50 Cute Halloween Costume Ideas (and What to Shop for

It’s that time of year again. You know, where we collectively embark on the transition from summer to fall. Believe it or not, we’ll soon be mourning balmy temperatures and weekend trips to the shore. And as we trade in our bikinis for knit sweaters—and change our Starbucks orders from iced lattes to warmer beverages (you know the one)—the countdown to spooky season (and one worthy of the best Halloween costumes, at that) will soon begin.

For many of us, Halloween presents the ultimate opportunity to showcase our creative talents by piecing together showstopping ensembles. Of course, some of us tend to feel the pressure of devising the perfect look. And when the last day of October rolls around, we default to slipping on a pair of animal ears. I can’t deny it’s a solid option, but if you’re looking to spice things up this year, read on.

Ahead, I’ve curated a list of 50 cute Halloween costumes so you can approach the holiday calmly and confidently. These chic costume ideas are all inspired by pop culture icons— from beloved movie characters like Margot Robbie’s Barbie to prominent performers like Beyoncé—which means people will definitely know who or what you are. Prepare to have all eyes on you this year; we guarantee these outfits will turn heads.

Disco Dance Barbie

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

Dance the night away in this disco-themed outfit inspired by Margot Robbie’s iconic dance party look in Greta Gerwig’s Barbie.

Sam Edelman Bianka Pointed Toe

Mlouye Long Crystal Tassel Earrings

Sandy Olsson

Sunset Boulevard

If you’re trying to channel your inner It girl, I suggest Sandy Olsson’s unforgettable off-the-shoulder look from the movie musical Grease. Don’t forget to swipe on some red lipstick!

Reformation Ezlynn Knit Top

Wilfred The Melina™ Pant

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Cher Horowitz

Archive Photos

Ugh, as if this is all we could think about when I laid eyes on this Cady Cropped Jacket set. It simply screams Cher Horowitz, and yes, you’ll absolutely love it.

ASSIGNMENT Cady Cropped Jacket

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Kate Spade New York Maren Almond Toe High Heel Pumps

Beyoncé at the Renaissance Tour

Kevin Mazur

“Look around everybody on mute,” has swiftly become one of Beyoncé’s most recognizable lyrics from her Renaissance tour. And I guarantee when people see you in this breathtaking confection of silver, they’ll be “on mute,” too.

Mvefward Shiny Metallic Leotard

Pin Up Doll Long Wet Look Gloves

Destiny’s Child 2000s Red Carpet Look

Steve Granitz

Grab two of your girlfriends and dress up as Destiny’s Child for the ultimate group costume for friends.

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Stuart Weitzman Dancer 60 Sandal

Kim Kardashian at the 2022 Met Gala

Sean Zanni

For the 2022 Met Gala, Kim Kardashian wore Marilyn Monroe’s bona fide “Happy Birthday, Mr. President Dress.” And although you might not have access to this treasured piece, this Revolve dress is quite the contender.

UMREN Luxury Party Faux Fox Fur Long Shawl

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Breakfast at Tiffany’s Holly Golightly

CBS Photo Archive

Audrey Hepburn’s iconic outfit in the opening scene of Breakfast at Tiffany’s is just so chic and classic. Pair a black fitted dress with opera gloves (and a tiara, of course), and you’re good to go.

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ROFIFY Pearls Crown Comb Tiara Audrey Hepburn Holly Golightly Hair Piece

Paris Hilton on Her 21st Birthday

Dave Benett

When Paris Hilton wore a shimmering Julian Macdonald dress to her 21st birthday party, she created the ultimate party look, and the fashion world took note. Years later, this dress is still timeless and can certainly be worn beyond Halloween.

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Brandon Blackwood ESR Tote

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LuxeLife Rhinestone Choker

Rihanna at the Super Bowl

Kevin Mazur

Who can forget Rihanna’s Super Bowl Halftime performance? Her fiery red Loewe jumpsuit and Alaïa coat stole the show.

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Selena Quintanilla

Arlene Richie

Selena Quintanilla (a.k.a. Selena) was widely known for her impeccable sense of style, defined by bold two-piece sets, glittery fabrics, and of course, bedazzled bralettes.

