Few celebrations are as enjoyable as Halloween, an occasion for dressing up in pretty much any costume you want, from the chic and cute to the crazy and over-the-top.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to parties held during the last weekend of October, and every year people draw inspiration from a variety of places.
A popular reference for costumes is always popular culture, and movies, television and streaming services have given us plenty of inspiring looks to emulate.
Whether you want to look creepy or cute, here are some looks that are predicted to be hits this Halloween.
Harley Quinn
Equal parts cutesy and creepy, DC Comics’ Harley Quinn is always a hit when it comes to Halloween.
Many e-commerce sites offer the character’s costume but if you’re on a budget, it won’t be too hard to go full DIY.
The red and blue hair is essential, and while a wig will go a long way to copy her look, you can also use temporary hair dye.
Her outfit consists of a baseball-style Daddy’s Lil Monster raglan tee, choker, Good Night baseball bat, red and blue sequin hot pants, gold jewellery, a studded belt, fishnet tights and knee-high canvas sneakers
Barbie
Name a bigger film in 2023, we’ll wait. Margot Robbie hit it out of the park in her role as the iconic doll, and already fashion portals are predicting that many will show up to parties and events in voluminous blonde wigs, pink getups and heels.
Not feeling main character vibes? You can always go as any of the other Barbie Land residents, one of the Kens or even Weird Barbie.
Read more: Barbie girl in a fashion world? How the iconic doll dominates the style scene
The Little Mermaid
As one of the most anticipated films of the year, there’s no denying that the mythical sea creature holds a certain intrigue, and there are several ways to pay tribute to the character.
From red wigs to temporary hair colour, the fiery mane is a must if you want to get the look right.
Go the extra mile with a tail, but it’s not the most practical of looks, so get an attire that has scales print, for example crop tops, tulle skirts or even metallic leggings.
If you don’t want to wear a mermaid costume but still want the look, you can always experiment with the shimmery eyeshadow in metallic blue hues, boosted in popularity by the film.
Wednesday Addams
The hit television show based on the character from the Addams Family franchise made lead actress Jenna Ortega a household name and launched a renewed interest in goth culture and fashion.
The television series may have come out last year but there are sure to be several people choosing to dress up as the quirky character for Halloween.
Her signature pigtails, black on black (sometimes white) outfits and unsmiling expression – these are all elements to incorporate into your look.
Try out several looks before deciding which works for you, whether it’s her chic school uniform, lacy dance number or her white and black sweater vest.
Read more: How did Jenna Ortega and Jennifer Coolidge become fashion’s newest style queens?
Ursula
Not to be outdone, the villain in The Little Mermaid is having her moment as well. The over-the-top blue eyeshadow, ombre purple hair, red lips and mega-long lashes are going to be a popular choice for Halloween.
Don’t forget to squeeze into a sleek black dress and wear crown to complete the look, and practise your maniacal laughter to truly immerse yourself in the character.
