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The Best Pop Culture Halloween Costume Ideas For 2020

Lights, Camera, Action! The Best Pop Culture-Inspired Halloween Costumes of 2020

Let's face it: 2020 has thrown us some major curveballs. In the midst of it all, this year's movies and TV shows have supplied us with much-needed entertainment, laughs, and even some cathartic tears. From much-anticipated sequels that we couldn't get enough of, like To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You, to new shows that kept us on our toes (thank you, Outer Banks!), 2020's lineup gave us everything we needed to kick back, relax, and indulge in high-quality escapism.

While this Halloween might look different than previous years, we're ready for the spooky-fun day with fancy dress inspiration from the movies and TV shows that have captivated us in 2020. Complete with creative couples' ideas, sexy superhero looks, and bold fashion statements, this year's onscreen entertainment has all the inspiration you could want for a Halloween costume, no matter how you're celebrating. Take a peek at the best pop culture-inspired Halloween costume ideas of 2020 now!

Image Sources: Netflix and Everett Collection

1. Lars and Sigrit From Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga

  • What to wear: This wild movie not only features an over-the-top plot, but also some over-the-top outfits! To re-create Lars and Sigrit's best looks, you'll need to get ready to go all out. To look like Lars, wear full-body armor with a dramatic hat. To pull off Sigrit's outfit, you need to wear a long white dress with a silver leather jacket, silver flower crown, and glittery silver makeup. We'll see you on stage.
Image Source: Everett Collection

2. Harley Quinn From Birds of Prey

  • What to wear: High pigtails, distressed pinstripe shorts, and a light pink "Harley Quinn" printed shirt are all you need to become this iconic character. Wear a chunky charm necklace, colourful gloves, and black belt with a padlock. You're ready to hit the town!
Image Source: Everett Collection

3. Umbrella Academy From The Umbrella Academy

  • What to wear for Klaus: A long black trench coat, skinny jeans, and a tight vest will turn you into Klaus. Rock tousled hair, black eyeliner, and a dog tag necklace to make this look come to life. Oh, and don't be alarmed if you start seeing dead people.
  • What to wear for Ben: If you're always looking out for others, then you can relate to Ben. Wear a black leather jacket with a dark shirt and pants, and complete the look with sturdy boots. Make sure no one can see since you're technically dead.
  • What to wear for Five: If you're an old soul at heart, you should be Five for Halloween. Wear a plaid cardigan with a white button-up underneath, and don't forget your tie! Find high socks and saddle shoes, and pair that with an old-school jacket and matching shorts.
  • What to wear for Vanya: No powers, no problem. Dress up as Vanya by wearing basic clothing like an oversize jacket and T-shirt. Pair that with big jeans and boots, and you can take on anything. (Well, almost anything.)
  • What to wear for Luther: If you've been working out this year, you're ready to be Luther. Wear slim-fitting pants and sensible boots, and show off your abs all night long.
  • What to wear for Diego: Fighting crime never looked so good. Copy Diego's look by wearing all black with a backpack to stash all your crime-fighting tools. Sorry, Detective Patch.
  • What to wear for Allison: Got bangs? You can be Allison! Wear a sophisticated black coat, high heels, long leather gloves, and get ready for the attention to be on you.
Image Source: Netflix

4. Robyn From High Fidelity

  • What to wear: One of Robyn's best looks from High Fidelity has to be this one. Her bold leather jacket gives her an air of mystery and confidence, both of which we admire. To pull off this look, simply throw on a long (faux) leather jacket over an oversized printed shirt and finish with combat boots. Done and done.
Image Source: Hulu

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5. Alexander Hamilton From Hamilton

  • What to wear: A puffy white button-down shirt and a fitted black vest are the main components for this stage-worthy costume. Slick your hair back and flaunt some tiny spectacles to re-create Hamilton's smart look.
Image Source: Everett Collection

6. Schuyler Sisters From Hamilton

  • What to wear: Ready to work the room? To be the iconic Schuyler sisters, wear large ballgown dresses in yellow (for Peggy), green (for Eliza), and pink (for Angelica). Practice your coordinated dance moves.
Image Source: Everett Collection

