Halloween will be here before you know it, meaning it’s time to start plotting what cute, silly or spooky costume you’ll be wearing. Not to mention coordinating group Halloween costumes for the entire crew. And whether you decide to hit the streets or stay in your yard (stocked with treats, of course—including plenty of nut-free Halloween candy), you want to make sure your costume is ultra-Instagramable. From iconic Halloween movies like Freddy Krueger and spooky icons like Wednesday Addams and Beetlejuice to pop culture icons like Elle Woods, Ariana Grande and Frida Kahlo, here are 80 creative Halloween costumes for women that you’re sure to rock on October 31.
80 Creative Halloween Costumes for Women That Will Help You Win Fright Night
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“Given that I've been compared to Wednesday Addams my whole life, it was only a matter of time before I embraced her gloomy braided pigtail look for Halloween,” says PureWow Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida. “I was admittedly a little low-effort with my outfit, choosing a collared sweater and mini skirt I already had in my closet, but I did play up her sullen vibes by putting black and gray eyeshadow all around my eyes. I matched my look with my friends and their new baby, who all rounded out the Addams Family Values ensemble—we were just missing a Pugsley.” If your wardrobe is made up of mostly black (guilty), this one should be a piece of cake. *Dark jokes, braids and resting bitch face not optional.*
Shop similar styles: Ann Taylor Crosby Blazer ($208; $146); Mango Pleated Midi Skirt ($80); Sheertex Black Tights ($49)
2. An Olympian
“I was Laurie Hernandez back in college, and I even went as far as bedazzling a whole leotard,” says PureWow Beauty & Cultures Editor Chelsea Candelario, who is obsessed with Halloween. “I was committed to channeling my inner Olympian (even if I can't perform an impressive dismount).” And lucky for us, the brand worn by the likes of Hernandez and Simone Biles is available on Amazon.
Shop similar styles: GK Patriotic Leotard ($60)
3. The Little Mermaid
“A Disney princess is one of the most classic Halloween costumes for women, so last year I dressed up as the live action Ariel (played by Halle Bailey),” Candelario says. “I skipped going to a costume store and just whipped up a comfy outfit with items I got straight from Amazon. As long as you’re rocking red hair and her signature colors (purple and green) then you’re all set.”
Shop similar styles: Wavy Red Wig ($23; $20); Quince Aubergine Silk Blouse ($70); Quince Forest Green Silk Skirt ($80)
4. Holly Golightly
As an Audrey Hepburn fan, this is, in my opinion, one of the most elegant (and easiest) Halloween costumes for women—especially if you already have a black dress in the closet. Accessorize generously with pearls, oversized sunglasses and opera gloves for an outfit that’s so chic, you could wear it to an actual party.
Shop similar styles: Lulus Mermaid Maxi Dress ($88); Big Pearl Necklace ($15; $14); Long Opera Gloves ($7)
5. Loki
“I’m a huge Marvel fan, so it only made sense to do my version of one of their most popular anti-hero,” Candelario says. “Loki is a great character to dress up as because there’s so many versions you can try out. The key is sporting his famous horns on your head.”
Shop similar styles: Supervillain Goddess Costume ($60); Loki Horns ($17)
6. Poison Ivy
If you seek low-effort Halloween costumes for women, Candelario says it doesn’t get easier than DC Comics villain Poison Ivy. “This Halloween costume is a tried-and-true option if you're looking to explore your villainous side,” she says. “All I rocked was a red wig with a few fake leaves throughout. A green bodysuit is just fine (especially if you're not into painting yourself green).
Shop similar styles: Wavy Red Wig ($23; $20); Green Full Bodysuit ($15; $8)
7. Aemond
As Candelario notes, House of the Dragon is a popular show, so you can choose any character from the series and people will likely get the reference. In the past, she’s dressed up as Aemond Targaryen, whose unmistakable eye patch and mop of blond hair make him easy to spot in a crowd.
