I’ll be the first to admit that finding a Halloween costume that’s both cool and not something you’ve seen a million times can feel like a real challenge.
If you’re anything like me, you’re so over the same old spooky rotation year after year. That’s exactly why I’ve put together a list of some seriously awesome ideas, from TV-inspired looks to makeup that’s a total showstopper.
Let’s find you an unforgettable Halloween outfit!
1. Hocus Pocus Group Halloween Costume
Source: @artbybmazz
Okay, Hocus Pocus is a total Halloween classic, right? I feel like I see a lot of costumes, but it’s usually just one of the witches.
If you happen to have two friends or family members who are also getting into the spirit, this is your green light to create the entire coven. I mean, how awesome would that be for a party? It’s a total home run.
2. Gangster Clown Costume
Source: @reynaxbeauty
The gangster clown is another costume that’s insanely popular for Halloween, and here is a fantastic example of it. This makeup artist has pulled off the classic clown makeup but gave it a gangster twist.
The whole look is completed with a bandanna and a shirt. You’ll also be able to find tutorials online for similar looks.
3. Betty Boop Costume Idea
Source: @promisetamang
Betty Boop is one of the most beloved animated characters ever, and I think this next idea is a brilliant take on a Betty Boop costume. The artist nailed the large eyes and signature hairline with makeup.
You don’t have to go for the full doll-like eyes; you could just do a glam eye with red lips instead. After that, all you really need is a red dress and some gold jewelry. A short wig would be a great touch to finish it off!
Follow Promise Tamang’s simple tutorial and you’ll end up looking like the real-life version of Betty Boop!
4. Creative Ice Cream Skull Makeup
Source: @_tally_
If you were into the melted ice cream concept from earlier in the post, then I have a feeling you might like this next pick, too. Here we’ve got a melted ice cream look, but it’s been combined with some killer skull makeup.
This is such a standout Halloween makeup idea. You could recreate this with any skull design you like and any ice cream flavor. So fun!
5. Mermaid Pirate Costume
Source: @beautsoup
Both pirates and mermaids are such popular costumes for Halloween, and I’m obsessed with this next idea that combines the two! The makeup artist created a gorgeous mermaid look, complete with gills.
She then finished off the costume with a pirate-inspired vibe that’s pulled together with a gold earring. This is a seriously cool and unusual idea.
6. Jack-O’-Lantern Halloween Makeup
Source: @glam__bymariah
Let’s be real, nothing says Halloween quite like a Jack O’Lantern. This makeup artist was inspired by it and created a totally glamorous makeup look.
7. Harley Quinn Costume Idea
Source: @carlibel
Next up, we have a Harley Quinn costume idea. I know there are different versions of the character, but this one is inspired by the movie Suicide Squad.
This is another one that’s fun and pretty easy to create, and you can buy the whole costume online. This would be a perfect choice for a party, and you could even get someone else to dress up as the Joker!
8. Pretty Scarecrow
Source: @tannettamakeupartistry
A scarecrow is such a simple and fun Halloween option for women, mainly because you can likely recreate it with makeup you already have in your collection.
The costume created by Tannetta is the ideal way to look pretty and cute for the party. All you’ll need is some makeup, a scarecrow hat, and either a burlap top or a plaid shirt.
Here is a recreation of the look by Allie Burt Chesnut (cinder_allie on YouTube):
9. Mother Daughter Halloween Costume
Source: @cosplayway
The Addams Family has inspired so many Halloween costumes over the years. I had to include this one because here we have Morticia and Wednesday. The mother and daughter duo came up with a costume idea that they can rock together.
If other family members want to get in on the fun, they can join in too. You could totally add Gomez, Pugsley, Uncle Fester, Grandmama, and more. With this idea, the whole family can participate!
10. Handmaid’s Tale Costume
Source: @kelliegerardi
The Handmaid’s Tale is a TV show and a novel, and now the story is inspiring Halloween costumes, too. Here we have the iconic red dress and white hat.
This is also a fantastic costume because it has incorporated the baby bump. Whether you’re expecting or not, this will make for an awesome costume for any Halloween celebration.
11. Wounded Deer
Source: @alex21andra
This next idea has a gory spin on the classic and cute deer makeup. This makeup artist created a beautiful deer look, complete with an antler headband. She then finished off the look with a bloody gunshot wound.
This is a look for anyone who likes deer makeup but wants to be a bit more scary for Halloween. Of course, you can always wear the deer makeup without the wound too.
