled or pinned. One that's too short can't be fixed.
- They'll wear a coat or warm layer underneath. Late October can be cold. A layer under a snug jumpsuit takes up real room.
- It's a one-piece jumpsuit. These are less forgiving than a top and pants.
- You want it to last. A slightly big costume can be worn again for dress-up or next Halloween.
Don't size up more than one step, though. Long sleeves and legs get stepped on, and loose masks slip over their eyes.
Sizes for 10, 11 and 12 year olds
This is the age where shopping gets hard. Many costume lines stop at 10 or 12, and adult sizes are still too big.
- 10 year olds usually fall in a Medium (8 to 10) or Large (10 to 12). Check height to choose.
- 11 year olds are usually a Large (10 to 12). Tall 11 year olds may need an XL (12 to 14).
- 12 year olds are often at the top of kids' sizes. Look for lines that go to 14 or 16.
Our top pick, the Spooktacular Creations ninja costume, runs from 3T all the way up to XXL (14 to 16 years), which helps for tall kids and for siblings of different ages who want to match.
Masks, hats and gloves
Headpieces and gloves are often one size. Check that a mask has an elastic strap or a hood that can be adjusted. A mask that won't stay put will end up in the candy bag by the third house. If your kid wears glasses, a hood or cape is often easier than a full mask.
A quick checklist
- Measure height, chest and torso.
- Compare with the listing's size chart, not just the age label.
- Size up one step for a coat, a jumpsuit or a growth spurt.
- Check what headwear and gloves come with it.
- Check the care instructions before the big night.
For five costumes compared on size range, washing and batteries, see our best Halloween costumes for kids comparison.