Looking to make a dramatic entrance this Halloween? From classic characters to trending icons, TV shows and movies are the best inspiration when it comes to creative, recognizable, and Instagram-worthy Halloween looks. Here are 20 iconic Halloween costume ideas inspired by film and series that will make you the star of any Halloween party.
1. Wednesday Addams
The gothic queen of Netflix is a Halloween staple. Recreate Wednesday Addams’s moody charm with a black collared dress, braided pigtails, and bold dark lipstick. Bonus points if you master her signature deadpan stare.
2. M3GAN
Step into the shoes of the eerily stylish AI doll from M3GAN. Pair a beige A-line dress with a striped bow, white tights, and Mary Janes. Add her signature blonde wig and an unsettling stare to perfect the creepy-cute vibe.
3. Elphaba and Glinda – Wicked
Create your outfit inspired by the Wicked. by transforming into Elphaba with a black gothic dress, pointy hat, and a touch of green body paint. Prefer sparkles over spells? Go as Glinda with a dazzling ball gown, tiara, and wand.
4. Michael Myers – Halloween
You can never go wrong with this slasher icon from Halloween. Grab a navy jumpsuit, a white emotionless mask, and a toy knife to become the embodiment of fear.
5. Emily from The Corpse Bride
A hauntingly beautiful choice, Emily’s ghost-bride look features a tattered blue gown, floral crown, and pale blue makeup. This halloween costume is both spooky and tragically romantic.
6. Pennywise – IT
Float into the party as Stephen King’s infamous clown. A frilly Victorian-style jumpsuit, red balloon, and sinister smile will have everyone on edge.
7. The Huntri/x – Kpop Demon Hunters
Inspired by the K-pop animated series, Kpop Demon Hunters. Channel the fierce energy of the Huntri/x with a futuristic combat outfit, dramatic eye makeup and hairstyle, and K-pop-style accessories.
8. Ghost Face – Scream
The classic slasher look never goes out of style. All you need is the iconic ghost mask, a black hooded robe, and a fake knife. It’s simple, spooky, and always a hit.
9. BeetleJuice and Lydia Deetz
Say his name three times and rock his signature black-and-white striped suit with wild, teased hair and ghostly makeup. Bonus points for chaotic party energy. From Beetlejuice to fashion icon, Lydia’s gothic aesthetic is timeless. Pair a lacy black dress with a veil or go full wedding-scene red for a dramatic twist.
10. Cruella de Vil
Drape yourself in faux fur and bold black-and-white fashion to become Disney’s most stylish villain. Add red gloves, a cigarette holder, and a devilish attitude for full effect.
11. Saja Boys – Kpop Demon Hunters
For a group costume with a twist, go as the Saja Boys. Mix streetwear with demonic accessories, leather jackets, and supernatural props for a cool and edgy look.
12. Maleficent
Maleficent’s look is all about dramatic elegance — think floor-length black robes, sculpted horns, and bold, otherworldly makeup. A high-collar cape instantly elevates the costume, while striking contour and a deep red lip for menacing vibe.
13. Harley Quinn
Still one of the most beloved costume choices. Go for Harley’s red-and-blue bomber jacket, fishnet tights, and iconic “Daddy’s Lil Monster” tee — and don’t forget her pigtails and baseball bat.
14. Isabel – The Summer I Turned Pretty
For a more low-key but instantly recognisable outfit, channel Isabel’s effortless summer style from the hits summer series, The summer I Turned Pretty. Think flowy dresses, layered jewellery, and soft makeup — perfect for a casual Halloween vibe.
15. Aunt Gladys – Weapons
For a horror twist this Halloween, channel Aunt Gladys — the deceptively sweet yet sinister witch from Weapons. Go for a vintage floral dress layered with a cardigan, add a bright red wig, oversized glasses, and bold makeup.
16. Superman
Because he’s “just Ken” — and a hilarious party hit. Think pastel shirts, rollerblades, and 80s beach vibes to match Barbie’s iconic look.
17. Stranger Things Crew
Whether it’s Eleven’s pink dress and Eggo waffles, Eddie Munson’s Hellfire Club tee, or Vecna’s terrifying look, this series has endless costume inspo.
18. Morticia Addams
Elegant and eerie, Morticia’s floor-length black dress, pale makeup, and long dark hair make a hauntingly glamorous Halloween costume.
19. F1 Movie
Inspired by the adrenaline-pumping world of F1 movie, this costume calls for a jumpsuit, racing gloves, and sponsor patches. It’s a high-speed twist on classic Halloween looks.
20. Bridgerton-Inspired Look
If spooky isn’t your style, go regal like the Bridgertons. Corseted dresses, gloves, and tiaras for ladies — and tailcoats and cravats for gentlemen — will give you a romantic, high-society Halloween vibe.
Tips for the Perfect Halloween Costume
- Add your twist: Mix vintage finds, DIY elements, or thrifted pieces to make your costume unique.
- Focus on details: Accessories, makeup, and props often make the costume instantly recognizable.
- Own the character: Confidence and attitude are half the costume.
Halloween is the best excuse to step into your favorite fictional world and become someone else for a night. So grab your costume inspo from the big screen and small screen, and get ready to steal the show.
