The Halloween & Costume Association (HCA) has conjured up the ultimate guide for what’s hot (and haunted) this season.
In 2024, HCA says we can expect to see Halloween revellers channeling their favourite childhood characters, with an added dash of fright. From classic movie monsters to modern pop culture icons, the year’s hottest costumes bring together beloved characters with contemporary flair.
The HCA’s Halloween costume predictions are:
Wednesday Addams: With the resurgence of The Addams Family franchise and the hit Netflix series Wednesday, this look promises to cast a shadow over costume parties everywhere. Think sharp collars, braids, and a moody gaze.
Barbie and Ken: Riding the wave of the 2023 Barbie movie phenomenon, the HCA thinks pink will still reign supreme, with thousands embracing their inner dolls for Halloween 2024.
Superheroes and villains: As ever, superheroes like Spider-Man, Wonder Woman and villains like Harley Quinn will dominate costume choices for both children and adults.
AI & robot-inspired costumes: With the rise of AI and robotics in tech and pop culture, futuristic cyborgs, robots and AI-generated fashion will take center stage, blending tech with creativity.
’80s & ’90s throwbacks – Nostalgia for the ‘80s and ‘90s is booming. Expect costumes inspired by classic shows like Friends, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and movies like Ghostbusters and Jurassic Park.
Horror movie villains – Timeless horror icons like Freddy Krueger, Michael Myers, Ghostface and Pennywise will remain popular, especially with the resurgence of horror franchises.
Celebrity icons – From Beyoncé and Harry Styles to iconic looks from the Met Gala, celebrity-inspired costumes will reign supreme as fans recreate unforgettable red-carpet moments.
When it comes to décor trends for 2024, haunted houses are getting a makeover as the HCA says gothic opulence has risen in popularity. Rich velvets, deep purples and candlelit displays are chic this year. Interactive landscapes continue to grow in popularity with motion-sensor ghouls and holographic scares becoming a frequent sight in neighbourhoods across the US. As for accessories, the association is predicting LED-lit masks and glowing makeup are making the rounds, thanks to TikTok’s obsession with all things supernatural.
2024 predictions are forecasting $12.8 billion in total spending in the US. Consumers are expected to spend an average of $102.74 per person on costumes, sweets, décor and accessories.
