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25+ Work & School Appropriate Halloween Costumes for Women You Can DIY Last Minute

ashlina kaposta October 5, 2026

It's the night before Halloween. You just got the email (or the text from your kid's teacher, or the reminder in the staff group chat) that tomorrow is costume day. And you have absolutely nothing planned.

Been there. As a busy mom, my Halloween energy usually goes straight into my son's costume. By the time I think about myself, it's 10 p.m. and the stores are picked over. So I've gotten really good at pulling a costume together from what's already hanging in my closet.

That's exactly what this post is for. Below you'll find 25+ easy DIY Halloween costumes you can wear to work, all put together last minute with clothes you probably already own. They're comfortable enough for a full workday, office-friendly, and still easy to wear to school drop-off, the trunk-or-treat, or trick-or-treating with your kids that night.

Whether you work in an office, from your kitchen table on Zoom, or you're running around all day as a busy mom, there's something here for you.

What Makes a Halloween Costume Work-Appropriate?

Before you start digging through your closet, run your idea through these quick checks. A good work costume is fun, recognizable, and still lets you do your job.

  • You can sit, walk, and work in it. If you'd have to take it off to type, drive, or do school pickup, skip it.

  • No masks that cover your face. Many offices and almost every school ban them. Face paint should be light enough that you're still recognizable.

  • Coverage matches your normal dress code. A good rule: if you wouldn't wear the hemline or neckline on a regular Tuesday, don't wear it on Halloween.

  • Nothing gory, political, or culturally insensitive. Fake weapons, blood, and costumes based on someone's culture or religion are a no at work.

  • It's quick to explain. The best office costumes get a laugh in one sentence: "I'm a smart cookie."

  • It comes off easily. If you have a client meeting at 2 p.m., you want ears or a sash you can slip off, not a full-body suit.

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25+ Easy DIY Halloween Costumes You Can Wear to School or Work

Every costume below can be built on top of your regular work clothes, put together in about 15 minutes, and taken off in seconds when you need to look professional again. Most use things you already have at home.

01 | Copy Cat

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This is one of the easiest pun costumes out there, and it gets a laugh every time. You just need a white T-shirt that says "COPY," cat ears, and a few eyeliner whiskers. It's a hit by the office copier, and kids in the classroom think it's hilarious once they get the joke.

To make it work and school appropriate, wear the shirt with jeans, black leggings, or black pants instead of as a T-shirt dress. Black and white sneakers tie the whole look together and keep you comfortable all day.

You'll need: plain white T-shirt, black iron-on letters or a black fabric marker, cat ears headband, black eyeliner, jeans or black leggings, black and white sneakers.

02 | Where’s Waldo

tutorial via Facebook . com

Where's Waldo is one of those costumes everyone recognizes instantly, and it's basically an outfit you'd wear on a casual Friday anyway. A red and white striped top, jeans, round glasses, and a red pom-pom beanie are all it takes. Spend the day popping up in the background of everyone's photos, or hide in the hallway and let your students or coworkers find you.

It's completely work and school appropriate as is. A long-sleeve striped top and fitted jeans keep it comfortable for a full day, and ankle boots or sneakers make it easy to go from the office or classroom straight to trick-or-treating.

You'll need: red and white striped long-sleeve top, jeans, round glasses (costume frames or your own), red beanie with a pom-pom, brown boots or comfortable shoes.

Mom tip: Dress your kids as Waldo too, and turn trick-or-treating into a real-life game of "find the Waldos." It's adorable in family photos and makes it easier to spot your little ones in a crowd.

03 | Cartoon Robber

The classic cartoon robber is fun, playful, and made almost entirely from basics you already own. A black and white striped top, black leggings or pants, a black beanie, and a white pillowcase "loot bag" slung over your shoulder are all you need. Draw a big dollar sign on the bag, or fill it with candy to hand out and call yourself the candy bandit.

To keep it work and school appropriate, go with a simple black eye mask that leaves your face visible, or skip the mask and draw one on with black eyeliner. Many schools ask adults not to wear masks, so the eyeliner version is a safe bet for the classroom. Sneakers keep you comfortable all day.

You'll need: black and white striped top, black leggings or pants, black beanie, black eye mask or black eyeliner, white pillowcase, black marker, sneakers.

04 | Crazy Cat Lady

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This might be the comfiest costume on the list, and it's guaranteed to make everyone laugh. Throw on a fuzzy bathrobe and pajama pants, pin a few stuffed cats to your robe and shoulder, roll your hair in curlers, and carry a big mug of coffee all day. If you have a cat-print robe or a "cat lady" mug, even better.

To keep it work and school appropriate, wear a T-shirt or long-sleeve top under the robe and keep it tied. Pajama pants or leggings keep you covered and cozy, and you can swap slippers for flats or sneakers if you'll be walking a lot or doing recess duty. Bonus: you can take the robe off for a meeting and you're back in regular clothes.

You'll need: bathrobe, pajama pants or leggings, a T-shirt or top, 3 to 4 small stuffed cats, safety pins, hair curlers, a big coffee mug, slippers or comfy shoes.

Mom tip: Raid your kids' stuffed animal collection for the cats. Better yet, let your little one dress as a kitten and be one of your "cats" for trick-or-treating.

05 | Cool Mom from Mean Girls

The ‘cool mom’ costume from Mean Girls movie. Every mom over a certain age remembers Regina George's mom, the self-proclaimed "cool mom" in her pink velour tracksuit. It's a costume that's comfy, nostalgic, and an instant crowd-pleaser with the other parents at school drop-off. Grab a pink matching set, big sunglasses, a small stuffed dog, and an old-school camcorder (or your phone) to film everything.

To keep it work and school appropriate, choose a full-length jacket or wear a fitted tee under a cropped one. The tracksuit is basically loungewear, so it's easy to wear all day, and white sneakers keep you comfortable from drop-off to the office to trick-or-treating. Add a "Cool Mom" iron-on patch or embroidered lettering if you want the joke to land faster.

You'll need: pink velour or fleece tracksuit (or any pink matching set), white sneakers, oversized sunglasses, small stuffed dog, a camcorder or phone, optional "Cool Mom" iron-on letters.

Mom tip: Wear it to the school Halloween parade and "film" your kid's class the whole time. The other parents will love it, and you'll actually get great videos of your little one.

