Get ready for Halloween with these unique costume ideas! Whether you prefer DIY creations, group costumes, vintage looks, or pop culture references, we’ve got you covered. Enhance your costume with makeup techniques, props, and accessories to complete the look. Read on to get inspiration for your one-of-a-kind Halloween costume.
Creative DIY Halloween Costumes
Every year, people search for unique Halloween costumes to stand out from the crowd. Whether you're attending a party, trick-or-treating with friends, or just want to show off your creative prowess on social media, here are some ideas for crafting creative, DIY Halloween costumes that are truly you.
Movie and TV Show Characters
A classic source of inspiration for Halloween costume ideas comes from our favorite films and television shows. Consider dressing as iconic characters like Michael Jackson’s werewolf look from the Thriller music video, Queen Charlotte from Bridgerton, or Audrey Hepburn’s Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. If you're a Stranger Things fan, try dressing up as one of the show's characters with a bowl cut wig for Will or layer a jacket over a retro printed shirt for a Hopper look.
Food-Inspired Costumes
Why not dress up as your favorite snack, drink, or meal this Halloween? Food-inspired costumes are always a hit at parties, and making them can be quite simple. For a cupcake costume, attach cupcake liners to a dress or shirt using hot glue, and add a cherry hat to complete the look!
If you're a coffee lover, use brown coffee filters attached to a white dress to create the illusion of a latte. You can even try going as a glamorous sushi roll by wearing brightly colored clothing and attaching faux fish and rice to your outfit. The key to these unique Halloween costumes is color coordination and creativity.
Group and Couple Halloween Costumes
Another fun option for Halloween is to team up with friends, family members, or your significant other and create cohesive costumes based on group themes or famous duos. Continue reading for some group and couple costume ideas that will leave a lasting impression on everyone at your Halloween party.
Famous Duos and Partnerships
For couples costume ideas, turn to iconic partnerships that everyone will recognize. You can dress as Bonnie and Clyde, sporting vintage clothing and carrying toy guns to complete the look. Or how about Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears in their denim-on-denim outfits from the early 2000s? For a pop culture reference, you can also choose to dress as famous characters such as Rue and Jules from Euphoria, showcasing their edgy and unique costume designs.
You can always keep it simple and classic with costumes like a pirate captain and their first mate, Mad Hatter and Alice from Alice in Wonderland, or a black cat and a witch. Just make sure to correspond your costume designs and makeup for a cohesive look.
Fictional Character Ensembles
Dressing up as a group costume inspired by a film, TV show, or book is always a fun way to show off your team spirit. For example, you could go as the whole cast of Riverdale, each person taking on a different character and donning their signature outfit. Or if fantasy is more your style, transform your group into the Hogwarts houses from Harry Potter, each wearing the appropriate house colors and scarves. If you're fans of RuPaul's drag race, have each person dress up as their favorite queen. The possibilities are endless when it comes to group character costumes.
Themed Group Costumes
A great approach for a group costume is to pick a common theme and have everyone dress accordingly. For instance, each person can choose a unique Halloween costume based on their favorite celebrity, food, or animal. Famous artworks can provide inspiration for matching costumes too; think Mona Lisa, The Starry Night, or Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroe series.
When it comes to themed group costumes, think outside the box, and choose ideas that offer a wide range of unique costume possibilities. From classic Halloween characters like skeletons, princesses, and mummies, to more original Halloween costumes such as your favorite brands or even your favorite faces from memes; the creativity is only limited by your imagination.
Nostalgic Costumes
Nostalgic costumes remind everyone of their long-forgotten favorites. They're also a great idea for friends looking for the perfect matching costumes. Pick from fashions, movies, shows, and games to give your friends and family a blast from the past.
