From Barbiecore to K-Pop Hunters: 10 trending Halloween costume ideas for 2025

Halloween, celebrated globally every October 31, is fast approaching – and 2025’s spooky season promises to be one of the most fashion-forward yet. Falling on a Friday this year, the festival’s weekend timing has only amplified excitement among revelers. Known for its blend of fright, fantasy and fun, Halloween marks the end of summer and the onset of winter, with centuries-old roots tracing back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.

While its origins involved bonfires and disguises to ward off spirits, modern celebrations focus on creativity – from elaborate pumpkin lanterns to neighbourhood trick-or-treating. Yet in 2025, the talk of the town is not just about ghosts, but about pop culture-inspired looks that are redefining what it means to dress up for Halloween. 

Here’s a look at 10 popular costume ideas making waves this year.

Barbie

The pink takeover continues. Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie’ still dominates pop culture, inspiring a wave of “Barbiecore” costumes. Whether it’s Cowgirl Barbie, Mermaid Barbie or Weird Barbie, the mantra remains the same – think pink, bold and fabulous. The trend perfectly blends irony and glamour, making it an easy yet standout choice for parties this year.

Wednesday Addams

After the success of ‘Wednesday’ on Netflix, Jenna Ortega’s gothic charm continues to rule Halloween aesthetics. All-black ensembles, braided hair, and deadpan expressions make this a timeless choice. With Wednesday Season 2 expected in 2025, the macabre Nevermore student remains a top pick. Pair it with her trusty sidekick Thing for extra effect.

Lilo & Stitch

The ‘Lilo & Stitch’ live-action remake has reignited nostalgia, with fans dressing as the iconic Hawaiian trio – Lilo, Stitch, and Nani. From Lilo’s floral red dress to Stitch’s mischievous alien outfit, the options are endless. Add a ukulele or surfboard prop for that island flair. Perfect for solos, duos, or full ohana crews.

Superman

With the upcoming Superman remake grabbing attention, the Man of Steel is back in vogue. Don the cape, the chest emblem, and a fearless stance – or opt for a Clark Kent look complete with glasses and a tie. Whether saving the day or turning heads at a party, it’s a heroic choice that never goes out of style.

Wicked

With ‘Wicked: For Good’ arriving in cinemas just after Halloween, this classic witch duo is a guaranteed hit. Fans are already choosing between Elphaba’s emerald skin and black robes or Glinda’s sparkling pink gown and wand. The magical duo costume is sure to “defy gravity” at any celebration.

Mario and Luigi

Nintendo’s iconic brothers are a foolproof choice for best friends or couples. Overalls, coloured shirts, and the famous “M” and “L” hats are all it takes. Add fake moustaches and gloves to complete the look, a nostalgic nod that never fails to impress at Halloween gatherings.

HUNTR/X from ‘KPop Demon Hunters’

This animated hit has taken over screens and wardrobes alike. The characters – Rumi, Mira, and Zoey – are favourites among kids, tweens, and adults. While the detailed costumes can be tricky to DIY, pre-made versions are already trending online. Fans are advised to order early, as they’re expected to sell out closer to Halloween.

Labubu

The quirky Hong Kong toy figure from Pop Mart has unexpectedly become a top choice this year. With its mix of creepy and cute, Labubu costumes are especially popular among Gen Z. Despite its mysterious appeal, the cuddly-monster aesthetic has dominated TikTok’s costume trends for 2025.

The Lorax

Thanks to TikTok, ‘The Lorax’ is back as a viral costume idea. Its bright orange bodysuit, big eyebrows, and bushy moustache make for a light-hearted, eco-friendly ensemble. It’s simple to assemble and guaranteed to deliver plenty of comic photo moments throughout the night.

Jaden Smith’s “Black House” Ensemble

Inspired by Jaden Smith’s striking look from the 2025 Grammys, this costume is for the bold. The “Vampire Castle” headpiece by Abodi, officially called “Black House”, merges gothic opulence with avant-garde fashion.

“The whole process of creating the headpiece was a fantastic experience, from sketching to testing and realisation,” the company wrote in a Feb. 2 Instagram post. “The artistic headpiece combines the mysterious elegance of ABODI Transylvania with a bold, modern design inspired by Transylvanian history and the vampire legends of the Bathori.”

This Halloween, the spirit of celebration has evolved, it’s less about scaring and more about slaying.