Experts Share Predictions for the Top 20 Halloween Costumes This Year

Each year, there's one costume that becomes the must-have trend. So, which costumes will be dominating the parades, parties, and trunk-or-treating this year? We reached out to the costume experts at Party City and HalloweenCostumes.com to get a sneak peek at what's flying off the shelves—and which ones are expected to sell out quickly (so be sure to grab them early!).

Pop Culture Costumes

Typically, the most popular costumes come from the latest blockbuster shows and films—though you can always count on a few favorites from previous years making a comeback. (For example, those Barbie and Ken costumes from last year aren’t disappearing anytime soon.)

Beetlejuice

What's everyone's pick for the most popular Halloween costumes (and the ones most likely to sell out)? Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice. The upcoming Beetlejuice sequel has sparked renewed interest in the wildest poltergeist from the afterlife—and naturally, either Lydia's iconic all-black goth outfit or the unforgettable red wedding dress are likely to be big hits.

Deadpool and Wolverine

It’s no shock that one of the summer's biggest blockbusters has turned into one of the most popular Halloween costumes. (Plus, it's the perfect costume duo for couples!)

Disney Descendants

In case you haven't heard, the Disney Descendants series is about the children of famous Disney characters, both good and bad. With the release of the latest movie, Descendants: The Rise of Red, young fans are embracing their new favorite characters—like the children of Cinderella and the Queen of Hearts—who starred in this exciting continuation of the tale.

Tip: If your tween is all in for these fun costumes, make sure to purchase soon, as they’re likely to fly off the shelves fast.

Taylor Swift and other iconic pop stars —they continue to influence the world of fashion, music, and pop culture, with their impact felt across generations.

The era of Swiftie fandom is far from over, and Taylor isn’t the only pop legend inspiring Halloween costumes this year. Get ready to see the likes of Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, and Beyoncé among the crowd, as they remain just as influential.

Wednesday continues to captivate with its dark charm and quirky appeal, becoming a popular choice for fans looking to channel her eerie energy this season.

Although the Tim Burton-directed Wednesday series debuted nearly two years ago, the spooky and eccentric Addams Family remains a favorite for costumes—especially Wednesday herself. (And don't be surprised if her popularity continues next year, as Netflix has confirmed that season 2 will arrive in 2025.)

Bridgerton

As you might imagine, the Regency-style gowns from the show are a top choice, although there’s no shortage of fashionable waistcoats and cravats for aspiring dukes and viscounts.

Minions

The Despicable Me gang—and those mischievous minions in particular—remain a go-to costume selection. (It’s especially popular with younger crowds, though really, who doesn’t adore those playful yellow creatures?)

Inside Out 2

A favorite among young trick-or-treaters is Pixar’s newest release, Inside Out 2, with emotional characters like Anxiety, Joy, Anger, and Disgust being popular costume choices.

Wicked

Although the film hasn't been released yet, we've already seen glimpses of Cynthia Erivo's green-skinned Elphaba and Ariana Grande's stunningly effervescent bubble pink ensemble—so be ready for a witch-filled Halloween this year.

Ghostbusters

Whether you're a fan of the classic original or one of the many modern reboots, the Ghostbusters franchise offers perfect—and quite cozy—costumes for your entire group. (These costumes are also great if the weather’s going to be chilly for trick-or-treating or other Halloween activities.)

Harley Quinn and Joker

The highly anticipated new Joker movie, Joker: Folie á Deux, is set to hit theaters just before Halloween, so now's the time to grab your Harley Quinn or Joker-inspired costumes. (Bonus: This is one look you could possibly pull off with pieces from your closet and makeup collection.)

Classic Horror Movie Favorites

Halloween stores always see a surge in business with scary movie costumes, whether you're into the timeless horror of Michael Myers and Freddy Krueger, or the more modern figures like Billy from Saw.

Superheroes and Villains

Whether you're a Marvel enthusiast or a DC fan, there's a superhero (or supervillain) costume for everyone. In addition to the popular Deadpool, Wolverine, Joker, and Harley Quinn outfits, experts recommend Spider-Man as a top choice (especially for kids), along with X-Men characters.

Aliens

A new team is facing off against the xenomorphs in the latest chapter of the Alien series: Alien: Romulus. While Ripley will always be the ultimate hero in our eyes, this year’s trending costume is actually the alien itself.

Anime

Anime characters—particularly Dragon Ball Z and Avatar: The Last Airbender—are sure to be incredibly popular.

Star Wars

For group costumes, nothing beats Star Wars, with so many iconic options to choose from. You can go classic with characters like Darth Vader, Han Solo, or Princess Leia, or choose newer favorites like Ahsoka Tano and Rey, or even the villainous Qimir from the latest series, The Acolyte.

Timeless Halloween Costumes

While the latest trends from movies and TV often dominate Halloween costume choices, there are certain classic outfits that always manage to stay in the spotlight during the spooky season.

Costumes Inspired by the Wild West

Whether it's inspired by Barbie and Ken's vibrant pink Western outfits, Beyoncé's cowboy-inspired couture from her Cowboy Carter album, or the ongoing admiration for Dolly Parton, Western fashion—particularly Western glam—is the standout costume choice this season. If you're looking to add some sparkle to your Halloween look, this timeless costume is likely to sell out fast.

Witches

This beloved classic costume remains a perennial favorite, but the recent Marvel series Agatha All Along, the eagerly awaited Wicked movie, and the iconic Hocus Pocus have reignited even more enthusiasm for this legendary Halloween look.

Disco

The 1970s are making a major comeback, baby. With shag haircuts, afros, curtain bangs, and other 1970s hairstyles back in style, all you need to complete the look is a pair of glittery bell-bottom pants or a halter dress, along with plenty of sparkle and bold blue eyeshadow.

Angels and Devils

Sometimes the best costumes are the ones that never go out of fashion—and the angel vs. devil look is ideal for couples. Or, feel free to show up as your true self!