Halloween 2024 is upon us and now’s the perfect time to plan your outfit. This guide covers everything you need, from classic horror looks to this year's hottest pop culture costumes. Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy or a DIY masterpiece, these 60 ideas will give you the inspiration you need. Read on for the best Halloween costume ideas of 2024, and get ready to steal the spotlight at any party.
Classic Horror Halloween Costume Ideas
Nothing says Halloween like a terrifying classic horror costume. These iconic characters have stood the test of time and continue to be a hit at every Halloween event. Here’s how you can transform into the ultimate scary figure with style:
1. Dracula
Dracula is the king of vampires, and his classic style—complete with a black cape and pointed fangs—will always give off a fearsome vibe. You can either go for the elegant look, with a well-tailored black suit, red lining on the cape, and slicked-back hair or embrace the scary version with blood-stained teeth and a more dishevelled appearance. For a modern twist, add a steampunk element to your outfit with brass accessories.
2. Frankenstein's Monster
Channelling Mary Shelley's Gothic creation is a sure way to get noticed. The green skin, bolts in the neck, and large boots make this costume instantly recognisable. To create the look, apply green face paint, and don’t forget the signature scars on your forehead. Using prosthetic makeup for the stitches can elevate this costume to the next level. Keep your movement stiff to stay in character.
3. The Mummy
Transform into a cursed Egyptian creature by wrapping yourself in bandages. This costume is simple yet highly effective. You can purchase pre-made mummy costumes or create your own by tearing strips of old white fabric and wrapping them around yourself, leaving space for eye holes. For added authenticity, apply some dirt to the bandages to make it look as if you’ve just emerged from your ancient tomb.
4. The Wolf-man
Werewolf transformations never go out of style. You can either keep it subtle by wearing a tattered shirt with wolf claws and fangs, or you can go full-on beast with fur-covered limbs and facial prosthetic. The best part about this costume is the potential for creativity—mixing human and wolf traits will make your look more dynamic.
5. The Grim Reaper
The Reaper is an ominous figure, cloaked in black, ready to harvest souls. This simple yet effective costume consists of a long black hooded robe, a plastic scythe, and pale makeup to give yourself a ghostly complexion. A DIY version can be created with a black bed sheet and a cardboard scythe. Use glow-in-the-dark face paint to make it even spookier for a more haunting effect in dark settings.
6. Witch
From classic pointy-hat witches to more modern interpretations, the witch costume offers plenty of variety. The traditional black dress, broomstick, and pointed hat can be accessorised with green face paint or detailed lace gloves for a more glamorous touch. To give your costume more personality, you could base it on famous witches from movies, like Elphaba from Wicked or Maleficent.
7. Zombie
The undead is always a Halloween favourite. You can take your zombie costume in several directions, whether you want to be a scary, rotting corpse or a more lighthearted, cartoonist zombie. Use torn clothing, dirt, and fake blood to create the illusion of a fresh grave escapee. Latex and face paint can help you create gory wounds and scars, adding to the shock factor.
8. Headless Horseman
The Headless Horseman costume requires some creativity but is incredibly impressive when done right. Create the illusion of no head by using a black robe that extends above your shoulders and holding a prop pumpkin where your head should be. To achieve the effect, you can use foam padding or build an upper body extension that raises the collar high above your actual head.
9. Bride of Frankenstein
The iconic white streaks in the hair and stitched-together look make this an instantly recognisable costume. Use a wig with exaggerated volume or tease your hair into the familiar beehive shape. For makeup, stick to a pale foundation with dark, exaggerated eyes. Adding bolts to the neck or scars can make the look even more intense. A white gown completes the look.
10. Phantom of the Opera
The Phantom is both dashing and mysterious. This costume includes a black cape, a half-mask, and formal evening wear. For the mask, you can either purchase one or craft your own using plaster or paper mach. Keep your face makeup pale, with dark under-eye shadows, to convey the Phantom’s tragic story. You can even carry a prop rose for an extra touch of romance.
