Edited by: Lasya Adiraj
The onset of October opens a new window of opportunity to let our imaginations go wild, as we meticulously plot and plan the year’s Halloween costume, one that will outdo the last. Donning glitter and sequins, face paint and artsy makeup, along with the most over-the-top outfits, or anything in our closets that could pass as macabre, we’ll go the extra mile to create the perfect Halloween look.
Moreover, since Halloween was cancelled last year, courtesy of the global pandemic, this year’s celebrations are expected to be even more glam, glitzy, and completely all-out. After everything we’ve collectively been through, the thought of putting on a costume and pretending to be someone else, even if it’s just for 24 hours, seems extremely enticing.
Be that as it may, if you’re someone who wants to make an even bigger statement than ever this time, drawing on your feminist credentials may be the best idea. There are oh so many women to emulate, particularly iconic women that are forces to be reckoned with, from both the real and reel world. So, check out this selection of Halloween fits inspired by 9 iconic women characters below.
- Elle Woods from Legally Blonde.
For image reference, you can simply look up ‘Elle Woods Courtroom Outfit’ through the google search bar and it’ll direct you to the closest representation in the images section.
A character portrayed by Reese Witherspoon, quite perfectly if I may, is the perfect character to dress up as. As the Bel-Air blonde-turned-Harvard Law star, she has the most chic outfits, mostly pink, and a zesty personality. One of her most quintessential looks is the pink belted courtroom dress. You can easily copy the look with a formal fuschia pink dress that is knee-length with full sleeves. A sparkly and broad baby pink belt and belted heels will complete the fit. Curly tips in your hair and a big pink purse will act as the cherry on top of the cake.
- Black Widow from MCU.
For image reference, you can simply look up ‘Black Widow’ through the google search bar and it’ll direct you to the closest representation in the images section.
The super spy and assassin from the MCU, with her badass persona and daunting presence, portrayed by Scarlett Johansson, is one of the most fearless female characters to ever grace the big screen. You can comfortably copy the look by either ordering a fully black suit, if that’s not too much, or you can just pair a full-sleeved and collared zip jacket with leather pants and a thick black belt. Add an orange bob-cut wig and toy guns with holding straps and you’re all ready to go.
- Rosie the Riveter.
For image reference, you can simply look up ‘Rosie the Riveter’ through the google search bar and it’ll direct you to the closest representation in the images section.
Rosie is a figurative cultural icon in the United States of America as she represents the women from the World War II era, who worked in factories and shipyards and produced war supplies. Her costume can be easily replicated and it takes minimal effort. All you need is a navy blue collared shirt and a red bandana for the hair. For maximum impact, go with a light red lipstick and flowy eyelashes.
- Frida Kahlo.
For image reference, you can simply look up ‘Frida Kahlo Blue Dress’ through the google search bar and it’ll direct you to the closest representation in the images section.
Frida Kahlo is not just one of the most influential and brilliant artists of the twentieth century, but she is also a feminist icon, owing to her outspokenness, defiant nature, survivor spirit, and a resolve to speak about women’s rights and sexual freedom. Her iconic dressing sense, which boasts of vibrant colours, textures, fabrics and most importantly flowers, makes her a visually stimulating choice. You can simply replicate her look with a half-sleeved blue floral dress, a thick and layered fake gold chain, and big earrings. An elaborate floral headpiece and a dark red lip will embellish the look perfectly.
- Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
For image reference, you can simply look up ‘Holly Golightly’ through the google search bar and it’ll direct you to the closest representation in the images section.
Breaking rules in a Little Black Dress, the character portrayed by Audrey Hepburn captured the imagination of America on the cusp of the sexual revolution. She is a striking woman, who is self-sufficient and enigmatically glamorous. To replicate her look, all you need is a long, body-hugging, sleeveless black dress and black gloves. Adorn the look with a layered pearl necklace with a big charm, pearl earrings, a settled bun with a tiara to top it, and black shades to give off a mysterious vibe.
- Kim Possible from Kim Possible.
For image reference, you can simply look up ‘Kim Possible’ through the google search bar and it’ll direct you to the closest representation in the images section.
The titular protagonist from the 2002-2007 animated television series, Kim Possible seemingly appeared to be a high-school cheerleader but in her free time, she saved the world from supervillains. She’s a tough character, with a sharp mind and cheerful personality, who is also super aware of her capabilities. To replicate her look, all you need is a black full sleeved crop top and olive green camo pants. To enhance the look, black combat boots, a black fanny pack, and black leather gloves are the way to go to get your fighter persona to shine vividly.
- Jules Vaughn from Euphoria.
For image reference, you can simply look up ‘Jules Euphoria Angel Outfit’ through the google search bar and it’ll direct you to the closest representation in the images section.
One of the main characters of Euphoria, Jules, is the perfect avant-garde character to take inspiration from this Halloween. Portrayed by Hunter Schafer, Jules is a multi-layered character depicting strength and resilience. Her fashion reflects the multiple themes of the show- exploring addiction, gender and relationships. Jules’ iconic fairy look from the prom episode includes a Graecian white dress and small clip-on wings. Her cross necklace and makeup are bedazzled and full of glitter, much like Euphoria’s running aesthetic. Add a simple beachy hairdo with the look and you are ready to be as angelic as Jules Vaughn.
- Maeve Wiley from Sex Education.
For image reference, you can simply look up ‘Maeve Wiley Grey Distressed Jacket Look’ through the google search bar and it’ll direct you to the closest representation in the images section.
Nobody screams “edgy feminist icon” as much as Maeve Wiley from Sex Edcuation does. She is a Virginia Woolf and philosophy loving badass, with an equally badass sense of fashion. One of her most iconic looks from Season 1 includes a biker-chic aesthetic, with a monochrome black look. She dons a black top, denim skirt, stockings, and a dusky purple and grey frilly jacket. To accessorise this, she wears a layered gold necklace and her memorable nose ring. By pairing these easy-to-find clothes with a smouldering look, you can channel Maeve Wiley on this October 31st.
- Wanda Maximoff from Wandavision.
For image reference, you can simply look up ‘Wanda Halloween Costume’ through the google search bar and it’ll direct you to the closest representation in the images section.
A fierce protector and one of the most powerful characters of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Wanda Maximoff is the best protagonist to cosplay for Halloween. In an extremely satisfying series of events, Wanda dresses up as the Scarlet Witch for the show’s Halloween episode. Akin to her fiery personality, her entire outfit is bright red. She has bright ginger hair, her staple Scarlet Witch headpiece, a flowy cape, gloves, and a leotard. Of course, she has a classic red lip to tie the look together. You are sure to make a bold and novel statement by dressing up as this super-powerful sorceress.
These were just a few examples out of the many powerful and exemplary women that inspire us everyday. While they could be your go-to for this halloween, don’t restrict yourself to just them and explore wide and beyond, until you find someone you truly resonate with. Happy dressing up!