Let's be honest—Halloween is creeping up faster than you thought, and you're still scrolling for costume inspiration. But here's the secret nobody tells you: your hair is already halfway to an iconic costume. Whether you're rocking natural curls, sleek straight locks, or that messy bun, your hairstyle can be the ultimate costume cheat code.
Forget elaborate makeup tutorials that require a steady hand and three hours you don't have. This year, we're working smarter, not harder. Let your hair do the talking and build your costume around what's already growing out of your head.
For the Curly and Coily Crew
Medusa: Snake Hair, Don't Care
Your natural curls are literally serpentine perfection. Medusa is having a major moment right now, and you're already 80% there. Simply enhance your gorgeous coils and let them frame your face dramatically.
How to style: Apply a curl-defining cream to damp hair and scrunch to amplify your natural texture. Once dry, gently separate curls with your fingers for maximum volume. Want extra drama? Weave in some green ribbon or small plastic snakes from the dollar store throughout your curls. Pair with a green dress or toga, golden accessories, and dramatic eye makeup. Bonus points for turning people to stone with your killer confidence.
'80's Workout Instructor: Sweat in Style
From Jane Fonda to Heather Locklear, big, voluminous curls were the unofficial uniform of every aerobics video from 1985. Your natural texture is already serving retro realness.
How to style: Create a high side ponytail with your curls, leaving some pieces to frame your face. Use Dry Texture Spray and tease the ponytail for extra volume (the bigger, the better). Add a scrunchie—preferably in a neon colour—and maybe a sweatband. Throw on some leg warmers, a leotard, and you're ready to jazzercise your way through the Halloween party.
For Straight and Sleek Hair
Wednesday Addams: Deadpan Perfection
The Wednesday renaissance is still going strong, and this costume is perfect for straight-haired minimalists. It's effortlessly cool and requires exactly zero elaborate styling.
How to style: Part your hair straight down the middle and create two low, tight braids. Spray hairspray to keep your hair in place. That's it. That's the whole look. The key is making them neat and symmetrical. Secure with black elastics. Pair with a black dress with a white collar (or fake it with a white turtleneck underneath), and practice your best RBF. This costume wins because it takes about five minutes.
Morticia Addams: Dark Elegance
If Wednesday is too basic for you, go full gothic glamour with her mother. Morticia's sleek, impossibly long hair is iconic.
How to style: Create a middle part and straighten your hair. Use a hair oil for glass-like smoothness. If your hair isn't super long, no stress—clip-in extensions work perfectly here. Let it cascade over your shoulders dramatically. Slip into a form-fitting black dress, and you're channelling pure sophistication. Red lips are non-negotiable.
For Medium Lengths and Bobs
Flapper Girl: Roaring Twenties Realness
The bob was made for this era, and if you've got shoulder-length or shorter hair, you're already in flapper territory. This costume is having a comeback thanks to vintage fashion trends.
How to style: Create finger waves for authenticity (use gel and clips while hair dries) or simply add texture with a curling iron for loose waves. Accessorize with a jewelled headband or feather fascinator positioned across your forehead. The key is that glossy, polished finish. Pair with a fringed dress, long pearl necklaces, and dark lipstick. You'll look like you stepped out of a speakeasy.
Rosie the Riveter: We Can Do It
Short to medium hair is perfect for this empowering, instantly recognizable costume. Plus, it's a conversation starter about strength and resilience #girlpower.
How to style: Section the front of your hair and roll it under (away from your face) to create that signature victory roll. Secure with bobby pins. If you're not confident with rolling, simply curl the front section back with a large barrel curling iron and pin it. Tie a red bandana or scarf around your head, knotting it at the top. Throw on a denim shirt, roll up the sleeves, and flex that arm. Iconic.
For Long, Flowing Locks
Sabrina Carpenter: Short n' Sweet Style
Sabrina's signature blonde volume with curtain bangs is everywhere right now, and if you've got at least shoulder-length hair, this costume is incredibly on-trend and recognizable.
How to style: Create a center part and prep your damp hair with a blowout lotion, style your hair with soft, bouncy waves using a curling iron or round brush. Focus on that voluminous, freshly-blown-out texture. If you have bangs, style them to frame your face perfectly. If not, pull out some face-framing pieces. The look should be polished but effortless. Add a sparkly mini dress, bold eye makeup, and channel that confident pop star energy. This costume is perfect for anyone who wants to feel like the main character.
Cher from Clueless: As If!
The '90s are back, baby, and Cher Horowitz's long, blonde hair is peak nostalgia. Even if you're not blonde, the straight, glossy, over-the-top luxurious hair is what makes this work.
How to style: Straighten your hair and add a cute headband, barrettes, or those tiny butterfly clips that defined the decade. Keep it sleek and shiny with a bit of hair oil or serum. The simpler the hair, the more the outfit shines. Dig out a plaid skirt suit, knee-high socks, and prepare your best Valley Girl accent.
