A Fashion Lover's Super Bowl
Niche Halloween Costume Ideas for Those Who Get it
For fashion lovers, Halloween is more than just a holiday—it’s a chance to let your creativity take the lead. In my experience, if you’re someone who lives and breathes fashion, chances are, you’re also deeply passionate about Halloween. It’s the one time of year when the rules of everyday style get thrown out the window, allowing you to push the boundaries of creativity, self-expression, and design. Personally, I consider Halloween my Super Bowl. It’s not just about throwing on a costume; it’s about crafting a look, telling a story, and bringing a concept to life in ways you might not normally get to.
When I was in college, I took Halloween just as seriously as any fashion event. One costume wasn’t enough. I planned for three: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights all had their own outfits. These weren’t last-minute, store-bought costumes (even though there’s nothing wrong with that); they were carefully thought-out looks, each with its own theme, often inspired by niche ideas I’d been sitting on since August. The excitement of hunting for pieces, picking out the right accessories, and making sure every detail was perfect felt like preparing for a personal fashion show—except the runway was some Halloween party.
And here’s the best part: you don’t have to spend a fortune or settle for the same costume as everyone else. Thrifting is a great way to find unique pieces that no one else will have, adding a personal touch to your look and allowing you to be even more creative. Plus, it’s a fun way to mix and match elements from different eras, textures, and styles to craft something truly one-of-a-kind.
Even though this year’s Halloween is coming up faster than expected, I wanted to share some costume inspiration for my fellow fashion lovers. Whether you’ve been planning for months or are still looking for ideas, I’ve got you covered. From creative concepts to subtle nods to style history, there’s something here to help you stand out this Halloween.
Plastic Fantastic
Couture Doll
Step into a life-sized fashion fantasy this Halloween by channeling your inner Couture Doll! Imagine high fashion meeting playful, exaggerated doll-like features. Start with a structured, glamorous outfit in bright or pastel colors, featuring bold silhouettes like puffy sleeves, voluminous skirts, or sharp tailoring. Add oversized accessories—think giant bows, sparkly tiaras, or chunky jewelry for a "doll in a dream closet" vibe. Complete the look with perfect, plastic-like makeup: flawless skin, rosy cheeks, wide, doll-like eyes with long lashes, and glossy lips. Don't forget to finish with platform heels or cute ballet flats to embody the ultimate couture doll aesthetic.
My Scene Girls
Revive the ultimate Y2K style with a My Scene Girls group costume! Perfect for a group, each person can embody a different doll with a unique, over-the-top look. Think bold and trendy outfits straight from the early 2000s: low-rise jeans, mini skirts, crop tops, and shiny metallics. Add chunky belts, faux fur jackets, and colorful knee-high boots or platform shoes. Accessorize with oversized hoop earrings, layered necklaces, handbags, and statement sunglasses.
For hair and makeup, go for sleek, straight hair or voluminous waves with bright eyeshadow, glossy lips, and a touch of shimmer. Each friend can choose a signature color or style that reflects their doll's personality—whether sporty, glam, or street chic.
Her Majesty & Her Might
Anne Boleyn
Reimagine Anne Boleyn for Halloween with a modern twist that offers a fresh alternative to the popular Marie Antoinette costume. Begin with a sleek, fitted dress or gown in rich, jewel tones like deep red or emerald, reminiscent of Tudor-era fashion. Opt for modern silhouettes with dramatic elements, such as high necklines or embellished bodices, to capture her regal essence.
Accessorize with a bold, statement necklace inspired by Anne's famous "B" necklace, incorporating a touch of historical flair. Complete the look with a contemporary take on a Tudor headpiece—such as a sleek headband with intricate detailing or a minimalist crown.
Joan of Arc
Unleash your inner warrior with a Joan of Arc costume, reimagined with modern flair. Start with metallic silver fabrics or faux chainmail tops paired with structured pants or skirts for a feminine twist on armor. Layer on a fitted jacket or cape with armor-inspired details like studs, buckles, or faux leather straps for a battle-ready vibe.
Complete the look with knee-high boots or combat boots, and carry a sword or shield as a powerful prop. For a modern Joan, consider metallic makeup or shimmering eyeshadow for a futuristic, ethereal effect. Style your hair in a sleek bob or braid, or choose an androgynous short wig for a bolder approach.
