Who doesn’t love Halloween? If the mountains of candy and delicious treats, endless horror movies and spookily decorated houses on your street weren’t enough, surely the chance to dress up as your favorite character from pop culture is enough to spark some enjoyment, at least for one night. We’re here to tell you it’s never too early to start planning your costume for October 31st. Below, we’ve put together some of the best Halloween costume ideas, with options for everyone, including singles, couples, friends and families.
Before we dive in, it’s important to think about what kind of costume you’re looking for. To help you get an idea about what kind of Halloween outfit is right for you to wear to the party, try asking yourself these questions.
How many people are in your party?
If you’re a couple, several friends or a family unit, this opens up a range of coordinated outfits. While it’s fun to let everyone choose what they want to be, coordinating outfits allows you to create a bigger impression on other trick-or-treaters. Think about going as a full family of Incrediblesor the main characters from your favorite horror movie.
How much time do you have to get ready?
It may not have occurred to you, but if you’re short on time when you get home from work or you have several children to prepare, it’s worth considering costumes with minimal preparation time. In the same way, if you have excess time and want to go all out, look for options with added face paint, specific hairdos and added effects to stand out from the crowd.
How much effort do you want to put in?
Leading on from the time question is the effort question. Think about how much effort you want to put into getting ready. If you’re looking to impress a date or show off your makeup skills, you may want to commit more time to the process.
Do you prefer topical or classic costumes?
There are benefits to both. A classic costume done well is hard to beat on Halloween. However, topical costumes tend to get people talking and laughing. Consider what impact you’re going for when you make your choice. Also, think about whether you want to go the family-friendly route with a silly outfit or opt for a scary Halloween costume instead.
How long are you going to be wearing your outfit?
Finally, think about the practicalities of wearing your outfit. If it’s a whole-day event, you might not want to be stuck inside a sweatsuit with a wig on top. And, consider whether you’ve got a lot of distance to cover or whether you’ll be close to your own home should you need to bail.
After you’ve considered these questions, you should have a good idea about the type of costume you’re after. Below, you’ll find the best Halloween costume ideas for this year.
1. Jurassic World Dinosaur Costume
BEST SHOW-STOPPER
Nothing captures people’s attention faster than seeing a dinosaur walk into the room. This inflatable costume is sure to garner some laughs, and you’ll undoubtedly be the life of the party. The real question is: which dinosaur are you? Your choices are T-Rex, Triceratops or Velociraptor.
Accompanying Idea: You can grab a couple of friends to go as the other dinosaurs or have them dress as characters from the Jurassic World movies.
Buy: Jurassic World Dinosaur Costume $55.99
2. Morphsuits Adults Monster Urban Legends Costume
BEST CREEPYPASTA/URBAN LEGEND
In case you’re wondering what a creepypasta is 1 no, it’s not a new dish at Olive Garden. Creepypastas are the internet’s version of old school urban legends, and they’ve garnered quite the cult following over the past few years. It’s a cool opportunity to dress a little spooky and have a dark backstory. Plus, these literally cover your entire body from head to toe, so hardly any outside effort is needed.
Accompanying Idea: There are tons of creepypastas out there, from Slender Man to Eyeless Jack. You and the crew could go as the entire book of legends.
Buy: Morphsuits Adults Monster Urban Legends Costume $53.96
3. Newhui Joe Exotic Sequin Shirt
BEST NETFLIX COSTUME
Hey all you cool cats and kittens, if you’re looking to dress up as the characters (er, real people) from Netflix’s Tiger King, there are a few options out there to choose from. It’s a pretty safe bet that there will be a lot of cool cats out there this Halloween season. The obvious choice is to go with the leader of the pack and dress as Joe Exotic. Pair this sequin top with a yellow mullet wig and a baseball cap, and you’d be good to go.
Accompanying Idea: Another stand-out from the show is Carol Baskin. All you would need for that one is a t-shirt with a kitten on it and a flower crown. But for more Tiger King ideas, see further down the list.
Buy: Newhui Joe Exotic Sequin Shirt $51.99
4. California Costumes Men’s Steampunk Adventurer Costume
COOLEST COSTUME
The steampunk genre of costumes and Halloween decor has been an increasing trend over the years. The retro-futuristic style incorporates 19th-century attire with an industrial edge.
