Halloween Costumes Experts Say Will Be Most Popular This Year

As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, Halloween 2025 approaches with its promise of spooky fun, creative expression, and a clean dash of escapism. This year, more than ever, costume trends are shaped by a whirlwind of pop culture influences—from blockbuster movie releases and streaming sensations to viral social media moments and nostalgic revivals. Experts from retailers like Spirit Halloween, Halloween Express, and Pinterest, along with trend forecasters at publications, have weighed in on what will dominate doorsteps, parties, and parades come October 31. Drawing from search data, sales projections, and cultural buzz, these predictions highlight a blend of timeless classics, fresh cinematic tie-ins, and celebrity-inspired looks. In this blog, we'll explore the top costumes experts anticipate will be the most sought-after, breaking them down by category and explaining the "why" behind their popularity. Whether you're planning a solo outfit, a group ensemble, or something for the kids, these will help you stay ahead of the curve.

 

The Pop Culture Pulse: Why These Trends Matter 

Halloween costumes are the currents that reflect the cultural zeitgeist, gripping entertainment, social media, and even global affairs. In 2025, to name a few pressures, economic uncertainty and the thirst for escapism would probably weigh upon costume-takers in downscale and DIY circles. The 2025 Halloween Insights by Pinterest show a 175% increase in searches for "Halloween sewing projects," pointing toward creative budget cuts. On the other hand, some posts seem to generate real-time fodder on costumes stemming from recent movie releases, viral memes, and celebrity moments, thus amplifying the trends as they grow. According to some online retailers, who shared their sales data with our team, the 2025 costumes list mainly features blockbusters from cinema, the biggest TV hits, and music icons, with some eternal classics sprinkled here and there for good measure.

 

Movie-Inspired Costumes: Big Screen, Big Impact:

Hollywood's 2025 slate is a major driver of costume trends, with sequels, reboots, and adaptations fueling excitement. Topping the list is Wicked, with Part Two set to release in November 2025, building on the first film's massive success. Characters Elphaba and Glinda are predicted to be Halloween staples, with Elphaba's green skin, black cloak, and witch hat offering a dramatic Gothic vibe, while Glinda's pink, sparkly gowns appeal to those craving glamour. Pinterest reports a shift from last year's Elphaba dominance, with Glinda searches now leading as fans embrace her bubbly aesthetics. Some designers call Wicked costumes a top pick for witch enthusiasts and ideals of duos or groups, while some praise their Broadway-inspired visual appeal.

The next installment of Beetlejuice, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," is another big hit, inspiring striped suits for mischievous Beetlejuice and red wedding gowns for Lydia Deetz. Retailers see them as top picks for 2025, tapping into Tim Burton's weird horror-comedy aesthetic that has a pan-generational pull. Famous fashion magazines have a broader 90s revival, but Beetlejuice stands out for its brash visuals and more family-oriented brand of spookiness.

The superhero movies are still a costume megathon. A new Superman movie and an upcoming Supergirl film have sent searches surging on Pinterest, up by 500 and 400%, respectively, giving new life to classic cape and emblem combos. Riding on the team's 2024 reunion surge, Deadpool and Wolverine look to push the trend into 2025, with some predicting high demand for Deadpool's red and black suit and Wolverine's yellow spandex. These are classic costumes for kids and adults alike, providing action-packed alternatives that are a breeze to personalize.

Nostalgia is again going to be the key theme for this year, with Sharkboy and Lavagirl seeing a revival as millennial parents introduce the 2005 films to their kids, according to Pinterest's 2025 data. Similarly, Paddington in Peru has driven a 130% increase in bear-themed costume searches, making the marmalade-loving bear a cozy, low-effort choice for all ages. For horror fans, Art the Clown from the Terrifier series is a chilling pick, with his black and white clown makeup and silent menace trending on some social media platforms. Social media is also highlighting Art's cult following, with fans sharing DIY makeup tutorials for his eerie look.

 

TV and Streaming Stars: Small-Screen Sensations

Television and streaming platforms are shaping 2025's costume landscape, with character-driven looks from hit shows leading the charge. Wednesday, Netflix's Addams Family spin-off, remains a powerhouse as Season 2 looms. Wednesday Addams's black dress, braids, and deadpan expression are a DIY dream, with customers calling it a timeless goth staple. Fashion experts are suggesting adding a Thing prop for extra flair, noting its popularity among teens and adults alike.

Squid Game Season 2 is set to reignite interest in red jumpsuits and black masks, perfect for group costumes that evoke the show's high-stakes drama. Halloween Express praises their creepy, coordinated appeal and ease of assembly. On the comedic side, Abbott Elementary's Janine, with her patterned dresses and teacher's ID badge, is a relatable pick highlighted by many customers for its simplicity and charm.