Pop Culture Halloween Costume Ideas for 2024
Stay current with the hottest pop culture-inspired costumes for 2024. These ideas will make sure you’re on-trend and easily recognised:
11. Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Outfit
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour was a cultural phenomenon in 2024. Recreate one of her dazzling on-stage outfits, complete with sequins, fringe, and knee-high boots. You could choose from her many iconic looks, like the "Lover" pink and blue ensemble or the "Reputation" snakeskin-inspired look.
12. Barbie
Thanks to the massive success of the Barbie movie, this costume will be everywhere in 2024. Go all out in pink from head to toe, complete with blonde hair, oversized sunglasses, and platform heels. Accessories like a toy phone or plastic handbag will give your Barbie look the finishing touch.
13. Ken
Whether you’re going as Barbie’s boyfriend or doing a solo Ken look, this costume is all about bold patterns, bright colours, and a carefree attitude. Channel Ryan Gosling’s Ken with surfer vibes or opt for Ken’s iconic retro suit.
14. Wednesday Addams
The Wednesday Netflix series has revived interest in this brooding character. To get the look, wear a black dress with a white collar, pigtails, and a serious expression. For an extra touch, bring along a "Thing" hand prop.
15. The Mandalorian
If you're a Star Wars fan, dressing up as the Mandalorian is a surefire way to impress. This costume features sleek, silver armor, a cape, and a helmet. You can either buy the costume or make a DIY version with cardboard and metallic paint for the armour.
16. Bridgerton Royals
Bridgerton remains popular in 2024, and its lavish costumes are perfect for Halloween. Recreate the regal style with embroidered dresses, powdered wigs, and ornate accessories. For a fun twist, pair the old-fashioned attire with modern touches, such as sunglasses or sneakers.
17. Beetlejuice & Lydia Deetz
The release of Beetlejuice 2 makes this an excellent choice for 2024. Whether you go as Beetlejuice in his signature striped suit or Lydia in her red wedding dress, you’ll capture attention. If you’re attending with a friend, go as a duo for maximum impact.
18. Super Mario & Luigi
With The Super Mario Bros. Movie fresh in people’s minds, these plumber brothers will be a hit this Halloween. Overalls, coloured caps, and moustaches will help you complete this fun and recognisable costume. Don’t forget to carry a prop mushroom or coin for an extra touch.
19. The Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus
Hocus Pocus never gets old, and dressing up as one of the Sanderson Sisters guarantees Halloween success. Their signature witchy attire, complete with wigs and magical props, is perfect for group costumes. Channel your inner Winifred, Sarah, or Mary for a mischief night.
20. Succession Power Couple
The business world drama of Succession can translate into a sleek, sophisticated Halloween costume. Think tailored suits, expensive watches, and business-like attitudes. This is a minimalist yet classy option for couples who want to look sharp and stylish.
DIY Halloween Costume Ideas
Not only are DIY costumes budget-friendly, but they also offer endless creativity. With a little effort, you can craft a standout costume that reflects your personality and skills. Here are 10 easy DIY costume ideas to try out this Halloween:
21. DIY Ghost
This classic and super easy-to-make costume never gets old. Simply grab an old white sheet, cut out eye holes, and you’re done! If you want to elevate the look, consider adding glowing or decorative elements to the sheet, or combine it with accessories like chains, lanterns, or hats for a unique twist.
22. DIY Vampire
A vampire costume can be both elegant and terrifying. You can create your version with a black suit or dress you already own, and make fangs out of plastic or cardboard. Add fake blood to your mouth, and use makeup to create a pale face with red eyes. For an extra touch, use accessories like a fake bat or a Gothic-style necklace.
23. DIY Scarecrow
If you’re a fan of autumnal aesthetics, a scarecrow costume might be perfect. Combine a plaid shirt, ripped jeans, and a straw hat to start. Stuff some straw or raffia in the sleeves and pants to complete the look. Don’t forget the face makeup—draw stitches around your mouth and eyes for that rustic, stitched-together appearance.