Accompanying Idea: There are plenty of steampunk options out there, but another favorite that would be rather topical would be to dress like a steampunk plague doctor.
Buy: California Costumes Men's Steampunk Adventurer Costume $64.14
5. California Costumes Rogue Pirate
BEST SEXY COSTUME
Ahoy, matey! If you’re looking for a costume that will allow you to show off a little bit of chest, then this pirate number will give you just what you desire, you sexy swashbuckler! The set comes with everything you’d need 1 a vest, striped pants, wrist cuffs, a belt with a buckle, and boot covers.
Accompanying Idea: While it certainly would be cool to see an entire crew of pirates, perhaps consider adding a mermaid or sea creature if you’re going in a group or pair.
Buy: California Costumes Rogue Pirate $40.70
6. Disguise Men’s Genie Costume
BEST DISNEY
You don’t need to rub a magic lamp to come across this mystical genie costume. The full-body costume includes a royal purple polyester robe and shirt, with a headpiece to match. Magical abilities not included.
Accompanying Idea: You could either stick with the theme and invite Aladdin, Jasmine, and Jafar to tag along — or crack open the entire Disney catalog. The options are endless.
Buy: Disguise Men's Genie Costume $45.15
7. Scooby-Doo Plush Deluxe Adult
MOST TIMELESS
Zoinks! Scooby-Doo and the crime-solving members of Mystery Inc. have been around since 1969. The beloved cartoon series has been revived several times over the years, with the most recent movie having been released just this past summer. It’s a timeless cast of characters everyone is sure to get excited over.
Accompanying Idea: Of course, Scooby isn’t complete without the rest of the Mystery Inc. gang — Fred, Velma, Daphne, and Shaggy.
Buy: Scooby-Doo Plush Deluxe Adult $42.44
8. Forum Novelties Men’s Shark Ride-on Costume
MOST COMICAL
Surf’s up, man! Catch some waves (and some laughs) on the back of a great white shark. Ride-on costumes are always so much fun to look at, especially when they’re pulled-off correctly.
Accompanying idea: Honestly, there’s nothing more perfect to pair with this than a lifeguard on duty.
Buy: Forum Novelties Men's Shark Ride-on Costume $58.31
9. Trick Or Treat Studios Michael Myers Halloween Costume
BEST ’80s SLASHERS
Ah, the ’80s. It was the decade that gave us many things, including the stuff of nightmares. The 1980s gave way to a huge surge in slasher movies and introduced an entire generation to a new slew of monsters. Now is your chance to pay homage to the killers that kept you up at night at a kid.
Accompanying idea: The king of Halloween is, of course, Michael Myers, but other key slasher villains include Freddy Krueger (A Nightmare on Elm Street), Jason Voorhees (Friday the 13th), Leatherface (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre), and Chucky (Child’s Play).
Buy: Trick Or Treat Studios Michael Myers Coveralls $53.99
Buy: Trick Or Treat Studios Michael Myers Mask $58.06
10. Fun World Big Bag Granny Wolf Costume
BEST FAIRY TALE
Once upon a time… we all remember the stories of Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf, and this costume takes a comical spin on the fairy tale classic. The visual of you in a granny nightgown will surely be the topic of conversation for many Instagram posts to come.
Accompanying idea: This fairy tale wouldn’t be complete without Little Red Riding Hood.
Buy: Fun World Big Bag Granny Wolf Costume $30.77
11. Popfunk DC Comics Adult Superhero Tee
MOST LOW-KEY
Having trouble fully committing to a costume this year? No worries, we understand. But you can still get a little festive by throwing on this tee. It literally does all the work for you, and you rock some serious Superman vibes as he’s about to leave the office to save the world.
Accompanying idea: If you’re paired with someone who also wants a super casual costume, they could dress in business attire and be the Lois Lane to your Superman.
Buy: Popfunk DC Comics Adult Superhero Tee $22.99
12. Fun World Men’s 3D Zombie Costume
BEST UNDEAD
The exposed bones and decaying flesh really sell this undead attire. The costume comes with pants, a shirt, a pair of gloves, and a mask with a wig. This way you’re fully covered, and no one will mistake you for the living.
