It’s that time of year again. Spooky season is well and truly upon us, and I’ll bet most of us still have no idea what we’re going to wear. Perhaps you’ve been chasing a niche ‘if you know, you know’ costume, something funny, or something straight out of the Mean Girls’ rulebook. Whatever your vibe, all we ask is to not see any more pirates, angels or bunnies this year, PLEASE, we know you can do better.
Granted, it’s pretty hard to find something that’s not been done a million times before, but we have compiled a list of what we think are non-basic costumes for all group sizes. Whether you’re flying solo, pairing up or dressing the whole house, we’ve got you covered.
Louvre Thieves
It’s 2025, and jewellery heists are so back. It’s current, it’s original, and let’s be honest, it’s pretty iconic. All you need for this one is €88 million worth of French jewels. Failing that, any sparkly accessories will do. Either you go for post-heist chic, think tiaras, bracelets, literally anything shiny, or you go for the grand robbery itself, a new take on cops and robbers, if you will. You could even throw a security guard or the Mona Lisa in there for dramatic effect. Relevant, ridiculous and incredibly chic.
House of Guinness
Is it really Halloween without a wannabe Tommy Shelby and his posse of Peaky Blinders trying to chat you up? But fear not, 2025 blessed our screens with a new show, scratching the same gritty, vintage itch. It has a similar smoky pub, sharp suit vibe for those of you who don’t want to stray too far out of your comfort zone. And even better if you’re a Guinness lover, as your pint literally doubles as part of your costume.
Coldplay cheating scandal
Ok, we all love a good pop culture costume, and this cheating scandal quite literally became the world’s inside joke this year. This is also one of those “if you know you know” type costumes, but for those who get it, you’ll be deemed the funniest couple in town. Oh, and don’t forget your kiss cam! Maybe you’ll unveil some cheaters of your own…
Sailors and Sirens
We’ve seen pirates done year on year, so why not switch it up and go for sailors and sirens? Although it’s probably not super original, there is definitely a way to make it your own. For sailors we’re talking neckties, stripes, and captains’ hats, and sirens need pearls, shells, netting, and lace. Or if you’re a trio, go for Cleo, Emma and Rikki from H20, just watch out for the conden-say-shun!
Claudia Winkleman
via Instagram @claudiawinkle
Calling anyone with a fringe, an eyeliner pencil, and a bottle of ultra-dark Bondi Sands. Claudia Winkleman, arguably the best presenter on British TV right now, would make for an iconic Halloween costume. As long as you look like you haven’t slept for days, religiously use Head and Shoulders and are more than 10 shades too orange, you’re good to go.
Sabrina Carpenter and Jenna Ortega
Sabrina and Jenna from the Taste music video are the perfect fit for a chaotic, slightly unhinged blonde-brunette duo who have mastered the art of a good blow dry. It’s also pretty on theme for Halloween as it’s gory, bloody and, honestly, just kind of weird.
Roxy and Rio from Tracy Beaker
Another iconic duo, these two were the original baddies and I have never seen them done for Halloween. If you’re looking for something a bit more niche, this could be for you. Just make sure you’ve got your bandana and Maroon 5 CD.
Where’s Wally?
This one’s for the big friendship groups or those who want a whole house costume. It’s silly, it’s fun, and if you all scatter once you’re out, you have basically turned the night into one big interactive game. Plus, if you’re prone to a French exit, it’s kind of all part of the allure.
Princess Rosalinda from Princess Protection Programme
For anyone still holding onto their Disney Channel era, Princess Rosalinda from Princess Protection Program is peak nostalgic royalty. Princess Mia from The Princess Diaries has been done a lot, but this one is equally as cute and a little less overdone.
Vikings
If you’re looking to recycle your fur from last year’s caveman costume, just rebrand as a Viking. Think leather, faux fur, braids, and helmets; it’s also an excuse to drink as much as you want, it’s all part of the act. Fun fact: real Viking helmets didn’t have horns, that’s a 19th century costume designer’s myth.
Freddie Mercury
For the last-minute divas, Freddie Mercury is the perfect shout and can probably be done entirely with things you already own. White tank, blue jeans, fake moustache, and a major attitude. Jobs a good ‘un.