Decades Costumes
Decades-themed costumes can transport you back to a different era and allow you to embrace the fashion trends and cultural references of that time. Here are some creative costume ideas inspired by different decades:
Roaring 20s: Transport yourself to the Jazz Age with a glamorous flapper dress adorned with fringe and sequins. Accessorize with a feathered headband, long gloves, and a beaded necklace. Complete the look with a sleek bob hairstyle and smoky eye makeup.
Groovy 60s: Embrace the flower power and psychedelic styles of the 1960s by channeling your inner hippie. Opt for a colorful maxi dress or bell-bottom pants paired with a fringed vest or a tie-dye t-shirt. Don't forget round sunglasses, peace sign accessories, and flowers in your hair.
Retro 70s: Step into the disco era with a groovy 70s costume. Think wide-legged pants, platform shoes, and a flashy, oversized shirt. Add some sparkle with a sequined top or a metallic jumpsuit to truly capture the disco fever.
Totally 80s: Embrace the rebellious and flamboyant spirit of the 80s with an outfit that showcases the era's iconic styles. Pair a neon-colored t-shirt or windbreaker with ripped acid-washed jeans or leg warmers. Accessorize with layers of colorful plastic bracelets, big hoop earrings, and high-top sneakers. Tease your hair into a wild, voluminous style or get an outrageously big wig, and don't be afraid to go all out with fluorescent makeup.
Grunge 90s: For a more relaxed and edgy look, go for a grunge-inspired 90s costume. Slip into ripped jeans with a flannel shirt tied around the waist. Layer with a band t-shirt and combat boots. Don't forget the choker necklace and dark, smudged eyeliner. Complete the ensemble with messy, undone hair.
Futuristic 2000s: Give a nod to the early 2000s by going for a futuristic look. Opt for metallic fabrics, shiny vinyl or patent leather clothing, and bold neon colors. Mix in some asymmetrical cuts or flare pants for added effect. Accessorize with chunky plastic jewelry and futuristic sunglasses for an out-of-this-world style.
Retro Games
Halloween is the perfect time to unleash your love for retro video games and show off your nostalgia for the classics. Here are some creative costume ideas that will transport you back to the golden age of gaming.
Mario and Luigi: Bring the Mario Bros. back to life by donning their iconic costumes. Whether you choose to be Mario or Luigi, these costumes are instantly recognizable and loved by gamers of all ages.
Pac-Man and Ghosts: With a simple circular body and a large cutout for your face, a Pac-Man costume will surely turn heads. Alternatively, you could gather a group of friends and each dress up as the different colored ghosts: Blinky, Pinky, Inky, and Clyde.
Link from The Legend of Zelda: Pay homage to the legendary hero, Link, by dressing up in his signature green tunic, hat, and belt. Complete the look with a toy sword and shield, and you'll be ready to embark on your own epic adventure in Hyrule.
Lara Croft from Tomb Raider: Bring out your inner explorer by replicating Lara Croft's adventurous look. A tank top, cargo shorts, hiking boots, fingerless gloves, and her iconic twin pistols will transform you into the fearless archaeologist ready to raid some tombs.
Samus Aran from Metroid: With her high-tech Power Suit and Arm Cannon, Samus is an empowering choice for any Halloween celebration. Pair a blue bodysuit or jumpsuit with armor-like attachments or use foam to recreate her sleek suit design.
Donkey Kong: If you're a fan of the big, barrel-throwing ape, go bananas with a Donkey Kong costume. Combine a brown jumpsuit or onesie with a red tie and a pair of gorilla hands. Don't forget to carry a cardboard barrel to complete the look.
Mega Man: Embody the Blue Bomber by dressing up as Mega Man. A blue bodysuit, a helmet with the iconic visor, and some homemade foam arm cannons will help you fight off Dr. Wily's evil Robot Masters.
Iconic Movies
If you're a fan of classic movies and looking for a creative Halloween costume idea, why not dress up as characters from iconic films? These movies offer a wide range of characters and styles that are sure to make an impression at any Halloween party. Here are some costume ideas to help you channel the spirit of a few popular films.