Accompanying idea: There are two ways to accompany this costume: Option one is to have a horde of zombies, while option two is to divide the crew and make some of them living zombie hunters.
Buy: Fun World Men's 3D Zombie Costume $38.92
13. Mandalorian Cosplay Costume
BEST OTHER WORLDLY
The Skywalkers can move over; there’s a new Star Wars hero in town, and he’s accompanied by possibly the cutest sidekick a galaxy far, far away has ever witnessed (Babu Frik, anyone?). The Mandalorian TV show has taken the Star Wars universe by storm, which is why turning up to a Halloween party in this topical outfit is sure to draw plenty of admiration. This Mandalorian Cosplay Costume comes with the top, pants, gloves, a cloak and an armor set for a near-complete Mandalorian look. You’ll need to provide your own helmet. But just remember, you can’t take it off.
Accompanying idea: No Mandalorian outfit would complete without his ever-present sidekick, Baby Yoda.
Buy: Mandalorian Cosplay Costume $144.99
14. HUAYUARTS Pumpkin Inflatable Costume
BEST CHILD-FRIENDLY
Sometimes you just want to stick to a fun, easy and child-friendly costume that isn’t going to give your kids nightmares. If that’s you, consider this HUAYUARTS Pumpkin Inflatable Costume. It’s quick and easy to slip on, will give your friends and family (children included) a good laugh and can be kept as a great go-to option anytime you forget in years to come. Included with the 100% polyester, waterproof and breathable pumpkin outfit is a motorized fan that keeps the outfit inflated when you’re inside. Batteries are not included.
Accompanying Idea: Can you imagine anything more adorable than an adult pumpkin and their pumpkin children walking down the street?
Buy: HUAYUARTS Pumpkin Inflatable Costume $23.19
15. Rubie’s Ghostbusters Costume with Backpack
BEST TOPICAL
While the film Ghostbustersreleased in 2016 went some way to giving people the Ghostbustersfix they’d longed for since the original 1980s duo, it’s fair to say we still want more — and we’re about to get it. Celebrate the soon (2021) to release Ghostbusters: Afterlife by dressing up as everyone’s favorite ghost-fighting heroes with this Rubie’s GhostbustersCostume with Inflatable Backpack. It’s ideal for individuals, friends and families alike and works well if one or more of your group also dresses as a pursuable ghost.
Accompanying Idea: Slimer, Marshmallow Man or any other ghost or ghoul to be busted.
Buy: Rubie's Ghostbusters Costume with Backpack $23.44
16. Disguise Men’s Lego Iconic Costume Kit
LEAST EFFORT
Whether it’s a last-minute arrangement or you’re just not feeling the vibe this year, the Disguise Men’s Lego Iconic Mask & Hands Costume Kit offers an easy and ready-in-seconds outfit which will still make people think you tried hard. Combine the kit with a plain t-shirt and plain pair of pants to complete the Lego-inspired look. This costume is officially licensed, and for those who want to push the boat out a little, it could easily be combined with other outfit pieces for a specific Lego person look, say a pirate or a construction worker.
Accompanying Idea: Why not add your favorite character from the Lego movie franchise?
Buy: Disguise Men's Lego Iconic Costume Kit $29.89
17. AltSkin Men’s Full Body Mummy Spandex Suit
MOST FORM FITTING
Skintight suits aren’t for everyone, but if you like that kind of thing and want to celebrate All Hallow’s Eve with a traditional outfit, the AltSkin Men’s Full Body Mummy Spandex Suit could be for you. It’s made from a polyester and lycra blend for comfort and security. Plus, it has been printed with a bandage appearance which saves the hassle usually associated with mummy-style outfits.
Accompanying Idea: A hero inspired by the Brendan Fraiser, Rachel Weiss and Tom Cruise mummy-fighting characters.
Buy: AltSkin Men's Full Body Mummy Spandex Suit $29.95
18. Glow in The Dark Skeleton Jumpsuit Pajamas
FAMILY PICK
Choosing Halloween outfits becomes a lot harder when you’ve got a whole family to dress. That’s why these Glow in The Dark Skeleton Jumpsuit Pajamas are a handy option to have. The jumpsuits are available in all sizes, from child to adult, and include a full zip along with a hood for added comfort. They sport a skeleton design on the front which glows in the dark, meaning a number of these walking down the street at night would be a spooky sight to see indeed.
