We have a little time until Halloween, but it's never too early to start planning your Halloween costume! When October 31 rolls around, there's never a shortage of ideas, from the basic, like a DIY witch, skeleton, or ghost costume, to something more elaborate.
We find the costumes that make the biggest impact are based on pop culture trends, like the TVs, movies, and celebrities everyone is talking about. They'll make the biggest splash in your Halloween Instagram posts. We'll be on the lookout for the most popular ideas for 2023, but here are some trending costumes to get you started. Many of these can be put together last-minute by shopping your closet. Or you can get most of the elements from Amazon.
Indiana Jones
With Dial of Destiny out this summer, we expect Harrison Ford's classic character to see a resurgence this Halloween. Indy's clothing hasn't changed much over the years. Just pair a button-down shirt with a hat and satchel. If it's cool outside, top with a leather jacket.
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Barbie Movie
With Barbiecore taking the world by storm, we expect it to be one of the trendiest costumes this Halloween. It's an easy look to pull off: Just think pink! This costume is inspired by Margot Robbie's look at a press junket.
Maverick, Top Gun
The sequel to the 1986 film was the blockbuster event of 2022, so there's never been a better time for dudes to dress up as Tom Cruise's character. Grab yourself a wing man or two and serenade the ladies with your very own rendition of "You've Lost That Loving Feeling." Or update the look and go with a Rooster costume.
Wednesday Addams
The Addams Family series starring Jenna Ortega will be back for a second season, and Wednesday Addams is always a Halloween vibe. Keep it super moody with an all-black outfit, straight braids, and black nail polish.
Eddie Munson, Stranger Things
When we needed a hero, Eddie Munson stepped up in a major way and changed the course of Stranger Things. Replicate his look with 1980s-inspired clothes, big hair, and a metal trash can lid.
Queen Regent Míriel, Rings of Power
The new Prime Video series from the Lord of the Rings universe is rife with costume inspiration. We'll take this look from Queen Regent Míriel (Cynthia Addai-Robinson).
Kate and Antony, Bridgerton
We're still awaiting Bridgerton season 3, so but Antony and Kate are still one of the top Halloween costumes of the season. Looking to re-create Daphne and the Duke, instead? Check out more Bridgerton Halloween costume ideas. Bonus points if you have your very own little Newton to tag along.
Laurie Strode, Halloween
Pay homage to Jamie Lee Curtis's legendary performances dating back to 1978. Laurie's look is casual and a bit dirty.
The Wizard of Oz
Grab your friends for a fun modern take on a classic Halloween costume from Black Star Boots. The 1939 movie gets a major update with the Cowardly Lion in a sweater dress and the Eden boot, a sleek Tin Man wearing the Addison, and an overall-clad Scarecrow wearing the Aubrey bootie. Dorothy wears her recognizable gingham but swapped the ruby slippers for red Marfa boots.
Eleven, Stranger Things
Millie Bobby Brown's iconic character has come a long way from her knee socks and frozen waffles. Embrace this fierce side with flannel and the telltale nosebleed.
Elvis Presley
Elvis is always a solid choice for a pop culture costume. Replicate his recognizable 1973 Hawaii outfit with this look.
Dwight Schrute, The Office
Dwight's daily getup has become a Halloween classic, just like the other Office Halloween costumes you'll find in the sitcom's Halloween-themed episodes.
Mabel Mora, Only Murders in the Building
All of Mabel's outfits on Only Murders in the Building are iconic, but it's her debut ensemble from the first episode we'll always love the most.
Sandy and Rizzo, Grease
Everyone's favorite movie duo gets a trendy Western update with these looks from Black Star Boots. Both of the stars are wearing the brand's Matador booties.
Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler, Yellowstone
Yellowstone will be on everyone's mind this Halloween with season 5 right around the corner. If you're looking for a couple's costume, take inspiration from Beth and Rip's wedding looks. We love so many of Beth's outfits that we created a Halloween costume guide just for her.
James and Margaret Dutton, 1883
If you're more of a fan of Yellowstone's prequel, 1883 (and who isn't? cough, Tim McGraw, cough), then being James and Margaret Dutton would be a fun and extravagant costume.
Penelope Garcia, Criminal Minds
Criminal Minds is back, and fan-favorite Penelope Garcia didn't disappoint with her bold outfits. Celebrate her return with a bright, floral ensemble, complete with statement glasses.
Meredith Grey, Grey's Anatomy
Paging Dr. Grey! Grey's Anatomy has been around for nearly two decades, making our favorite TV doctors a classic costume choice.
Elizabeth Holmes, The Dropout
Inspired by Steve Jobs's classic black button-down and jeans ensemble, Elizabeth Holmes's go-to power suit is sure to be a head turner this Halloween.
Ted Lasso
We don't have a date yet for the show's return, but that won't stop us from making a statement on Halloween. Ted has a casual style that's easy to replicate. Think fitted puffer jacket and khakis or a warmup suit (don't forget the cool sneakers). Of course, the mustache is the distinguishing feature.
Anna Delvey, Inventing Anna
Let's be real, it's all about the glasses, red hair, and attitude here. Throw on your classiest clothes and speak overly confident affirmations to yourself before leaving to channel the true Anna Delvey.
Forrest Gump
All you need is a light suit and plaid shirt to channel beloved movie character Forrest Gump. Don't forget the box of chocolates though—it's what drives the look home.
Marty McFly, Back to the Future
You can pull off the Marty McFly look without going full-on '80s. Opt for more "current" denim pieces and sneakers you'll want wear again.
Holly Golightly, Breakfast at Tiffany's
Start with any black dress and then pile on the accessories (a pearl necklace, gloves, and a faux cigarette holder) to make the look recognizable.
Katie Bowlby is Digital Director at Country Living, where she covers gift guides, product reviews, crafts, and TV shows like Yellowstone. She’s currently stitching up a cross-stitch pattern for the magazine’s next issue