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What Makes a Good Halloween Costume?

Saturday, October 31st, 2026 Congress Plaza Hotel, Chicago 9 PM - 2 AM  •  21+
Creative Halloween costumes at a Chicago Halloween party

What Makes a Good Halloween Costume? Most Popular Halloween Costumes

Planning to make an appearance at some of this year’s best Halloween parties? Then you’ll need to get creative. Putting together a costume is one of the best parts of Halloween, but you’ll want to avoid generic options like witches, pirates, and lifeguards. Instead, think outside the box to find what makes a good Halloween costume. Pull ideas from current events, try a play on words, or consider a group costume with friends. You can also get inspired by some of the most popular Halloween costumes below.

Squid Game

Popular Halloween costume idea at a Chicago party

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard of Netflix’s most binge-worthy show. Squid Game showcases a group of in-debt contestants competing for a cash prize — with deadly consequences. Contestant costumes consist of a zippered tracksuit jacket and pants. You may also want to consider dressing as a guard or as the Front Man.

Harley Quinn

Guest showing off a creative Halloween costume

While Harley Quinn is certainly not new in terms of Halloween costumes, there are always new ways to show off her sassy style. The Suicide Squad films gave Harley a fresh look — consider sporting her elegant red tulle gown with matching red lipstick. The halter-style dress features an asymmetrical hem that is a real showstopper.

Day of the Dead

Halloween costume inspiration at the Haunted Halloween Ball

Some Halloween classics never get old, and the Day of the Dead is one of them. The thing that makes this Halloween costume idea so fun is that it can be done in so many ways. A little face paint and faux flowers and you have the perfect skeleton base. Next, head to your local vintage boutique to find an outfit that completes your costume. For men, a suit or tuxedo will do in a pinch; for women, look for a dark and edgy dress.

Betty and Jughead from Riverdale

Riverdale has remained a popular TV series, making Betty and Jughead a fun pick for couples. Betty’s outfit is rather simple with a pair of jeans and a 50’s-style sweater — or, as an alternative, her cheerleading uniform. Jughead is known for his signature “S” shirt, jean jacket, and beanie.

19th Century Regal Woman

In honor of Bridgerton, which was watched millions of times on Netflix, consider going as a 19th century England regal woman. Become your own version of Daphne Bridgerton and find a handsome Rege-Jean Page to act as your romantic interest. You’ll need a royal ball gown, long satin finger gloves, a crown, and jewels to pull this one off.

Victorian Vampire

While the traditional vampire has been done again and again, a dark and mysterious Victorian vampire puts this costume idea in a whole new light. You’ll need a pair of well-fitted tuxedo-stripe pants, a woven shirt with antique silver detailing, a velvet vest, and a double-layer cape with a leather collar. Finish the look with an antique silver cane and a black top hat.

Lola Bunny from Space Jam

If you’re feeling nostalgic for the ’90s, you’ll love dressing like sporty Lola Bunny this Halloween. To reflect her Space Jam look, you’ll need athletic sports attire and a pair of sneakers. Put your hair into a high pony and slide on a pair of bunny ears.

Bring Your Costume to the Haunted Halloween Ball

No matter which costume you choose, the best Halloween costumes are bold, creative, and a little unexpected. Prepare for this year’s Halloween parties with a costume that will impress as soon as you walk through the door.

Ready to show it off? Get your tickets for the Haunted Halloween Ball at the Congress Plaza Hotel and enter the $2,000 costume contest.

A Night Unlike Any Other

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