Buy: Glow in The Dark Skeleton Jumpsuit Pajamas $49.99
19. Rubie’s Transylvania Vampire Costume
MOST CLASSIC
When it comes to traditional and ever-popular Halloween outfits, it’s hard to look beyond a vampire. Bram Stoker’s original Dracula never gets old on Halloween, which is why dressing in this Rubie’s Transylvania Vampire Costume is always going to be a safe bet. It includes a medallion, shirt and cape, along with a stand-up collar. Add a pair of pointed fangs and a paler-than-average face. Then, you’re good to go.
Accompanying idea: If you’re sticking to the classics why not go as a gang. Werewolves, Frankenstein, mummies and zombies are ideal.
Buy: Rubie's Transylvania Vampire Costume $27.51
20. Forplay Women’s Super Seductress Costume Set
BEST COUPLE
Another blockbuster that got pushed back due to the virus outbreak was Wonder Woman’s second outing in Wonder Woman 1984. As DC’s most recent and previously most successful character, why not dress as Wonder Woman herself, Diana Prince, with this Forplay Women’s Super Seductress Costume Set? It includes the headband, bodysuit, cape, arm cuffs and lasso of truth in case you come across any felons you want to interrogate.
Accompanying Idea: Steve Trevor, Diana’s love interest and companion, may have seemingly perished in the original movie, but we know he’s coming back for the sequel . . . in some form at least.
Buy: Forplay Women's Super Seductress Costume Set $33.79
21. Rubie’s DC Comics Batman Shirt With Mask
BEST UP AND COMING
While you may have thought things piqued with Bale or that Affleck took the all-time crown and any further attempt to play the caped crusader were unrequired, we find ourselves about to embark on another Batman-filled adventure when Robert Pattinson’s The Batman hits cinemas in 2021. Celebrate the return of Bruce Wayne this Halloween with this Rubie’s DC Comics Batman T-Shirt With Cape And Mask. This officially-licensed costume includes a tee with an attached cape and a half mask. While not as complete as some Batman costumes, this set’s simplicity makes it ideal for a last-minute or more incognito dress-up option.
Accompanying idea: Couples should check out the Harley Quinn costume idea below. Alternatively, you’ll never go wrong with the Joker, Robin or Alfred by your side.
Buy: Rubie's DC Comics Batman Shirt With Mask $21.04
22. Forum Novelties Men’s Wizard Adult Costume
MOST MAGICAL
Long before the boy with the scar on his forehead, wizards had large pointy hats, carried magical staffs and wore gowns with oversized sleeves. This Forum Novelties Men’s Wizard Adult Costume is ideal for putting that magic back into a wizard’s appearance, and it lets you create a more personal interpretation of how magic-wielding folk would have looked. This polyester outfit includes the hat, a tunic with the robe attached and a belt. To complete the look, add staff and beard for a traditional wizard style.
Accompanying Idea: For couples, try a wizard and witch combo.
Buy: Forum Novelties Men's Wizard Adult Costume $28.11
23. Fun Costumes Oversized Alien Adult Costume
MOST OUT OF THIS WORLD
Given how 2020 is shaping up, it seems quite likely that the next occurrence in this notable year will be an alien invasion. Well, at least that’s what your friends will believe when you turn up wearing this Fun Costumes Oversized Alien Adult Costume. The all-green outfit is made from a 100% polyester velour fabric and has elastic ankles and wrists along with a centered front zipper for secure and easy fitting. You’ll also find gloves sewn into the cuffs and an intergalactic raygun to complete this fun Halloween outfit.
Accompanying Idea: To celebrate America’s return to space in 2020, add an astronaut buddy as your alien visitor.
Buy: Fun Costumes Oversized Alien Adult Costume $49.99
24. Fun Costumes Adult Tiger Costume
MOST CONTROVERSIAL
Whether you think it’s good, bad or horrible, one thing to have received an extraordinary amount of coverage over this stay-at-home-and-Netflix period has been the TV show, Tiger King. This program has shot to fame so much that Exotic Joe, Carol Baskin and tigers are sure to make an appearance this Halloween. In this Fun Costumes Adult Tiger Costume, you can play the part of a tiger and team up with partners or friends to complete the set.
