Halloween is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning your perfect costume. Whether you’re a seasoned Halloween enthusiast or just looking to have some fun, 2023 offers plenty of creative and trendy costume ideas to make your Halloween night a memorable one.
The Influence of Cinema on Halloween Costumes
Cinema has played a significant role in shaping Halloween costumes over the years. From classic horror films like “Psycho” and “The Shining” to fantasy epics like “Harry Potter” and “The Lord of the Rings,” movies have given us characters that continue to haunt our imaginations long after the credits roll.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top Halloween costume ideas inspired by the international and local iconic figures of 2023.
Barbie and Ken
Photo: IMDB
Barbie can be anything! From president, to astronaut, to roller-skater, to mermaid, to weird Barbie. And then of course there’s Ken. The Barbie and Ken Halloween costume duo is a classic choice that never goes out of style. And, with the new Barbie movie as the highest-grossing movie in 2023, people have been obsessed and it definitely inspired new costume ideas for the iconic dolls.
Taylor Swift Eras Tour Costume
Photo: TAYLOR SWIFT | INSTAGRAM
Dress up as your favorite Taylor Swift era! From the country charm of “Fearless” to the retro-inspired looks of “1989” and the pastel dream of “Lover,” there are numerous to choose from. It is a fantastic way to celebrate the pop star’s ever-evolving style and musical journey and show off your love for her music; you’re guaranteed a stylish and on-trend Halloween look!
Super Mario and Luigi
Photo: IMDB
A timeless choice that brings the iconic video game characters to life, and with The Super Mario Bros. Movie as another top-grossing movie of the year, step into the shoes of the heroic plumbers and embark on your own adventures this Halloween. Mario typically sports a red cap with an “M,” a red shirt, blue overalls, and a mustache, while Luigi rocks a green cap with an “L,” a green shirt, blue overalls, and a playful, slightly taller stature. You can also dress like Princess Peach, Toad, or Bowser!
Beyoncé Renaissance Tour
Photo: BEYONCE | INSTAGRAM
The Renaissance Tour has served us some of the most stylish outfits in Beyoncé’s career. To create a “Renaissance Tour” Beyoncé costume this Halloween, you’ll need to replicate one of her iconic tour outfits, which might include stunning gowns, bodysuits adorned with jewels, or elaborate headpieces. Complete the look with a fierce attitude and some dance moves inspired by the Queen Bey herself.
Wednesday Addams
Photo: IMDB
One of the biggest shows this 2023 is Netflix’s Wednesday. Wear a black dress with a white collar and cuffs, braid your hair, and bring a disembodied hand (not a real one). Pair this with her stoic expression and pale makeup, and you’ll have an instantly recognizable and eerily charming costume as Wednesday Addams.
Luffy from One Piece
Photo: IMDB
Embark and adventure this Halloween with a Luffy costume from “One Piece.” Monkey D. Luffy is known for his unique and recognizable look as the beloved protagonist of the long-running anime and manga series, and a Netflix live-action adaptation this year. To pull off the Luffy costume, you’ll need a red vest, blue shorts, a straw hat, Luffy’s signature straw sandals, and a scar under your eye.
Ariel from Little Mermaid
Photo: IMDB
Inspired by the 2023 live-action adaptation of the classic tale, dress like Little Mermaid characters this Halloween. To create Ariel’s costume, you’ll need a vibrant and shimmering green or turquoise mermaid tail, a braided wig to emulate Ariel’s hair, a matching bikini, and a dinglehopper (fork) prop.
Valak from The Nun
Photo: IMDB
A creepy nun is always a go-to every Halloween, especially this year’s release of The Nun II, dressed like the eerie character Valak from “The Conjuring” universe. You’ll need a long, tattered black habit and veil, white face makeup, dark eye and lip makeup, and yellow contacts. You can pair it with a large crucifix to enhance the look.
Tanggol from Batang Quiapo
Photo: ABS-CBN ENTERTAINMENT
Tanggol, portrayed by Coco Martin in the popular Teleserye “Batang Quiapo” quickly became a fan favorite due to his compelling storyline and relatable struggles. Dressing up as Tanggol for Halloween is an exciting and unique choice that pays homage to this character. To recreate a recognizable Tanggol look, you’ll need fashionable street-style clothing: a vest, maong pants, protective boots, a t-shirt, chain necklace and bracelet, and a ring on your index finger.
Joel from The Last of Us
Photo: HBO
Joel Miller, portrayed by Pedro Pascal, is a prominent character in the HBO adaptation of the video game “The Last of Us”. Joel is a smuggler who operates within the Boston Quarantine Zone, 20 years after the pandemic that claimed his daughter Sarah’s life. Joel’s clothing is rugged and durable, and he wears more than one outfit throughout the series. However, a flannel shirt and jeans, perhaps layered under a brown coat, are some of his most iconic looks.
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Halloween is a time of creativity, self-expression, and fun. Choose a costume that resonates with your personality, and interests, and that allows you to be your chosen character, if only for one magical night. Embrace the spirit of the holiday and make this spooky season a memorable and enchanting experience for yourself and those around you. Got any suggestions? Share yours in the comment section.
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