Some of the most entertaining Halloween costumes come from pop culture, especially movies. As a movie buff, you love dressing up as your favorite cinematic characters; however, your mental list goes M.I.A. when October finally rolls around. Well look no further, collegiettes: our list of movie-inspired Halloween ensembles will be sure to kick start your costume brainstorm.
Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games
Pay homage to one of the biggest films of the year by dressing up as our favorite tribute. Don’t worry collegiettes, you don’t need Cinna’s amazing pyrotechnics to have a stellar Katniss outfit (though that would be pretty sick). For this Halloween costume, make sure your outfit is filled with woodsy hues—we’re talking brown corduroys with an army green jacket. Since you’re wearing your everyday clothes, differentiate yourself with a bow and arrow or a sign that says “District 12.” Last but not least, don’t forget to braid your hair—a simple braid will do. Since Katniss is pretty low maintenance, natural-looking makeup will be fine. Trust us, the odds will be ever in your favor.
Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Sometimes, you just want to keep it classy on Halloween. When in doubt, you can always turn to Audrey. Simply pairing a black maxi dress with a tiara and loads of costume jewelry will do the trick. This look’s beauty front is all about channeling the sixties: tie your hair in a top knot and swipe on loads of mascara. Your costume may not be the sexiest, but everyone will admire your tasteful and glamorous ensemble.
The ladies from Bridesmaids
Over a year later and we’re still laughing. Grab some of your girlfriends and dress up as the hilarious gang from Bridesmaids. One of you can be Lily by sporting a wedding veil and white mini. The rest of you will have to agree on one type of dress, as the characters had to do in the film. Luckily, you don’t have to break bank with a couture dress—a bright pink mini will do the trick. To differentiate each character, carry some props! Annie replicas can accessorize with a whisk while Megan fans can rock a newsboy hat and carry a stuffed animal puppy. Make the most out of this hilarious costume with the quintessential bridesmaid updo. We’re talking top knots and ringlets here. Before you go out, make sure to snap a picture of the six of you mimicking the film’s poster. It’ll get a ton of likes on Facebook and Instagram.
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Catwoman from The Dark Knight Rises
When you were watching The Dark Knight Rises this summer, you secretly wanted to be Anne Hathaway. She didn’t get to share a steamy scene with Joseph Gordon-Levitt (a.k.a. the man of my dreams), but you loved her portrayal of Catwoman. With black leggings, boots, and a long-sleeved black shirt, your dreams will come true. Embrace your inner feline with straight hair and a cat-eye. Add a pair of cat ears and you’ll look purrfect.
Daisy Buchanan from The Great Gatsby
On a scale of one to ten, how excited are you for Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby that’s coming out next summer (I know, they need to stop pushing back the release date)? Um, an eleven? Stay ahead of the curve by dressing up as Daisy now. If you’re not willing to splurge on one of those pre-packaged flapper costumes- we don’t blame you- pull a solid mini dress from your closet and just buy the flapper headband and long gloves. Finish off your Prohibition-approved look with a jewel-toned lip (we’re thinking a nice berry) and crimped hair. Yes, crimped hair will look retro with your flapper headband. If you no longer own a crimper, simply braid your hair and then straighten the braid with your flat iron. Genius. You’ll feel super cool when everyone’s sporting that ensemble next year.
Satine from Moulin Rouge
Speaking of Baz Luhrmann, haven’t you always wanted to dress up like an early 20th century French burlesque dancer? Moulin Rouge may not be a recent release, but this costume is too good to pass up. While copying one of Nicole Kidman’s iconic ensembles is ideal, you can also create your own outfit with a slew of feathered boas, tutus, and fishnet stockings. Dab on a cherry red lipstick, blow-dry your hair with a round brush, and you’ll be ready to dance the night away. Now all you need is a tragic love story. Ewen McGregor, we’re coming for you.
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Lisbeth Salander from The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
Love her or loathe her, Lisbeth Salander is the most bad-a** leading lady to hit the big screen. Lucky for you, this idea is awesome for collegiettes who are on a budget. Pair your black leather jacket with your favorite combat boots and black skinnies. If you want to go the extra mile, pick up some inexpensive clip-on-earrings and draw a couple tattoos on your neck. As for makeup, unleash your inner goth- we all secretly have one- with dark lips and thick eyeliner. Last but not least, tie your hair in a tight bun. With this ensemble, nobody will want to be on your bad side.
Karen from Mean Girls
As Cady Heron told us long ago, Halloween is the time for girls to dress up in provocative lingerie and accessorize with a pair of animal ears. Years later, this statement still holds true. Make light of the situation by dressing up as Karen Smith instead of a questionable “bear.” If you don’t want to sport a sensual slip, don a bodycon dress—same effect, but more coverage. Distinguish yourself from the other lingerie-clad collegiettes with a “Hi, my name is Karen” sticker. Finish off this sultry look with super straight hair and a smoky eye. Feel free to sporadically quote Mean Girls throughout the night.
Sherrie Christian from Rock of Ages
Say what you will about Rock of Ages (I personally loved it–don’t hate), but it’s a fantastic movie if you’re looking for costume inspiration. Assume Sherrie Christian’s identity on Halloween night by wearing denim cutoffs and a vintage band tee. If you love accessorizing, finish this ensemble with combat boots, fishnet stockings, and fingerless gloves. When it comes to this costume’s beauty front, it’s all about big hair. For voluminous locks, set your hair in large Velcro rollers and blow try—just don’t forget to generously spritz your do with some hairspray. Rock on, collegiettes.
Magic Mike from Magic Mike
If your top priority is getting a laugh or two, then this idea is perfect for you. No, we’re not telling you to strip down to your skinnies. Instead, pair your favorite black trousers with a black vest (please wear a black bandeau underneath to keep this ensemble PG-13). Add a bowtie on as a finishing touch. Give this costume dash of femininity with a sleek ponytail and winged eyeliner. Everyone will love your sense of humor, plus this outfit is an awesome conversation starter.
What are some of your favorite movie-inspired Halloween costumes?
Calling all collegiettes: Send us your best Halloween costume photos at PR@hercampus.com or tweet them to us at @HerCampus with #HCHalloween to be included in our Halloween slideshow!