24. DIY Alien
Go extraterrestrial with a DIY alien costume! Use silver or metallic clothing as your base, and add antennas made from headbands and wire. Face paint can give you green or purple skin, and adding glow sticks or LED lights will make your costume pop. This is a fun, futuristic costume that’s easy to make from materials you already have at home.
25. DIY Robot
A robot costume can be created using cardboard boxes, spray paint, and household items. Cover a large box with metallic paint, cut out arm and head holes, and attach knobs and buttons to resemble a control panel. You can even use LED lights to make your robot more high-tech and realistic.
26. DIY Emoji
Turn yourself into a walking emoji by creating large, round cutouts from cardboard and painting them with your favourite emoji expressions. You can either hang these on your shoulders or attach them to a shirt for a simple yet effective costume. Whether it’s the laughing face or the heart's eyes, everyone will recognise your look.
27. DIY Pirate
Pirate costumes are incredibly easy to throw together. Find a striped shirt, wear a red or black bandana, and add an eye patch for the finishing touch. If you want to go the extra mile, you can create a fake parrot to perch on your shoulder or carry a cardboard cutlass.
28. DIY Pumpkin
Go classic Halloween with a DIY pumpkin costume. Use an oversized orange shirt or dress as your base and create a jack-o-lantern face with black felt. For extra flair, wear a green beanie or headband to mimic the pumpkin’s stem. This is a simple and festive costume perfect for Halloween lovers of all ages.
29. DIY Angel
An angel costume is easy to create with a white dress and some homemade wings. You can fashion wings using cardboard and cover them with feathers or white fabric. Add a halo by attaching a thin wire to a headband and wrapping it with golden tinsel. Complete the look with soft, ethereal makeup and white shoes.
30. DIY Devil
If you want to embrace your darker side, a devil costume is a great DIY option. Wear all red, make horns out of a headband and foam, and add a pitchfork as an accessory. Use face paint to create sharp, dramatic features, and don’t forget your devilish smirk!
Group Halloween Costume Ideas
If you’re attending a Halloween party with friends or family, group costumes are a fun way to make a memorable entrance. Here are 10 group costume ideas to get everyone involved:
31. The Avengers
Bring Earth’s mightiest heroes to life with an Avengers-themed group costume. Whether you choose to go as Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, or the Hulk, each person can pick their favourite hero from the Marvel universe. These costumes range from simple DIY to full-on superhero suits. Don’t forget your shields, capes, and hammers!
32. Ghost busters
Get your proton packs ready and hunt some ghosts! Ghost busters is a classic group costume that’s both fun and recognisable. Each person can wear a khaki jumpsuit with the Ghost busters logo, and you can DIY the proton packs using cardboard, tubing, and spray paint. Have one person dress as the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man for extra laughs.
33. Scooby-Doo Gang
Solve some spooky mysteries as the iconic Scooby-Doo gang. Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy, and Scooby each have their signature outfits, and this group costume is easy to pull off. Go thrift shopping for Fred’s ascot or Daphne’s purple dress, and don’t forget a Scooby-Doo plush or costume for the final touch.
34. Harry Potter House Team
Celebrate the wizarding world with a Harry Potter group costume. Each person can represent one of the four Hogwarts houses—Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, and Hufflepuff. Wear house robes and scarves, and don’t forget your wand! For added fun, one person can dress as Dobby or Professor Snape to complete the group.
35. The Addams Family
Creepy, kooky, and altogether spooky, The Addams Family makes for a fun and eccentric group costume. Morticia, Gomez, Wednesday, Pugsley, and Uncle Fester each have their unique styles, making it easy to bring the whole family to life. All you need are dark outfits, Gothic makeup, and a mysterious, spooky attitude.
36. The Incredibles
Become everyone’s favourite superhero family with The Incredibles. Each person can don a red bodysuit with the signature "i" logo, and you can assign family members their superhero alter-egos. This group costume is not only instantly recognisable but also perfect for families with kids who love Pixar movies.