7. King George III From Hamilton

  • What to wear: "Over the top" is the name of the game when it comes to this costume. Think: a long cape, red satin clothes, jewels, and a large crown. Bow down to the king!
Image Source: Everett Collection

8. Lara Jean From To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You

  • What to wear: To copy Lara Jean's dreamy look from the Star Ball, wear a light mint green ruffle dress and red lipstick. Lightly curl your hair and finish your outfit off with simple heels.
Image Source: Netflix

9. John Ambrose From To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You

  • What to wear: There's no denying that John Ambrose's best look in the whole movie was his Star Ball look. Wear a crisp white suit with a black bowtie, and we'll see you at the dance.
Image Source: Netflix

10. Fikile and Puleng From Blood and Water

  • What to wear for Fikile: Fikile looks supercute in her blue uniform, so feel free to wear that. Find a navy blue jacket and wear a white button-down shirt underneath. Pair that with a plaid skirt and knee-high grey socks, and you're Fikile.
  • What to wear for Puleng: Puleng knows how to rock her red uniform, so you can take your cues from her preppy look. Wear a red blazer with a matching skirt, white button-down shirt, and knee-high grey socks. You'll make it known that you didn't come here to mess around.
Image Source: Netflix

11. Addison and Zed From Zombies 2

  • What to wear for Addison: A cute pink-and-white cheer outfit will turn you into the peppy Addison. Complete your look with white sneakers and a bright pink bow.
  • What to wear for Zed: Got green hair? Good, you're halfway to becoming Zed! Once your hair is a bright huge of green, wear ripped jeans and a brown shirt over a black tee. Add some fake blood to your clothes if you want to look legit.
Image Source: Disney

12. Sister Night From Watchmen

  • What to wear: A long hooded black cape with a white top and long black skirt will transform you into Sister Night. Wear a large face mask and keep your hood up.
Image Source: HBO

13. Doctor Manhattan From Watchmen

  • What to wear: Why so blue? Turning into Doctor Manhattan won't be too hard since all you need is blue body paint (if you're up to it) or a long-sleeve blue shirt, pants, and mask. Be sure to add his signature circle and dot symbol to your forehead, which represents the hydrogen atom.
Image Source: HBO

14. Adrian Veidt From Watchmen

  • What to wear: Bring on the purple and gold! Wear a purple suit and accessorise with gold accents like a large necklace or neck piece, gloves, and boots.
Image Source: HBO

15. Looking Glass From Watchmen

  • What to wear: A charcoal button-up, grey jacket, jeans, and a belt are the building blocks to being Looking Glass. Oh yeah, and you'll need a silver face mask or tinfoil-lined baseball hat.
Image Source: HBO

16. Lady Trieu From Watchmen

  • What to wear: A form-fitting cream or white dress with long sleeves and a high neck and white gloves will do if you want to be Lady Trieu. Rock a short wig and unimpressed, all-knowing expression.
Image Source: HBO

17. The Seven From The Boys

  • What to wear for Starlight: Light up the night when you dress up as Stargirl. Wear a white dress or white long-sleeve top with a white skirt, a flowing cape, and tall tan boots. Pair that with a gold headband and belt.
  • What to wear for The Deep: Wear a tight green tank top with matching pants and brown gloves and boots. Throw on a brown belt to make the look complete.
  • What to wear for Queen Maeve: Want to look like a edgier version of Wonder Woman? Queen Maeve's outfit is for you. Wear a dark-coloured dress and tall black boots, and throw on silver accents on top of your dress. Wear a black headband across your forehead, too.
  • What to wear for Homelander: Take a darker approach to the superhero costume this year when you dress up as The Homelander. You'll need a red-and-white striped cape, a tight-fitting navy blue top and pants, and a big gold belt.
  • What to wear for Black Noir: You'll need a whole lot of black clothing for this outfit. Wear black pants, a back long-sleeve shirt, and a face covering of some sort. (You could do a mask with a hat.) Then, wear dark sunglasses to fully cover your eyes.
  • What to wear for A-Train: Blue clothes will help transform you into A-Train in no time. Wear tight blue pants, a blue short-sleeve shirt, and black sunglasses. Ready to race?
  • What to wear for Translucent: Want to be invisible? Then Translucent is for you. Wear a grey tracksuit or jumpsuit, and try to keep your face hidden as much as possible. Good luck!
Image Source: Netflix