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Cinderella

©Walt Disney Co./Courtesy Everett Collection

If you want to lean into the Disney princess vibe but don’t feel like wearing a gargantuan ballgown, we would suggest opting for a simple outfit that still gets the message across. We think this corset dress, velvet choker, and dainty headband will do just fine.

HOUSE OF CB Broderie Anglaise Corset Bodice Minidress

ACEDRE Black Velvet Chokers Pearl Pendant Necklace

Taylor Swift at the Eras Tour

Allen J. Schaben

You may have already donned a chic Eras Tour outfit while you were a fan in the crowd, but when you walk into the Halloween party with this outfit on, you’ll make the whole place shimmer.

Oseree Sequined Halterneck Swimsuit

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XILAZAB Bib Statement Necklace

Carrie Bradshaw

©New Line Cinema/Courtesy Everett Collection

Carrie Bradshaw has countless looks that are absolutely fabulous; it’s hard to pick a favorite. But perhaps the one that stands out the most is her tank top and tutu combo, featured in the opening credits of Sex and the City.

KAMISSY Basic Crew Neck Crop Tank Top

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Olga Berg Cece Straw Woven Box Clutch

Ariel from The Little Mermaid

Disney

Take an imaginary trip under the sea with this ensemble inspired by The Little Mermaid, comprised of a purple lace bra, a mermaid tail covered in sequins, and a pair of cute seashell earrings.

Savage X Fenty Haute Lace Unlined Demi Bra

yajuntang Mermaid Tail Costume

Bling Jewelry Carved Seashell Shaped Nautical Clip On Earrings

Western Barbie

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

With so many fantastic Barbie costumes to choose from, one simply isn’t enough. So, here’s another fan favorite for you: Western Barbie.

Ladyful Sleeveless Denim Vest

Credit: amazon.com

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Queen Charlotte

Netflix

Embrace Queen Charlotte’s gorgeous style with a floral embroidery gown and pearl accessories to match,

SUOLUOS Flower Embroidery Tulle Dress

Ettika Jaw Drop Earrings in Metallic Gold

Petit Moments Melba Necklace

Julia Fox

Marc Piasecki

Last year, Julia Fox wore a bold denim outfit to the Kenzo men’s fashion show in Paris, and this image is forever imprinted in my mind. To replicate this look, you’ll need a dark wash denim set, chunky gold accessories, and a substantial amount of black eyeliner.

Abercrombie & Fitch Cropped Denim Jacket

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Low Rise Baggy Jean

Alexis Bittar Twisted Gold Folded Ribbon Large Post Earring

Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes

United Archives

Many have sported their own takes on Marilyn Monroe’s fuchsia pink gown and gloves from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, but if we’re being honest, none quite compare to the original ensemble. Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but f you’re eager to embrace the luxe look this Halloween on a budget, statement jewelry from Amazon will do the trick.

superdown Addison Maxi Dress

DreamHigh 21″ Long Satin Finger Gloves Rose

Miraculous Garden 3 Pack Bridal Austrian Rhinestone Crystal Statement Necklace

Flo-Jo

David Madison

Flo-Jo was not only a record-holding sprinter but also a fashion icon on the track. You’ll be a sporty style icon when you embrace this bold one-legged, fluorescent look (and, not to mention, comfortable as hell).

Sookie Active Metallic Sheen Classic Tank Leotard

Nordstrom Invisible Sheer Control Top Pantyhose

NIKE Ace Summerlite Rubber-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers

An Austin Powers Fembot

Bryan Steffy

For those of you who would prefer to invest in a Halloween costume that can be worn beyond the holiday, this one is for you. You can easily transform this faux feather satin chemise into a nightgown or a festive party dress.

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Xuhan Women’s 21” Long Evening Party Satin Gloves

Harley Quinn

Claudette Barius

Year after year, Harley Quinn (as portrayed by Margot Robbie) seems to be one of the most popular Halloween costumes. If you’re looking to cosplay as the infamous Quinn, grab this piece from Amazon and accessorize it with a pair of scrunchies and a choker.

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Motique Accessories Set of 2 Solid Scrunchies (Red)

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STACKABLE CREATIONS Wide Thick White Velvet Choker Necklace

Cleopatra

Silver Screen Collection

In 1963, Elizabeth Taylor starred in the film Cleopatra, a film that has remained relevant not only for its production but also for its fashion and beauty.

