STORY AND PHOTO BY FREYA PINEDA, MAGAZINE EDITOR
The race to find the ideal costume is on as Halloween 2024 draws near, particularly for individuals still unsure about what to wear. This year’s fashion inspiration is a fascinating blend of popular movies, whimsical celebrity looks, and TikTok makeup trends that are going viral.
Celebrities like Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan provide a great base of inspiration for those who enjoy colorful and quirky styles. These celebrities are well-known for their daring, quirky, and frequently vibrant attire, and their distinct looks make for simple Halloween costume ideas. At any Halloween party, Chappell Roan’s quirky, dramatic stage costumes, which included feathers, striking designs, and glitter, could turn heads. Her vibrant appearance, full of drama and imagination, is ideal for people who like to be the focus of attention. However, those looking for a chic yet entertaining costume have a range of alternatives thanks to Sabrina Carpenter’s trendy, feminine aesthetic, which includes everything from sleek, modern designs to nostalgic 90s-inspired ensembles. Carpenter’s wardrobe is full of items that would make stylish Halloween costumes, whether it’s her glamorous stage attire or her easygoing street style.
The popularity of recent movies with visually distinctive characters provides even more costume inspiration if celebrity appearances aren’t your thing. With the highly anticipated releases of Joker 2, Beetlejuice 2, and Wicked, there are plenty of well-known characters to pick from. Characters from Wicked, such as Glinda (the Good Witch) or Elphaba (the Wicked Witch), are likely to inspire dramatic and spectacular costumes, replete with glitzy gowns and witch hats. The notorious Harley Quinn and Joker team will return in Joker 2, making them ideal for chaotic couple or group costumes. With its iconic striped costume and ethereal look, Beetlejuice 2 is bringing back the 1980s cult film for those who enjoy a little nostalgia. In addition to embracing Halloween’s eerie vibe, these movie-inspired designs provide entertaining ideas for imaginative pair or group costumes.
However, Halloween 2024 isn’t only about movie figures and celebrity looks—TikTok makeup artists are establishing new standards with simple yet striking animal face paint ideas. TikTok’s makeup community is dominated this year by makeup looks that are inspired by animals, like cats, deer, and leopards. Artists are displaying elaborate patterns that turn common faces into breathtaking artworks with dramatic contouring, glitter, and fine makeup artistry. For people who are pressed for time, these styles provide a quick and low-maintenance costume option while allowing for maximum creativity.
“I would say a lot of makeup looks like I’ve seen are deer makeup on TikTok. As well as the tiger one or leopard, so maybe that,” said radiology major Bella Craig, when asked what costumes she thinks, will be trending this Halloween.
These facial patterns are the ideal approach to stand out without requiring a complex costume when paired with basic ensembles like comfortable sweaters or apparel with animal prints.
“Probably Leopard because of the TikTok trend of just leopard prints. I feel like leopard anything. I also feel like Disney princesses are always a very popular costume” said first-year student Nataleah Duate.
Whether you’re drawn to a pop star’s characteristic look, a beloved character from a film, or an amazing animal makeup design, Halloween 2024 offers countless creative opportunities. Everyone may get into the Halloween mood this year with whatever from humorous celebrity looks to popular TikTok trends.