The Best Pop Culture Halloween Costumes for 2021: From ‘Squid Game’ to ‘ Lil Nas X

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Costume designing in Hollywood has only gotten bigger and better in recent years, with buzzy shows such as “Bridgerton” and “Gossip Girl” to blockbuster films such as “Cruella” and “Suicide Squad” casting a spotlight on their characters’ clothes in a way that adds a whole new level of excitement to every shot. And the plethora of costume-focused content that’s come out this year is a gift to people who like looking to their favorite on-screen characters for Halloween ideas.

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Whether you go as a baton-wielding Natasha Romanoff from “Black Widow,” a corset-wearing duchess from 19th century London á la “Bridgerton” or a tattoo-covered Harley Quinn, there is no lack of fun and unique costume ideas for you to choose from this October. Best of all are Disney’s wide range of Disney Halloween costumes released this month, which have been updated this year with inclusive adaptive costumes for those with wheelchairs or other disabilities.

Here are the best Halloween costumes from your favorite T.V. shows and movies to rock this year — enough for a week’s worth of festivities.

Contestants and Guards in ‘Squid Game’

Netflix’s “Squid Game” is possibly the most popular series released by the streamer, and the distinct green and red jumpsuits featured in the show will likely be one of the most popular costumes this Halloween. The Korean thriller follows hundreds of debt-ridden people who compete in a “Hunger Games”-like game to win a cash prize. “Squid Game”-inspired costumes are already selling fast online.

Squid Game Green Tracksuit

This set is already a best-seller on Amazon, featuring the number 067 for fan-favorite character Kang Sae-byeok. Alternatives donning the numbers of Players 001 (Oh Il-nam), 218 (Cho Sang-woo), 240 (Ji-yeong), and 456 (Seong Gi-hun) are also available.

Red Guard Costume

This best-selling set allows you to become the masked guards, the mysterious villains responsible to running the fatal games. The red tracksuit feature the same white circles, squares and triangles as seen on the show. To transform yourself into pure evil, you’ll want to add the gold lion mask worn by the game’s ringleader.

Kim Kardashian at the Met Gala

Kim Kardashian isn’t one to shy away from a buzzy Met Gala look, and the all-black Balenciaga fit she wore on the star-studded stairs this year make for the perfect high-fashion costume. The skin-tight bodysuit look has been referenced as being part of the reality star’s “Donda Era,” ever since she debuted a similar look at Kanye West’s album listening party in August. Easily recreate the look with a few affordable pieces below.

VSVO Black Bodysuit

The most important part of this costume will be a head-to-toe black bodysuit, shrouding the face just like Kim’s viral look. This skin-hugging one-piece is made out of high-quality spandex for a flexible fit.

VSVO Black Bodysuit $29.99 Buy It

High Waist Maxi Skirt

Add onto the costume with this high-waisted maxi skirt, replicating the train that trailed behind Kim on the carpet. This black body-con hugs the waist for a flattering silhouette.

High Waist Bodycon Skirt $18.99 Buy It

ASAP Rocky at the Met Gala

Vintage Polyester Quilt

This vibrant quilt is a close match to the one worn by Asap on the Met steps, made up of colorful octagons with sewn-in flowers at every center. Wear it as an easy Halloween costume on the 31st before throwing it over any bed or couch for fun decor.

BUY NOW: $110 Buy It

Tony Soprano

No one is better known for a good velour tracksuit than Tony Soprano and his cronies. While it’s been a few years since the iconic HBO show wrapped up, Tony’s origin story in “The Many Saints of Newark” may motivate you to honor the Jersey gangster this year.

Sweatsedo Velour Tracksuit

This dark blue velour set from Amazon is an almost exact replica of Tony’s Fila tracksuits he wore intermittently throughout the show’s six-season run.

Sweatsedo Velour Tracksuit $139.00 Buy It

Light-Up Cigar Prop

Your costume won’t be complete without a stress-relieving cigar in hand. This fake prop will allow you to have a post-kill smoke in the backyard just like Big T.

Light-Up Cigar Prop $7.03 Buy It

Silver Chain

No Italian mobster leaves the house without his silver chain. This best-selling and affordable necklace from Amazon is a great one-time dupe to make your costume more believable.