06 | Cute (Not Scary) Witch

31 Work & School Appropriate Halloween Costumes You Can DIY Last Minute

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The witch is a Halloween classic for a reason, and this version is all charm and no scare. A black turtleneck, black leggings, a black tulle tutu, and a witch hat are all it takes. Add a long beaded necklace and black ankle boots, and you've got a look that's festive, flattering, and perfect for a classroom full of little ones.

It's work and school appropriate as is, because the leggings keep you fully covered under the tutu and the turtleneck keeps it polished. Skip the green face paint and fake warts so it stays friendly for younger kids. If the hat gets in the way while you teach or sit at your desk, set it aside and the outfit still reads as festive all day.

You'll need: black turtleneck or long-sleeve top, black leggings, black tulle tutu or skirt, witch hat, long necklace, black ankle boots or flats.

Mom tip: Turn your little one into a matching mini witch or a black cat, and you've got an easy mom-and-me costume for the school parade and trick-or-treating.

07 | The Cat in the Hat

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This Dr. Seuss favorite is a total hit with kids, and it's surprisingly easy to put together from basics. Start with a black T-shirt and black leggings or jeans, then add a big red bow at your neck, a mini red and white striped top hat on a headband, and red and white striped knee socks. A little black eyeliner on the nose and a few whiskers finish the look.

It's work and school appropriate as is, because the black base keeps it simple and fully covered. The mini hat stays put all day without getting in the way, and sneakers make it easy to sit on the reading rug or walk the halls. Bring the book along for a Halloween read-aloud, and your students will be over the moon.

You'll need: black T-shirt, black leggings or jeans, red bow (felt, ribbon, or a hair bow), mini striped top hat headband, red and white striped knee socks, black sneakers, black eyeliner, optional cat ears.

Mom tip: Dress your kids as Thing 1 and Thing 2 in red shirts and fuzzy blue wigs. It's one of the cutest mom-and-kid group costumes for the school parade and trick-or-treating.

08 | Little Red Riding Hood

31 Work & School Appropriate Halloween Costumes for Women You Can DIY Last Minute

@theruralheadteacher

Little Red Riding Hood is a sweet, storybook costume that's elegant enough for the office and magical for kids. Pair a white blouse with a red midi skirt, cinch your waist with a wide black belt or sash, and top it all off with a red hooded cape. Carry a little wicker basket (fill it with candy or muffins to share), and you're ready to head to Grandma's house.

It's work and school appropriate as is, thanks to the midi length and full coverage. The cape slips off easily when you're at your desk or teaching, and a pair of red flats or loafers will keep you comfortable on your feet all day. Add white ankle socks for a playful, storybook touch.

You'll need: white blouse, red midi skirt, wide black belt or sash, red hooded cape, wicker basket, red flats or heels, optional white ankle socks.

09 | Rachel the Central Perk Waitress (Friends)

31 Work & School Appropriate Halloween Costumes for Women You Can DIY Last Minute

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If you grew up watching Friends, this one's for you. Rachel's Central Perk waitress look is easy, recognizable, and a fun nod to the '90s that your coworkers (and fellow moms) will love. All you need is a black long-sleeve top, a black skirt, a white waist apron with a homemade Central Perk logo, and an oversized coffee mug that never leaves your hand.

To keep it work and school appropriate, wear opaque black tights or leggings under your skirt, or swap the skirt for black pants. Black boots or flats keep you comfortable all day. The apron does all the work here, so the rest of your outfit can be regular work clothes.

You'll need: black long-sleeve top, black skirt or pants, black opaque tights, plain white waist apron, red, green, and black fabric markers, oversized coffee mug, black boots or flats.

Mom tip: Let your kids help color in the Central Perk logo on the apron. It turns your costume into a fun craft night, and they'll be so proud to say they helped make it.

10 | Holly Golightly, Just Woke Up (Breakfast at Tiffany's)

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Everyone knows Holly Golightly's little black dress, but her "just woke up" look is the comfier, cuter, and more unexpected version. It's an oversized white button-down shirt, a turquoise sleep mask with gold eyelashes pushed up on your head, statement tassel earrings, and her orange tabby, Cat, tucked under your arm. Classic, effortless, and very Audrey.

To keep it work and school appropriate, wear the shirt over white leggings, white jeans, or wide-leg pants instead of on its own. Belt it at the waist if you want a more polished shape. Swap the heels for nude flats or loafers, and you can wear this comfortably from your morning meeting to trick-or-treating.

You'll need: oversized white button-down shirt, white leggings or pants, turquoise sleep mask (add gold eyelashes with paint or ribbon), tassel or statement earrings, a stuffed orange tabby cat, nude flats or sandals.

Mom tip: Borrow an orange stuffed cat from your kids' toy bin, or let your little one dress as Cat in an orange outfit and cat ears. It's the cutest mom-and-me twist on a classic.

11 | Miss Universe

This clever pun costume is glamorous, funny, and so easy to DIY. Start with a black dress (sequins if you have one), then pin on colorful planets cut from felt or cardstock, plus a few gold stars. Add a "Miss Universe" sash, a sparkly tiara, and a bouquet of flowers, and you're ready to wave to your adoring fans all day.

To keep it work and school appropriate, choose a black dress that hits at or below the knee, or wear opaque black tights or leggings underneath. Swap the heels for silver or black flats if you'll be on your feet. Teachers, this one is perfect for slipping in a quick solar system lesson, and the kids can help you name every planet on your dress.

You'll need: black dress, felt or cardstock in bright colors, gold star stickers or cutouts, safety pins or fabric glue, a white sash with "Miss Universe" written in marker or iron-on letters, tiara, bouquet of flowers (real or faux), flats or heels.

Mom tip: Have your kids help cut out and color the planets.

12 | The Tooth Fairy

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Who better to dress as the Tooth Fairy than the moms and teachers who've helped with a hundred wiggly teeth? Start with a light blue T-shirt with a smiling tooth on the front (iron-on, fabric paint, or a white felt cutout all work), then add a white tulle tutu, a sparkly crown with toothbrushes glued on, and a giant toothbrush "wand." Fairy wings and a handful of gold coins finish the look.

To keep it work and school appropriate, wear white or light-colored leggings under the tutu. The T-shirt keeps it comfy and casual, and the wings slip off easily when you sit at your desk. Kids absolutely love this one, especially the ones who just lost a tooth.

