Ditch the generic store-bought outfits this October. W magazine has released a guide suggesting that even the most basic costumes—like a bride or a cowgirl—can be elevated through high-fashion references and celebrity-inspired styling.
The shift from scary to 'aesthetic' via Charli XCX and Barbiecore
Halloween has increasingly become an exercise in personal branding and internet aesthetics rather than pure fright. Instead of traditional monsters, the modern approach favors looks that translate well to social media feeds, leaning heavily into recent cultural phenomena like the "brat" summer trend or the pink-saturated world of Barbie.
The current costume landscape is heavily influenced by pop culture's most dominant visual languages. As W magazine reported, the "brat" aesthetic championed by Charli XCX can be translated into a high-fashion devil look using chic red pieces. similarly, the Barbie and Ken phenomenon remains a dominant force, offering a way to participate in a massive cultural moment while staying visually cohesive.
Channeling Rihanna’s plumage and Alexander McQueen’s Belle
High-fashion references can transform a standard costume into something far more sophisticated.. For instance, a simple bird costume can be elevated by mimicking the plumage-heavy looks seen on Rihanna, or a classic princess look can be reimagined through the lens of an Alexander McQueen golden yellow gown.
Celebrity styling provides a blueprint for those who want to avoid the "cheap" look of traditional party store outfits. According to the report from W, even a cowgirl look can be updated with a "Harryween" nod to Harry Styles—perhaps inspired by his 2026 Madison Square Garden residency—or a bunny costume can be given a dark, editorial twist inspired by Jeremy Strong’s more intense aesthetic.
Group looks from Kate Hudson to the 'brat' devil
Group costumes are often the most difficult to coordinate, but celebrity archetypes make the process easier. One suggestion involves a group of friends all wearing blonde wigs to emulate the look of Kate Hudson for a party.
For those looking for something slightly more edgy, the "brat" devil look offers a way to coordinate with friends using a shared color palette. This approach allows for a cohesive group identity that feels more like a fashion editorial than a mismatched collection of costumes.
Can DIY enthusiasts actually replicate Pat McGrath or Loewe?
While the fashion-forward ideas are enticing, there are questions about how achievable these looks truly are for the average person. The guide focuses heavily on luxe, high-fashion interpretations, leaving little guidance for those on a strict budget. specifically , it remains to be seen if a DIY enthusiast can truly replicate the intricate, high-art makeup of master Pat McGrath or the specific floral textures of Loewe’s anthurium-inspired designs.
There is also the question of whether these highly specific,trend-dependent costumes will feel dated by the time November arrives. While a group of friends dressed as Kate Hudsons might feel fresh now, the rapid cycle of internet trends means that today's "chic" look can quickly become yesterday's cringe.
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