Animated Attitude
Edna Mode
Capture the quirky genius of everyone's favorite superhero designer, Edna Mode, with a chic and humorous Halloween costume. Start with an all-black outfit—such as an oversized tunic or structured dress with geometric shapes to reflect Edna’s bold fashion sense. Add tights for a sleek, modern look. Her signature oversized round glasses are a must; grab a pair to perfect her iconic look.
Complete the ensemble with a blunt, short bob or a wig styled to match Edna’s polished hairstyle. Keep your makeup minimal but refined, with defined brows and a bold red lip. Finish with a confident attitude and remember: "No capes!"
Sailor Moon
Transform into Sailor Moon with her signature sailor suit: a white top with a navy blue collar and a bold red bow at the chest, paired with a pleated blue mini skirt. Knee-high white socks are essential, and you can choose red ballet flats or knee-high boots to complete the outfit. Accessorize with a gold crescent moon tiara on the forehead and long blonde pigtails tied with red ribbons. A red choker with a star-shaped gem adds the finishing touch to her celestial look.
For makeup, aim for a fresh and youthful appearance: bright eyeshadow, long lashes, and a touch of blush, with a bit of highlighter for a soft, luminous effect.
In Vogue
Anna Wintour
Channel the polished style of Anna Wintour this Halloween with a structured dress or skirt suit in neutral tones like beige, cream, or black, or in one of her favorite bold prints, such as florals or geometric patterns. Opt for clean lines and a perfectly tailored fit. Add her most recognizable accessory: oversized, dark sunglasses for that air of mystery and control. Complete the look with a sleek bob wig in honey-blonde, with her signature bangs.
Accessorize with a statement necklace—either a chunky jeweled piece or a refined choker. Finish with sensible yet chic heels like pumps or kitten heels. For the perfect touch, carry a copy of Vogue under your arm and strike her classic, composed pose.
The Supers
Capture the glamour and iconic style of '90s supermodels with a stunning group costume inspired by Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Claudia Schiffer, and Linda Evangelista. Choose classic silhouettes like body-hugging mini dresses, power suits, and slinky slip dresses in luxurious fabrics like satin or velvet. Add chic accessories such as oversized sunglasses, chunky gold jewelry, wide belts, and small clutches. Complete the look with big blowouts or sleek updos and bold makeup—think red lips and glamorous eyeshadow.
Divas Through the Decades
Cher
Channel Cher's iconic, larger-than-life style by selecting one of her most recognizable looks: a sequined bodysuit, fringed jumpsuit, or flowing maxi dress with dramatic slits. Cher is known for her statement-making outfits, so think glitter, embellishments, and eye-catching details.
Her signature long, sleek black hair is essential, whether you choose a straight style or soft waves. Accessorize with oversized hoop earrings, chunky bracelets, or a wide belt. Finish with platform heels or knee-high boots for extra height and drama. Complete the look with bold, glamorous makeup: a dramatic smoky eye, sharp contouring, glossy lips, and a touch of shimmer.
Selena
To dress as Selena, consider recreating her iconic purple jumpsuit from the 1995 "Live!" concert. Choose a fitted, shimmering purple jumpsuit with a plunging neckline and intricate detailing. Pair with matching purple heels and add a dramatic cape or train for extra flair.
Alternatively, opt for a classic bustier ensemble. Choose a sequined or embellished bustier top paired with high-waisted pants or a skirt to accentuate the figure. Complete the outfit with high-heeled boots or sandals, and accessorize with chunky earrings and statement belts.
Halloween offers fashion lovers like me a chance to step outside the ordinary and explore our most creative ideas. It’s not just about throwing on a costume—it’s about crafting a look that tells a story, draws inspiration from style history, or captures the spirit of a favorite character. Whether you’re channeling a Couture Doll, embracing the nostalgic flair of My Scene Girls, or reimagining icons like Joan of Arc or Cher, Halloween is the perfect time to experiment.
And the best part? You don't have to spend a fortune to stand out. In fact, thrifting and repurposing pieces can help you create a look that no one else will have. Stay tuned for more articles, including a guide on how to thrift your Halloween costume to add a personal and creative touch.
So, whether you find inspiration in pop culture, fashion history, or a character that speaks to you, make this Halloween an opportunity to have fun with your style. Embrace the unexpected, be bold in your choices, and enjoy the process of creating a costume that feels uniquely yours. You got this.
XO,
𝒇𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