Shop similar styles: Leather Eye Patch ($13); Straight Blond Wig ($26; $22)
8. Margot Tenenbaum
The fur coat. The Birkin bag. Lacoste tennis dress. A straight bob and red barrette. Gwyneth Paltrow as Margot Tenenbaum in Wes Anderson’s The Royal Tenenbaums will always live rent-free in my mind. You may have to opt for a Birkin bag lookalike, but otherwise, with a good dose of ennui, you’ll nail the character.
Shop similar styles: Stella McCartney Faux Fur Coat ($2,500); G.H. Bass Loafers ($175)
9. Beetlejuice
The master of the macabre is back—Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice Beetlejuice opened the Venice Film Festival to wild acclaim and a $110 million opening weekend. What better excuse to don a striped suit and a hair and makeup ensemble that’s literally straight from hell? But if you’d rather opt for something frilly, you can’t go wrong with Lydia’s iconic wedding dress from the 1988 original.
Shop similar styles: Beetlejuice Wig ($17; $15); Striped Pantsuit ($31); Beetle Bride Costume ($79; $63)
10. MaXXXine
One of horror’s more recent scream queens, the indelible Mia Goth, brings this iconic character to life. Bonus points if you pick up a varsity jacket embroidered with your own name.
Shop similar styles: Abercrombie & Fitch Bomber Jacket ($220); “Oui” T-shirt ($23)
11. Jobu Tupaki
A24’s unexpected smash hit, Everything Everywhere All At Once, had a lot going on. From googly eyes and hot dog fingers to pet rocks and bagel black holes, one of the notables was the movie’s villain, Jobu Tupaki. You’ll need a pink wig, romper encrusted with Elvis-level rhinestones and lots of sparkles for this one.
Shop similar styles: Pink Wig ($22); Lulus White Jumpsuit ($59)
12. Evelyn Wang
Don’t want to play the villain? Then channel Jobu’s mom, Evelyn (played by the fabulous Michelle Yeoh). Googly eyes and red vest are musts.
Shop similar styles: Black Googly Eyes ($6); Amazon Puffer Vest ($43)
13. Selena Quintanilla
The legendary singer is actually a pretty easy—and stylish—costume. One super sparkly halter jumpsuit coming right up.
Shop similar styles: Flared Halter Jumpsuit ($32)
14. Regina George’s Mom
You’re not a regular mom, you’re a cool mom. A cool mom who will absolutely not be shamed for carrying around a full Cosmopolitan for the whole day.
Shop similar styles: Juicy Couture Velour Hoodie ($119); Juicy Couture Velour Track Pants ($99)
15. Lucille Ball
Do you lament that you were born in the wrong decade? This retro outfit is for you. Bonus points if you have a Ricky Ricardo.
Shop similar styles: A-Line Cocktail Party Dress ($46; $29)
16. A Slytherin
Not into Snape and Malfoy? Swap the color of the scarf to join another house. Or, skip the pupil thing altogether, throw on all black, a ratty old cap and you’re a spot-on sorting hat.
Shop similar styles: J.Crew Cashmere Crewneck ($118); Harry Potter Scarf ($28, $25)
17. Tina Belcher
Calling all Bob’s Burgers fans. Not only is this Tina costume pretty easy to put together, it’s also oh-so comfortable.
Shop similar styles: Hanes V-Neck T-Shirt ($14; $11); Urban CoCo Skater Skirt ($23; $17); Joulli Knee-High Socks ($15); Converse High-Tops ($65)
18. Eleven
Genius. (Just make sure you don’t forget a little lipstick “bloody nose.”)
Shop similar styles: NARS Bad Reputation Lipstick ($26); Peter Pan Collar Skater Dress ($26); Zip-Up Hoodie ($27; $15)
19. Priscilla Presley
Rope your partner in if you require an Elvis, but with a big bouffant, heavy eyeliner and a tailored ‘60s shift dress, what more do you need?
Shop similar styles: Pomander Place Tweed Bianca Dress ($168; $92)
20. Britney Spears
There are so many Britney eras that are worthy of a Halloween costume, but we’ll take the ‘90s pop princess aesthetic any time.
