Few fictional characters have gone through a style revolution quite as dramatic as Harley Quinn's. First introduced during a 1992 episode of Batman: The Animated Series, the Joker's girlfriend soon began to appear in comic books and video games, and as her character evolved, so did her trademark look. By the time Harley Quinn made her live-action cinematic debut in 2016's Suicide Squad, she was one of the most popular anti-heroes in the DC Extended Universe... and Harley Quinn Halloween costumes have been everywhere ever since. And if you're looking to wear a DIY Harley Quinn costume this year, then we have plenty of ideas to get you started.
Like many pop culture-inspired costumes, there isn't just one way to dress up as Dr. Harleen Quinzel. Yes, you can recreate her ever-popular Suicide Squad ensemble, but we've got DIY costume ideas inspired by her comic, TV show, and video game appearances (as well as her other movie roles) that you can shop as well.
Dressing as Harley is the perfect Halloween costume for women who are heading out solo, but since she has so many different looks, you can easily find inspiration for a best friend ensemble or group getup. And, of course, if you have someone special in your life, then you can recruit them to dress up as the Joker for a fun couples costume.
Whether you're hoping to put together an elaborate costume or something simple and last-minute, then there's a Harley Quinn-inspired idea out there for you, and we've rounded up all the best.
DIY Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad
Probably the most well-known Harley Quinn costume out there, this outfit was debuted by Margot Robbie in the 2016 film Suicide Squad, and recreating it only involves a few key pieces (plus, the jacket is optional).
Suicide Squad Costume Essentials
CosInStyle Red and Blue Jacket
ICEYOU Daddy's Lil Monster Shirt
HDE Red and Blue Shorts
EVERSWE Fishnet Tights
DIY Harley Quinn in Birds of Prey
In 2020's Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn, Harley reinvents herself significantly after breaking things off with the Joker. And while she has tons of great looks in the movie, her best outfit has got to be the one with her iconic fringe jacket, which you can DIY with caution tape if you're feeling creative!
Birds of Prey Costume Essentials
Bioworld Fringe Jacket
MISSACTIVER Pink Tank
Conceited Pinstripe Shorts
DIY Harley Quinn in The Suicide Squad
Though still a free and single woman, Harley's look in 2021's The Suicide Squad is more in tune with her trademark style, complete with a red-and-black color scheme and diamond accents.
The Suicide Squad Costume Essentials
Underboss Two-Tone Corset
Spirit Halloween Moto Jacket
Kanora Two-Tone Leggings
1Storm Motorcycle Goggles
DIY Harley Quinn in Batman: The Animated Series
When Harley debuted as Joker's sidekick in Batman: The Animated Series, she sported her iconic court jester jumpsuit. The outfit was also used in Batman: Harley Quinn and other comics inspired by the animated series, and going with this look is a perfect nod to her origins.
Batman: The Animated Series Costume Essentials
Xcoser Jester Hat
Sumind Red and Black Gloves
DIY Harley Quinn in Batman: Arkham Asylum
First introduced in 2011, the Batman: Arkham video game series took Harley out of her harlequin jumpsuit for the first time and put her in a nurse's outfit, which was then accessorized with a leather corset and clown-like makeup.
Batman: Arkham Asylum Costume Essentials
Hauntlook Nurse Costume
DIY Harley Quinn in Batman: Arkham City
If you want to go with the look Harley wore in the second Batman: Arkham video game installment, then you'll need to stick to a maroon-and-black color scheme with plenty of leather accessories and — of course — pigtails and clown makeup.
Batman: Arkham City Costume Essentials
mwbay Two-Tone Leggings
DIY Harley Quinn in Batman: Arkham Knight
For the final installment in the Batman: Arkham video game trilogy, Harley changed things up with a skirt, red and black arm sleeves and red and black leggings. She also traded in her trademark mallet for a bat, which will definitely be a little less cumbersome for you to carry around if you decide to go all out.
Batman: Arkham Knight Costume Essentials
Shimaly Black Skirt
DIY Harley Quinn in a Wedding Dress
If you want a Harley Quinn costume that's really unique, then you can go with this look inspired by a photo from the David Ayer cut of Suicide Squad. The photo shows Margot Robbie's Harley sporting a wedding dress accented with the same red and blue as her pigtails, and while fans have yet to see the scene inspired by the outfit, it will definitely make for an incredibly fun Halloween costume.
Wedding Dress Costume Essentials
Achoulei White Bouquet
