You, like most of us, probably have really fantastic ideas for Halloween costumes throughout the year. Then, come October 31, you slap on winged eyeliner, cat ears and a tail and call it a night.
There’s nothing wrong with that, of course, but if you want to branch out a little, this guide is perhaps just what you’re looking for. I tried to stay away from looks I’d seen posted in other “non-basic” Halloween costume guides to give some diversity.
Freudian Slip
If you’re a psych major, this is honestly your only option because, come on, this costume is made for you. It’s probably one of the easiest to do as well. Just find a slip and attach Freudian phrases, like “Oedipus Complex”, with safety pins. Bonus: this look is a little more flirty but still way more comfortable than those stainless steel corsets you find in sexy maid outfits.
Trixie Mattel
If there ever was a time to broadcast to the world your undying love of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” it’s now. Trixie is one of the most recognizable modern drag queens in my opinion, and if you want to go ham with the makeup, this is literally the most hammy you can get. If you don’t know who Trixie is, she and her fellow drag queen, Katya, do a hilarious show where you can see how funny she is. Trixie recently posted a tutorial of how she does her look here, so there’s really no excuse.
Ellen Ripley
I’ll admit it: I am #obsessed with “Alien.” That is, the 1979 classic featuring Sigourney Weaver in one of her most iconic roles. A badass alien-fighting, curly-haired astronaut that loves cats? What’s not to absolutely adore? Plus, this look is actually pretty simple. All you need is a green jumpsuit (or army green pants and a white tank top,) some black eyeshadow to smudge on yourself and curly hair (preferably dark, but not necessary.) If you really want to sell the look, write “Nostromo” anywhere on your body and you’ll instantly be recognizable.
Eleven from “Stranger Things”
This show absolutely rocked everyone’s world, so I’m assuming you are no different. Eleven is undoubtedly one of the most complex and intriguing characters on the show, with unbelievable empathy, so it’s no wonder people want to dress up as her for Halloween. All you need is a pink dress with a peter pan collar, a blue windbreaker, a blonde wig (or a shaved head, if you have one or are really dedicated) and an Eggo Waffles box. You’re ready to fight demogorgons all night long.
Matilda
How could we forget Matilda? She was, personally, such a big part of my childhood. I looked up to her and her ability to not only move things with her mind but also to fight for what’s right—and also look absolutely iconic and amazing while she did it. Matilda’s look is, as most of these costumes are, quite simple. A ’90s floral shirt, overalls, Moby Dick and a red ribbon tied in your hair will be sure to evoke images of Miss Trunchbull, the human version of the demogorgon.
And that’s all I have. Or, to be more specific, all I had time to write. There are thousands of wonderful costumes just waiting to be discovered and worn. Maybe go as one of the Voltron Paladins? Or go as Hermione Granger, our favorite witch? And of course, there’s always a sexy Minion costume. Kidding, kidding.
If this list wasn’t enough, here’s a really cool guide I found for procrastinating readers, and here’s a list of squad costumes to collaborate on with your besties.
The rundown for having a non-basic costume: Don’t be offensive, love what you’re wearing, don’t worry too much, dress for the weather (please don’t freeze,) don’t wear a culture as a costume, and please, please, please have an amazing time.
Stay non-basic, everyone.