37. The Flintstones
Go prehistoric with a Flintstones group costume! Fred, Wilma, Barney, Betty, and Pebbles all have their distinct outfits, and these costumes are easy to make with basic fabrics. Animal-print clothing, fake bones, and chunky necklaces will give your group a fun, stone-age vibe.
38. Star Wars Cast
Bring the force to your Halloween party by dressing up as characters from the Star Wars universe. Whether you go as Luke Sky-walker, Darth Vader, Princess Leia, or a storm-trooper, everyone can pick their favourite character. Light sabres, blasters, and capes will complete your epic Star Wars group costume.
39. Power Rangers
Morph into action with this colourful and dynamic group costume. Each person can dress as their favourite Power Ranger, complete with matching helmets and bodysuits. Carry power coins or morphs for that extra touch, and don’t forget the signature poses!
40. The Simpsons
For a quirky and instantly recognisable group costume, dress as The Simpsons. Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie each have their iconic looks, and yellow face paint will help you recreate their cartoon appearance. This costume works great for families or friend groups who want to bring some animated fun to Halloween.
Couples Halloween Costume Ideas
For those celebrating Halloween with their partner, these couples’ costumes are perfect for creating a coordinated, creative look:
41. Bonnie & Clyde
Bring some vintage gangster style to Halloween by dressing up as the infamous criminal duo, Bonnie and Clyde. For Bonnie, think of flapper-style dresses, berets, and pearls. Clyde’s look can be achieved with a sharp suit, fedora, and a toy Tommy gun. This costume is a great option for couples who want to look sharp while adding a historical edge to their Halloween night.
42. Cleopatra & Julius Caesar
Travel back to ancient times with this royal couple costume. Cleopatra can be dressed in an ornate Egyptian dress, complete with a golden headpiece and statement jewellery, while Caesar’s look is defined by a white toga and a laurel wreath crown. This couple's costume radiates elegance and power—perfect for those who love historical costumes.
43. Gomez & Morticia Addams
For a spooky and stylish couples’ costume, you can’t go wrong with Gomez and Morticia Addams. Morticia’s look requires a long black dress and pale makeup with bold red lipstick, while Gomez should wear a pinstriped suit and a pencil moustache. As an added touch, carry a rose for Morticia and practice your best smouldering gazes.
44. Beauty & the Beast
For couples who love classic fairy tales, dressing as Beauty and the Beast is a charming option. Belle’s yellow ball gown and the Beast’s formal blue and gold suit make for an elegant pairing. You can elevate the costume with accessories like a rose or a mask for the Beast. This iconic duo will always be a crowd favourite, and the recognisable outfits will ensure that you stand out.
45. Mr. and Mrs. Smith
Dress up as the stylish yet dangerous couple from Mr and Mrs Smith. A sharp black suit for him and a sleek black dress for her, paired with toy weapons, make for an effortlessly cool costume. This look is minimalistic but impactful and gives off an action-packed vibe for couples who want to embrace their inner spies.
46. Frankenstein & The Bride
This spooky couple costume will never go out of style. Frankenstein’s green skin and bolts, paired with the Bride’s white gown and beehive hair with streaks of white, make for a visually striking pair. You can add fake scars and stitches to elevate the scary factor, and the contrast between the two characters gives a hauntingly romantic touch.
47. Mickey & Minnie Mouse
Bring some Disney magic to Halloween by dressing as the world’s most famous couple, Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Mickey’s red shorts, yellow shoes, and black shirt can be easily recreated with items you already own, while Minnie’s polka-dot dress and mouse ears are iconic and adorable. These costumes are simple but instantly recognisable, making them a great choice for Disney fans.
48. Danny & Sandy from Grease
Channel the 1950s with this classic couple costume from Grease. Sandy’s all-black ensemble, complete with red lipstick and curly hair, pairs perfectly with Danny’s leather jacket and slicked-back hair. This is a fun, nostalgic look that’s easy to pull off, and it’s sure to bring some rock-and-roll energy to your Halloween party.