Show Me Your MuMu Rhea One Shoulder Dress

B-Low The Belt Willow Chain Belt

Ettika Jewel Crown

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Euphoria’s Maddy Perez

HBO

If I could wish for any TV character’s wardrobe, it would be Maddy Perez’s from Euphoria. Her closet embodies a blend of bold ’90s fashion with a modern twist, and I want every item— including this black cutout set.

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ZAFUL High Waist Cut Out Pants

A Baywatch Lifeguard

Fotos International

We often forgo comfort for style in the name of looking our best for Halloween, but if you’re a strict sneakers gal who despises the thought of wearing heels all night, try this Baywatch costume. All you have to do is throw on a one-piece swimsuit, a comfy jacket, and sneakers, and you’re all set.

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Nike Air Force 1 ’07 Shoes

Dionne Davenport

CBS Photo Archive

Dionne Davenport is a true fashionista—the way this chic plaid set pairs perfectly with her vibrant red vest is proof of that.

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Free People Marsha Sweater Set

Jennifer Lopez at the 2000 Grammy Awards

Scott Gries

J.Lo’s plunging Versace dress—which she paraded on the Grammy Awards carpet in 2000—is arguably one of her most famous outfits to exist. Recreate this look with Bronx and Banco’s jungle print cut-out maxi dress.

Bronx and Banco Jungle Cut-Out Maxi Dress

Cult Gaia Women’s Lydia High Heel Sandals

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Mejuri Pearl Sculptural Drop Earrings Silver

Natalie Portman’s Black Swan

©Fox Searchlight/Courtesy Everett Collection

Love the balletcore trend? Give an ordinary ballerina costume a dark twist by dressing as Natalie Portman’s character from Black Swan.

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WeWoreWhat Feather Mini Skirt

Batwoman

Dean Buscher

Batwoman is often portrayed wearing a full-body suit from head to toe. But if you want to show some skin while still playing the part, try this fun cut-out bodysuit.

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Commando Perfect Control Faux Leather Leggings

A Classic (and Cute) Witch

Johnny Nunez

Dressing up as a witch might be one of the most practical options out there, seeing as though you probably already own a little black dress and knee-high boots. For a nice touch, add a sheer cape like Cardi B.

Urban Outfitters Francis Lace Corset Mini Dress

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Schutz Arla Up Boot in Black

Studio 54 Partygoers

Kevin Mazur

Mother-daughter duo Kaia Gerber and Cindy Crawford dressed as Studio 54 partygoers one Halloween, and they showed us how disco dressing is done right.

8 Other Reasons Kenny Top

superdown Shanice Mini Skirt

Sam Edelman Kori Snip Toe High Heel Platform Sandals

Britney Spears’ “I’m a Slave 4 U” Costume

KMazur

In 2001, Britney Spears performed her hit, “I’m A Slave 4 U,” at the Video Music Awards, wearing a green bra, a pair of embellished shorts, and of course, a Burmese python around her neck. We’ve provided the ensemble below, but we’ll leave it up to you to find the snake.

Savage x Fenty Not Sorry Microfiber and Lace Half Cup Bra in Green

Elle Woods

©MGM/Courtesy Everett Collection

Before Barbie gave everyone a new lease on pink, there was Elle Woods. Channel the Legally Blonde lawyer in this head-to-toe pink ensemble this season.

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Beetlejuice’s Lydia Deetz

Everett Collection, Inc.

Throughout the movie Beetlejuice, Lydia Deetz’s wardrobe mainly consists of goth-esque pieces, with the exception of this radiant red gown—which Bella Hadid wore for Halloween in 2018. And if the Halloween costume idea is good enough for the supermodel, it’s good enough for me.

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Poison Ivy

getty images

To dress the part of Poison Ivy, one of DC Comics’ beloved villains, you’ll simply need an emerald green dress and gold accessories.

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BHLDN Gilded-Leaf Collar Necklace

Charles & Keith Metallic Asymmetric Strappy Heeled Sandals

Nicki Minaj’s 2017 VMA Outfit

Frazer Harrison

If you’re a fashion fanatic looking for Halloween costume inspiration, look no further than the red carpet. We love this throwback of Nicki Minaj wearing a pink latex outfit to the 2017 Video Music Awards.