Shop similar styles: Pop Singer Costume ($37)
21. Bride of Frankenstein
With the right amount of hairspray, you can definitely pull this off, but a wig is totally OK too.
Shop similar styles: Reformation Sorin Dress ($398); Quince Leather Motorcycle Jacket ($150); Monster Bride Costume Wig ($25)
22. Anna Wintour
Channel Vogue’s icy editor with a crisp bob and giant glasses while judgmentally looking everyone up and down because they’re not wearing off-the-runway Gucci.
Shop similar styles: Tuckernuck Jackie Dress ($268; $214); DIFF Sandra Oversized Sunglasses ($128); Bob Wig with Bangs ($21)
23. Frida Kahlo
It’s not like you need an excuse to wear a flower crown and a gorgeous bold lip, but if you have one, take it, baby. Oh, and don’t skimp on the unibrow.
Shop similar styles: Floral Crown ($13); Ross-Simons Coral Bead Collar Necklace ($97); MAC Ruby Woo Lipstick ($16)
24. Lydia Deetz
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice made waves at the Venice Film Festival this year, so why not resurrect the original goth girl, Lydia Deetz? Poltergeist and demonic wedding not included. All you need are a black blazer, plaid skirt and button-up shirt, which you may already have lurking in your closet. Though, if you’re looking for a luxe upgrade, you can spring for Thom Browne, as shown on Jenna Ortega.
Shop similar styles: Spanx Oversized Button-Down ($128); Sézane Jack Jacket ($230); Free People Bordeaux Maxi Skirt ($148)
25. Cruella De Vil
Evil? Yes. Chic? Hell yes. You could opt for the Cruella classic oversized (fake) fur coat and LBD, or channel Emma Stone’s iteration.
Shop similar styles: Lulus Mermaid Maxi Dress ($88); Bernardo Faux Fur Coat ($240); Sam Edelman Vienna Pump (from $140; $98)
26. Hot Dog
Get two of your friends to go as ketchup and mustard to complete the all-American meal.
Shop similar styles: Hot Dog Costume ($36)
27. Pam Beasly and Jim Halpert
Calling all The Office superfans: This might be our favorite couples costume yet. It’s highly likely you have office-appropriate attire in your closet, but you can also opt to go for something more recognizable, like Pam’s black cat costume.
Shop similar styles: Free People Turtleneck ($30); Glitter Cat Ears ($9)
28. Sandy Olsson
We’ve got chills and, yes, they’re multiplying. (Note that you could also go as “good” Sandy, but this sassy crop top-leggings look is so much more fun.)
Shop similar styles: Off-the-Shoulder T-Shirt ($20); Spanx Faux Leather Leggings ($98); Stuart Weitzman Stuart 75 Pumps ($450; $315)
29. Elle Woods
In the wise words of Harvard Law grad Elle Woods, “Whoever said orange is the new pink was seriously disturbed.” As you’d expect, you have outfit options: A pink skirt suit, satin pajamas…and a bunny.
Shop similar styles: Bardot Boucle Blazer ($159); Bardot Boucle Skirt ($89)
30. Beyoncé and Jay Z
What better way to celebrate Halloween than by paying homage to one of the greatest power couples of all time?
Shop similar styles: Naked Wardrobe Oversize Blazer (from $89); Naked Wardrobe U Suit Me Pants ($86); Sam Edelman Hazel Pumps ($150)
31. My Lady Jane
From Bridgerton to now My Lady Jane, we love us some period dramas. Stand out from the Penelopes and Daphnes of the trick-or-treating crowd and opt to go as Lady Jane Grey from the popular series. Shape shifting optional. Throw on a cape and you’re good to go.
Shop similar styles: Selkie The Nightcap Ritz Gown ($399)
32. The Bachelorette
Grab a rose, smear a little mascara down your cheeks and have a ball.
Shop similar styles: Lulus Mermaid Sequin Dress (from $69)
33. Rosie the Riveter
Girl power before it was trendy.