Reality TV and dramedies are also inspiring costumes. The Traitors host Alan Cumming's flamboyant suits and ponchos are a bold choice for fans of the betrayal-filled series, while Only Murders in the Building's Mabel Mora, with her fur coat and headphones, offers a cozy yet stylish mystery-solver look. The Bear's Sydney, in chief whites with a modern twist, is another trendy pick for foodie fans, as noted in trend reports.

Animated series are a goldmine for family costumes. Bluey, the Australian dog family, is predicted to dominate kids' costumes, with Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli offering colorful, plush options, per some websites and kid-focused predictions. SpongeBob SquarePants characters, from SpongeBob's square pants to Patrick's starfish shorts, are bright and humorous picks, according to most influencers. Some social media trends have shown that the parents are posting about group Bluey costumes for family trick-or-treating.

 

Celebrity and Viral Sensations: Real-Life Icons

Celebrity culture and viral moments are fueling some of 2025's most creative costumes. The Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce ("Traylor") phenomenon is a couples' favorite, with Swift's Eras Tour outfits (think sequined bodysuits) and Kelce's NFL jerseys or suits offering versatile options. Sabrina Carpenter's MET Gala rhinestone looks are tipped as IT-girl costumes, blending sparkle with bold attitude, per some fashion retailers. Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter era, with Stetson hats and denim, is inspiring Western-themed costumes that feel fresh yet accessible.

Sports and memes are also in play. Caitlin Clark's basketball gear is a simple, empowering choice for athletes, while the viral Stanley Cup tumbler inspires quirky sweatshirt DIYs. The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, boosted by their Netflix documentary, offer high-energy looks with cowboy boots and pom-poms. David and Victoria Beckham's sleek all-black style drawn from their documentaries makes for an elegant couples' costume.

Nostalgia drives '90s-inspired looks like Elle Woods from Legally Blonde (pink outfits, inspired by the prequel series) and Olivia Rodrigo's concert glam, with sparkly dresses and edgy boots. For global appeal, One Piece's Luffy, with his straw hat and pirate gear, is a hit among anime fans, as noted on social media and in trend reports.

 

Kids' and Family Costumes: Fun for All Ages

For younger trick-or-treaters, gaming and animation reign supreme. Minecraft characters like Steve or Creeper offer blocky, creative costumes, per Halloween Express. Super Mario Bros.—Mario, Luigi, and Peach—remains a family favorite post-2023 movie. Disney's live-action Lilo and Stitch, set for May 2025, will inspire the Hawaiian-themed duo with Stitch's blue fur and Lilo's red dress. Despicable Me's Minions and Inside Out 2's emotions (Joy, Anger) provide colorful, group-friendly options.

Classic villains like Jack Skellington and Sally from Nightmare Before Christmas or Star Wars Jedi and Sith offer timeless appeal. Spookier picks include Ghostbusters with new villain Garraka or the Hocus Pocus witches, which HalloweenCostume predicted will trend. Kid-specific lists highlight Wednesday Addams, Minions, Bluey, and quirky options like Chicken Jockey.

 

Group and DIY Trends: Creative and Budget-Friendly

Group costumes are a 2025 highlight, with Squid Game players, Marvel superhero squads, or Wicked witches offering coordinated fun. Pinterest's data underscores the rise of DIY, with thrifting 90s looks promoting sustainability. Anime fans are leaning into Dragon Ball or Pokémon group ensembles, while celebrity-inspired costumes like Lady Gaga or WWE stars add bold flair.

 

Tips for Nailing Your 2025 Costume:

To stand out, experts suggest starting early—popular costumes like Wicked or Beetlejuice may sell out faster than expected. For DIT, thrift stores are craft supplies that can recreate celebrity or nostalgic looks on a budget. Accessories, like Glind's wand or Deadpool's katanas, elevate store-bought outfits. For the group, coordinating themes (e.g., Squid Games or Bluey) ensures a cohesive impact. Check the trends and follow social media for unique pieces and Pinterest for DIY for last-minute inspiration from fan communities.

 

A Halloween to Remember:

Halloween 2025 is set to be a vibrant celebration of pop culture, nostalgia, and creativity. From Wicked's witches to Squid Game's players, superhero squads, and celebrity icons, the costume trends reflect a desire for fun, connection, and self-expression. As Pinterest notes, economic pressures are pushing DIY ingenuity, while social media amplifies real-time trends. Plan ahead, get creative, and prepare to haunt the night in style!