As Halloween approaches, ideas swirl and the pressure to stand out grows. If someone is still undecided, this list lays out the best Halloween costume ideas from 2012 to spark imagination.
10. Katniss Everdeen
The iconic heroine from The Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen, continues to be a standout choice this Halloween. Fans can choose between two striking looks. One option captures Katniss during the games: a bow and arrow, a mockingjay pin, and a small backpack complete the look. A bolder route uses the fiery red dress she wore in televised interviews, with orange fringe and a confident spin for the crowd.
9. PSY
The Gangnam Style sensation has captivated audiences around the world with a playful music video and catchy beats. He has drawn billions of views on YouTube. Dressing as PSY is simple: a suit, a bow tie, sunglasses, and hair gel, plus the famous dance moves to finish the look.
8. THE DARK KNIGHT RISES
Superhero fans were thrilled by summer cinema, and THE DARK KNIGHT RISES remains a popular pick. Given the film’s lasting appeal, expect many Batmen and Banes to appear. Since these costumes can require more time, starting early with shopping or DIY ideas is a smart move.
7. Spider-Man
Spider-Man is a perennial favorite, and with a recent reboot, there may be even more versions this year. To make a Spider-Man outfit stand out, consider a few playful twists. An essential touch is silly string to mimic web shooters, which creates fun moments with friends and may crown the wearer as the most Superior Spider-Man of the night.
6. BRAVE’s Merida
Disney Pixar’s BRAVE introduced Merida, a fearless heroine worth emulating. A Merida costume calls for a green dress and a bow and arrow set. Like Katniss, Merida shares heroine status and archery prowess, but her curly red hair makes the look unmistakable.
5. THE AVENGERS
THE AVENGERS dominated 2012 with its ensemble of heroes and villains. Expect to see Iron Man, Thor, Captain America, Hulk, Fury, Hawkeye, Black Widow, Loki, and S.H.I.E.L.D agents. Those outfits are often sold ready-made, but creative twists can elevate them. For the Hulk, paint yourself green; for Captain America, craft a shield from a painted garbage can lid; for Thor and Black Widow, wear a blonde or red wig; for Iron Man, hang a circular flashlight to mimic the arc reactor; for Hawkeye, fashion arrow props from sticks and feathers; for Loki, craft a gold paper-mâché helmet.
4. ADVENTURE TIME
Adventure Time is a beloved Cartoon Network series following Finn the human and Jake the dog as they explore the Land of Ooo. Best results come from teaming up with a friend since Finn and Jake rarely separate. Finn’s look is often a blue outfit, a green knapsack, and his signature hat; Jake’s appearance can be simulated with a yellow getup and simple accessories. Retailers offer items like Finn hats and Jake-inspired gear to help fans recreate the dynamic duo.
3. The Legend of Korra
The Avatar: The Last Airbender sequel on Nickelodeon has drawn a lot of attention and has been renewed for another season. Dressing as Korra or other characters from this show is enjoyable, and the clothing is surprisingly easy to imitate. For instance, Korra’s fur trim could be simulated with cotton balls glued to brown felt to capture the texture.
2. Justin Bieber
Becoming the Canadian teen sensation is a quick, recognizable choice. For guys, recreate Bieber’s look with a fresh haircut or the iconic side-swept style, paired with colored skinny jeans, distinctive sneakers, and a little bling. Sunglasses and a snapback are optional but can complete the vibe.
1. Pokémon
Pokémon costumes offer nearly endless possibilities. The franchise has expanded so many generations that new choices keep appearing. Pikachu remains a perennial favorite, but many other Pokémon give fans fresh options as well, especially with new game releases bringing renewed energy to costume ideas.
BONUS!
Techy costume of the year: a smartphone-inspired outfit. A craze for iPhone-inspired looks swept North America, so the design uses two cardboard panels, string to wear over the shoulders, and paint to display favorite apps. Add an extra row of icons to perfect the look.
Classic group costume: Tetris pieces
A crowd-pleasing do-it-yourself option features Tetris blocks crafted from cardboard boxes and construction paper. It makes a bold, group-friendly statement that’s both clever and affordable.
Last minute costume: Call Me Maybe
Pay homage to the season’s catchy tune with a quick last-minute outfit. All that’s needed is a retro phone handset, a Carly Rae Jepsen-inspired wig, and a look borrowed from one of her video outfits to complete the vibe.