Accompanying idea: Of course, if you’ve got a tiger, you need an Exotic Joe or Carol to go alongside.
Buy: Fun Costumes Adult Tiger Costume $49.99
25. Oya Costumes The King of The North Costume
BEST FOR FRIENDS
You may have loved the ending or you may have hated the ending. Whatever the case, you’ve most likely watched all eight seasons of Game of Thrones, the Westeros-based TV show. It’s unsurprising that the characters from this top-rated show remain to stand out as costume choices this All Hallow’s Eve. This comprehensive Jon Snow Oya Costumes The King of the North Costume is an ideal choice, and it comes with almost everything you’ll need to pull off a convincing GOT costume. Add pants, gloves and a sword to complete the look.
Accompanying Ideas: Game of Thrones is filled with so many epic characters that picking out an extra to join you should be simple, whether you’re a couple, friends or a family.
Buy: Oya Costumes The King of The North Costume $64.95
26. Joyfunny Men’s Superhero Panther Jumpsuit
BEST COMIC BOOK
No dress-up list is complete without the juggernaut that is the Marvel franchise. Due to the virus outbreak, we’ve been temporarily starved of new feature films, though we do know new Black Widow, Thor, Guardians, Dr. Strange and more are on the horizon. There’s also a Black Panther sequel in the works, which is why this Joyfunny Men’s Superhero Panther Jumpsuit should be considered as your Halloween costume.
Accompanying Idea: With the launch of her very own standalone film, Black Widow is a fine companion for any Marvel-inspired costume.
Buy: Joyfunny Mens Superhero Panther Jumpsuit $89.99
27. Rick and Morty Deluxe Rick Men’s Costume
BEST FOR TEENAGERS
Rick and Morty is one of the hottest properties in the world of TV entertainment at the moment. And while this season may be over, there will certainly be plenty of love for anyone who turns up dressed at the galaxy’s worst/best grandpa. This officially-licensed Rick and Morty Deluxe Rick Men’s Costume includes the wig, eyebrow and favored lab coat of the man himself. Consider adding a home-crafted portal gun for a more complete and Rick-tastic look.
Accompanying Idea: There would be no Rick without Morty. And if you need more, add Jerry, Beth, Summer or any number of the great characters that make up the unforgettable cast of the show.
Buy: Rick and Morty Deluxe Rick Men's Costume $42.99
28. Leg Avenue Men’s Top Gun Flight Suit Costume
BEST RETRO
If you feel the need for speed, you’re in luck. With Top Gun: Maverick on the way, Top Gun fever is about to hit the town, and if you’re a fan of the 1986 original (who isn’t?), then turning up in this Leg Avenue Men’s Top Gun Flight Suit Costume is about to become a lot more relevant again. The flight suit is made from 100% polyester, features the Top Gun signet and includes a pull-up closure for a secure and comfortable fit.
Accompanying Idea: Goose? Iceman? Slider? Or if you’re a mixed couple, then it has to be Tom Cruise’s Maverick and Kelly McGillis’ Charlotte Blackwood.
Buy: Leg Avenue Men's Top Gun Flight Suit Costume $77.14
29. Charades Women’s Harley Quinn Costume
BEST WITH MAKEUP
If you want an outfit choice that mixes exciting clothes with fun makeup, the Charades Women’s Suicide Squad Harley Quinn Costume fits the bill. On the back of the 2020 Birds of Prey film, Harley Quinn’s popularity is riding high, so this costume choice is sure to receive a positive response. This officially-licensed outfit comes with a lightweight costume top, sequin shorts, a black belt and a long sleeve jacket with a zip-up front. Paint your hair, paint your face and grab a giant wooden hammer. Then, you’re ready to cause mayhem.
Accompanying Idea: Harley Quinn’s known associates and adversaries include none other than the Joker himself and the caped crusader, Batman.
Buy: Charades Women's Harley Quinn Costume $70.14
Best Superhero Halloween Costumes for Adults, Because You Can Never Be Too Old to Play Batman