18. John B From Outer Banks

  • What to wear: Channel John B by wearing a colourful shirt that's pretty much all the way unbuttoned. Pair it with casual shorts and flip flops, and don't forget the black eye!
Image Source: Netflix

19. Sarah From Outer Banks

  • What to wear: Sarah always opts for a cute and casual look, as seen in this 'fit. To pull off her chill style, wear a little yellow tube top with white jeans and flip flops.
Image Source: Netflix

20. Kiara From Outer Banks

  • What to wear: If you want to be as cool as Kiara this Halloween, simply wear a purple tie-dye shirt with cutoff jean shorts and bright jewellery. Complete you costume with an olive green backpack and sneakers.
Image Source: Netflix

21. Zoey From Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist

  • What to wear: If you want to be extraordinary this Halloween, all you have to do is find a bright pink cardigan, button it all the way up, and wear a white collared shirt underneath it. Throw on some black jeans, and hit the streets singing.
Image Source: NBC

22. Stargirl From Stargirl

  • What to wear: A burgundy cheer skirt with a matching burgundy-and-yellow long-sleeve shirt will transform you into Stargirl. Put your hair in low pigtails, and bring your ukulele with you wherever you go.
Image Source: Everett Collection

23. Sarah and Nyles From Palm Springs

  • What to wear: Got a pool 'fit? Perfect, you're already more than halfway there to becoming Sarah and Nyles from Palm Springs! Throw on a bright plum swimsuit and white-rimmed shades to be Sarah, and wear a bright patterned button-up and board shorts to be Nyles.
Image Source: Hulu

24. Payton From The Politician

  • What to wear: Ambitious and passionate, Payton has polished style. His dreams of becoming the President of the United States mean his wardrobe is full of sleek suits and nice shoes. Wear your best suit and tie, and get ready turn the government upside down.
Image Source: Netflix

25. Elle and Lee From The Kissing Booth 2

  • What to wear: Grab your bestie! To be the iconic duo from Netflix's The Kissing Booth 2, "Team Elle and Lee Dance Dance Mania" shirts are essential. Pair those with skinny jeans and casual sneakers, and show off your best moves.
Image Source: Netflix

26. Lucifer From Lucifer

  • What to wear: Trust us, if you can look as good as Lucifer this Halloween, all Hell will break loose. Wear a crisp charcoal suit with a lavender button-up underneath, and complete the look with nice dress shoes and a devilish smile.
Image Source: Netflix

27. Claudia, Stacey, Dawn, Mary Anne, and Kristy From The Baby-Sitters Club

  • What to wear for Claudia: If you've got a creative side like Claudia, be ready to go all out! Wear colourful yellow pants, a patterned jacket, and chunky boots to pull off this cute look of hers. Carry around a Nancy Drew book or paint supplies to amp up the look.
  • What to wear for Stacey: Chic and cute, Stacy's style basically screams "London fashion." Wear something fun like leopard pants and a cute a jacket, and add a pop of pink.
  • What to wear for Dawn: If you're looking for a cute skater girl vibe, rock one of Dawn's outfits. Try jean jeans, a cool jacket, and black platform shoes.
  • What to wear for Mary Anne: Mary Anne has an air of sophistication about her, and her outfits do, too. Wear a knee-length skirt with a cute blouse or top, and finish off the look with little braids or pigtails.
  • What to wear for Kristy: Kristy believes in comfort first and foremost, and this outfit proves that. Wear comfortable jeans (mom jeans will do!) and pair them with an oversize shirt on top of a white long-sleeve. Then, throw on your favourite pair of sneakers.
  • What to wear as a group: Have everyone hold The Baby-Sitter's Club books to get the theme across.
Image Source: Netflix

