From Obsession to Odyssey, the top TV, film and pop culture party outfits

Key Points:

• Halloween costume trends for 2026 are inspired by a mix of pop culture, nostalgia, and theatrical styles, with popular choices including characters from TV shows like The Traitors, Off Campus, and Widow's Bay, as well as films such as Obsession and recent horror franchises like Scream 7 and Scary Movie 6.
• Nostalgic and gothic influences are strong this year, with costumes inspired by Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Practical Magic, Wuthering Heights, and The Odyssey, reflecting a broader fashion trend towards corsets, lace, and dramatic silhouettes seen on recent catwalks.
• Pop icons and political figures are also trending, with Dolly Parton, Charli XCX, Madonna, Donald Trump, and Vladimir Putin among the popular costume choices, while meme-inspired outfits like Mariah Carey with The Last Supper and creative ideas such as dressing as Buzzballz cocktails offer low-effort, high-impact options.
• Whimsical and unique costumes are gaining popularity, especially among younger women who seek to stand out with looks inspired by gargoyles, moths, woodland fairies, and 17th Century Pierrot clowns, emphasizing creativity and individuality over traditional scary or classic themes.
• Costume designers and shop owners note a strong desire for escapism, glamour, and dark humor in Halloween outfits this year, reflecting a shift away from purely frightening costumes towards more extraordinary and theatrical expressions.