Halloween is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like us, you’re probably in a last-minute costume panic. Fear not, fashion-forward friends! This year, ditch the predictable ghost and vampire costumes and embrace the ultimate Halloween glam with red carpet-inspired looks. Why be spooky when you can be fabulous?
The key to a winning celebrity-inspired Halloween look? Choose a red carpet moment that still sends chills down your spine—a look so iconic that it transcends time. Remember Lil’ Kim’s unforgettable purple jumpsuit and matching wig from the 1999 VMAs? Or Celine Dion’s daring backwards John Galliano tuxedo at the Oscars that same year? These are the kind of timeless looks that are guaranteed to make a statement, even decades later.
For an effortlessly chic costume, simply snag a white suit, wear it backward, and voila—you’ve got yourself a high-impact, easy-to-replicate, Celine Dion-approved look.
More recent red carpet hits offer equally fabulous costume inspiration. Who could forget Kim Kardashian’s viral Balenciaga ensemble from the 2021 Met Gala, a head-to-toe black masterpiece that would make even the most seasoned ghoul envious? Or Jared Leto’s dramatic red Gucci gown from the 2019 Met Gala, complete with a prosthetic head as a truly statement accessory?
Want to take things to the next level? Channel Bjork’s iconic swan dress from the Oscars, Cher’s theatrical headpiece, or Zendaya’s breathtaking Mugler armor suit. For Zendaya’s look, simply grab a silver knight’s suit, ditch the helmet, and amp up the glam.
Ready to turn heads this Halloween? Explore these 18 inspiring red carpet costumes, guaranteed to make you the most stylish ghoul at the party:
18 Red Carpet-Inspired Halloween Costumes:
1.
Lil’ Kim’s Purple Jumpsuit (1999 VMAs)
: Find a purple jumpsuit, a matching wig, and don’t forget the pasties!2.
Celine Dion’s Backwards Tuxedo (1999 Oscars)
: Wear a white suit backward and embrace the unexpected.3.
Kim Kardashian’s Balenciaga Look (2021 Met Gala)
: Find a black Balenciaga-inspired outfit and cover yourself from head to toe for a striking silhouette.4.
Jared Leto’s Red Gucci Gown (2019 Met Gala)
: Channel your inner drama queen with a red gown and a prosthetic head (optional but highly recommended).5.
Bjork’s Swan Dress (2001 Oscars)
: Embrace the avant-garde with a swan-inspired dress or a white gown with a swan-shaped headpiece.6.
Cher’s Theatrical Headpiece (1986 Oscars)
: Create a dramatic look with a statement headpiece and a bold outfit.7.
Zendaya’s Mugler Armor Suit (2019 Met Gala)
: Find a silver knight’s suit, ditch the helmet, and add glam with jewelry and makeup.8.
Lady Gaga’s Meat Dress (2010 VMAs)
: For the truly daring, consider a meat-inspired costume (though we suggest opting for vegan alternatives).9.
Rihanna’s Yellow Guo Pei Gown (2015 Met Gala)
: A yellow gown with intricate details and a dramatic train will make a memorable statement.10.
Beyonce’s Givenchy Dress (2015 Met Gala)
: Find a black gown with a dramatic silhouette and statement jewelry.11.
Jennifer Lopez’s Versace Jungle Dress (2000 Grammy Awards)
: Embrace the tropical vibes with a jungle-print dress and a high ponytail.12.
Britney Spears’s Schoolgirl Outfit (2000 VMAs)
: Channel the pop icon with a schoolgirl uniform and a pigtail wig.13.
Madonna’s Cone Bra (1990 VMAs)
: For the ultimate retro glam, recreate Madonna’s iconic cone bra look.14.
Marilyn Monroe’s White Dress (1954)
: Embrace timeless Hollywood glamour with a white dress and a classic beauty look.15.
Audrey Hepburn’s Little Black Dress (1961)
: Channel elegance and sophistication with a little black dress and a pearl necklace.16.
Grace Kelly’s Wedding Dress (1956)
: For a princess-worthy look, recreate Grace Kelly’s iconic wedding dress with a flowing white gown and a veil.17.
Diana Ross’s Glam 70s Look (1970s)
: Embrace the disco era with a sparkly jumpsuit, a large afro wig, and platform shoes.18.
Elizabeth Taylor’s Cleopatra Look (1963)
: Channel a queen with a flowing gown, dramatic makeup, and a large headpiece.This Halloween, trade the predictable for the fabulous and let your inner fashion icon shine! These red carpet-inspired costumes are guaranteed to make a statement and leave you feeling glamorous, even if you’re running on fumes. Happy Halloween!