12. Queen of the Undead
Source: @alvajay
The next idea I have to show you has been described as the Queen of the Undead. This costume is complete with scary makeup, a crown, and a cute outfit.
A costume like this will be pretty simple to recreate, and it would be great for any last-minute Halloween events. You can recreate this look or try the Queen costume with even scarier makeup. You could even add some wounds for extra effect.
13. Half Butterfly Skull Makeup
Source: @marioncameleon
Next up, we have a really unique skull idea. Half of the makeup is dark and beautiful, while the other half is a skull. What makes this look extra special are the butterfly elements.
As you can see, there’s a butterfly wing around the eye. I love this idea because it’s so different and looks absolutely perfect for Halloween.
YouTube tutorial for the look is below!
14. Evil Queen
Source: @bybrookelle
Are you a fan of fairy tales and villains? If so, this idea could be absolutely perfect for you. Here we have a costume based on the Evil Queen from Snow White. This is a very glam version, with a gold crown and accessories, and the makeup is seriously stunning.
It’s the perfect idea for those who want to dress up for Halloween but also want to look pretty too.
15. Gremlin Costume Idea
Source: @myfacecreations
If you’re a fan of the Gremlins, then this unique costume idea is for you! Here we have a costume inspired by Greta. She’s the first female gremlin and appeared in Gremlins 2.
This is an awesome idea for a Halloween party, and anyone who’s seen the movies will love it. You can create detailed makeup like the one featured, or you can make it a little more simple.
16. Undead Bride
Source: @pollymarchant
Want to look both pretty and scary? Well, this idea could be perfect for you. Here we have an undead bride. She’s wearing a stylish white dress complete with a bridal veil and a glam necklace.
Her makeup is beautiful, and she’s also wearing creepy contact lenses. This is a spooky and easy-to-create costume for Halloween. You can recreate this or go for more scary makeup, maybe even with some blood.
17. Sally Costume Idea
Source: @cayaryu
The Nightmare Before Christmas is a movie that generations love, and costumes inspired by the characters always show up at Halloween. This costume is based on Sally.
The look is complete with her signature dress, red hair, and stitched blue skin. You can buy the costume online, and you can also find tutorials for Sally makeup. This is a cool costume that I’m sure everyone will love.
18. Jack Skellington Costume
Source: @helenstifler
My next idea was inspired by the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town himself, Jack Skellington. Now, this artist has taken the iconic character and turned it into a unique Halloween costume for women.
As you can see, the key elements are all there, with the suit and the skeletal face. She’s just glammed it up a bit with a gorgeous wig. I absolutely love this look and totally want to wear it this Halloween!
19. Two Face Halloween Makeup Idea
Source: @bayleemadisonmakeup
Next up, we have another half-and-half idea. One side features beautiful makeup, while the other shows off an old, ghostly look. I love how the hair is grey on one side too, as it really complements the whole vibe.
You can use this same technique in your outfit as well. Maybe one side is clean and pretty, while the other is ripped and old.
20. Pretty Sugar Skull Makeup
Source: @yalitzamonne__
I saw this look done by Yalitza Monnè and instantly fell in love. This look requires black, white, and red makeup for the spider web and skeleton details, some gold glitter, a dark matte lipstick, and a few red roses for your hair. So simple and so cute, right?
21. 1920’s Flapper
Source: @abbyroberts
You can bring some glamour to Halloween events this year by choosing a costume inspired by the 1920s. Here’s a gorgeous example. This look is based on the flappers.
A flapper was a woman of the decade who rocked the popular bob hairstyle and was known for having a rebellious attitude.
This look has all the key features, including the makeup style worn at the time. It’s a stylish and beautiful costume that’s perfect for a party.
22. Pocahontas Halloween Costume Idea
Source: @makeup
Last on my list is this amazing Pocahontas costume. I love this idea because when people dress up as Disney characters, Pocahontas isn’t a super common choice.
It’s a different costume that will look great at parties and other celebrations. This would be perfect for someone attending a party with little ones or if you just don’t want to look scary.
23. Unique Princess Fiona Costume
Source: @lorettasinku
This next idea is perfect for anyone who loves the movie Shrek! Here we have a costume inspired by Princess Fiona. One side of her face looks like the princess during the day, and the other side looks like the ogre that Fiona turns into at night. It’s such a unique and awesome idea.
