Best Halloween Costume Ideas

Dressing up for Halloween isn’t just for kids. Adults can enjoy the fun, too – whether you want to be an infamous gangster, a walking skeleton, or an elegant witch. If you’re preparing for an upcoming Halloween party or event and contemplating what to be, check out some of the most popular Halloween costume ideas for adults.

Joker

Get a little crazy on Halloween with a Joker costume inspired by The Dark Knight trilogy. A purple jacket, green vest, and a bit of face paint are all you need to create the perfect psycho-villain look.

70s Hippie Chick

You can’t go wrong with a hippie costume – it’s easy to throw together and perfect for dancing. Start with a flower- or peace-sign-adorned mini dress with bell sleeves, then add a matching head scarf and a white belt around your waist. Peace earrings and a pair of go-go boots complete the look.

Hugh Hefner

Channel your inner Hugh Hefner and become a legend for the night. All you need is a velour robe with black trim and a front tie belt, plus a pair of black silk pajama pants. Bring the character to life with a trademark pipe and captain’s hat.

Elegant Witch

Lose the warty nose and green skin in favor of an elegant witch costume. There’s no wrong way to do the classic witch, but aim for a form-fitting V-cut dress with a sash, cape, and matching witch hat.

Han Solo

Turn your love for Star Wars into a full-fledged costume. Head out for your quest in a charming Han Solo costume complete with a V-neck shirt, vest, belt, and boots. You’ll also need a holster to finish off the look.

Flapper

Go back in time to the 1920s and become a classy flapper. Finding the perfect fringe dress is the first step, but the right accessories pull the look together – think rhinestone buckles, fishnet stockings, lace overlay accents, a pearl necklace, and a sequined feather headpiece.

Big Bad Wolf

Display your dangerous side with a big bad wolf costume. This classic villain is one of the most recognizable fairytale characters – and when you’re not blowing down the houses of the three little pigs, you’ll be the life of the party.

Josie

Inspired by the comic series Archie and brought back into the spotlight by hit TV shows, Josie and the Pussycats make for a fun, recognizable costume. Dress the part of lead singer Josie with a leopard-print dress, an attached tail, and a pair of ears. A head mic is the perfect addition to share your vocals with the rest of the party.

Zoot Suit

Become a real-life mobster boss in a classic pinstripe zoot suit. You’ll need a pair of elastic suspenders, a matching fedora, and a necktie to get the look right – plus a pair of snazzy black-and-white oxford shoes.

Vampire

This Halloween, become a night walker with a costume that reflects your dark side. A gothic vampire is the perfect spooky look for anyone who prefers an air of mystery. Opt for a black gown with tattered sleeves and hem, cinched with a belt, and slip on your favorite black pumps. To go the extra mile, add a pair of realistic vampire teeth.

Show Off Your Costume at the Ball

Whatever costume you choose, there’s no better place to debut it than Chicago’s biggest costume party. Get your tickets for the Haunted Halloween Ball at the historic Congress Plaza Hotel.