Shop similar styles: Aritzia Denim Shirt ($98) Quince Crepe Trousers ($70); Tough Headwear Bandana ($5)
34. Adelaide Wilson from Us
The chances of you terrifying your friends are good to excellent. (Psst…if you’re going to be around others, you may want to take a safety precaution and bring fake scissors.)
Shop similar styles: TopTie Twill Coveralls ($42; $40); Gold Scissors ($10)
35. Morticia Addams
Great with or without a Gomez, honestly. (As sadly this particular Gomez/Morticia pair is no more.)
Shop similar styles: Slit Maxi Dress ($40); Long Straight Wig ($18)
36. Mary Poppins
Optional: Fill a tote bag with random objects and show them off throughout the night.
Shop similar styles: Dôen Frances Top ($158); AE Ruffle Maxi Skirt ($60; $45); Lace Gloves ($7; $4); Parasol ($38)
37. The Morton Salt Girl
Random? Maybe. Adorable? Duh.
Shop similar styles: Tuckernuck Blakely Dress ($268); Golf Umbrella ($29)
38. Edna Mode
Could this Incredibles character be more iconic? Pull! Yourself! Together! (Slaps not included.)
Shop similar styles: Aritzia Bond Dress ($148); Flapper Wig ($17); Round Frame Glasses ($16; $9)
39. Billie Eilish
See what a little temporary hair dye and creepy-dark makeup can do?
Shop similar styles: J.Crew Vivienne Wool Blazer ($375); J.Crew Portia Wool Trousers ($275); Manic Panic Red Hair Dye ($15; $13)
40. Midge Maisel
Dare we say you’ll look…marvelous?
Shop similar styles: House of Bruar Pleat Skirt ($220); Abercrombie & Fitch Crew Sweater Jacket ($90; $77); Satin Square Neck Scarf ($8; $7)
41. Tashi Duncan from Challengers
The hottest tennis movie of the year? Challengers, starring Zendaya as the indomitable Tashi Duncan. The former tennis prodigy-turned-ferocious coach has some serious style throughout the film, which is conveniently one of the easiest Halloween costumes for women you could whip up. Throw on a tennis dress, grab a racket and put your hair in a rope braid. Or, go for her iconic court-side look with some shades, a neutral lip and crisp shirtdress.
Shop similar styles: Halara Backless Twisted Active Dress ($55; $40); Ralph Lauren Belted Shirtdress ($198); Ray Ban Wayfarer II Sunglasses ($180)
42. Céline Dion
The Canadian songstress has had many daring outfits over the years, but this glittery fringe ensemble from the 2019 Met Gala definitely lives in recent memory.
Shop similar styles: Dolce Vita Lavon Silver Leather Heels ($130; $70); Sequin Fringe Romper ($60)
43. Rachel, Monica and Phoebe from Friends
Best part? You get to sit on the couch all night.
Shop similar styles: Lace Skater Dress ($43); Wedding Maxi Tulle Skirt (from $27)
44. Glinda
If you have a penchant for ball gowns, bubble gum pink, magic wands and flowing tresses, Glinda from Wicked is one of the girliest halloween costumes for women. Enthusiastic, eager personality required.
Shop similar styles: Tall Princess Crown ($50); Mac Duggal A-Line Ball Gown ($398)
45. The Mask
While we might not have Gigi Hadid’s makeup artist, we have a whole lot of Halloween spirit and fond memories of having our faces painted as kids. Tip: Buy more face paint than you think you’ll need.
Shop similar styles: Fedora Hat ($29); Tommy Hilfiger Blazer ($159; $90); Mehron Face Paint ($18, $11)
46. Steve Jobs
Maybe don’t bring your real computer out. (An iPhone should suffice.)
Shop similar styles: Mock Turtleneck ($25); Hipster Blue Light Glasses ($17)
47. *That* Photo of The Rock
You know the one. The one that basically broke the internet and then was recreated by Kevin Hart and hopefully by you this Halloween.