You'll need: light blue T-shirt, white felt or iron-on tooth design, black fabric marker, white tulle tutu, white or light leggings, tiara or crown, a few toothbrushes and hot glue, a giant toothbrush (or a toothbrush taped to a stick), fairy wings, gold chocolate coins.

13 | A French Artist

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The artist costume is creative, colorful, and one of the easiest to DIY from things around the house. Splatter an old white button-down shirt or lab coat with acrylic or fabric paint, throw it over jeans and a simple top, and add a beret and a paint palette. Tuck a paintbrush behind your ear (or hold it in your teeth for photos) and a swipe of red lipstick finishes the look.

It's work and school appropriate as is, since the long coat or shirt layers right over your regular clothes. Let the paint dry completely the night before so nothing rubs off on your desk or car seat. Make the palette from cardboard and paint dabs, or use a cheap watercolor set hung on a string so you can "paint" all day.

You'll need: old white button-down shirt or lab coat, acrylic or fabric paint, jeans, a white or neutral top, beret, paintbrush, a cardboard palette or watercolor set, red lipstick.

Mom tip: Let your kids do the paint splattering. It's a fun messy craft the night before, and they'll love seeing their artwork on your costume all day.

14 | "This Is Fine" Dog Meme

via bored panda

If you've ever smiled through a chaotic Monday, a full inbox, or a classroom of kids on a sugar high, this costume is for you. It's based on the famous "This Is Fine" meme of a calm little dog sipping coffee while everything around him is on fire. Wear a white top under a black jumper or dress, pin on flames cut from felt or cardboard, and carry a coffee mug and a "This is fine." speech bubble sign.

To keep it work and school appropriate, wear black tights or leggings under the jumper, or pair a black vest with black pants instead. Floppy dog ears (black felt or yarn on a headband), a mini bowler hat, and a drawn-on nose with a few freckle dots finish the look. Every mom and teacher who sees you will feel seen.

You'll need: white long-sleeve top, black jumper, dress, or vest, black tights or pants, orange and yellow felt or painted cardboard flames, safety pins or hot glue, black felt or yarn dog ears on a headband, mini black hat, black eyeliner, coffee mug, white cardstock speech bubble on a stick, black flats.

15 | Hanging Plant

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Calling all plant moms! This hanging plant costume is clever, unexpected, and made with things you can grab at the dollar store or craft store. Wear a terracotta or rust-colored outfit to look like the pot, drape a faux pothos or ivy garland around your neckline so the vines spill down your front, and attach a plant hanger hook to a headband so it looks like you're hanging from the ceiling. Carry a watering can and you're all set.

To keep it work and school appropriate, wear a rust or terracotta top with a matching midi skirt or wide-leg pants, and pin the garland over the top instead of wearing it on its own. A plain T-shirt or cami underneath keeps you covered. Teachers, this one comes with a built-in pun: you're helping young minds grow.

You'll need: terracotta or rust-colored top and midi skirt or pants, faux pothos or ivy garland, safety pins, a headband, a plant hanger hook (or a hook shaped from a wire hanger or pipe cleaners), hot glue or tape, a watering can.

16 | Magic 8 ball

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The Magic 8 Ball is a fun, nostalgic costume that takes about 10 minutes and gets everyone talking. Wear an all-black outfit, pin a white felt or paper circle with a big black "8" on the front, and hang a blue triangle that says "Signs Point to Yes" from a necklace. That's it!

It's easy to make work and school appropriate. Choose an opaque black top or sweater with black pants or leggings, and skip anything sheer. To make it interactive, cut out a few extra triangles with different answers like "Ask Again Later," "Outlook Good," and "Don't Count On It," and flip them throughout the day. Students and coworkers will line up to ask you questions.

You'll need: black top and black pants or leggings, white felt or cardstock, black marker or felt for the "8," blue cardstock, white paint pen or marker, a necklace or string, safety pins or double-sided tape.

17 | Ice Cream Sundae

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Sweet, simple, and impossible not to smile at, the ice cream sundae is a favorite with kids and grown-ups alike. Take an oversized white T-shirt, cut a drippy "hot fudge" shape from brown felt and glue it around the neckline and shoulders, then add colorful felt or ribbon sprinkles all over. Top it off with a cherry on a headband, and you're the sweetest one in the building.

To keep it work and school appropriate, wear the shirt over jeans, white pants, or leggings instead of as a dress, and tuck or knot it if it's very long. Brown boots or sneakers keep it comfy all day. No sewing needed, and fabric glue or hot glue holds everything in place.

You'll need: oversized white T-shirt, brown felt, colorful felt or ribbon scraps for sprinkles, fabric glue or hot glue, a headband, a red pom-pom or small red ball for the cherry, a green pipe cleaner for the stem, jeans or leggings, brown boots or sneakers.

18 | If You Give a Mouse a Cookie

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This storybook costume is adorable, comfy, and a total win in the classroom. Based on the beloved children's book, all you need is a pair of denim overalls, a white T-shirt, gray mouse ears, and a big chocolate chip cookie cut from cardboard. Draw on a little mouse nose and whiskers, and you're ready to ask everyone for a glass of milk.

It's work and school appropriate as is, since overalls and a tee are about as comfortable and covered as it gets. Sneakers make it easy to sit on the reading rug or chase kids at recess. Teachers, pair it with a read-aloud of the book, and your students will be giggling all day.

You'll need: denim overalls, white T-shirt, gray mouse ears headband, black eyeliner, a piece of cardboard, brown marker or paint, sneakers.

19 | Chef’s Kiss

This pun costume is cute, clever, and so easy to pull together. Grab a white apron and a chef's hat, then cover the apron in red lipstick kisses (press your lips right onto the fabric, or use a lip-shaped sponge and red fabric paint). Add a few kiss marks on your cheek with lipstick, and you're literally a chef's kiss.

To keep it work and school appropriate, wear the apron over a red or white top with sleeves and jeans or black pants. Keep the cheek kisses small and playful, and swap the wine glass for a coffee mug or a wooden spoon. The apron and hat come off in seconds if you have a meeting.

You'll need: white apron, chef's hat, red lipstick or red fabric paint and a lip-shaped sponge, a red or white top, jeans or black pants, a coffee mug or wooden spoon.

20 | The Devil Wears Prada

This is the chicest pun costume on the list, and every woman who loves the movie will get it instantly. Wear an all-black outfit with "PRADA" across the front in white iron-on letters or fabric paint, then add a red devil horns headband. Red tinted sunglasses, a red leather jacket, and black boots make it feel effortlessly fashion-forward.

