If you’re struggling with what to wear for Halloween this year, fear no more! I’ve compiled a list of a variety of ideas that you can take inspiration from (I hope). From silly to deadly serious, these costumes are sure to give you a jolt… of fun!
Movies from 2023
Barbie (2023)
I think everyone can agree that this is most likely going to be the source for most of the mainstream Halloween costumes this year. Whether you want to be a cowgirl Barbie, rollerblading Barbie, cowboy Ken, rollerblading Ken, or don one of the many other fashionable fits from the film, you truly cannot go wrong with these fantastic choices.
Bottoms (2023)
Have a group of friends? Want to do an easy group costume? You can easily find outfits that are similar, if not the same, to what the characters in Bottoms wore at a store like Target. Bonus points if you get matching necklaces like PJ and Josie as well as wearing the nose tape for when PJ gets socked. Extra bonus points if you’re all gay.
Spider-Man: Across the Spiderverse (2023)
There are so many options for everyone in this single movie alone. From Miles Morales and Gwen Stacey to Miguel O’Hara and Pavitr Prabhakar, every spider-suit looks insanely cool and unique. Any of these characters could work for a solo costume OR, if you put them together, a group costume full of different spider-people!
The Little Mermaid (2023)
First things first, Ariel and Eric would make for such an ADORABLE couple costume. The outfits in this film were absolutely incredible- from Ariel’s blue dress to Eric’s sailor outfit, either would look stunning for a cute Halloween outing. If you’re a creative person who likes to put their own costumes together, this one might actually be up your alley much more considering it isn’t one that is likely to be sold at a Spirit Halloween.
The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)
Looking for something a little bit more silly? Well, I’d say go for one of the infamous characters from the Super Mario Bros. world! Whether it be Peach, Luigi, Toad, or Mario himself, these can be fun costumes to do as a group or going solo. Although they may be a classic Halloween costume, they’ve definitely been given a push-up this year due to this new film.
Classics
Kill Bill (2003)
Uma Thurman’s “The Bride” has a pretty killer jumpsuit in this movie. Simply, how could you not want to recreate it for a Halloween look?
Scream (1996)
Wanna play a game? Whether you want to be a final girl or Ghostface themself, this series is a go-to for Halloween costumes. Bloody yourself up and act as a survivor or fully conceal your identity with the iconic ghostly mask.
Clueless (1995)
As if I’d miss this one! Cher Horowitz’s outfits are unforgettable, especially the classic yellow checkered one. It’s definitely an easy find, online or in stores. You might even have an outfit like hers in your closet!
Star Wars (1977-2019)
There are SO many characters to choose from in this saga. Whether you like how certain things occurred or not (we’re not going to get into that right now), we can all agree that the Star Wars universe has provided the public with a plethora of outfits to choose from for Halloween. So, if you’re feeling more like a scoundrel, Han Solo might be the move. A little rebellious with a side of snippy remarks? Ahsoka Tano could definitely be the perfect choice, even if you just do something that resembles her. Some other powerful women could be Princess Leia, Rey, and Padme! Or, if you’re leaning more towards the “I’m angry and sand sucks” side, Anakin Skywalker is a no-brainer.
Back to the Future (1985)
In all honesty, I’ve included this one for my own selfish reason (that reason being that I love these movies). But hey, if you’ve ever wanted to look like a mad scientist trying to conduct a so-called“weather experiment” or a kid who looks as if he works for the Coast Guard since he has his “life preserver” on at all times, Doc or Marty McFly might be the move!
Friday the 13th (1980)
Okay, let’s just cut to the chase- that mask, although simple, can be TERRYFING. Jason is a legendary horror film icon and it’d be a huge mistake to leave him out of this list. This is another one of those outfits that can definitely be found online or in stores. Plus, if you’re looking for a simple way to try to frighten your friends… Yeah, this one could definitely work (at least, it would on me).
TV Shows
Wednesday (2022-ongoing)
Wednesday came out just a little shy of Halloween last year, so it only feels right to put it on this year’s list! Of course, the Addam family are already a well-known bunch but, with this new show, their popularity has risen once again! Quite honestly, you could choose any member of the family to dress up as and look positively dreadful.
Ted Lasso (2020-2023)
This heartwarming show came to an end this year but that doesn’t mean that you can’t still have it live on in our world! Dressing up as Ted, Keely, Jaime, or Roy could certainly be a fun way to spend Halloween. Richmond till we die!
Our Flag Means Death (2022-ongoing)
Ed and Stede are back in season two this year, coinciding perfectly with Halloween time! These two definitely give off black cat and golden retriever energy so, if you enjoy this show, are one of the two or are part of a pair that ARE the epitome of those two, I say go for it! Hopefully, your ship won’t be wrecked.
Good Omens (2019-ongoing)
Another black cat and golden retriever duo, Crowley and Aziraphale graced our TV screens again this year when they returned for season two. This could most certainly be another amazing duo costume- or you could go at it solo! Considering that’s how this previous season kind of ended (no spoilers), it wouldn’t be far off.
The Last of Us (2023-ongoing)
Based on the incredible video game, The Last of Us topped the CHARTS when it came out earlier this year. Ellie and Joel are both such intriguing characters and their outfits can be quite easily accessible! You can most likely find similar clothing to theirs at, again, a Target nearby and rough it up to make it look as if you’ve made it through the apocalypse. Then, grab an old-school backpack that you may have lying around and you’re all set! Or, if you’re feeling like going down a different path, maybe turn yourself into one of the Infected (maybe even a Clicker). Spooky, but neat.
Music Icons
Taylor Swift
Taylor’s Eras Tour was chock-full of outfits for all of you Swifties out there. Whether you want to wear something similar to her sparkly “Lover” bodysuit, style your own “22” ensemble (including the hat), or one of the many other options, you truly can’t go wrong.
Olivia Rodrigo
Both of Olivia’s albums, SOUR and GUTS, have such strong themes visual-wise. If you want to take it back to her debut album, maybe her classic cheerleader look in “Good 4 U” is the way to go. But, if you want to drop in on the new GUTS craziness, maybe check out her outfit in the “vampire” music video!
Beyonce
If you want to be a sparkly cowgirl (or just sparkly in general) Beyonce’s outfits in her Renaissance Tour are precisely what you’re looking for. Plus, it’s Beyonce. Need I say more?
Rihanna
Rihanna at the Superbowl. That’s all.
Harry Styles
Just because Harry’s Love On Tour extravaganza has been done for a few months now, that doesn’t mean you can’t replicate the many looks that he modeled while on the road! But, if you are going to throw a boa into your ensemble, please be mindful of where all of the feathers end up (please).
Joe Jonas
This one’s just for the giggles.
Got any more good ones? Share them with us! Post a photo on Instagram of you in your costume and tag us @47Magazine so that we can see it, and we’ll share it on our story!
Written by Ashley Lavalle