Who to be this Halloween

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Kent State chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

Halloween 2025 is shaping up to be a weekend (or two) of fun. With many pop culture standout moments, there are endless possibilities for new and unique costumes. Every year brings out a new flavor for the costumed chaos; this year is a mix of Halloween past and future, blending Y2K vibes with apocalyptic looks. 

One such look would be Lucy MacLean from the Amazon Prime series, “Fallout,” based on the video game series of the same name. The trademark blue jumpsuit and matching Pip-boy bracelet are sure to be seen on the streets. 

Of course, no Halloween can be complete without “Wicked” inspired looks, especially with the last installment coming out in November. Whether we are focusing our energy on Glinda or Elphaba doesn’t matter. Expect to see friends pairing with the glitter-pink Glinda and emerald-green Elphaba. 

Couples’ costumes are their own genre, and there are many iconic couple moments that may inspire some looks. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce getting engaged is one in particular. This outfit is a simple, low-effort and highly recognized costume for this season. A striped dress for Taylor and a navy shirt of Chiefs jersey for Travis. Add in a bouquet of flowers and all is set. 

Superhero fans aren’t left out. After the new Fantastic Four movie came out, those blue superhero suits have reclaimed their spots in costumes. This year, they’re focused on a retro-futuristic vibe. And for anyone who prefers darker costumes, Doctor Doom is always available. 

In another corner of culture, the “KPop Demon Hunters” phenomenon is transforming Halloween. The Netflix animated hit has created legions of fans. Expect to see groups of friends in matching costumes, high ponytails, pleated skirts, combat boots and toy swords. It’s Y2K meets anime. 

There’s also a return to classic Halloween fits, whimsical and childlike. With the resurgence of patterns, there’s definitely going to be a large amount of ladybug and bee costumes on the streets. Wear a red or yellow dress, some tights and wings for these easy looks. 

Other trends that are fluttering through this Halloween season include coquette angels, showcasing a trend that has stuck around for the past years, “mob wives” with faux fur, heavy makeup, including the blood-red lipstick and the eternal late-night duo of angel and devil. All these costumes are just reinventions of trends of the past; there’s no wrong way to put them together. 

Pop culture costumes are fun because they let everyone live out a tiny story. Dressing as Glinda or Lucy or demon-hunting KPop stars is not just about the outfit; it’s about stepping out with outfits that make you feel bold and confident. Halloween 2025 seems to be a bit less about what is scary and more about what is iconic. 

And then, of course, we see Pinterest boards flooded and TikTok’s feed full of different costumes, which undoubtedly will affect what people put on this Halloween season.  

Halloween 2025 feels theatrical and rooted in pop culture moments that kept us on our toes. Whether you choose to be a vault dweller, a Swiftie bride or singing witch, remember the fun will happen no matter what.