28. Batwoman From Batwoman

  • What to wear: Want to be bold, brave, and red-hot this Halloween? If your answer is "yes," dress up as Batwoman by wearing a skin-tight black long-sleeve jumpsuit (or skinny jeans and a black top) and a black mask that covers the top half of your face. Accessorise with a red belt and a bright red wig.
Image Source: The CW

29. Katy Keene From Katy Keene

  • What to wear: Katy Keene designs clothes for a living, so it's no surprise that she has a fabulous wardrobe. With statement pieces and chic accessories, her outfits are always top-notch. Copy this cute look by wearing a white long-sleeve shirt with a red coat over. Complete the look by adding cherry-like accessories to the front of your shirt under the collar.
Image Source: The CW

30. Hope From Legacies

  • What to wear: Channel your Little Red Riding Hood vibes when you opt for this look from Legacies. Wear an enchanting red cape, pop the hood, and add a little red belt to spice things up.
Image Source: The CW

31. Black Canary From Birds of Prey

  • What to wear: Sexy, sleek, and seriously stunning: who wouldn't want to be Black Canary? To pull off this 'fit, we suggest wearing a strapless yellow swimsuit underneath a black crochet dress or cover-up. Finish off the look with a black belt and black boots.
Image Source: Everett Collection

32. Jack From Hollywood

  • What to wear: If you want to be as suave as Jack, wear your best peacoat, hat, and button-down vet. A tie and white collared shirt wouldn't hurt either.
Image Source: Netflix

33. Raymond From Hollywood

  • What to wear: A crisp white shirt with a black or navy blue tie are the beginning steps to making this outfit complete. Once you have that, iron or draw on the name "Jack" to your shirt, and top off your look with a tan hat.
Image Source: Netflix

34. Camille From Hollywood

  • What to wear: Let's face it: everyone wants to be Camille. Her dreamy outfits, glam makeup, and chic vibe is all we can really strive for. Wear a gold sparkly dress with large gold earrings and cute heels, and complete your look with red lipstick and bright red nails.
Image Source: Netflix

35. Fabiola, Eleanor, and Devi From Never Have I Ever

  • What to wear for Fabiola: A blue short-sleeve button up shirt and light khaki pants are the way to go if you want to be Fabiola. Don't forget your backpack!
  • What to wear for Eleanor: A black tank top with a flower print and red pants are what you need to channel Eleanor's vibe. Wear a pink feather earring in one ear, and you're ready to go.
  • What to wear for Devi: Find blue jeans, a striped shirt, and an orange cardigan to be Never Have I Ever's biggest star.
Image Source: Netflix

36. General Mark R. Naird From Space Force

  • What to wear: Want to look outta-this-world cool on Halloween? It's time to suit up as General Mark R. Naird. Wear a navy blue suit jacket with a black button up underneath and a black tie. Cover your jacket with all your best pins, and don't forget your sunglasses!
Image Source: Netflix

37. Maggie From Space Force

  • What to wear: Well, it looks like all you need here is an orange jumpsuit. Easy enough!
Image Source: Netflix

38. Judy and Jen From Dead to Me

  • What to wear for Judy: Judy is usually seen in colourful, patterned dresses and her favourite little brown corduroy jacket. Any maxi dress with little heels will do.
  • What to wear for Jen: Jen likes to sport her business casual outfits in between her showings. Wear a nice blouse with black jeans and sensible heels or else you're dead to us.
Image Source: Netflix

39. Elena From Little Fires Everywhere

  • What to wear: Conservative and buttoned-up, Elena is all about keeping up appearances. Wear a classic denim or blue cotton dress. Add a small red belt and little heels to complete the look.
Image Source: Hulu

40. Mia From Little Fires Everywhere

  • What to wear: Mia is artsy and laid back, and her style reflects that. Wear cutoff cropped jeans and a graphic tank, and add some paint splatters to top it off.
Image Source: Hulu

