Halloween is the one night when pop culture enthusiasts get to be their true selves, when they can swap out their regular attire for something from their favorite movie or TV show. If you’re the crafty type and enjoy getting creative with DIY costumes, or if you like scraping something together easily at the last minute, a great character look makes you the center of attention at any party. From horror film legends to contemporary box office hits, these 15 classic costumes are the essence of the big screen and ensure someone will approach you and say, “Oh my god, I adore your costume!”
15. The Grady Twins from The Shining
If you’re looking for a haunting, one-of-a-kind twinned costume, the Grady Twins from Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining are horror gold. Their somber symmetry and ghostly stares create one of the most identifiable appearances in film history. Just add pale-blue baby-doll dresses that are identical, white knee socks, black MaryJaness, and pink ribbons tied around your waists. For an added horror effect, some fake blood or a toy axe you carry will do the trick. It’s an easy, eerie, and totally unsettling way to turn heads (and maybe cause a few nervous laughs).
14. Elsa from Frozen
There’s no denying that Elsa remains one of the most beloved costume choices year after year. Her glittering blue gown, shimmering cape, and signature platinum braid make her instantly recognizable. Whether you’re 8 or 38, this costume radiates confidence and cool literally. Match it with some sparkly eyeshadow and a sprinkle of glitter to feel as if you’ve jumped straight out of Arendelle. And if you want to go full-on, sing “Let It Go” when you walk into the party, you’ll be the ice queen everyone’s rooting for.
13. Minion from Despicable Me
Not many costumes are as bubbly and easy-going as a Minion. These yellow, goggle-wearing goofballs are pure joy and a hit with both kids and adults. To pull it off, grab a yellow long-sleeve shirt, blue overalls, black gloves, and round glasses (or actual goggles if you’re going all in). Paint your face yellow or wear a yellow beanie to complete the look. Whether you’re saying “Banana!” or bursting into your best Gru impression, this is a costume that wears a smile wherever you go.
12. Jughead Jones from Riverdale
For those who enjoy teen drama and mystery, Jughead Jones is a simple and effortlessly cool costume option. His look is easy to replicate: think black jeans, a tee, a denim or leather jacket, and his signature crown-beanie. Add a serious expression and a bit of attitude, and you’ve nailed it. It’s one of those rare Halloween looks that’s comfortable enough to wear all night, whether you’re out solving crimes or just hanging out with your own Archie crew.
11. Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl
Channel your inner queen bee of the Upper East Side with a look inspired by Blair Waldorf. Her neat prep-school look is ageless: a starched white blouse, black pleated skirt, necktie, and naturally, a stylish headband. Complete the look with knee-high stockings and heeled Mary Janes, and you’re immediately the best-dressed guest at the party. Extra points if you hold a coffee cup and utter a wink-wink “XOXO, Gossip Girl” before making your exit.
10. Donna Sheridan from Mamma Mia!
If your Halloween is spent belting out ABBA and island living your best life, Donna Sheridan is your costume. Bring back her boho chic in a white peasant-style top, black overalls or flared pants, and beachy tousled locks. Throw on some gold jewelry and perhaps a scarf wrapped around your head for that Greek island allure. Whether you’re channeling Meryl Streep’s free-spirited energy or belting “Dancing Queen”, Donna’s look is all about joy, freedom, and fun.
9. Daisy Buchanan from The Great Gatsby
Step into the reckless 1920s with the epitome of vintage glamour style, Daisy Buchanan’s flapper fashion. Envision a sequined or metallic fringe gown, pearl jewelry, a sparkly headband, and heels that could last a night of Charleston dancing. Add it to soft curls and dramatic red lipstick for a genuine Jazz Age appeal. This costume is ideal for someone who wishes to combine refinement with a touch of old Hollywood glamour.
8. Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby
For something a bit more high-class, the one and only Jay Gatsby is the suavest option. A cream or white suit with crisp shirt, tie, and slicked-back locks can immediately turn you into the icon that is Leonardo DiCaprio’s millionaire. Throw in the cane or champagne flute for extra measure, and you’ll be raring to go with your own opulent 1920s party. Gatsby costumes always appear classy, great for anyone wanting to look sharp without looking new-school.
7. Elle Woods from Legally Blonde
Bend and snap your way into Halloween as everyone’s favorite pinkenthusiasts, the Harvard law student. Elle Woods exudes confidence, intellect, and, of course, perfect fashion sense. Pull on a pink dress or power suit, some chic heels, and a little dog plush to symbolize Bruiser. Add a bright smile and perhaps even a legal pad for a comical touch. You’ll be proving that pink is always in season, and that blondes really do have more fun.
6. Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly is the essence of classic chic. You just need a basic black dress, a pearl necklace, long black gloves, and a sleek updo. Add oversized sunglasses and a coffee cup as a tribute to her classic opening scene. This look is effortlessly cool and suitable for anyone who’s a fan of vintage glamour. It’s subtle, immediately identifiable, and always classy, a costume that never exists.
5. Wednesday Addams from The Addams Family
Dark, broody, and strangely cute, Wednesday Addams is a Halloween classic. Her all-black outfit with a white-collared dress, braids, and pale face makeup is effortless yet iconic. The Netflix Wednesday show has only increased the popularity of the look, with thousands of TikTok recreations. To stand out, perfect her deadpan expression and throw in a dry one-liner or two. It’s the ultimate creepy-cool combo.
4. Sandy Olsson from Grease
Whether you’re sweet, sassy, or somewhere in between, Grease’s Sandy provides two killer costume ideas. You can dress “Good Sandy” in a pastel skirt and cardigan or “Bad Sandy” in a fitted black pant, off-the-shoulder top, and red lipstick. Curl your hair into big, beachy waves and you’re ready to sing the night away. It’s a timeless throwback look that never goes out of style, especially for couples’ costumes with a Danny Zuko partner.
3. Harley Quinn from The Suicide Squad
Harley Quinn is still one of the most sought-after Halloween costumes of all time, and it’s easy to see why. Her punk-rock-playful look is both disheveled and vibrant. Combine a “Daddy’s Lil Monster” top with red and blue shorts or a bomber jacket, pigtails colored pink and blue, smudged eyeliner, and attitude. Margot Robbie’s interpretation of Harley is hot, hilarious, and completely iconic. You’ll stand out right away, particularly if you have a baseball bat and a wicked smile.
2. Joker from Joker
If you’d prefer to tap into chaos itself, the Joker is your best bet. Joaquin Phoenix’s take on the character infused him with gritty, unhinged realism. You’ll need a bright-colored suit, a green wig, and sloppy clown makeup to make an appearance. Throw in some over-the-top gestures and unsettling laughs, and you’re guaranteed to have aced it. It’s fearless, expressive, and unexpectedly simple to DIY Just don’t forget to master your best slow dance down the stairs.
1. Barbie from Barbie (2023)
This year’s unchallenged costume queen is none other than Barbie. Courtesy of Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster, the world’s best-known doll is back with a vengeance. Pick your favorite iteration rollerblading Barbie, cowgirl Barbie, or pink power-suit Barbie, and prepare to live your plastic (and fabulous) dream. Bright hues, coordinating accessories, and an unabashedly campy attitude are the way to go. It’s a fun, empowering costume that’s ideal for group or couple themes. Ken is optional, of course.
From horror myths to pop culture legends, these costumes demonstrate that Halloween is about more than just costume-wearing; it’s about honoring the characters that defined our childhoods. With a little creativity in your outfit choices and a dash of confidence, you’ll be the party hero. Spooky, sassy, or stylish, whichever route you choose, keep this in mind: the most epic Halloween costumes are not only worn, but performed.