To keep it work and school appropriate, use a black T-shirt or fitted sweater with black pants or a knee-length black skirt instead of a mini dress. Keep the jacket on or over your shoulders, and you'll look polished enough for a client meeting. The horns come off in a second, and you're back to your regular chic self.

You'll need: black top or dress, white iron-on letters or white fabric paint, black pants or a knee-length skirt, red devil horns headband, red tinted sunglasses, red jacket, black boots or flats.

21 | Tea Bag

teabag costume halloween for women

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This tea bag costume is simple, unexpected, and so cute for anyone who runs on tea. Wear a cream or white shift dress or tunic, fold a strip of matching fabric or paper over the neckline like the top of a tea bag, and run a white string down the front to a cardstock tag. Write your favorite tea flavor on the tag, or go with a fun pun like "Spill the Tea." A mini teapot or teacup on a headband is the perfect finishing touch.

To keep it work and school appropriate, choose a knee-length dress or wear the tunic over white or nude leggings or light pants. Comfy flats keep you on your feet all day. Teachers, this one comes with a built-in pun: write "Tea-cher" on your tag.

You'll need: cream or white shift dress or tunic, extra white fabric or paper for the folded top, white string or yarn, cardstock for the tag, markers, safety pins or tape, a mini teapot or teacup headband (or glue a small toy teacup to a headband), leggings or pants, flats.

22 | Dark and Stormy

rain cloud costume

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This dreamy pun costume is one of the prettiest on the list. Wear an all-black outfit (that's the "dark"), then turn an umbrella into a storm cloud by hot gluing fluffy polyester stuffing over the top. Hang paper or felt raindrops from the edges with clear fishing line, and weave in a strand of battery-powered fairy lights for a little lightning sparkle.

To keep it work and school appropriate, choose a black long-sleeve top with black pants or a black maxi dress. The umbrella is easy to set aside at your desk or in the corner of your classroom, and it makes a gorgeous photo prop. If you want something smaller for the whole day, glue a mini cloud and a few raindrops onto a headband instead. Teachers, it's the perfect excuse for a quick weather lesson.

You'll need: black top and black pants or a black maxi dress, a black or clear umbrella, polyester fiberfill stuffing, hot glue, blue and white cardstock or felt for raindrops, clear fishing line or string, battery-powered fairy lights, optional headband.

23 | "But That's None of My Business" Meme

31 Work & School Appropriate Halloween Costumes for Women You Can DIY Last Minute

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If you're the friend (or coworker) who always knows the tea but never spills it, this costume is for you. It's based on the famous meme of Kermit the Frog sipping tea with a side-eye. Wear a green turtleneck or sweater, add a pointed green felt collar around your neck, and carry a mug of tea and a sign that says "...But that's none of my business." Sip and side-eye all day.

It's work and school appropriate as is, since it's basically a green sweater and pants. Swap any party cup for a real teacup or mug with a tea bag tag hanging over the side for the full effect. Hang the sign around your neck with ribbon so your hands are free, and just hold it up for the perfect moment in the staff meeting.

You'll need: green turtleneck or sweater, black or green pants, green felt (sparkly felt is fun) for the pointed collar, safety pins or fabric glue, white poster board, black marker, ribbon or string, a teacup or mug and a tea bag.

24 | Identity thief

Identity thief costume

This pun costume is a guaranteed laugh at the office, and it's one of the cheapest on the list. Wear a black top and dark jeans, then cover your shirt in "Hello, My Name Is" name tags, each with a different name. Add a black beanie, black gloves, and a little "loot" bag, and you've officially stolen everyone's identity.

To keep it work and school appropriate, skip the eye mask or draw one on lightly with black eyeliner, since many schools ask adults not to cover their faces. Teachers, write your students' names on the tags and watch them hunt for their own all day. In the office, use your coworkers' names for an instant icebreaker.

You'll need: black top, dark jeans or black pants, a pack of "Hello, My Name Is" name tag stickers, a marker, black beanie, black gloves, a small bag, optional eye mask or black eyeliner, sneakers.

25 | Goldfish in a Bag

Remember winning a goldfish at the county fair? This costume brings that memory to life, and it's one of the most creative last-minute ideas out there. Wear a light blue top (tie-dye or watercolor blue looks like water), pin or glue an orange felt goldfish on the front, and drape a clear plastic sheet over everything, gathered and tied at one shoulder like a carnival prize bag. Carry a little bucket to complete the look.

To keep it work and school appropriate, wear a blue T-shirt or long-sleeve top with jeans or white pants instead of a short dress. Use a clear vinyl poncho or a cut-open clear bag worn loosely like a cape, so it's comfortable and easy to take off. Keep the plastic out of reach of little ones in the classroom, and tie it with a ribbon instead of a rubber band so it slips right off.

You'll need: light blue or tie-dye top, jeans or white pants, orange felt or printed goldfish, safety pins or fabric glue, clear vinyl poncho or large clear plastic bag, ribbon, small bucket, blue or white shoes.

How to Pull Off a School/Work Costume in 15 Minutes

When you're short on time, a little strategy goes a long way. Here's how I put together a last-minute costume without stress.

  1. Start with your closet, not the store. Pull out every solid-colored piece you own, especially black, white, denim, and anything bright. Most costumes start with a solid base.

  2. Pick one "signature" detail. A costume reads clearly when it has one recognizable element: ears, a sign, a prop, or a bold lip. You don't need ten pieces.

  3. Raid your kid's craft bin. Construction paper, markers, pipe cleaners, tape, and safety pins can make almost every costume on this list.

  4. Check the dollar store or drugstore on the way to work. Cat ears, sunglasses, headbands, and face paint are usually there, even on October 31st.

  5. Use makeup as your costume. Eyeliner whiskers, freckles, a red lip, or a little shimmer can turn a plain outfit into a character.

  6. Make it removable. Add the costume pieces on top of normal work clothes so you can take them off for meetings or the drive home.

  7. Have a one-line explanation ready. If coworkers have to ask what you are, your answer should be quick and fun.

Pro tip: put a small Halloween kit together this year (ears, a headband, face paint, and safety pins) and keep it in a bin with your decorations. Next October, you'll thank yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a work-appropriate Halloween costume?

A work-appropriate costume follows your normal dress code for coverage, lets you do your job comfortably, and avoids anything gory, revealing, political, or culturally insensitive. Masks that cover your face are off-limits at most workplaces.