24. Daenerys Targaryen Halloween Makeup
Source: @keilidhmua
Daenerys Targaryen is one of the show’s most loved characters because she’s a badass woman and a mother to three terrifying dragons. If you want to dress up like the Mother of Dragons, there are some interesting costume options out there.
Dany is known for her platinum blonde hair, the most amazing braided hairstyles, and of course, her dragons: Drogon, Rhaegal, and Viserion. Fans of the show know that Daenerys is a true dragon and has dragon blood, and the look below combines the two perfectly.
This is such a unique and creative look, and honestly, one of the best I’ve seen so far!
Luckily, we’ve found a YouTube tutorial for the look by the talented Keilidh, so you can easily transform yourself into a Dragon Queen.
25. Unicorn Halloween Costume
Source: @vanitymakeup
My first cool Halloween costume idea for women is a magical unicorn. I’ve seen a lot of different ways to create unicorn makeup and costumes, but I really love this one. The makeup is so bright, with pastel tones that match the hair and tail perfectly.
Her outfit is white and accessorized with crystals. You can take inspiration from this and recreate something similar, or you can use your own color palette to make it your own.
26. Lara Croft Costume Idea
Source: @_inspodiary_
Are you a fan of Tomb Raider? Then this next idea is definitely for you. Here we have a kick-ass Lara Croft costume. The look features a tank top with shorts, long boots, and gun holsters.
This is a pretty easy costume to recreate and will look great at any party.
27. Cute Mime Makeup
Source: @bellabm
Next up, we have a mime makeup and costume idea. Mime artists don’t talk; they just use movement and expression to communicate. I think this would be so much fun at parties. You could use it to play jokes on people and more!
If you like the mime idea, then a costume like this would be perfect. The makeup is quite simple, and you’ll need a beret, a striped top, white gloves, and either black pants or a skirt. So easy, right?
28. Unique Bride of Frankenstein Makeup
Source: @voodoobarbiedoll
Another Halloween classic is the Bride of Frankenstein. This next idea features a really unique take on the costume. Here we have some amazing makeup with a stitched illusion. Part of her skin is painted green, like you’d expect with Frankenstein, and the rest is left natural.
This creates a cool and unusual look that will definitely make you stand out from the spooky crowd. You can find a mini tutorial for the makeup and see the products used on the Instagram page below. There’s also a link to a full YouTube tutorial.
29. Mermaid Costume
Source: @jadedeacon
Next on my list is a mystical mermaid makeup and costume idea. The artist has created a stunning mermaid look with shells, pearls, makeup, and accessories. You can take inspiration from this to create your own mermazing look.
For the outfit, you can wear a shell bra and skirt for the classic mermaid costume.
30. Beetlejuice Costume
Source: @desiperkins
Beetlejuice is such an iconic movie that’s loved by so many. Here we have an awesome Beetlejuice costume idea for the ladies.
The artist has recreated key elements, including the striped suit and green hair, but has used the makeup in a new and fresh way, which results in a really unique look. You can try this idea or maybe create the classic Beetlejuice makeup.
If you’re sick of the classic Halloween makeup looks and want to be different and unique, just follow Desi’s YouTube tutorial and we bet you’ll have the coolest costume at the Halloween party!
31. Fortune Teller Pregnancy Halloween Costume
Source: @alanadawn
I have seen a lot of fortune teller costumes, but this one is a little different. This lady had her baby bump painted to look like a crystal ball. It’s such a fun idea and is the perfect way to include your bump in your costume.
If you’re not expecting, you can still take inspiration from the rest of the outfit for an awesome Halloween look.
32. Pin Up Zombie
Source: @itsstashi
I’ve seen many costume and makeup ideas that feature half of one design and half of another. I absolutely love this idea because you really get two looks in one. This next idea features half zombie and half vintage/pin-up makeup.
With this, you get a popular Halloween costume and can join in on the scary fun, but you can still look glam too. You can try makeup like this or create your own horrifying zombie design.
33. Classic Wicked Witch
Source: @flawless_by_tenisha
I couldn’t have a list of Halloween costume ideas without showing you a classic wicked witch. So, this next idea features just that. Here we have a witch costume complete with green makeup, a black hat, stripes, and a broomstick.
This is a fun and easy-to-wear look. All you’ll need is the makeup and the outfit; you could also wear a dress too. You can find witch makeup tutorials online to help you out.
