34 Women Halloween Costumes That’ll Steal the Show in
Halloween isn’t just about candy and carving pumpkins—it’s your annual pass to step out of your everyday self and try on someone else’s shoes for the night.
Maybe they’re stilettos, maybe they’re moon boots, or maybe they’re fur-covered monster feet.
Whatever they are, your costume should feel like a second skin—something you wear with a smirk and a swagger.
Let’s break down 34 killer costume ideas for women that range from classic to current, spooky to silly, and everything in between.
Whether you’re planning a DIY moment or searching for something shoppable, this list has you covered.
I’ll even throw in some personal tricks I’ve learned after 10+ years of Halloween party hopping.
Witch, But Make It Couture
You already knew this one would make the list. The witch costume is the little black dress of Halloween.
But instead of pointy hats from the clearance bin, go for velvet gowns, corsets, lace gloves, and rhinestone-studded broomsticks.
Pro tip: Ditch the dollar-store wig.
Use your real hair or get a high-quality one and style it with intention—think Wednesday Addams meets a Paris runway model.
Corpse Bride With a Romantic Twist
Inspired by Tim Burton’s aesthetic, this look is elegant, tragic, and weirdly beautiful.
A torn wedding dress, dramatic blue makeup, and a flower crown with dried roses will have people gasping—in a good way.
I once wore this to a rooftop party in Brooklyn and got stopped five times for photos. A guy even tried to propose. Don’t worry, I ghosted him.
Barbiecore—Because She’s Everything
With the rise of the Barbie movie and the return of all things hot pink, Barbie is having a resurrection like a fashion-forward phoenix.
You can go classic Malibu, Cowgirl Barbie, President Barbie, or even Zombie Barbie if you want a creepy twist.
Barbie costumes surged over 500% in search volume during October.
And let’s face it—who doesn’t love a chance to wear heels, sunglasses, and an ironic smile?
Morticia Addams: Eternal Glamour
You want power? Walk into a Halloween party as Morticia, and suddenly everyone is standing straighter.
It’s all about confidence, posture, and a blood-red lip. Grab a long black gown and practice saying “Darling, I’m just drawn that way” with deadpan delivery.
It’s timeless, it’s sleek, and you won’t have to keep adjusting glitter or fake blood all night.
Medusa, But Modern
Snakes in your hair and power in your gaze.
A Medusa costume blends myth and mischief, especially if you craft your snake crown from rubber toys spray-painted gold.
One year I added green contact lenses and glow-in-the-dark body paint—let’s just say I made quite a few statues that night (metaphorically speaking).
Vampire Queen with Bite
Forget Twilight. A modern vampire look mixes Victorian drama with edgy style. Think lace collars, blood-drip makeup, fangs, and thigh-high boots.
Vampires have never really gone out of style.
In fact, vampire-themed costumes remain in the top 10 most searched Halloween looks every year, according to Google Trends.
Pop Art Comic Book Girl
This is where your makeup skills take center stage.
Use bold black eyeliner, white dots on your face, and dramatic speech bubble props to create that Roy Lichtenstein comic effect.
Bonus: It’s one of the most Instagram-worthy costumes on the list. Everyone loves a throwback to pop culture with a twist.
Greek Goddess, No Filter
The Grecian look—draped fabrics, gold jewelry, and braided updos—is effortlessly elegant.
You can be Athena, Aphrodite, or your own mythological invention.
I once reused a white bedsheet, a gold belt, and a pair of gladiator sandals and still made it onto someone’s “best dressed” list. Simple works when done right.
Lara Croft: Tomb Raider Chic
If you prefer boots to heels and holsters to handbags, Lara Croft is your girl. Cargo shorts, a tank top, and a braid—that’s it. But it speaks volumes.
You’ll feel like an action star, and it’s one of the comfiest costumes you can wear all night.
Flapper
Fringe, feathers, and forbidden fun. The Roaring Twenties flapper look is glitzy and timeless.
Go for a sequined dress, a long cigarette holder (for the aesthetic), and a headband with a feather.
Add a Charleston dance move or two, and you’re golden.
Wednesday Addams
Channel your inner dark child with braids, a black dress, and a stare that could curdle milk. Bonus: it’s one of the easiest and cheapest costumes to pull off.
Especially relevant with the Netflix series hype—Wednesday is having a cultural renaissance, and she’s not going anywhere.
Rosie the Riveter
Sleeves rolled up, red bandana tied tight, and you’re ready to flex. Rosie is the perfect feminist icon meets Halloween costume.
I wore this one to an office party once, and not only was it comfy, I had more meaningful conversations than I ever expected. Plus, no heels required.
Maleficent Magic
That horned headpiece. That red lip. That cape that swishes like royalty. Maleficent is Disney villainy at its finest.
There’s something deeply satisfying about channeling unapologetic power—plus, it’s a kid-friendly costume that still lets you look like a queen.
Catwoman, Latex Optional
Whether you go classic Michelle Pfeiffer or modern Zoë Kravitz, Catwoman’s allure never fades. Tight black outfit, ears, mask, and a whole lot of attitude.
