Moana of Motunui has become one of Disney’s most beloved heroines. She’s adventurous, courageous, and deeply connected to her culture and the ocean. Since the release of Disney’s Moana in 2016 and the upcoming Moana 2, dressing as Moana has remained one of the most popular Halloween and cosplay choices for kids and adults alike.
This guide gives you everything you need to pull off an authentic Moana look: history, essential costume elements, styling tips, DIY options, buying advice, comparisons with other Disney princesses, and answers to the most common questions people search for about Moana costumes.
If you want to explore other characters, check out our collection of Disney princess costumes, including Moana, Snow White, and Elsa.
Table of Contents
The Story and Popularity of Moana
Moana is the daughter of the chief of Motunui, a young girl chosen by the ocean to restore the Heart of Te Fiti and save her people. Her story combines Polynesian mythology with Disney’s trademark music and animation, creating a heroine who inspires courage and independence.
Moana’s costume has become a favorite because it’s:
- Instantly recognizable with her Polynesian-inspired skirt and top.
- Comfortable compared to many elaborate Disney dresses.
- Popular among children, teens, and adults.
- A perfect choice for group or family themes when paired with Maui, Hei Hei, or Pua.
Search interest for Moana costumes spikes every October, and Google Trends shows strong demand leading into the release of Moana 2.
Essential Moana Costume Pieces
A convincing Moana look requires these main elements:
- The Skirt
- Tan or beige fabric with island-inspired prints.
- Layered look with woven details.
- A sash tied around the waist.
- The Top
- Red bandeau-style crop top with Polynesian patterns.
- Often paired with a thin strap for security.
- Accessories
- A fabric belt or sash.
- Necklace with the Heart of Te Fiti.
- Optional shell jewelry.
- Hair
- Moana’s natural look is long, wavy, and black.
- A wig works well if you don’t have similar hair.
For sizing, quality, and comfort details, see our complete Moana costume review covering fabric, sizing, and accessories.
Styling and Accessory Tips
Accessories help complete Moana’s adventurous look:
- Shoes: Moana is often barefoot in the movie. For safety, choose brown sandals or flats.
- Props: A toy paddle makes a fun and recognizable accessory.
- Jewelry: Seashell necklaces, anklets, or bracelets enhance the island aesthetic.
- Wigs: If your hair isn’t naturally long and wavy, choose a high-quality black wig.
DIY Moana Costume Guide
If you want a budget-friendly approach, you can DIY a Moana costume with simple materials:
- Skirt: Use tan fabric or a wrap skirt. Add designs with fabric paint.
- Top: Modify a red bandeau or crop top with fabric markers or sewn patterns.
- Accessories: Create a necklace with beads, shells, and a large green stone for the Heart of Te Fiti.
- Wig: Style a long black wig with loose waves.
For more creative tutorials, comparisons, and seasonal inspiration, visit our Halloween costume blog packed with DIY guides, expert reviews, and trend insights.
Moana for Kids vs Adults
Kids:
- Lightweight fabrics to avoid overheating.
- Shorter skirt lengths to prevent tripping.
- Plastic or soft jewelry for safety.
Adults:
- Movie-accurate prints and higher-quality fabrics.
- Cosplay-level accessories for conventions or events.
- Plus-size options are available for comfort and inclusivity.
For detailed breakdowns, check our detailed breakdown of the Moana outfit we tested for Halloween 2025.
Couples and Group Costume Ideas
- Couples: Moana and Maui are the perfect pairing. One brings the heart, the other brings the muscle.
- Groups: Moana, Maui, Hei Hei (the rooster), and Pua (the pig).
- Family Themes: Parents as Maui and Te Fiti, kids as Moana and Hei Hei.
- Funny Combos: Moana with other Disney characters for a mashup theme.
Moana vs Other Disney Princess Costumes
| Costume | Difficulty | Price Range | Popularity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moana | Medium | $30–$70 | High | Kids & Adults |
| Snow White | Easy | $25–$60 | Very High | Classic Disney fans |
| Elsa | Medium | $40–$80 | Very High | Frozen enthusiasts |
| Belle | Hard | $50–$90 | Medium | Cosplay events |
Moana stands out for being more comfortable and adventurous, while Elsa and Snow White are dress-heavy.
See more options in our roundup of magical Disney outfits perfect for Halloween.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Moana Costume
- Budget ($30–$40): Simple sets with skirt and top.
- Mid-Range ($50–$70): Official Disney-licensed costumes with a necklace.
- Deluxe ($80+): High-quality cosplay versions with detailed patterns and accessories.
Safety and Comfort Tips
- Choose breathable fabrics for kids.
- Avoid metal jewelry for children; stick to plastic or fabric.
- Adjust skirts for toddlers to avoid tripping.
- Use soft wigs or tie real hair loosely to keep cool.
FAQ
Is Moana a Disney princess?
Yes. While not born royalty, she is officially part of the Disney Princess lineup.
At what age is Moana’s costume most popular for?
Most common for kids aged 3–12, but adults wear it for cosplay and themed events.
Can adults wear Moana costumes?
Absolutely. Deluxe versions are designed for adult cosplay.
What accessories complete the Moana look?
The Heart of Te Fiti necklace, seashell jewelry, and a toy paddle.
Can I make a Moana costume at home?
Yes. A tan skirt, red top, and homemade necklace create a simple DIY version.
Is Moana appropriate for school Halloween events?
Yes, since the costume is non-scary and family-friendly.
What’s the difference between licensed and non-licensed Moana costumes?
Licensed versions have accurate prints and better durability. Non-licensed options are cheaper but less detailed.
Are there plus-size Moana costumes?
Yes, many brands offer inclusive sizing for adults.
Can Moana be a group costume?
Yes, Moana with Maui, Hei Hei, and Pua is a fun group theme.
Where can I buy Moana costumes?
Online retailers, Disney stores, and Halloween shops carry them year-round.
Conclusion
Moana’s costume is a vibrant, empowering choice for Halloween 2025. With her Polynesian-inspired look, adventurous spirit, and recognizable accessories, she’s a standout option for kids, adults, and family groups. The detailed patterns, colorful sash, and iconic necklace make this outfit instantly recognizable while still being comfortable enough for trick-or-treating, school events, or themed parties.
If you’re considering different directions, you’ll find that Moana fits seamlessly into both solo and group costume plans. Parents can coordinate with other Disney princesses, siblings can dress as characters from Moana 2, and couples can pair Moana with Maui for a fun and adventurous duo.
For even more inspiration across categories, check out our Halloween costume ideas hub featuring everything from Disney favorites to spooky horror classics. It’s the go-to resource for comparing styles, finding family-friendly options, and choosing the perfect look for your October events.
Whether you invest in a deluxe cosplay set or create your own DIY version, Moana remains a timeless Disney choice that brings the ocean’s spirit, confidence, and energy to any Halloween celebration.
