Halloween is basically the Super Bowl of teen fashion—except instead of touchdowns, you’re scoring candy and Insta-worthy selfies. :) If you’re stuck in the “What should I be this year?” spiral, don’t panic. I’ve got you covered with 13 cute Halloween costumes for teens inspired by movies and TV shows.
These looks aren’t just recognizable (so no one’s asking “Wait, what are you supposed to be?” all night), but they’re also fun, stylish, and—dare I say it—practical. Because IMO, the last thing you need on Halloween is a costume that makes you sweat like you’re running a marathon or forces you to skip candy because you can’t walk properly. Been there, hated it.
So, let’s get into it. Ready to find a costume that’ll make you the star of every group pic? Let’s go.
1. Wednesday Addams from Wednesday
Honestly, can you ever go wrong with Wednesday? Jenna Ortega’s version made the goth-girl aesthetic mainstream again, and it’s super easy to pull off.
- What you’ll need: A black dress with a white collar, black tights, and pigtail braids. Bonus points if you nail her deadpan expression.
- Why it works: It’s cute, iconic, and low effort. Plus, you can reuse that black dress outside of Halloween.
- Pro tip: Carry a fake hand (Thing!) for extra spook points.
Ever notice how everyone suddenly gets a little more sarcastic when they dress as Wednesday? Must be the magic of the braids.
2. Eleven from Stranger Things
You get options here: sweet and retro or battle-ready superhero vibes.
- Classic look: Pink dress, tube socks, and a box of Eggos.
- Season 4 look: Dark jeans, flannel, and maybe a fake nosebleed.
- Why it works: It screams “nostalgic cool” and everyone will instantly recognize you.
And yes, you’re legally obligated to scowl at anyone dressed as a Demogorgon.
3. Barbie from Barbie (2023)
This one’s basically the MVP of 2023 costumes. Greta Gerwig’s Barbie outfits range from pink gingham dresses to neon rollerblading glory.
- What you’ll need: Anything pink. Like, seriously—just raid your closet.
- Why it works: It’s fun, bright, and you can totally customize it to your vibe.
- Pro tip: Pair up with a friend as Ken for ultimate duo goals.
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Ever thought you’d dress as a doll and somehow feel empowered? Thanks, Margot Robbie.
4. Maddy Perez from Euphoria
Maddy’s style is basically the blueprint for “teen Halloween chic.”
- What you’ll need: Bold makeup, sleek ponytail, and one of her iconic outfits (cheer uniform or cut-out dresses).
- Why it works: It’s trendy, a little edgy, and very Instagram-ready.
Just be warned: people will expect you to have clapback energy all night.
5. Coraline from Coraline
Creepy-cute in the best way possible.
- What you’ll need: A yellow raincoat, blue wig, and maybe button eyes (stick with makeup or paper cutouts—no need to sew them onto your face, obviously).
- Why it works: It’s whimsical, recognizable, and gives off perfect spooky vibes.
And FYI, button-eyed parents still haunt my nightmares.
6. Velma from Scooby-Doo
Jinkies! Velma’s been having a major comeback thanks to TikTok and the new series.
- What you’ll need: Orange turtleneck, pleated skirt, knee socks, and glasses.
- Why it works: It’s nerdy-cute and timeless. Also, comfy enough for trick-or-treating marathons.
- Pro tip: Say “My glasses! I can’t see without my glasses!” at least once for authenticity.
7. Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games
Calling all archery fans and braid enthusiasts.
- What you’ll need: Black cargo pants, boots, and a bow (fake, unless you’re a legit archer).
- Why it works: It’s fierce, practical, and instantly recognizable.
- Pro tip: Throw in the three-finger salute whenever someone hands you candy.
Seriously though, Katniss made survival chic before it was cool.
8. Sabrina Spellman from Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
Witchy, cute, and Netflix-approved.
- What you’ll need: Red dress, headband, and black boots.
- Why it works: It’s a classic witch look with a modern twist.
- Pro tip: Add a stuffed black cat as Salem.
Ever noticed how red dresses always steal the spotlight? Yeah, Sabrina knew.
9. Max Mayfield from Stranger Things
Max is sporty, cool, and super comfy to dress as.
- What you’ll need: A colorful hoodie, jeans, and headphones.
- Why it works: You’ll look laid-back while also channeling one of the show’s best characters.
- Pro tip: Play “Running Up That Hill” and watch the older crowd tear up.
10. Cher Horowitz from Clueless
As if! This ‘90s icon still rules teen Halloween.
- What you’ll need: Yellow plaid skirt suit, knee socks, and a flip phone.
- Why it works: Retro meets stylish, and it never goes out of fashion.
- Pro tip: Throw in a few “Ugh, whatever” lines for extra flair.
And yes, you can totally re-wear that outfit later—it’s basically timeless.
11. Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter
Quirky, magical, and slightly eccentric—Luna makes for a fun choice.
- What you’ll need: Radish earrings, Spectrespecs, and funky layers of clothing.
- Why it works: It’s instantly recognizable and lets you get creative.
- Pro tip: Say weirdly insightful things all night to stay in character.
Honestly, Luna had main character energy before we knew what that was.
12. Wanda Maximoff from WandaVision
Superhero chic with a retro spin? Yes, please.
- What you’ll need: Red bodysuit, cape, and headpiece (classic Scarlet Witch look) or one of her sitcom-era outfits.
- Why it works: It’s powerful, stylish, and Marvel fans will instantly adore it.
- Pro tip: Go with a friend dressed as Vision for an epic duo.
13. Nancy Wheeler from Stranger Things
She’s underrated, but her ‘80s-inspired style is adorable.
- What you’ll need: High-waisted jeans, cozy sweaters, and vintage jackets.
- Why it works: It’s subtle, comfy, and perfect if you want a low-maintenance costume.
- Pro tip: Carry a notebook and “investigate” all night for authenticity.
Sometimes the most low-key costumes end up being the cutest.
Final Thoughts
So, there you go—13 cute Halloween costumes for teens inspired by movies and TV that are stylish, recognizable, and, most importantly, fun. From Wednesday’s gothic charm to Barbie’s pink overload, these costumes let you show off your personality without sacrificing comfort (or candy intake).
At the end of the day, Halloween should be about having fun—not stressing over whether your costume is “cool enough.” Pick something you love, add your own twist, and own it.
And remember: if all else fails, just grab a sheet and be a ghost. Classic never dies. ;)