What can I wear to work on Halloween if I don't have a costume?

Wear your normal work outfit in all black or all orange and add one fun touch, like cat ears, a witch hat, or Halloween earrings. A pun sign like "Error 404: Costume Not Found" also works in a pinch.

How can I make a DIY Halloween costume with clothes I already own?

Start with a solid-colored base outfit (black, white, denim, or one bold color), then add one signature detail like ears, a hat, a sign, or a bold lip. Most of the costumes in this post follow that simple formula.

What are easy last-minute Halloween costumes for moms?

Look for costumes you can layer over everyday clothes and take off in seconds. Ears, hats, scarves, and pun signs work well because you can wear them to the office, school pickup, and trick-or-treating without changing.

Can I wear my work costume trick-or-treating with my kids?

Yes, and that's the beauty of a work-friendly costume. Add a jacket or comfortable shoes and you're ready to walk the neighborhood. Matching your kids is even more fun, so check out my mom and son costume ideas.

Are face paint and makeup okay for work costumes?

Usually, yes, as long as you're still recognizable and it's not too scary. Keep it light, like whiskers, freckles, or a bold lip, and check your workplace policy first.

Final Thoughts

Halloween at work doesn't have to mean a $60 costume or a stressful late-night shopping trip. With a few closet basics, some craft supplies, and a little creativity, you can show up fun, festive, and still totally professional.

My favorite tip? Build your costume on top of your regular work clothes. You'll be festive at the office and ready for trick-or-treating the minute you clock out.

Which one are you going to try? Tell me in the comments. And if you're looking for more Halloween inspiration, don't miss my couples Halloween costumes, mom and son Halloween costumes, and easy DIY Halloween costumes for boys.

Pin this post for later so it's ready the next time costume day sneaks up on you.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

🖤 19 absolutely gorgeous Halloween makeup look ideas

🖤 23+ hot & iconic Halloween costumes for women

🖤 21 adorable kids playhouse Halloween decorating ideas

🖤 14 creative mommy and me Halloween costume ideas

🖤 20 adorable & spooky Halloween coffee bar ideas

🖤 19+ Spooky Chic Halloween coffee table centerpiece ideas

Please feel free to email me at ashlina@thedecorista.com if you have any questions!  I’m always happy to help with decorating, life advice or even picking out a specific perfume!  Have an amazing day!!

Also, check out my Amazon shop HERE to shop all my favorite things, tips and tricks. You can also download the free LIKETOKNOW.IT app and follow me HERE.

STAY IN THE KNOW:  Don’t forget to sign up for my exclusive Love Letters for STYLE TIPS, LIFE ADVICE, COSMIC TEA, AND MUCH MORE!

As always, thank you so much for stopping by today, I truly appreciate all of you! xo, Ashlina

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Venus Retrograde 2026: The Complete Guide for Women Over 40

ashlina kaposta October 5, 2026

Venus goes retrograde from October 3 to November 13, 2026, and especially if you're a woman over 40, this is your invitation to stop settling and start choosing yourself.

Let me be honest with you, bestie. The very first time I heard the words "Venus retrograde," I rolled my eyes. It sounded like one more excuse for an ex to pop up in my DMs at 11:47 p.m. talking about "I've been thinking about you." (We all know that text.)

But then life humbled me. I turned 41 right around the time the whole world shut down. My relationship with my son's father ended, and suddenly I was a single mom starting over. No roadmap. No backup plan. Just me, my little boy, and a whole lot of questions about what I actually wanted my life to look like.

That season forced me to look at everything: how I loved, what I tolerated, how I spent my money, and whether I even believed I deserved more. I used the time to cleanse myself of any old lingering stale energy and started with fresh eyes. Soon after, I got into the best shape of my life, quantum leaped into a new season of expanded income & bought a home for me and my son. And I can tell you that none of it happened until I got brutally honest with myself.

Related Reading: 5 unusual signs you’ve quantum leaped

That's exactly what Venus retrograde asks of us. It's not a curse. It's a mirror.

So whether you're married, divorced, dating, happily single, or somewhere in the messy middle, this guide is for you. We're going to cover what Venus retrograde really is, the 2026 dates you need on your calendar, what each phase means, how it touches your love life, your money and your glow, and exactly what to do (and not do) while it's happening.

Grab your tea, your journal, and your reading glasses if you need them. Let's lock in.

What Is Venus Retrograde, Really?

Venus retrograde is a roughly six-week stretch when Venus appears to move backward in the sky, and astrologers read it as a season to review love, money, beauty and self-worth.

In astrology, Venus rules the things that make life sweet. She's about love and partnership, yes, but she's also about pleasure, beauty, style, values, and money. Most importantly for us, Venus rules self-worth. What you believe you deserve. What you allow. What you walk away from.

Now, Venus isn't actually slamming on the brakes and reversing. From our view here on Earth, the planets' orbits line up in a way that makes Venus look like she's drifting backward for a while. It's an optical illusion, kind of like when you're sitting at a red light and the car next to you rolls forward, and for a second you swear you're rolling back.

But astrologers have long treated that backward look as symbolic. When Venus "reverses," her themes turn inward. Instead of chasing, launching and pursuing, we're asked to pause, review and reflect.

Here's what makes it a big deal: Venus only does this about once every 18 months. Mercury retrograde gets all the attention because it happens three or four times a year. Venus retrograde is rarer, which means the lessons tend to feel deeper and stick around longer.

Think of it as a quarterly review for your heart, except it only comes around every year and a half. You're not being punished. You're being audited. And honey, after 40, we are overdue for an audit.

Venus Retrograde 2026: The Dates to Know

The main retrograde runs October 3 to November 13, 2026, but the full emotional window stretches from August 31 to December 15.

This year, Venus starts her backward walk in deep, intense Scorpio and backs up into fair-minded, peace-loving Libra. Put these on your calendar:

A quick note on "shadow periods": the shadow is the stretch before and after the retrograde when Venus travels over the same degrees she'll retrace. You might feel the themes stirring early, and you might still be processing them into December. That's normal.

If you already felt something shift around the start of September, like an old flame crossing your mind, a sudden urge to overhaul your wardrobe, or a nagging feeling about a relationship, now you know why.

you may also like:

🌹 How to find your souls purpose in your birth chart

Phase One: Venus Retrograde in Scorpio (October 3 to 25)

The Scorpio phase is about truth: what's real in your relationships, what you've been hiding from, and what you're holding onto out of fear.

