It’s Halloween time again, boys and ghouls, and that means picking out a costume for the spookiest night of the year. If you’re like me, though, you forgot to grab anything, and now Spirit only has sexy Minions costumes left. Not opportune or ideal, really. Fear not, these 12 costume ideas from 2026’s biggest box-office hits and pop culture moments will have you covered.
Mario and Luigi
The Super Mario Galaxy Movie proved the fandom for two Brooklyn plumbers doesn’t belong only to Gen X and Millennials. A monochromatic shirt, a felt moustache, and overalls will have you saying “wahhh!” in no time.
Dolly Parton
Rest in peace, Dolly. You were an icon. No Halloween party would be complete without at least one of her many signature looks.
Obsession’s Nikki
Inde Navarrette’s Nikki was the reason why Obsession took off earlier this year. This costume is relatively easy to come by. Simply affect a creepy, dead-eyed smile and smear some corn syrup blood onto your scalp.
For a couple’s costume, bring Bear.
HR/Workout Skeletor
Granted, this one is a little difficult to come by, but if you can approximate a Skeletor mask, a striped dress shirt and chinos will complete this look. Or go with a purple hoodie and basketball shorts.
The Odyssey’s Agamemnon
Most costume shops have at least one Trojan get-up. Paint it black, and you’re in business. Just avoid any Helens; it won’t end well for you.
Carrie
Mike Flanagan’s reboot of Stephen King’s troubled Prom Queen means you can trot out that old dress, but not before you drench it in whatever looks the most like blood to you.
Dungeon Crawler Carl
Matt Dinniman’s bestselling LitRPG book series is coming to television. So get out ahead of the zeitgeist with heart boxers, a leather vest, and combat boots. Have a cat stuffie? Even better.
Nathan Fielder (You Can See Everything)
The problem with most Halloween costumes is that they’re not terribly comfortable. Strap a laptop harness to your chest over a heather grey sweatshirt and voila. Instant box-office sensation.
Elizabeth Holmes (You Can See Everything)
This one follows the last entry. Just. Don’t. Blink.
There’s no shortage of priest and nun outfits. To replicate Ken Russell’s restored classic, just act manic whenever someone puts you on the spot. Avoid any shenanigans with crucifixes, however.
Some “Retro” Ideas from 2025: A Year Late, but No Biggie
A bathrobe, black beanie, tracksuit, and a “few small beers” are all you need to rep Bob or Sensei from last year’s Best Picture Oscar winner.
Gladys won’t be winning any beauty pageants, but her signature red bowl cut, blue eyeshadow, and gigantic shades will send any trick-or-treaters scurrying. It’s one for the ages.