34. Eleven Stranger Things Costume
Source: @bayleemadisonmakeup
My next idea is an Eleven costume inspired by the TV show Stranger Things. The look features the dress, wig, and Eggos that all the fans will know and love.
You can also take inspiration from other characters or create a costume based on one of Eleven’s other looks from the show.
35. Playboy Bunny Costume
Source: @evolelizabeth
Do you want to look more sexy than scary this Halloween? If so, this idea could be perfect for you. Here we have a Playboy bunny costume. An outfit like this would be great for parties or if you’re going out to celebrate Halloween at a club.
You can buy these costumes online, but this would be an easy DIY costume too. For a more scary look, you could add a Halloween twist with some contact lenses or dark makeup.
36. Unique Ice Cream Halloween Makeup
Source: @natashajanewood
If you’re looking for a fun and unique Halloween makeup idea, then check out my next pick. This artist has created a melted ice cream look. She’s wearing a cone hat with pink makeup on her face to look like melted ice cream.
This is a great idea for anyone who wants to join in the celebrations but doesn’t want to go all out. You can also choose any flavor you want!
37. Astronaut Costume
Source: @beatricebouchard
Next up, we have an out-of-this-world costume idea. For Halloween, this lady dressed up as an astronaut. I love this costume because I think many of us have dreamed of being an astronaut, and for one night, you kind of can be!
You can buy NASA costumes online, and you can even choose from a selection of different colors.
38. Halloween Cheerleader
Source: @alvajay
Do you like the skeleton makeup but need a cool outfit to go with it? Then why not recreate something like this? Here we have a Halloween cheerleader.
She has painted her face and body to look like a skeleton and is wearing a black cheerleading costume too. This is such a unique and fun idea. You can buy Halloween cheerleader costumes online, and there are lots of different styles to choose from.
39. Half Robot Halloween Makeup
Source: @lilmoonchildd
If you prefer sci-fi to horror, then this next idea is for you. Here we have half-robot, half-human makeup. You can recreate a similar look to this one, or you can recreate it with your own colors instead of blue.
Anything goes for the outfit, but I would try to make it look futuristic with silver clothing or details.
40. Rhinestone Skeleton Makeup
Source: @ellie35x
Skull makeup and skeleton costumes are super popular at Halloween. This next idea features an artist who has taken the classic look and turned it into something unique and awesome.
She used illusion makeup for the skeletal mouth, along with rhinestones and brilliant body paint. You can take inspiration from this and create glam skull makeup, or go all out and paint the ribs on your body too.
41. Catwoman Costume
Source: @minniemcgee
The next costume idea is inspired by Catwoman. There are so many different versions of Catwoman, and this one looks like it’s based on the character from the movie Batman Returns.
It has the classic tight suit with the stitched black makeup. This costume would be simple to recreate. You can buy Catwoman suits online or just wear a black jumpsuit and complete the look with the mask.
42. Ninja Costume Idea
Source: @beatricebouchard
Next up, we have a fun costume idea. This is a ninja costume, complete with a cool dragon design and a fierce samurai sword.
A costume like this is perfect for those who want to stand out and wear something different this Halloween. You can buy this outfit online, and there are other styles available too.
43. Wonder Woman
Source: @carlibel
If you’d rather be a Halloween hero, then you need to see this next idea. This costume is inspired by Wonder Woman. It’s a cool look that is worn in the latest movie.
You can buy Wonder Woman costumes online; the only thing you’ll have to decide is whether to choose the modern look or the classic Wonder Woman with the stars and cape.
44. Cruella de Vil Costume Idea
Source: @lori_harvey_
Next, we have another costume inspired by a famous villain. This costume is based on Cruella de Vil. Everyone knows the classic story, and even though she’s one of the baddest villains, we love the costume because it’s so glam and very stylish.
This look is complete with a fur coat, a black dress, two-tone hair, and a cigarette. You can buy costumes online, or you could DIY this one and make it yourself.
45. Game of Thrones Inspired Costume
Source: @flawless_by_tenisha
This next idea is for all the fans of Game of Thrones. Here we have a costume inspired by the Mother of Dragons, Daenerys Targaryen.
The makeup artist has painted dragons on her face, and the look is complete with hair like the character wears on the show. It’s a fun and unique look that is perfect for Halloween parties.
We hope you’ve got inspired by our cool Halloween costume ideas and have found the perfect look you’ll be rocking this Halloween!