Scorpio doesn't do surface level. This sign wants to know what's underneath the smile, the "I'm fine," and the relationship that looks perfect on Instagram. When Venus backs through Scorpio, she pulls up the stuff we buried.

The big question for this phase: Am I staying because I love this, or because I'm scared to let go?

That question can apply to so much more than romance. It can be a marriage that feels more like roommates. A friendship where you're always the one reaching out. A job that pays the bills but drains your spirit. A version of yourself you've outgrown but keep performing because it's familiar.

During this phase, you might notice:

  • Jealousy, possessiveness or trust issues bubbling up, in you or in someone else

  • Old wounds from past relationships suddenly feeling fresh again

  • Secrets coming to light, including ones you've been keeping from yourself

  • An intense pull toward someone from your past

  • A desire to finally deal with debt, shared finances, or money you've been avoiding looking at

That last one matters. Scorpio rules shared resources: joint accounts, debt, inheritance, what you owe and what you're owed. If you've been "not looking" at a credit card balance or avoiding a money conversation with your partner, this is when it tends to come knocking.

My advice for the Scorpio weeks? Feel it, but don't act on it yet. Let the truth surface. Write it down. Talk to your therapist or your best friend. But don't send the 2,000-word text, and don't burn anything down. You're gathering information right now, not making final decisions.

Phase Two: Venus Retrograde in Libra (October 25 to November 13)

The Libra phase is about balance: whether your relationships are fair, and whether you're receiving as much as you give.

Once Venus slips back into Libra, the energy softens. Libra is Venus's home sign, so she's more comfortable here. Where Scorpio digs, Libra weighs. Where Scorpio asks "what's true?", Libra asks "what's fair?"

The big question for this phase: Is this relationship balanced, or am I doing all the heavy lifting?

Women over 40, I need you to sit with that one. So many of us were raised to be the fixer, the peacekeeper, the one who holds it all together. We manage the calendars, remember the birthdays, keep the house running, and make sure everybody else is okay. And somewhere in there, we forgot to ask who's taking care of us.

During the Libra weeks, you might notice:

  • Resentment about the mental load you carry at home

  • A stronger need for peace, and less patience for drama

  • Clarity about which relationships feel equal and which feel one-sided

  • A pull to renegotiate agreements, from chores to money splits to boundaries with family

  • A desire to beautify your space and your life in a more intentional way

This is a gentler phase, and it's a beautiful time for honest, calm conversations. Not fights. Conversations. Libra loves diplomacy, so if you need to ask for more support, this is a wonderful window to practice asking with love and without apologizing.

Put the two phases together and you get the full healing arc: first you get honest about what's real (Scorpio), then you rebalance your life around that truth (Libra).

The Double Retrograde: When Mercury Joins the Party

From about October 24 to November 13, Mercury is retrograde at the same time as Venus, which makes it the most relationship-charged stretch of the year.

Here's the simple difference:

  • Mercury retrograde messes with communication: texts, emails, plans, tech, and misunderstandings.

  • Venus retrograde stirs up love, values, money and self-worth.

When they overlap, your heart and your words are both under review. That's when old conversations resurface, exes "just check in," and a simple "we need to talk" can turn into a three-hour conversation about 2019.

I'm not saying hide under your weighted blanket until November. I'm saying be intentional. A few rules I'm personally following during the double retrograde:

  1. Read it twice, send it once. Especially after 9 p.m. Especially if wine is involved.

  2. Sleep on big conversations. If it's important, it'll still be important tomorrow morning.

  3. Double-check the money details. Contracts, bills, subscriptions, and payment dates. Mercury loves a typo.

  4. Assume good intent first. A lot of "attitude" during this window is really just miscommunication.

  5. Say the honest thing, kindly. This is actually a rare chance to clear the air, if you lead with calm instead of heat.

Done right, this window can bring closure you've needed for years. Done wrong, it can bring a whole lot of drama you didn't order. You get to choose which one.

Why Venus Retrograde Hits Different After 40

After 40, Venus retrograde is less about "will he text me back" and more about "is the life I built actually the life I want?"

In our twenties, a lot of us thought love was something that happened to us. We waited to be chosen. We shape-shifted to fit into relationships. We said yes when we meant no because we didn't want to seem "difficult."

But something changes in your 40s. Maybe it's the hormones. Maybe it's the wisdom. Maybe it's that you've finally buried enough dreams to know you don't want to bury any more. Either way, your tolerance for nonsense drops, and your desire for peace goes way up.

That's why this retrograde is such powerful medicine for us. Here's what it tends to stir up for women in this season of life:

  • Reinvention energy. Empty nests, career pivots, divorce, new love, or just waking up one day and saying "I don't know who I am anymore, and I want to find out."

  • Self-worth reckonings. Realizing you've been underpaid, underappreciated, or under-loved, and deciding you're done with that.

  • Body and beauty shifts. Perimenopause, menopause, gray hair, changing skin. Venus asks you to redefine what beautiful means on your own terms.

  • Money wake-up calls. Retirement suddenly feels real. You start asking whether you'd be okay financially if you were on your own.

  • Relationship truth. Whether you're partnered or single, you get clearer about what kind of love you actually want for the second half.

I want you to hear me on this: you are not too old to change your life. Venus retrograde isn't asking you to start over from zero. It's asking you to start over from experience. And that, my friend, is a head start.

Venus Retrograde and Your Money

Venus rules money and values, so this retrograde is a perfect time to review your finances, not to make impulsive purchases.

Most Venus retrograde articles skip right past this part, but you know me. We talk about wealth around here. Venus doesn't just rule who you love. She rules what you value and what you spend on. Your bank statement is basically a love letter to your priorities, and this retrograde is asking you to read it.

Here's how I'd use this window for your money:

  • Do a spending audit. Pull your last three months of statements. Where is your money going? Does it match what you say matters to you?

  • Cancel what you don't love. That streaming service you never watch. The subscription box you forgot about. Venus retrograde is the ultimate declutter season.

  • Revisit your prices or your pay. If you're a business owner, are you undercharging? If you work for someone, is it time to prepare your case for a raise once Venus goes direct?

  • Get honest about shared money. Especially during the Scorpio phase. Know what's in the joint account. Know your debts. Know your own numbers.