41. Jane, Sutton, and Kat From The Bold Type

  • What to wear for Jane: Jane keeps it classic even when she's out drinking. To rock one of her preppy looks, simply wear a black-and-white long-sleeve top with a nice pair of jeans. Pull your hair back into a bun, and add a touch of subtle pink lipstick.
  • What to wear for Sutton: Sutton goes for more casual and trendy clothes, and this look is just that. Throw on an olive green jumpsuit and pair it with a black belt. Pull your hair into a pony, and cheers to your cute 'fit!
  • What to wear for Kat: Kat is all about bold prints, bright colours, and eye-catching outfits. Wear hot pink joggers or shorts, a pineapple-print shirt, and a cheeky pink visor for this eclectic and cool look.
Image Source: Freeform

42. Connell and Marianne From Normal People

  • What to wear for Connell: Nothing says Connell like a cool and collected outfit. Sport some casual shorts with a grey tee and sneakers, and you're ready.
  • What to wear for Marianne: Marianne's outfits are cute and simple, but she knows how to make them stand out. Wear a black maxi dress and accessorise with canvas sneakers.
Image Source: Hulu

43. Victor From Love, Victor

  • What to wear: Victor always looks put-together in casual and conservative looks, and this is a perfect example. Wear a plaid button-down shirt with a black tee underneath and some black jeans.
Image Source: Hulu

44. Andy From The Old Guard

  • What to wear: Want a badass Halloween costume idea? Try wearing this look from The Old Guard. Throw on a black long-sleeve shirt with dark wash jeans, a bullet-proof vest, and rub some dirt on your face. Ready for battle?
Image Source: Everett Collection

45. Liz From Roswell, New Mexico

  • What to wear: If you have a brown (faux) leather jacket, you're more than halfway to becoming Liz. Pair it with black jeans, silver hoops, and lightly curl your hair and let it fall down your back.
Image Source: The CW

46. Max From Roswell, New Mexico

  • What to wear: Giddy up, partner! If you want to look like the toughest sheriff in all the land, get a tan sheriff's outfit, a star badge, and a cowboy hat.
Image Source: The CW

47. Alex From Roswell, New Mexico

  • What to wear: Alex's style is cool and laid back, so be sure to wear something similar. Pair a stylish, patterned button-down shirt with black pants.
Image Source: The CW

48. Michael From Roswell, New Mexico

  • What to wear: Copy Michael by wearing a white or light grey tank underneath a plaid shirt. Finish off the look with ruffled curls and dark wash jeans.
Image Source: The CW

49. Dana, Maddie, and Helen From Sweet Magnolias

  • What to wear for Dana: A nice blouse and black pants will turn you into Dana. Feel free to bring along some cooking utensils, as you know her food is worthy of praise.
  • What to wear for Maddie: Maddie is always put together, even if she is going through a divorce. Wear a cute top and casual jeans, and prepare to fall in love.
  • What to wear for Helen: Helen is all about sophistication, so a chic blouse and dress pants will do. Believe in yourself, and others will, too.
Image Source: Netflix

50. Ava From Warrior Nun

  • What to wear: Get ready to fight off evil when you wear a navy blue long-sleeve shirt with casual body armor over it. Pull your hair back into a low pony, and prepare to become a warrior nun.
Image Source: Netflix

51. Issa From Insecure

  • What to wear: Issa's wardrobe is all about cool patterns, bold phrases, and funky graphics, but in a way that makes her seem effortless and comfortable. Wear a patterned dress with a rainbow striped blazer or bomber jacket and gold chunky jewellery. You could always go the extra mile and rock a "We Got Y'all" shirt, too!
Image Source: HBO

52. Molly From Insecure

  • What to wear: Molly always looks cute and polished, so wearing one of her chic work outfits is a good way to go. Wear a brown blazer with a black turtleneck underneath and sport a cute bob and bangs.
Image Source: HBO

53. Jughead From Riverdale

  • What to wear: Just wear a dark button-down shirt that's not buttoned up all the way, a dark jacket with faux fur, jeans, black boots, and a grey beanie. Don't forget the messenger bag!
Image Source: Everett Collection