Shop similar styles: Women’s Turtleneck ($18); Leather Fanny Pack ($22); Paperclip Chain Choker ($10)
48. Queen Elizabeth
Pay your respects to the late Queen Elizabeth by dressing up as Her Majesty for Halloween. Honestly, as long as your sensible (but colorful) coat and hat match one another, you should be good. (Although an English accent couldn’t hurt.)
Shop similar styles: Misook Tweed Coat ($568; $284); Classic Fedora ($20); Quince Top Handle Satchel ($120)
49. Black Swan
Intense choreography isn’t necessary, but we’re pretty sure it would be appreciated.
Shop similar styles: Scoop Neck Bodysuit ($20); Tutu Bubble Skirt ($28); Crystal Tiara ($16, $11)
50. Elphaba
It’s not Halloween if a witch doesn’t appear, is it? Elphaba is arguably one of the most renowned, so stock up on some green face paint, grab your broom and get ready to fly away into the night.
Shop similar styles: Elphaba Costume ($43); CC Beauty Face and Body Paint Stick ($10)
51. Jessica Rabbit
Va-va-voom, are we right?
Shop similar styles: Mermaid Sequin Dress (from $50); Satin Gloves ($10); Jessica Rabbit Wig ($24)
52. DW from Arthur
The cutest little aardvark and license to be kind of annoying to everyone around you for a day.
Shop similar styles: Free People Heartland Mini Dress ($148; $104); Quince Silk Blouse ($70); Mouse Ear Headband ($10)
53. Velma Dinkley
This Scooby Doo look works as a solo costume or a group.
Shop similar styles: Jouica Chunky Turtleneck ($36); Kate Kasin A-Line Skirt ($36; $30); Cotton Socks ($9)
54. Coraline
In the event of rain, you will absolutely win Halloween with this ensemble.
Shop similar styles: Yellow Rain Jacket ($42); Blue Bob Wig ($12)
55. Daria
Just make sure to look kind of disinterested in everything.
Shop similar styles: L.L. Bean Jacket ($129); Abercrombie & Fitch Pleated Mini Skort ($70); Dr. Martens Leona Boots ($200)
56. Kim Possible
Call her, beep her, if you wanna reach her. Extra points if you can rope a friend into dressing as Ron Stoppable.
Shop similar styles: Long Sleeve Crop Top ($25; $12); Jogger Camo Pants ($35); Short Opera Gloves ($7); Long Red Wig ($18)
57. Alex DeLarge
A little eyelash glue goes a long way when you’re imitating one of literature’s (and film’s) creepiest characters.
Shop similar styles: Derby Hat ($18); False Eyelashes ($13; $10)
58. Regina George
Every day is Wednesday. Opt for her polished pink strapless dress, or for the unforgettable tank top with *those* cutouts. And remember: butter is not a carb.
Shop similar styles: Strappy Sports Bra ($13); Hanes Cotton Cami ($11); Skater Skirt ($22; $15); Superdown Quinn Strapless Mini Dress ($68)
59. Cliff Booth from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
A less conventional choice than Sharon Tate, but here we are. Probably the only time you’ll get a free pass to wear a Hawaiian shirt.
Shop similar styles: Nitagut Hawaiian Shirt ($26; $20); Short Bob Wig ($20)
60. Sia
Maybe not the most practical costume in terms of, well, seeing, but it’s so damn chic.
Shop similar styles: Sia Wig and Bow ($28)
61. Sadness
No, we’re still not over the cinematic masterpiece that is Inside Out 2. Yay!
Shop similar styles: Quince Silk Shirt Dress ($80); Blue Wig ($18); Body Paint ($7)
62. Cher Horowitz
Would we dress up as any other iconic ‘90s character? As if.
Shop similar styles: Clueless Costume ($60)
63. Disco Diva
Umm, can you say glam?!
Shop similar styles: Jessica Simpson Denim Jacket ($70; $32); Levi’s Bell Jeans ($98); Rhinestone Sunglasses ($14)
64. Kate Moss
Carry a fake—we repeat, fake—cigarette, please and thank you.