  • Hold off on big luxury buys. Traditional astrology says purchases made during Venus retrograde may not feel as good later. That designer bag or new car can probably wait until after November 13.

I learned the hard way that nobody is coming to rescue you financially. When I was starting over, I had to figure it out on my own, and building my own stability became one of the most empowering things I've ever done. Venus retrograde is a beautiful time to start that journey, or to recommit to it.

Think of it this way: self-worth and net worth are connected. When you start valuing yourself more, you stop letting money leak out on things that don't serve you. Lock in on your money this season, and you'll feel the difference by the new year.

Beauty, Style and Your Glow During Venus Retrograde

The classic advice is to avoid dramatic beauty changes during Venus retrograde, and instead focus on the rituals that make you feel good in your own skin.

Venus is the goddess of beauty, so when she goes retrograde, astrologers traditionally warn against big appearance changes. You know the ones: the impulsive bangs, the bold new hair color, the cosmetic procedure you booked on a whim. The idea is that you might not love the results once Venus goes direct and your tastes settle.

But that doesn't mean you have to let yourself go for six weeks. It just means this is a season to refine, not reinvent, your look. Here are some Venus-approved ideas:

  • Revisit old favorites. That perfume you used to love. The lipstick shade that always made you feel powerful. Retrogrades love a comeback.

  • Edit your closet. Try everything on. Keep what makes you feel like the woman you're becoming. Donate what belongs to the woman you used to be.

  • Upgrade your self-care basics. A consistent skincare routine, earlier bedtimes, more water, more movement. Boring? Maybe. Glow-producing? Absolutely.

  • Make peace with your mirror. Instead of picking yourself apart, try naming three things you love about how you look each morning. It feels awkward at first. Do it anyway.

  • Plan, don't book. If you're dreaming of a big change, research it now, save the inspiration photos, and make the appointment for after November 13.

This is the heart of what I teach in The 40+ Glow Code: real glow isn't about chasing your 25-year-old face. It's about the confidence that comes from finally taking care of yourself on purpose. Venus retrograde is the perfect time to build those habits quietly, so you step into the new year looking and feeling like yourself again.

Learn more

Which Venus Retrograde Woman Are You?

Most women feel Venus retrograde in one of four ways, and knowing yours tells you where to put your energy.

Read through these and notice which one makes you say "oh, that's me." (Spoiler: you might be two or three at once. That's normal.)

1. The Woman Getting the Call From Her Past

Someone is back. Maybe it's an ex, an old friend you fell out with, or even a past version of yourself you thought you'd left behind. They're showing up in your dreams, your memories, or your actual phone.

Your work: Pause before you respond. Ask yourself, "Do I miss them, or do I miss who I was back then?" Sometimes people come back to give us closure, not a second chance.

2. The Woman Quietly Questioning Everything

Nothing dramatic has happened. But lately you keep wondering, "Is this it? Am I actually happy?" You're looking at your marriage, your job, or your friendships with brand-new eyes.

Your work: Let the questions breathe. You don't have to make big decisions right now. Just keep noticing, and keep writing it down. The answers will be clearer after November 13.

3. The Woman Reclaiming Her Worth

This one isn't really about anyone else. It's about you finally seeing how much you've been giving and how little you've been asking for in return.

Your work: This is the true gift of Venus retrograde. Pour your energy into rebuilding your self-worth, your boundaries and your standards. When you change what you accept, your relationships have to change with you.

4. The Woman at Peace

Honestly? You feel good. Maybe you're happily single, content in your relationship, or just done with drama. You're watching everybody else spin out while you sip your coffee.

Your work: Enjoy it, and use it. This is a beautiful time to rest, dream and set your intentions for the next chapter. Peace is a gift, so protect it.

Your Venus Retrograde Game Plan: Before, During and After

Prepare during the shadow, review during the retrograde, and act once Venus goes direct.

Before (Now Through October 2)

We're already in the pre-shadow, so this is your prep window. Start a dedicated journal for this season. Notice which people, memories and money worries keep crossing your mind. Get clear on your non-negotiables before emotions run high.

During (October 3 to November 13)

This is review time, not launch time. The golden rule: reflect, don't react.

Do:

  • Journal, reflect and pay attention to your patterns

  • Have honest, calm conversations with the people you love

  • Revisit old creative projects, hobbies or dreams you set aside

  • Review your budget and cancel what you don't value

  • Rest more than usual, because emotional work is real work

  • Reconnect with old friends who genuinely poured into you

Don't:

  • Rush into a brand-new relationship or make it "official"

  • Get married or engaged (if you can avoid it)

  • Make a drastic change to your hair, face or body

  • Make big luxury purchases or major financial commitments

  • Go back to an ex just because you're lonely

  • Make permanent decisions based on temporary feelings

Now listen, life doesn't stop for astrology. If your wedding date is set, get married! If you need a new car because yours died, buy the car. Use this as guidance, not a prison. Just add a little extra pause and intention to whatever you do.

After (November 13 Onward)

Venus goes direct, the fog lifts, and things start moving forward again. Now you act on what you learned. Have the conversation. Set the boundary. Book the appointment. Make the money move. By the time the shadow ends on December 15, you'll feel solid and clear, and you'll walk into the new year as a woman who knows what she wants.

A Simple Venus Retrograde Self-Love Ritual

This 15-minute ritual helps you come back to yourself, and you can repeat it once a week through the retrograde.

You don't need anything fancy. If you love crystals, rose quartz is the classic Venus stone, but a candle, a cup of tea, or just your own two hands work beautifully too. I like to do this on Sunday evenings as part of my reset.

  1. Set the mood. Light a candle, put on soft music, and put your phone on do not disturb. This time is yours.

  2. Get grounded. Sit comfortably, place one hand on your heart and one on your belly, and take five slow breaths.

  3. Tell yourself the truth. Ask: "Where have I abandoned myself lately?" Maybe you said yes when you meant no. Maybe you skipped your workout again to handle someone else's crisis. Just name it, with zero judgment.

  4. Make yourself a promise. Ask: "How will I show up for myself this week?" Keep it small and doable. Ten minutes of quiet each morning counts.

  5. Speak it out loud. Close with: "I give myself the love I've always given everyone else."

  6. Write it down. Put your promise somewhere you'll see it, like your bathroom mirror, your fridge, or your phone lock screen.

That's it. This isn't about winning anyone back or manifesting a new man. It's about becoming your own safe place. Once you do that, everything else gets easier.

