Halloween is just around the corner. Like most years, the 31st of October is closer than it appears, and chances are you have procrastinated on costume planning as much as you have on studying. While there is little time left, here are my predictions for some of the most popular Halloween costumes this year — maybe you can get some ideas while scavenging your closet for a last-minute costume!
Pop stars (specifically, Sabrina Carpenter)
“Sabrina Carpenter @ Wiltern 10/15/2022” by Justin Higuchi / CC-BY-2.0
While you hopefully will not be working, you will probably be up late … so why not be a singer?
With the release of her album this year and the success of her tour, Sabrina Carpenter’s signature “Short n’ Sweet” look — sparkly mini dresses, corsets with heart cut-outs, fluffy hair, and knee-high boots — will undoubtedly be one many are aiming to replicate this Halloween.
I also predict seeing at least a few Chappell Roans roaming the street this Halloweekend due to the artist’s rise in exposure this year. Some may choose to replicate a not-so-casual “Casual” look or one of her recognizable concert outfits complete with a bodysuit and bold makeup. Additionally, with the prolonged success of her “Eras Tour,” I believe we will continue to see multiple Taylor Swifts in outfits ranging across her album eras — from cowboy boots to sparkly bodysuits — and maybe even some couples as Taylor and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.
Wizard of Oz (and other classic groups)
“The Wizard of Oz (1939)” / CC-BY-SA 2.0
As usual, we will continue to see a multitude of group costumes. “Alice in Wonderland,” “Strawberry Shortcake,” and “Toy Story” are among those that I have noticed have rose in popularity through discussions with peers and across social media. Wonderland groups will likely include variations of the protagonist’s signature blue dress, top hats and mismatched clothing for the Mad Hatter, and stopwatches referencing the White Rabbit’s obsession with time. Strawberry Shortcake and her friends will likely be recognizable in striped tights, dessert iconography, and color-coded outfits. “Toy Story” characters can be spotted wearing cowboy hats, space ranger wings, or bonnets.
With the “Wicked” movie coming out this November, I expect particular popularity in “Wizard of Oz” costumes. Look out for Dorothy’s blue gingham dress and magical red shoes, Elphaba with her traditional witch attire, and Glinda with a puffy pink dress — likely shortened for convenience.
Inside Out
Disney/Pixar Pic / CC-BY 4.0
We may see lots of emotions out on the street this weekend, with some groups choosing to portray characters from this past summer’s wildly successful “Inside Out 2.” Costumes will likely vary. Some groups may stay true to each character’s movie outfit, but I expect the majority to opt for more conceptual costumes referencing a character’s signature color and donning a few key accessories — glasses for Sadness, a tie for Anger, or Anxiety’s unruly hair.
Olympians
AP Pic / CC-BY 4.0
The 2024 Olympics sparked a lot of conversation this summer. As always, the athletes were spectacular to watch and support, but this year’s Games also led to a rise in memes that made particular moments and athletes more memorable. Some notable athletes we may see this Halloween include Australian breakdancer Rachael “Raygun” Gunn, with her unconventional yet unforgettable dance moves; Turkish sharpshooter Yusuf Dikeç, who many joked was a retired hitman; and U.S. gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik, remembered as the “pommel horse guy.”
Tashi, Art, and Patrick (Challengers)
“Tennis player focused on the serve” by Christopher Burns / CC0 1.0
Other athletes we may see are the fictional Art, Tashi Donaldson, and Patrick Zweig from “Challengers.” Luca Guadagnino’s film was among the most popular this summer, and the characters — and their iconic love triangle — remain widely talked about. Some students may choose to sport one of Tashi’s signature blue mini dresses or Art and Patrick’s dressier attire, but I predict many will opt to wear some tennis gear for a more recognizable look. The athletic option should also be fairly easy to achieve as a last-minute idea.
Natalia Diaz is a member of the Class of 2027 and a staff writer for The Prospect at the ‘Prince.’ She can be reached at nd6595[at]princeton.edu.
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