Why are pop culture costumes ruling Halloween this year?
When you’re putting together your Halloween outfit, the hardest part isn’t buying it, it’s coming up with an idea clever enough to stand out. That’s where inspiration from pop culture steps in. Editors across the U.S. have rounded up nine 2025 Halloween costume ideas that perfectly balance wit and recognizability.
Whether you’re chronically online or can’t quite decode Gen Z’s latest memes, this list offers something for everyone from quirky viral sensations to stylish TV references, as per a report by Times Out.
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1. Your innie from Severance
One of TV’s most talked-about shows, Severance, delivers the ultimate low-effort costume idea. All you need is a suit or work dress and a Lumon ID badge to channel your surgically separated “innie.” For added flair, swap personalities between your “innie” and “outie” as you move through doorways, just like in the show.
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2. The Labubu Dubai matcha rave look
Gen Z’s chaotic fashion trends collide in this wild costume mashup. Think of it as a mix of Labubu, Dubai chocolate, matcha aesthetics, and rave culture, all at once. The goal? To embody the Dylan Farnum look of every current micro-trend in one gloriously over-the-top outfit.
3. The viral look-alike contest
The internet loves a good look-alike contest, and this trend has exploded. From Timothée Chalamet to Pedro Pascal and Jeremy Allen White, everyone’s doppelgänger is getting attention. Grab a few friends, dress as your favorite celebrities, and call yourselves a “look-alike contest.” Got red bow ties? You’re Pee-wee Herman. Bruins jerseys? You’re Adam Sandler in Happy Gilmore.
4. The Coldplay kiss cam moment
One of 2025’s most viral moments came during a Coldplay concert when a couple on the kiss cam quickly hid, turns out, both were married to other people. Recreate this hilariously awkward scene by pairing a light blue polo with a black dress. Just remember to duck every time someone tries to snap your photo.
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5. The Ratliff family from The White Lotus
Channel the chaos of the Ratliff family from season three of The White Lotus. Dress in preppy, upper-crust styles, think blazers, button-downs, and maybe even a Duke T-shirt. Bonus points if you drop references to Lorazepam and tsunamis throughout the night. And if you’re going as brothers Lochlan and Saxon, prepare for a few raised eyebrows and laughs.
6. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement photo
This one’s bound to be a hit. While many couples will simply dress as Taylor and Travis, take it a step further by recreating their engagement photo. Dress your midsection like a decorative urn, surround yourself with flowers, and pose like the photo itself. Expect plenty of selfies from amused partygoers.
7. The ghost of JoAnn Fabrics
For years, JoAnn Fabrics was every crafter’s go-to costume supply spot. But after all 500-plus stores closed earlier this year, it’s now the perfect costume inspiration. Combine leftover fabric scraps, ribbons, and yarn into a tattered ghost ensemble, becoming the literal ghost of JoAnn Fabrics herself.
8. “Astronaut” Katy Perry
Katy Perry made headlines for joining Blue Origin’s all-female space flight earlier this year, sparking both praise and memes. To channel “Astronaut Katy,” zip into a blue jumpsuit, hold a daisy, and kiss the ground dramatically every chance you get. It’s playful, recognizable, and guaranteed to get a laugh.
9. Wicked and KPop Demon Hunters characters
Two of 2025’s biggest releases, Wicked and KPop Demon Hunters, are dominating costume racks. Whether you go classic as Elphaba and Glinda or try Rumi, Mira, and Zoey from KPop Demon Hunters, you’ll easily find recognizable looks. Want to stand out? Dig deeper, dress as Boq from Wicked or even Sussie, the magpie from KPop Demon Hunters.
What makes these Halloween ideas stand out?
This year’s costume lineup is about humor, cleverness, and relatability. From cinematic elegance to meme-worthy absurdity, these ideas show how creativity continues to define Halloween. They’re easy to assemble, highly recognizable, and perfectly tuned to 2025’s cultural moment.
So whether you’re stepping into a haunted house or hitting a rooftop party, these looks are guaranteed conversation starters, merging nostalgia, pop culture, and a touch of spooky humor.
Halloween 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most entertaining yet. With outfits inspired by viral trends, hit TV shows, and internet culture, there’s something for everyone, from the minimalist “Severance” worker to the dazzling “Astronaut Katy.” Whatever you choose, this year’s costume scene proves that creativity never goes out of style.
FAQs
What are the most popular Halloween costume ideas for 2025?
Trendy looks inspired by The White Lotus, Wicked, Taylor and Travis, and “Astronaut” Katy Perry are topping this year’s list.
Why are 2025’s Halloween costumes special?
They’re rooted in viral culture and hit TV shows, blending nostalgia, humor, and creativity for unforgettable party looks.
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