Michael Costello Zadie Jumpsuit

Steve Madden Fairfax Heel

Karine Sultan Four Row Cuff

Queen Nefertiti

MEGA

There are so many ways to interpret the style of Egypt’s Queen Nefertiti. We’re taking Winnie Harlow’s lead, pairing a white maxi dress with bold gold accessories.

superdown Alanie Maxi Dress

Zara Strappy Metallic Heeled Sandals

Zara Studded Crossbody Wallet Bag

Catwoman

Donaldson Collection

Like many a Batman, there are various versions of Catwoman from the silver screen worth channeling this Halloween. Choose your fighter—I’m opting for Michelle Pfeiffer’s Selina Kyle from Batman Returns.

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Wonder Woman

ABC Photo Archives

Ready to save the day? You’ll need an embellished romper and sky-high red boots.

Starline 4 Piece Costume Set

Jeffrey Campbell Darlings Pointed Toe Knee High Boot

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Betty Boop

LMPC

We hear hues of red are dominating the fashion industry for the best fall 2023 fashion trends, so why not play into the theme with a look inspired by Betty Boop’s iconic mini dress?

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The Cheetah Girls

Everett Collection, Inc.

In 2003, Disney released one of its greatest musical films, which would soon become a defining pop culture moment of the Y2K era. That’s right, I’m talking about Cheetah Girls. Gather a group of your closest gals and dress as Galleria, Chanel, Aqua, and Dorinda.

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Madonna at the 1991 Academy Awards

Ron Galella

Madonna has made several references to Marilyn Monroe through her fashion choices. One of our favorites is this opulent white gown, which she wore to the Academy Awards in 1991.

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Molie Bridal Austrian Crystal Necklace and Earrings Jewelry Set

Princess Diana’s Revenge Dress

Princess Diana Archive

Whether you’re looking to reclaim your independence from an ex or you simply want to channel the extraordinary essence of Princess Diana, we suggest wearing this off-the-shoulder dress paired with an extravagant choker.

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Kenneth Jay Lane Gold-Tone Crystal and Pearl-Embellished Choker

Nina Kimberly Clutch in Pearl Rose at Nordstrom

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Farrah Fawcett

ABC Photo Archives

In the hit 1970s show Charlie’s Angels, Farrah Fawcett’s character Jill Munroe was known for her casual style, which featured a bohemian flair. And if you need an easy last-minute costume, this option will make great use of your go-to jeans and hoodie.

GIVON Lightweight Thin Quarter Zip-Up Pullover Hoodie

Levi’s Wedgie Straight Jeans

Minnie Mouse

PASCAL DELLA ZUANA

Make a simple Minnie Mouse costume stand out with red kitten heels and a crossbody bag to match.

Disguise Minnie Mouse Classic Costume

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Cruella de Vil

Laurie Sparham

Arguably one of the most fashionable Disney villains, Cruella de Vil knows how to put together a look for the books.

Skims Bodysuit Brief with Snaps

KUNMEI Cruella Deville Costume

Mean Girls’ The Plastics

CBS Photo Archive

For those of us who are die-hard Mean Girls fans, the winter performance scene will forever live rent-free in our minds.

Rubie’s Mean Girls Christmas Outfit

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13 Going on 30’s Jenna Rink

©Columbia Pictures/Courtesy Everett Collection

Honestly speaking, any fashion girl will appreciate Jenna Rink’s iconic Versace dress from 13 Going on 30. And it’s so recognizable to those who watched the rom-com that any fan will instantly know who you are.

LoliMiss 13 Going On 30 Cosplay Costume

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Sam Edelman Delanie Strappy Heel

Janet Jackson in Poetic Justice

Anthony Barboza

Aside from the fisherman cap, we guarantee you already have these pieces in your wardrobe. So, dressing as Janet Jackson’s Justice in Poetic Justice will, without a doubt, be effortless.

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Pretty Woman’s Vivian Ward

©Buena Vista Pictures/Courtesy Everett Collection

“Big mistake. Huge.” That’s what I’ll be telling you if you don’t take inspiration from this stunning Vivian Ward ensemble from Pretty Woman.

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Steve Madden Stunner Strappy Sandal

Lansian 22” Long Satin Finger Gloves

Scooby Doo’s Daphne Blake

ABC Photo Archives

A purple dress alone won’t signify much, but combined with a green scarf and a pair of pumps? We think people will be able to solve the mystery that you’re dressed as Daphne.

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