How to show up and show out with your Halloween costume this year

As Halloween approaches and students scramble to rummage through closets to pull together last-minute costumes, it can be tricky to curate the perfect one. Niche, but not too niche. Sexy, yet tasteful. Classic, but not overdone. Coming up with one costume can be hard enough, let alone enough for the entire weekend.

Although I have already chosen my costumes for this year, here are five Halloween costumes that I would totally wear and recommend for others.

Burlesque dancer

This costume has been floating around TikTok lately, and I am absolutely in love. Although there are many intricate details that go into this costume, finding the right pieces can be much simpler than one may think. Brands such as Dolls Kill have this costume available ready to wear, but if you want to piece it together yourself, all you need are these:

Firstly, a corset is key. Burlesque dancers are all about flirtatious femininity, so having a corset that defines the body is a must. On the bottom, you can pair it with lace bloomers for something quick and easy, or for a more authentic look, add a feather tail fan.

Accessorize with an ostrich feather fan and a feather headpiece, and you’re good to go!

Clown classique

On the same vintage note as the burlesque dancer, the clown classique is a unique piece that is both easy and interesting – black and white is the name of the game here.

A simple black and white patterned dress is the main garment for this costume. You can pair any black and white top and bottom for this, but a plethora of patterns will achieve the best look. Patterned tights and a matching Pierrot hat and collar are all you need to complete this film noir-esque outfit.

Of course, clown makeup is a necessity. Clowns do not have to be the scary caricatures that spooked us all in 2016 — this chic makeup is the star of the show and a cute way to show your personality.

Mia Wallace

From the cult classic 1994 Quentin Tarantino film “Pulp Fiction,” dressing as Mia Wallace is a great way to use clothes you may already have in your closet.

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All you need is a white button-up shirt, black trousers (or a skirt!) and a black bralette. If you have a fierce brunette bob already, the work is already cut out for you. If not, a wig will absolutely be necessary.

This costume is such a classic — easy to move in, accessible and instantly recognizable. So, don’t be a square and be ready to strike up a conversation with any film buff you may come across whilst wearing this.

Fantastic Mr. Fox

Although this costume is ideal as a couple’s costume, do not be afraid to pull this one out alone. From Wes Anderson’s 2009 hit film “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” this costume is simple, yet rooted in pure whimsy.

For Felicity Fox, all you need is a yellow sundress and a pair of fox ears. If you have a Mr. Fox joining you, then they will need a white button-up top, khakis and a neck tie… and, of course, matching fox ears.

Mr. Fox will also need a faux fox tail to clip to their khakis, a direct nod to the movie, to make this costume even better.

Retro Alien

My final costume pick has to be the stereotypical vintage alien. This costume can be purchased ready-to-wear by many different retailers (the online clothing store Yandy has this silver suit and green set that are adorable), but you can personalize this costume and make it your own.

Any satin or metallic dress will do the trick, but to make this costume even better, you can pair it with green tights and an antenna.

To really amp up the retro vibes, you could go in with green face makeup, gogo boots and a space blaster to complete the look.

Most importantly, Halloween is a way to express your personality and creativity, so you truly can wear whatever your heart desires. If Halloweekend had more days to it, these costumes would definitely be in my lineup.
leeam8@miamioh.edu