49. The Joker & Harley Quinn
For couples who love comic books and villainous characters, The Joker and Harley Quinn are the perfect match. The Joker’s purple suit, green hair, and face paint are easily recognisable, while Harley Quinn’s pigtails, baseball bat, and colourful outfit make for a playful and mischievous look. Together, you’ll be the ultimate comic book duo.
50. Fred & Wilma Flintstones
Take a trip to the prehistoric era with a Flintstones-inspired couple costume. Fred’s iconic orange and black spotted tunic, paired with Wilma’s white dress and red necklace, are easy to recreate with simple fabrics. Add some messy hairstyles, and you’re all set to rock this stone-age look.
Easy Halloween Costume Ideas for Kids
Halloween is especially fun for kids, and dressing them up in creative and comfortable costumes is a must. Here are some easy and adorable costume ideas for children that are sure to make them the stars of any Halloween event:
51. Mini Superheroes
Let your child channel their inner superhero with a mini version of their favourite hero. Whether it’s Spider-Man, Wonder Woman, Captain America, or Iron Man, superhero costumes are widely available and easy to wear. Add a cape and mask to complete the look, and your little one will be ready to save the day.
52. Disney Princesses
Every child dreams of becoming a Disney princess, and Halloween is the perfect opportunity to make that dream come true. From Elsa’s ice-blue gown to Belle’s yellow ball dress, these costumes are enchanting and easy to find. Add some sparkly shoes, a tiara, and a wand for extra magic.
53. Minions
These mischievous little characters from Despicable Me are always a hit with kids. A simple yellow shirt, overalls, and a pair of goggles are all you need to create a fun and recognisable Minion costume. It’s a great choice for siblings or friends who want to dress up as a group.
54. Baby Shark
For younger children, a Baby Shark costume is both cute and comfortable. You can find pre-made costumes or create your own with colourful fabric and a shark fin. This costume is soft and easy to wear, making it perfect for toddlers who want to join in on the Halloween fun.
55. Little Dinosaur
Dinosaur costumes are always a roaring success with kids. A simple green or brown onesie with a tail and spikes will turn your child into a prehistoric creature. This costume is not only adorable but also warm, making it a great option for chilly Halloween nights.
56. Pirate Kids
Ahoy, matey! A pirate costume is an easy and fun choice for kids. A striped shirt, eye patch, and bandana are the basics for this look, and you can add a toy sword and pirate hat for extra flair. Your little pirate will be ready to sail the high seas in search of treasure.
57. Harry Potter
For kids who love magic, dressing up as Harry Potter is a great choice. A Hogwarts robe, round glasses, and a wand are all it takes to bring this iconic character to life. If your child prefers, they can also dress as Hermione, Ron, or another favourite character from the wizarding world.
58. Frozen’s Elsa
Elsa’s ice-blue gown remains one of the most popular costumes for young girls. With a sparkling dress, a cape, and a tiara, your little one can transform into the Snow Queen. Add some glittery makeup and snowflake accessories for the full Frozen effect.
59. Toy Story Characters
Toy Story characters are beloved by children and make for easy Halloween costumes. Whether your child wants to be Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, or even an alien, these costumes are fun and easy to find. For siblings or groups of friends, dressing up as the whole Toy Story gang is a great group option.
60. Mermaid
For a magical under-the-sea look, a mermaid costume is perfect. A shimmering tail, seashell top, and flowing hair will transform your child into a beautiful sea creature. This costume is colourful and fun, making it a great choice for kids who love fantasy and the ocean.
Conclusion: 60 Best Halloween Costume Ideas for 2024
No matter what your plans are for Halloween 2024, these 60 costume ideas offer something for everyone. Whether you prefer classic horror, the latest pop culture trends, or easy DIY options, you’re sure to find the perfect look for the spookiest night of the year. From group costumes to couples’ outfits, kid-friendly designs, and budget-friendly DIY ideas, these costumes will help you shine. Start planning now to ensure that your Halloween is unforgettable, and don’t forget to browse wholesaleshopping.co.uk for all the accessories and clothing items you need to bring your costume to life!
