Honestly, Halloween is pretty much the Super Bowl for fans of pop culture. It’s the only time when you can be a totally unquestioned superhero, cartoon villain, or beloved sitcom character. If you are a fan of DIY or just a last-minute “whatever is in my closet” type, movie and TV-inspired costumes are the best way to impress the people around you. They are easy to recognize, enjoyable to wear, and are often much simpler than you think. So, whether you want to spend your time with a glue gun or with your Amazon Prime account, let’s look at the 10 most iconic, easy, and show-stopping Halloween character costumes because the candy and the compliments are waiting for you.
10. Elsa from Frozen
You can’t go wrong with the ice queen herself. Elsa’s shimmering blue gown, platinum braid, and frosty confidence make her a perennial favorite for Halloween night. The best part? You don’t even need an expensive costume to pull this off-a light blue dress, some glittery eyeshadow, and a touch of DIY sparkle will do the trick. Channel your inner snow sorceress and belt out “Let It Go”-bonus points if you have an Anna tagging along for sisterly photo ops.
9. Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl
XOXO, it’s time to get dressed like Manhattan royalty. Blair Waldorf’s prep-school chic is absolutely timeless, featuring pleated skirts, crisp white blouses, sleek headbands, and a healthy dose of sass. Throw in a structured coat and some knee-high socks for that Upper East Side finish, and don’t forget your phone for a few dramatic mirror selfies. Whether you’re scheming on the Met steps or just going to a party, you’ll look like you own the room-and maybe everyone in it.
8. Minion from Despicable Me
Simple, hilarious, and instantly recognizable-what more could you ask for? All you need is a pair of overalls, a yellow shirt, round goggles (or DIY glasses), and a beanie. It’s the perfect low-effort costume that still gets laughs. If you’re going as a group, grab a few friends and become a full Minion squad-bonus points if someone shows up as Gru. Speak a little gibberish and keep a banana on hand for accuracy.
7. Elle Woods from Legally Blonde
Channel your inner Harvard Law icon in a hot pink, can-do attitude included. Elle Woods is a mentality, not just a Halloween costume. Go bright pink, from dress to heels, and a perfectly blown-out the signature look belonging to Elle immediately comes alive. Accessorize the outfit with a notebook, a small purse dog, or even a prop law book. And remember, confidence is key. What, like it’s hard?
6. Dorothy Gale from The Wizard of Oz
Somewhere over the rainbow lies one of the most classic Halloween looks ever. Dorothy’s blue gingham dress, ruby slippers, and braided pigtails are as iconic as it gets. A simple picnic basket and a stuffed Toto will complete your trip to Oz (or just to the snack table). It’s wholesome, nostalgic, and guaranteed to earn a few “awws” wherever you go. Follow the yellow brick road, or just follow the candy trail.
5. Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones
If you are the type of person who is looking to simultaneously appear as a queen and scary, then the Daenerys Targaryen costume is the one for you. A silver or bluish dress that has a flowing effect, along with a long wig that is of a platinum color, will, without a doubt, make you look like the “Mother of Dragons”. Some jewelry made of metal or some fake dragon accessories will make it more extravagant. Even if you do not have real dragons, you will still be able to rule the room like a queen. Just make sure that your inner fire (and your dragons) are not out of control.
4. Drea from Do Revenge
What kind of a costume would you want? A trendy one, colorful, and somewhat chaotic? If that is the case, then you do not need to look further than Do Revenge, a Netflix production. Drea’s pastel prep-school uniform, lilac crop top, yellow tennis skirt, and headband, all made of the same color, are the perfect combination of adorable and sly. ’90s-inspired cosmetics and attitude will help you transform into her. The effortlessly great choice of a person who is a fan of fashion-forward villainous moments with a hint of camp.
3. Winifred Sanderson from Hocus Pocus
It’s all just a bunch of Hocus Pocus-and what’s Halloween without the Sanderson sisters? Winifred is instantly identifiable in that green velvet gown, those fiery red curls, and that deep red lipstick. Add a broom-or better yet, a vacuum-and a few of those over-the-top expressions, and you’ll have everyone under your spell. Yes, Bette Midler would definitely approve of your witchy transformation.
2. Elastigirl from The Incredibles
Go full Elastigirl for an outfit that’s sleek and empowering. You’ll need a red-and-black color scheme courtesy of a fitted red jumpsuit or leggings and a top combo, black boots, and an eye mask to really complete the superhero look. This getup screams confidence and flexibility-literally and figuratively. Whether you’re saving the world or just saving the party from boredom, you are going to look amazing, if I do say so myself.
1. Jack Skellington from The Nightmare Before Christmas
If you want a costume that’s spooky, stylish, and instantly iconic, Jack Skellington is the king of Halloween Town, and of Halloween itself. A black pinstripe suit, skeletal face paint, and a bat-shaped bow tie are all you need to bring this Tim Burton classic to life. Whether you go full makeup or opt for a mask, this costume is equal parts creepy and cool. Plus, it works solo or as part of a couple’s costume with Sally.
At the end of the day, the best Halloween costume isn’t one that has the most glitter or the biggest budget; it’s the one that makes one feel like a star. From cartoon chaos to cult classics, these movie and TV looks prove that with a little creativity-and maybe a quick trip to the thrift store-anybody can steal the show. So get dressed, grab your candy stash, and remember: in the world of Halloween, a little pop culture goes a long way.