Halloween is onSaturday 31 October. That’s this weekend. And if you’re anything like me, you have a party invite, a group chat asking “what are we wearing?” and absolutely no plan.
Don’t panic. The best Halloween costumes aren’t the scariest ones. They’re the ones everyone in the room instantly recognises and then screams about. So here are12 ideas pulled straight from 2026’s pop culture, from easy wardrobe hacks to full commitment.
The horror girlies
1. Nikki from Obsession
The horror hit of the year, and nowgetting a Hindi dub with Varun Dhawan and Kriti Sanon. A sweet, everyday outfit, a slightly too-intense stare and a little fake blood. The creepiest costumes look normal until you notice the eyes.
2. Ghost Rider
WithRyan Gosling revealed as Marvel’s new Ghost Rider, the Spirit of Vengeance is back in the chat. Black leather jacket, skull face paint, orange-and-red flame make-up around the edges. Bonus points if you bring a chain.
The screen icons
3. Athena from The Odyssey
Christopher Nolan’s epic made Greek mythology hot again. Draped white or gold fabric, a simple belt, a gold cuff, and an owl prop if you can find one. Elegant, wise and very low effort.
4. Euphoria’s glam chaos
Euphoria’s return brought back glitter tears and gem-studded eyes. Any outfit plus heavy rhinestone make-up instantly reads as Euphoria. It’s the easiest costume for anyone who loves a full face.
5. Wuthering Heights gothic romance
The new film version put windswept Victorian drama back on everyone’s mood board. Long dark coat or a high-necked dress, messy hair, and a look of tragic longing. Practise staring dramatically out of a window.
6. Dune desert royalty
Dune: Part Three arrives in December, so get ahead of the curve. Flowing neutral layers, a scarf wrapped as a hood, and blue-tinted contact lenses or eye make-up for the full Fremen effect.
7. Heated Rivalry hockey heartthrob
The show of the year (for my timeline, at least) made hockey jerseys the hottest fit of 2026. A jersey, messy hair and a smirk. Couples, this one’s made for you.
The internet moments
8. Labubu (or a “Lafufu”)
The toy that took over everyone’s bags. A fuzzy hoodie, bunny ears and a toothy grin painted on. If you go deliberately wonky and call it a Lafufu, even better. Self-aware costumes always win.
9. KATSEYE
The global girl group is a ready-made group costume. Coordinated outfits in different colours, matching sneakers, and a choreography moment you’ve practised in the lift.
10. Aemond Targaryen
House of the Dragon’s new season has fans divided over who to root for, but everyone agrees on the look. Platinum wig, all-black outfit, an eye patch and a permanent glare. Villain energy, minimal effort.
The desi twist
11. A Bigg Boss contestant mid-fight
Bigg Boss 20 has given uspromos worthy of a film trailer. Pyjamas, a blanket over your shoulder, and an accusatory finger pointed at someone. Act out a “Weekend Ka Vaar” confrontation every 20 minutes.
12. Daya from CID
In memory ofthe late BP Singh, a little tribute costume. A simple shirt and trousers, a stern face, and one firm kick at every door at the party (gently, please). Everyone in India will get it.
Quick tips for a last-minute costume
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Start with your wardrobe.Most of these need one or two extra props, not a whole new outfit.
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Make-up does the heavy lifting.Skull paint, glitter or fake blood turns ordinary clothes into a costume.
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Recognisability beats accuracy.If people get it in two seconds, you’ve won.
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Go as a group.Group costumes always get the most photos.
If you’re in Mumbai and still looking for somewhere to show off your look, here’s our guide toHalloween events across the city.
Now go. Your group chat is waiting.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most popular Halloween costumes in 2026?
Pop culture picks this year include Nikki from Obsession, characters from The Odyssey, Euphoria and House of the Dragon, Labubu dolls, KATSEYE and Ghost Rider.
What is an easy last-minute Halloween costume for 2026?
A Ghost Rider look with a black leather jacket and skull make-up, or a Labubu with a fuzzy hoodie and bunny ears, can be put together from your wardrobe.
When is Halloween 2026?
Halloween falls on Saturday 31 October 2026.