The Breakfast Club: Emulate John Bender's rebellious style with a leather jacket, ripped jeans, a band t-shirt, his signature red bandana, and combat boots. To channel Claire Standish's preppy yet slightly edgy look, go with a pink blazer, a white button-down shirt, a plaid skirt, knee-high socks, and white high heels. Dress as the jock Andrew Clark with a varsity jacket, a letterman patch, a white t-shirt, jeans, and sneakers. Embrace Allison Reynolds's unique and quirky style by wearing an oversized, distressed sweater, a plaid skirt, fishnet stockings, and combat boots. Opt for a more unconventional costume for Biran Johnson by donning oversized glasses, a plain shirt, a dark-colored vest, khakis, and sneakers.
Clueless: To recreate Cher Horowitz's signature look, wear a yellow plaid suit set with a matching blazer and skirt. Pair it with knee-high socks, white heels, and carry a cell phone and a fluffy pink pen. Or, you can mimic Dionne Davenport with a black and white plaid blazer or jacket, a mini skirt, knee-high socks, and chunky black boots. Add a wide-brimmed hat and carry a flip phone for extra flair. Finally, go for Tai Frasier's grunge-meets-boho look with a plaid flannel shirt, ripped jeans, a tie-dye shirt or sweater, and chunky combat boots.
Ferris Bueller's Day Off: Dress as the charismatic Ferris in a leather jacket, a red baseball cap, sunglasses, a white button-down shirt, jeans, and white sneakers. Emulate Sloane's effortlessly stylish appearance with a black leather jacket, a white tank top, high-waisted jeans, and ankle boots. Capture Cameron Frye's reserved personality with a plaid flannel shirt, a beige cardigan, khakis, and brown loafers.
Costumes for Pets and Their Owners
For a truly unique Halloween costume experience, why not involve your furry friends in your dress-up plans? Including your pets in your Halloween celebrations creates adorable and picture-worthy moments as your friends and family fawn over your adorable costumed pet. Continue reading to explore some fantastic matching pet and owner costume ideas, alongside pet-friendly themes and tips.
Matching Pet and Owner Costumes
Your pet can make the perfect companion for your costume. Consider one of these fun and creative matching looks for you and your furry friend.
Stranger Things: For fans of Stranger Things, consider dressing up as your favorite character, while your canine friend wears a Demogorgon outfit.
Superheroes Duo: Who doesn't love a superhero? Dressing up as dynamic duos like Batman and Robin, Captain America and the Winter Soldier, or Superman and Superdog can make for an iconic and powerful Halloween look.
Fairy Tale Characters: Bring classic fairy tales to life by dressing up as characters like Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf, Cinderella and her Fairy Godmother, or even Beauty and the Beast. Embrace the enchantment and whimsy of these beloved stories.
Foodie Friends: If you and your pet share a love for food, why not incorporate that into your costumes? Dress up as a hot dog vendor with your pet as an adorable hot dog, or go as a chef-furry duo with a chef hat and apron for both of you.
Pet-Friendly Themes and Ideas
When it comes to choosing unique Halloween costumes for pets, always look for themes that keep their comfort and safety in mind. Ensure your pets are not stressed by opting for costumes made from lightweight and comfortable materials, while avoiding excessive decorations and tight fits.
Some simple, pet-friendly ideas include turning your pets into mini superheroes using costumes with detachable capes and headbands. Pets also look delightful in fairy costumes with tiny wings and tiaras for an Instagram-worthy photo shoot.
You might also try transforming your dog into the Mad Hatter using just a miniature top hat and a quirky bowtie, or turn your feline friend into a pirate with a pet-safe pirate costume and eye patch.
Enhancing Your Halloween Costume
Once you've chosen your unique Halloween costume, it's time to think about tips and tricks, like makeup techniques and props, that will help elevate your festive look to the next level. Enhancement is vital for achieving a fun and memorable group costume dynamic.
