It's that spooky time of year again. Female book lovers, teachers and librarians -- I've got you covered. I scoured the internet for only the best literary character Halloween costumes for women to give you a streamlined list from a mega book lover's perspective.

I focused on literary characters that were popular and of strong character and relevance in the book world. I also focused on costumes that were more modest in appearance since they are generally meant for women to wear around children. Based on the above criteria, below are my favorites:
The Best Literary Halloween Costumes for Teachers / Adults / Women
- Alice in Wonderland
- Belle from Beauty and the Beast
- The Cat in the Hat
- Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz
- Harry Potter
- Hermione Granger
- Holly Golightly
- Little Red Riding Hood
- Madeline
- Mary Poppins
- Nancy Drew
- Peter Pan
- Sherlock Holmes
- Snow White
- Where's Waldo
- Winnie the Pooh
Alice in Wonderland
This costume is a classic that would work well as a theme for a group as well.
(If you prefer to pull together this costume from real wardrobe pieces, check out my Alice in Wonderland costume.)
Belle from Beauty and the Beast
Perfect for a librarian! I recommend you carry a book with you.
(If you prefer to pull together this costume from real wardrobe pieces, check out my Belle Halloween Costume.)
The Cat in the Hat
This costume is great for child-friendly events.
Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz
This costume is another classic that would work well as a theme for a group.
Harry Potter
I firmly believe that a man OR woman can dress as the uber-popular Harry Potter.
Hermione Granger
However, if you want a more feminine Harry Potter hero, Hermione is your gal.
(If you prefer to pull together this costume from real wardrobe pieces, check out my Hermione Granger costume ideas.)
Holly Golightly
This classic costume from the novel/movie Breakfast at Tiffany's would work best at an adult-themed and/ or fancy event.
(If you prefer a different style from this book/movie, check out my Holly Golightly sleep mask Halloween costume ideas.)
Little Red Riding Hood
This classic would work well around younger children who will easily recognize it.
Madeline
While Madeline is a children's literary character, I truly believe this outfit is identifiable (and cute!) enough to be worn in any Halloween context.
(For even more, check out my DIY Madeline Costume for Women and Adults.)
Mary Poppins
As a long-time Mary Poppins lover, I think every woman should dress as her for Halloween at least once. She's so magical!
Nancy Drew
I love the idea of a Nancy Drew costume because her style is actually really good! I absolutely love her preppy/classic vibe.
(If you prefer to pull together this costume from real wardrobe pieces, check out my Nancy Drew DIY costume ideas.)
Peter Pan
Peter Pan is another classic costume that I truly believe can be worn by a man or woman.
Sherlock Holmes
Because I believe a female Sherlock Holmes would be edgy!
Snow White
This classic princess costume is another one that would be great around children.
Where's Waldo
Where's Waldo is probably the easiest and most casual costume in this group.
Winnie the Pooh
And lastly, Winnie the Pooh gets the award for the warmest and coziest costume. You may want to sleep in this one after a long Halloween night!
Those are the best literary character Halloween costumes for women, teachers and librarians.
Related Literary Character Halloween Costumes
If you loved the above costume ideas, you will love these DIY costumes for women:
Happy bookish Halloween!!