Venus Retrograde Journal Prompts

These prompts are split by phase so you can go deeper as the retrograde unfolds. Pick one a day, or sit with a whole section on a quiet weekend morning.

For the shadow (right now):

  • What keeps showing up in my thoughts lately, and what might it be trying to tell me?

  • What do I want the next six weeks to teach me?

For the Scorpio phase (October 3 to 25):

  • What am I pretending not to know?

  • Where am I staying out of fear instead of love?

  • What would I stop tolerating if I truly believed I deserved better?

  • What money truth have I been avoiding?

For the Libra phase (October 25 to November 13):

  • Which of my relationships feel balanced, and which feel one-sided?

  • What do I need to ask for, and who do I need to ask?

  • Where am I over-giving, and what would happen if I gave a little less?

For after Venus goes direct:

  • What is the biggest lesson this season taught me about love?

  • What is one brave action I'm ready to take now?

  • Who am I becoming in this next chapter?

Take your time with these. Venus retrograde rewards honest answers, not fast ones.

Venus Retrograde Affirmations for Women Over 40

Say these out loud in the morning, in the car, or right before a hard conversation. Pick the ones that make you a little emotional. Those are the ones you need.

For self-worth:

  • I am worthy of the same love I pour into everyone else.

  • My value does not decrease with age. It compounds.

  • I no longer audition for love.

For boundaries:

  • I can be kind and still say no.

  • Protecting my peace is not selfish. It is necessary.

  • I don't have to shrink to keep anybody comfortable.

For money:

  • I spend on what I value and release what I don't.

  • I am building a life I don't need to be rescued from.

For the next chapter:

  • It is not too late for me. It's right on time.

  • I choose myself, today and every day.

  • The best love stories of my life are still being written, starting with the one I have with me.

Venus Retrograde FAQ

When is Venus retrograde in 2026?

Venus is retrograde from October 3 to November 13, 2026. The shadow period runs from August 31 to December 15.

Does Venus retrograde bring back exes?

It can. Because Venus retrograde turns our attention to the past, old flames often resurface. But their return is usually about closure or a lesson, not a happily ever after. Before you respond, ask whether you miss the person or just the comfort of the familiar.

Is it bad to start a relationship during Venus retrograde?

Traditional astrology says it's better to wait, because what feels right during the retrograde may feel different once Venus goes direct. If you meet someone wonderful, you don't have to run away. Just take it slow, get to know them, and save the big commitments for after November 13.

Can I get my hair done during Venus retrograde?

A trim, a refresh or your usual color? Go for it. A dramatic chop, a totally new color, or a cosmetic procedure? Most astrologers would say wait until Venus goes direct, just in case your taste shifts.

Is Venus retrograde bad for money?

It isn't bad, but it's better for reviewing than for spending big. Use this time to audit your budget, cancel subscriptions, and plan your next money moves. Save major purchases and investments for after the retrograde if you can.

Can a relationship heal after Venus retrograde?

Absolutely. Many couples come out of Venus retrograde closer, because the honest conversations they had created deeper trust and healthier boundaries. The clarity you gain can be exactly what a relationship needed.

Do I have to believe in astrology for this to help?

Not at all. Even if you see astrology as just a fun lens, taking six weeks to reflect on your love life, your money and your self-worth is good for anybody. Call it Venus retrograde or call it a fall reset. The work is the same.

The Bottom Line: Venus Retrograde Is Your Permission Slip to Choose Yourself

Venus retrograde isn't here to wreck your life. It's here to show you where you've been settling, so you can stop.

For six weeks this fall, the universe is handing us a pause button. A chance to look back with honest eyes, feel what we've been avoiding, and decide what kind of love, money and life we want for this next chapter.

I know what it's like to rebuild from scratch after 40. I know how scary it is to admit that the life you have isn't the life you want. And I also know how incredible it feels on the other side, when you finally realize you were the one you'd been waiting for all along.

So here's my challenge for you this Venus retrograde: pick one area of your life, whether that's love, money, boundaries or your glow, and lock in. Journal on it. Get honest about it. And when Venus goes direct on November 13, take one brave step forward.

Want to go deeper? My guided workbook, Choose Yourself: The Reinvention Workbook, was made for exactly this kind of season. It walks you through rediscovering your worth, rewriting your standards, and building a life that feels like yours. You can grab it for $27 in my e-boutique.

And if you want more real talk about wealth, mindset and thriving after 40, come hang out with me on my YouTube channel. Subscribe so you don't miss what's next.

Now tell me in the comments: which Venus retrograde woman are you right now? I'll go first. I'm a little bit of number three, with a sprinkle of number four.

Choose Yourself: Become the Main Character of Your Life
Choose Yourself: Become the Main Character of Your Life
$27.00

Stop waiting to be chosen. It's time to choose yourself.

If you've spent years overgiving, people-pleasing, or losing yourself in relationships or responsibilities, this workbook will guide you back to yourself.

A guided workbook experience for women ready to stop abandoning themselves and start choosing themselves.

Choose Yourself: Become the main character is a structured reset designed to help you reconnect with your inner voice, release old identities, and step into the woman you're becoming.

This is not about becoming someone new — it's about returning to who you truly are.

Inside this guided workbook you'll:

• Clarify the woman you're becoming through activities
• Reconnect with your intuition and desires through journaling + meditation sequences
• Release patterns of self-abandonment
• Guided work on creating meaningful personal rituals
• Map out your feminine identity and values to build confidence
• Build deeper self-trust
• Design a vision for your next chapter & take practical steps to get there

The guided reset many women spend months trying to create on their own — now available in one focused workbook.

Instant download. Become the main character of your life today!

**As soon as you purchase, you will receive an email with a download link for the ebook, make sure you download the pdf to your device. The link only lasts for 24 hours.

**This workbook is from my The Glow Code Masterclass

***if you don’t see the cart during checkout on mobile, please close out the ads and cart will appear.

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ASHLINA KAPOSTA

… A creative, work from home, mom-entrepreneur who is passionate about all things blissful living. Here you’ll find musings on decorating, slow living, self-development, health & wellness, manifestation, femininity, mindset & entrepreneurship.

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ASHLINA KAPOSTA

Interiors. Lifestyle. Blissful Living.

Ashlina - Blissful Living, a lifestyle blog. Mindset, wellness, organization, decorating, spirituality, femininity

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