Makeup Techniques and Effects
Experimenting with makeup is a fantastic way to increase the quality of your Halloween costumes. Don't forget to apply your favorite face moisturizers and eye shadow primers before you begin for an even base. Consider adding these techniques to your routine:
Smoky eye: Use dark eyeshadow shades to create a sultry, dramatic eye look perfect for enhancing a vampire or black cat outfit.
Red lipstick: Complete your flapper or Audrey Hepburn costume by applying a classic red lip. Choose a long-lasting formula to last your entire Halloween party.
Pink blush: Pink blush cheeks perfectly complement many fairytale characters, such as a princess or fairy. Opt for a powder-based product for an effortless, flush-cheeked appearance.
Nude lip: Makeup enthusiasts often rely on nude lip shades to create a polished pout. A skin-toned lip can help to ground a wide range of costumes, from a disco costume or to a Stranger Things character.
Props and Accessories for Completing Your Look
Props and accessories play a significant role in completing your unique Halloween costume. To create wallet-friendly accessories, try repurposing everyday items, like cupcake liners and coffee filters. For example, a cluster of hot-glued cupcake liners can create a beautiful flower crown accessory for a garden nymph or fairy costume.
Don't underestimate the power of a high-quality pair of high boots or a statement choker necklace, either – they can help ground an outfit and add that extra touch of authenticity. Tried and true favorites like aluminum foil swords, faux fur werewolf gloves, and a plastic skeleton hand can all elevate your costume and make it feel more polished.
There's no limit to the fantastic Halloween costume ideas that can be explored with your pets, makeup techniques, and a little creativity. By combining unique and well-executed costumes, not only will you have a Halloween to remember, but you'll be the talk of the town with your cohesive and memorable outfit.
Complete Your Halloween Party with Party City
With Halloween just around the corner, it's time to start planning your spooktacular party. Party City is your one-stop shop for all things Halloween, from unique costumes and Halloween decorations to festive tableware and props.
Whether you want a full head-to-toe costume straight out of the bag or accessories and props for a unique DIY costume, we have what you need. Looking for that perfect group costume? We offer a wide variety of options for your entire crew, from Stranger Things to classic pirates.
When it comes to decorations, Party City has all the hauntingly perfect decor you need to give your guests a fright. Transform your space with a disco-themed look or create a chilling graveyard scene. For that extra touch of horror, complete your Halloween party setup with skeleton and werewolf props, as well as creepy crawly spiders and cobwebs.
Unique Halloween Costume FAQs
What are some unique costume ideas for adults?
Halloween is the perfect time to think out of the box and let your creativity shine. Some unique Halloween costumes you might want to consider are a beer costume made from white and gold balloons, a Steampunk costume, or a high-fashion take on Red Riding Hood. For a retro twist, go for a Britney Spears-inspired look, or a 70s disco costume.
How can I create a standout couples costume?
When it comes to a couples costume, think of famous duos you love. Barbie and Ken make the perfect pair, as do Mike and Sulley from Monsters, Inc. If you're fans of Netflix's Stranger Things, you can dress as couples like Eleven and Mike or Joyce and Hopper. Paired objects and foods like a pencil and notebook, peanut butter and jelly, and a pizza slice and delivery driver are also excellent options.
What are some unique group costume ideas?
Group costumes are a great way to show off your squad's creativity and originality. Some exciting and original Halloween costumes for groups include recreating your favorite board game, dressing as a troupe of pirates, or going as a pack of werewolves. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and create a unique group costume that truly shines on Halloween night.
What makeup tips will complete my unique Halloween look?
To elevate your costume to the next level, don't forget about makeup! Focus on accentuating your features and letting your creativity flow. Experiment with smoky eye shadow, bold lipstick, glitter and face gems, fake blood, or just a simple nude lip. Halloween is also the perfect time to try out wild and fun makeup ideas like a bold pink blush or dramatic face paint designs.
