Halloween keeps evolving, and so do the costumes. Every year brings a fresh mix of pop culture hits, nostalgic throwbacks, and creative DIY twists. Whether you’re heading to a party, taking kids trick-or-treating, or just posting your look online, what you wear on Halloween says something about what you love—and what you noticed in culture that year.

So, what’s hot this Halloween? Here’s a breakdown of the trends that are shaping costume choices this season.

1. Pop Culture Takeover

Pop culture always influences Halloween, but 2025 has taken it to another level. This year, expect to see costumes pulled straight from streaming hits, blockbuster films, and viral videos.

Characters from shows like The Last of Us and Wednesday are still going strong. Joel and Ellie are a solid duo costume, and Wednesday Addams continues to dominate with her gothic schoolgirl aesthetic. Expect lots of people in black dresses, braids, and dramatic eyeliner.

Anime also continues its rise. Costumes inspired by Demon Slayer, Jujutsu Kaisen, and One Piece are everywhere, especially among teens and young adults. These outfits aren’t just recognizable—they’re often detailed and great for group or couple pairings.

2. Classic Horror Still Rules

No matter what’s trending, the classics never die. Vampires, mummies, witches, zombies—they’ll always have a place on Halloween night.

What’s new this year is the twist on the classics. People are elevating old-school horror with modern style. Think glam vampire with a velvet blazer and custom fangs or a punk rock witch in platform boots.

This is where Horror T Shirts come into play. For a quick and effortless nod to horror culture, people are building full looks around bold, graphic tees featuring classic movie monsters. Paired with ripped jeans, leather jackets or layered with makeup and accessories, a horror tee can be the foundation of a laid-back but themed costume.

3. Funny and Meme-Based Costumes

Social media has made humor a core part of Halloween. Costumes inspired by viral moments, trending TikTok sounds, or memeable celebrities are easy wins for attention—and laughs.

You might see people dressed as “AI Drake,” “Shocked Pikachu,” or “That One Guy From That One Clip.” These costumes don’t require much—just a clever prop, recognizable accessory, or a cardboard sign. They work especially well in groups or as last-minute ideas that still feel topical.

The fun part? These looks are less about craftsmanship and more about the punchline.

4. DIY and Upcycled Looks

Not everyone wants to drop $80 on a costume. In fact, more people are embracing DIY options and upcycled outfits from thrift stores.

Flannel shirts, overalls, face paint, and vintage jackets are being repurposed into unique characters or horror mashups. Paint-splattered clothes turn you into a mad scientist. A trench coat and makeup can turn into a ghost hunter. It’s all about working with what you have.

One trend making waves: customizing existing pieces like denim jackets or using Horror T Shirts as a base. With some fake blood, safety pins, and creativity, a tee turns into a costume in minutes—no sewing required.

5. Couple and Group Costume Trends

Planning to go out with friends or a partner? Group and couple costumes are thriving this year.

Barbie and Ken are still hot, but you’ll also see horror duos like Chucky and Tiffany or retro combos like Beetlejuice and Lydia. Pop culture squads like the Avengers, Ghostbusters, or even Mario Kart characters are also in rotation.

Coordinated costumes make a big impact in photos and at parties. The key is picking something recognizable that offers enough variation for each person to personalize their look.

6. Kids’ Costume Trends

For kids, Halloween is still about fun, not fear. This year’s top picks are inspired by YouTube characters, animated movies, and colorful superheroes.

Expect to see characters from Paw Patrol, Bluey, and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Costumes with built-in lights, sound effects, or inflatable pieces are also huge hits among younger trick-or-treaters.

Parents are also leaning into nostalgic themes—think '90s cartoons or retro game characters they loved as kids. It’s a win-win when both generations recognize the costume.

7. Pet Costumes Are Huge

Dogs in hot dog costumes are just the beginning. Halloween for pets has exploded. Now you’ll see animals dressed as dragons, sushi rolls, little devils, or even in matching outfits with their owners.

Social media is a big driver here. Pet costume contests, Instagram Reels, and TikToks of costumed pets feel worthwhile—especially when your dog ends up going viral.

The key, though, is comfort. Look for soft materials and simple fits. If your pet hates dressing up, try a themed collar or bandana instead.

8. Tech-Enhanced Costumes

Technology is creeping into Halloween in cool ways. Costumes now come with LED lights, Bluetooth speakers, and even motion sensors. Imagine glowing eyes, sound-activated effects, or a mask that moves with your face.

Cosplayers and costume designers are especially leaning into this trend. You might see Iron Man suits with lit-up chest pieces or horror characters with glowing blood trails.

These costumes take effort but stand out in a crowd—especially at night or under party lights.

9. What’s Out (or Overdone)

Every year has a few costume ideas that feel played out. In 2025, overdone looks include generic “sexy” versions of everything, tired political figures, and basic devil or angel duos without any unique spin.

It’s not that you can’t wear them—it’s just that if you do, make them your own. Add a twist. Customize. Mix themes. A little effort goes a long way when standing out is the goal.

Conclusion

Halloween costumes this year are all about creativity, personality, and a bit of humor. Whether you’re going full DIY, buying a screen-accurate replica, or just throwing on some makeup and a Horror T Shirt, what matters most is having fun with it.

Trends are great for inspiration, but the best costume is one that feels true to you. Scary, funny, weird, or clever—whatever your vibe is, Halloween’s the one night where it’s totally okay to show it off.