She’s sleek, confident, and a little dangerous. Everything a Halloween costume should be.
Pirate Queen
Lace-up boots, ruffled shirts, wide belts, and maybe a pet parrot on your shoulder (stuffed, unless you’re really committed). Pirates aren’t just for the boys.
Female pirate costumes were among the top 20 trending women’s Halloween searches in, according to Pinterest Insights.
The Joker, Feminized
Go full chaos. Take the classic Joker look and feminize it with a sharp suit, bold makeup, and a touch of glittery menace.
One year, I paired a green bob wig with a red pantsuit and gold heels. I was terrifying and fabulous.
Scarecrow, But Cute
Plaid shirts, straw poking out of boots, and stitched makeup across your cheeks. It’s a classic, but you can give it a stylish twist.
Add fishnets or a flared skirt to glam it up. You’ll be both adorable and slightly terrifying—perfect balance.
Skeleton Chic
Use black leggings and a black top, and paint or iron on bones with glow-in-the-dark paint.
Or go full Day of the Dead style with floral crowns and intricate skull makeup.
Skeletons are always in style. You just have to pick your aesthetic—creepy, classy, or colorful.
Angel vs. Devil (Group Idea)
This one’s perfect if you’re going out with a best friend. One of you wears all white with a halo, the other goes for red, horns, and sass.
Together, you’re Halloween yin and yang.
It’s also a last-minute costume savior—most pieces are already in your wardrobe.
Workout Girl
Bright leggings, oversized sweatbands, neon tanks. Blast some Jane Fonda and feel the retro burn.
These costumes are a hit at house parties and super comfy to dance in. And yes, you’ll be tempted to start leading a group stretch.
Fairycore Queen
Think pastel tulle skirts, glittering wings, and delicate makeup with rhinestones. You’ll float into the party like a woodland spirit.
I once wore this costume with light-up wings and kept knocking drinks off tables. Worth it.
Ursula the Sea Witch
Purple body paint, shell necklace, and tentacle-like skirt. This one takes work, but the payoff? Epic.
Villains get to have fun. Plus, Ursula is finally getting her moment thanks to Disney’s live-action love.
Bride of Frankenstein
Grey streaks in your hair, long white gown, dramatic eyeliner. Combine horror and glamour for a costume that never dies (pun intended).
It’s vintage Halloween at its best, and surprisingly easy to DIY.
Alien Queen
Use metallic fabrics, silver makeup, and otherworldly contacts. Bonus points for a ray gun or LED accessories.
I once used glow sticks as jewelry—cheap, effective, and I looked like I crash-landed from fashion space.
Classic Ghost
White sheet? Sure. But elevate it with lace, pearls, and spooky face paint. Think more “hauntingly romantic” than “laundry-day panic.”
Wonder Woman
She’s iconic for a reason. Bold colors, a cape, and undeniable strength. You’ll feel invincible—and look amazing doing it.
Cleopatra
Gold cuffs, black bob wig, eyeliner for days. Cleopatra is timeless elegance and power.
I wore this once with gold body shimmer and nearly blinded someone under a disco light. Glamour has consequences.
Red Riding Hood
Capes are in. And with a picnic basket in hand, you’re set. Add a spooky twist with fake blood or a werewolf claw scratch.
Cruella de Vil
Two-tone wig, faux fur, dramatic lipstick. You’re not just wearing a costume—you’re performing a role.
Cruella is bold, fashionable, and a little unhinged, which makes her ideal Halloween material.
Pumpkin Spice Witch
Combine fall favorites—orange, brown, plaid—with a witch hat. You’re cute, seasonal, and caffeine-fueled.
It’s like if Starbucks and Salem had a baby.
Butterfly Babe
Use wings, bold eye makeup, and soft pastels or vibrant neon. You’ll look like a fantasy come to life.
Add antennae or sparkly face gems for extra wow.
Pop Diva (Beyoncé, Taylor, Gaga)
Channel your inner icon. Sequin bodysuit, mic in hand, and unstoppable energy. Dress as your favorite era or music video.
It’s recognizable, fun, and fabulous.
Mushroom Fairy
Yes, this is trending. Red mushroom hat, forest tones, and a whimsical vibe. A little weird, a little wonderful.
Disney Princess Zombie
Take your favorite princess (Cinderella, Ariel, Belle) and zombify her. Torn gown, pale skin, dark under-eye makeup.
You’ll turn heads and start conversations.
Time Traveler Steampunk
Goggles, corsets, gears, and Victorian fabrics. Steampunk is a whole aesthetic, and it’s rich with detail.
Final Tips Before You Haunt the Night
- Comfort counts: If you can’t sit, eat, or dance in your costume, you’ll regret it.
- Weather check: No one wants to shiver in fishnets or sweat in faux fur.
- Pack backup: Safety pins, eyelash glue, and a snack are non-negotiables.
- Confidence wins: Whatever you wear, own it. The best costume is the one worn with pride.
Halloween only comes once a year, so go big, go bold, and go as someone who makes you feel incredible.
Whether you’re a villain, a vixen, or a vampire, you’re about to be the highlight of the party.