54. Archie From Riverdale

  • What to wear: A blue long-sleeve shirt, jeans, Converse, and a red wig will turn you into Archie. Feel free to add a letterman jacket or cardigan and a guitar.
Image Source: Everett Collection

55. Veronica From Riverdale

  • What to wear: Make a "Team Varchie" shirt by grabbing a white baseball tee with yellow sleeves and drawing the words "Team Varchie" on the middle of it. Put on a small pearl necklace and pair your look with casual shorts or joggers.
Image Source: Everett Collection

56. Betty From Riverdale

  • What to wear: Got a high tan turtleneck? Good. Wear that under a green bomber jacket and complete your look with a green plaid skirt. Pull your hair tightly back, and you're ready to roll.
Image Source: Everett Collection

57. Cheryl From Riverdale

  • What to wear: You'll need a black hoodie with a pronounced hood and a spider necklace. Finish it off with a long red wig.
Image Source: Everett Collection

58. Toni From Riverdale

  • What to wear: A large black beanie, casual shirt, and dark jeans are all you need to pull off this look. Dye some strands in your hair light pink, and finish off the look with a layered necklace.
Image Source: Everett Collection

59. Josie From Katy Keene

  • What to wear: Thanks to Katy Keene, Josie has had more time to shine. Her personality has been highlighted, as well as her killer sense of style. Throw on a jean jumpsuit and chunky earrings, and you're good to go. Put your hair up in a high bun or pony to complete the look.
Image Source: The CW

60. Joe From You

  • What to wear: Being a creepy stalker doesn't mean you have to look like one. Joe's style is totally collected and cool, consisting of basic tees under button-ups, jeans, and backpacks. Feel free to throw on a baseball cap if you're trying to hide in plain sight.
Image Source: Netflix

61. Finn From Star Wars: Rise of the Skywalker

  • What to wear: Wear dark pants with a loose-fitting tan shirt under a brown leather jacket that has the red stripe detail that Finn's does. Add a blaster holster on your waist, and you'll be golden.
Image Source: Everett Collection

62. Rey From Star Wars: Rise of the Skywalker

  • What to wear: For this, you'll need a flowy white cape, white capri pants, and a tan leather belt. Wear dusty brown combat boots with fierce armbands and a slicked back bun. Oh, and don't forget the totally badass attitude.
Image Source: Disney

63. Kylo Ren From Star Wars: Rise of the Skywalker

  • What to wear: A high-necked black jacket with a wide, black leather belt is a must for Kylo. You're also going to need some tight (high-waisted) black pants and high black boots, as well as his signature red lightsaber and greasy black hair (sorry, Kylo).
Image Source: Everett Collection

64. Poe From Star Wars: Rise of the Skywalker

  • What to wear: Throw on fitted brown pants with a white shirt, trendy infinity scarf, and high boots paired with short brown curls and a cocky attitude to make this look come to life.
Image Source: Disney

65. The Fab 5 From Queer Eye

  • What to wear for Bobby: Bobby's look screams cool, casual, and down to business. Just grab a grey hoodie and splatter it with colourful paint to make this DIY costume. Throw on some black joggers and white tennis shoes, and have an aura of pure confidence and professionalism.
  • What to wear for Tan: Tan is the fashion guru of the bunch, so you need to be looking on point. He pulls off a cropped hoodie like no other, so after you've cut your jacket, wear a light grey shirt and charcoal joggers to complete the look.
  • What to wear for Antoni: A graphic jacket of some kind with dark jeans or joggers is all you really need for this look. Sport white sneakers with ankle-high socks to finish it off.
  • What to wear for Jonathan: Let your long hair blow in the wind when you channel this look of Jonathan's. Throw on a graphic sweatshirt and skinny jeans, and make sure to wear extra eye-catching shoes. Then, strut like you mean it.
  • What to wear for Karamo: Karamo is always effortlessly fashionable, and this look proves it. Rock the black-on-black look by wearing fitted black joggers, a plain black hoodie, and a light black puffer over the hoodie. Wear sleek white shoes to make your outfit look even more polished.
Image Source: Everett Collection

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