Tired of recycling the same old movie character costumes every Halloween? Sure, a spooky classic can work, but if you’re craving something fresher, pop culture-inspired Halloween costumes are the way to go this year. With viral moments like Moo Deng or the BRAT summer taking the spotlight, 2024 is brimming with creative costume ideas. Some costumes, like The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, are easy to piece together with items you already own. Others, like the viral We Live in Time horse, might require more imagination and effort. Whether you want a quick last-minute costume or you’re ready to go all-out, there’s a pop culture idea waiting for you. Ready for some inspo? Keep reading for this year’s most iconic costumes, and don’t forget to check out our ultimate list of the best Halloween costumes ever.
The Best Pop Culture Halloween Costumes of 2024
Moo Deng
Meet Moo Deng, the lovable pygmy hippo who became an internet icon for her glowing skin and IDGAF attitude. Channeling Moo Deng for Halloween? You have two easy options: focus on a glowing makeup look that mimics her blush and shine, or throw on a gray onesie to transform into the knee-biting queen herself. Either way, don’t forget the sass—because if there’s one thing Moo Deng radiates, it’s confidence.
The Golden Girls of Team USA
Simone Biles, Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, Jade Carey, and Hezly Rivera stole the spotlight at the Summer Olympics with their gold-medal win. Recreate this look by wearing a patriotic leotard and accessorizing with a gold medal. Want to channel a specific gymnast? Add details like Simone’s signature bows or Jade’s vibrant scrunchies to complete the transformation.
BRAT
Inspired by the chaotic energy of BRAT summer? Although you’re not actually Charli XCX, you can embrace the vibe with edgy makeup, bold accessories, and daring outfits. It’s all about attitude—lean into the glam and rebellion for this costume to shine.
Chappell Roan
For a unique take, model your Chappell Roan costume after her standout album cover, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess. Even though it dropped last year, it exploded in popularity this year, making it a top-tier costume idea. Layer vibrant fabrics and bold patterns to capture her eclectic aesthetic.
Creative and Funny Costume Ideas
Me Espresso
Want to mix humor and pop culture? Go as Me Espresso, inspired by Sabrina Carpenter’s playful music video. Create the look with a visor labeled “Espresso” and pair it with pop star-worthy accessories. This quirky costume will be a hit with those in the know.
Challengers
Live out your Zendaya dreams with a Challengers-inspired costume. Wear a sleek white tennis dress to channel her character’s athletic side, or opt for the “I Told Ya” shirt and a knee brace to portray her character’s injury. Either way, you’ll serve up style with this look.
Offbeat Pop Culture Costumes
We Live In Time Horse
The bizarre carousel horse from We Live in Time became an online sensation—and a Halloween nightmare. Bring this surreal creature to life by painting a horse mask in vibrant yellow and creeping awkwardly around your couple friends all night for added humor.
Raygun
Raygun may not have conquered the Olympics, but her eccentricity made her a fan favorite. Recreate her signature look with a green sweatsuit, and use yellow tape to add quirky decorations. Bonus points if you can master one of her signature awkward dance moves.
Mormon Wives of MomTok
The Hulu docuseries The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives brought MomTok drama to life this year. To capture the look, grab an oversized DIY Swig soda cup—an essential accessory for this costume—and style your hair into soft waves. If you have long brown hair, you’re already halfway there.
Nara Smith
Channel Nara Smith, the viral TikTok star, by crafting your own costume from scratch. Slip into a designer gown, grab a mixing bowl, and accessorize with a chic purse. This costume captures her quirky, fashionable persona perfectly.
Cole Escola’s Mary Todd Lincoln
For fans of Cole Escola’s Oh, Mary!, a Mary Todd Lincoln-inspired costume is a must. This look combines theatrical flair with historical nods, creating a standout outfit that blends cabaret with First Lady chic.
FAQs
1. How do I create a recognizable pop culture costume without spending too much?
Look for costumes you can build with items you already have, like the Mormon Wives or Me Espresso. Adding small, signature accessories can elevate a simple outfit and make it instantly recognizable.
2. What if people don’t recognize my pop culture costume?
Some of these costumes—like the We Live in Time horse—might only be familiar to the very online crowd. Be ready to share the story behind your outfit if needed. After all, half the fun of pop culture costumes is the conversation they spark.
3. Which pop culture costumes are best for a last-minute decision?
Go for something simple but iconic, like Team USA gymnasts or a BRAT summer-inspired look. These outfits require minimal effort but still capture the vibe perfectly.