Shop similar styles: Quince Silk Slip Dress ($80); Majorelle Faux Fur Coat ($278)
65. Elsa
Being an ice queen has never been cooler. Renditions of “Let it Go” not required.
Shop similar styles: Adult Princess Dress ($39); Braided Wig ($20)
66. Carole Baskin
This one gives you free range to greet everyone by saying, “Hey all you cool cats and kittens,” every time you enter a room.
Shop similar styles: Floral Shirt ($28); Flower Crown ($14)
67. Karen Smith
A mouse, duuhh…
Shop similar styles: Karen Smith Mouse Costume ($35)
68. Ariana Grande
Channel your inner songstress and go as this high ponytailed queen of pop.
Shop similar styles: High-Low Tulle Minidress ($54); Over-the-Knee Boots ($47)
69. Pretty Woman
Halloween is all about having some light fun, so why not go as this “fly by the seat of your pants” kinda gal?
Shop similar styles: Hollywood Honey Costume ($27); Suede Thigh-High Boots ($59; $49)
70. Princess Jasmine
Get your mini-me into the Halloween spirit with this mommy and me princess Jasmine fit. Make it a family affair and ask your hubby to be Aladdin.
Shop similar styles: Arabian Princess Costume ($73); Princess Jasmine Wig ($25; $17)
71. Charlie Chaplin
The perfect costume for the introverted extroverts out there: When you’re tired of socializing, simply go mum like this legendary silent movie star. Everyone will assume you’re just really into the character.
Shop similar styles: Old Navy Oversized Button Down ($37; $26); H&M Slacks ($20); Bowler Hat ($16)
72. Playboy Bunny
Assuming you know it’s a costume party, this is a fun ensemble to don on all Hallows eve. If nothing else, you’ll be the perkiest guest at the party.
Shop similar styles: Classic Corset ($11); Pink Fishnet Tights ($11); Stiletto Party Shoes ($60)
73. Catwoman
Is it even Halloween if someone doesn’t dress up as Catwoman? And don’t forget a killer cat eye and bold red lip to complete the look.
Shop similar styles: Catwoman Costume ($80)
74. Moira Rose
There is so much to choose from when it comes to Moira Rose, but nothing beats this over-the-top pope-inspired wedding ensemble that’ll ensure you’re the center of attention.
Shop similar styles: Pope Hat ($25); Long-Sleeve Maxi Dress ($37)
75. Snow White
And if you have a toddler, they can serve as one of the cute dwarfs.
Shop similar styles: Snow White Costume ($60); Wavy Bob Wig ($21); Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint ($29)
76. Freddy Krueger
You truly can never go wrong with this Halloween classic.
Shop similar styles: Freddy Krueger Sweater ($39); Metal Gloves ($61; $55); Wool Felt Fedora ($29)
77. Phoni Braxton
While others spend the night imitating ghouls and monsters, you can spend All Hallows Eve looking fab while imitating the RnB legend Toni Braxton. Make it a double diva costume by pretending to be Beyoncé pretending to be Toni Braxton.
Shop similar styles: H&M Ribbed Tank Top ($8); Old Navy Faux Leather Biker Jacket ($75; $50); AE High-Waisted Jeggings ($50; $30)
78. Maddy Perez
Maddy Perez will always have the girls in a literal and figurative chokehold, but we suggest you stick to the latter when you channel Euphoria High’s favorite bad girl.
Shop similar styles: Long-Sleeve Cut Out Top ($23); Tony Bianco Caprice Heels ($150)
79. Barbie
You can’t go wrong if you dress up as 2023’s icon. Whether you choose Barbie-in-a-Box, disco Barbie, or another fuchsia rendition, you will be, without a doubt, ready to party.
Shop similar styles: Pink Disco Cowgirl Costume (from $40)
80. Sailor Moon
Channel childhood nostalgia with the world’s most beloved manga character, Sailor Moon. Enlist your friends as the Sailor Soldiers and it’s a legendary group Halloween costume for the books.
Shop similar styles: Sailor Moon Costume ($46); Sailor Moon Wig ($28)