Silver Chain $18.99 Buy It

Amanda Gorman

Inaugural poet Amanda Gorman will likely be the inspiration behind many young girls’ costumes this year after becoming an instant household name this past January. Besides her talent with words, the 23 year-old writer is also passionate about fashion, and is known for colorful and vibrant sartorial choices. Her outfit at this year’s inauguration, during which she wore a red headband and yellow ankle-length Prada coat, is an easy and recognizable fit to replicate this Halloween.

Yellow Ariel Blazer Jacket

This bold blazer jacket is an affordable dupe for the Prada coat Gorman wore during the inauguration. Featuring side faux welt pockets, a durable lining and a stylish notch collar, the outerwear piece makes for a great professional addition to the closet even after Halloween passes.

BUY NOW: $52.48 Buy It

Red Headband

Of course, Gorman’s red headband was one of the most eye-catching features of her outfit. Grab this affordable replica to complete your presidential look.

Lmtime Red Headband $3.99 Buy It

Princess Diana

Kristen Stewart’s anticipated role as Princess Diana, which many critics are saying will earn the actress her first Oscar, won’t debut until the week after Halloween. But it’s never too early to channel the royal lady’s iconic fashion. Plus, her go-to athleisure outfit is easier than ever to put together, all you need is a pair of biker shorts and a sweatshirt for a recognizable costume — that also works as stylish loungewear all year long.

Harvard Crewneck

Diana’s Harvard crewneck is one of her most memorable fits, which she was pictured in while on a jog in London. This light grey sweatshirt, with crimson lettering, is an almost-exact replica of the one she wore in the ’90s. If you don’t feel like repping the Ivy League, you can always for a less descript sweatshirt from her other athleisure looks, such as this dark blue c

Harvard Crewneck Buy It

Black Biker Shorts

If you havent’ already dropped on the biker short trend, then now’s the time to do it. Princess Diana has countless paparazzi photos of her dressed in oversized sweatshirts, always paired with classic skin-tight biker shorts like these.

Black Biker Shorts $29.99 $18.95 Buy It

Nike Sneakers

Of course, all athleisure fits need a good pair of sneakers to top off the look. Diana often opted for Nikes much like these Tailwind 79s, currently on sale.

BUY NOW: $79.97 Buy It

‘Money Heist’

The second half of the “Money Heist” series finale won’t hit Netflix until December, meaning you might want to hold yourself over by dressing up as the Spanish bank robbers this Halloween. The ultra-popular series follows the criminal mastermind called “The Professor” on a mission to pull off the biggest heist in history: printing a billion euros in the Royal Mint of Spain.

Dali Mask

The Salvadore Dalí masks that the characters wear to remain anonymous during their robberies is a symbol of resistance and national pride on “Money Heist.” Become a part of the resistance with the replica of the same masks they wear on the Netflix show, featuring slicked black hair, wide eyes and upturned mustache.

Dali Mask $14.99 Buy It

‘Money Heist’ Jumpsuit

Of course, similar to “Squid Game,” the red jumpsuits are a huge part of the show’s wardrobe. Like the masks, the red serves as a symbol of bold resistance. This one-piece costume comes with a latex mask to replicate the distinct “Money Heist” look.

Money Heist Red Jumpsuits $31.89 Buy It

Larry David in ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’

Balding Wig

Much to Larry’s dismay, a costume to his likeness won’t be complete without a little balding action. This wig features white, synthetic hair and a bald cap to achieve the comedian’s distinct hairstyle.

BUY NOW: $19.49 Buy It

Round Wired Glasses

Larry is also never seen without his glasses. Cop these round, wired frames from Amazon for an affordable dupe.

Round Wired Glasses $5.99 Buy It

‘Among Us’

The vibrant characters from “Among Us” make for the perfect family costume, especially for those with kids addicted to the online social deduction game — plus, making it into costume brings the fun into real life.

Colorful Astronaut Costumes

These colorful one-piece suits from Amazon are made to be funky astronaut costumes but work perfectly as the colored InnerSloth avatars in the game.

Among Us Costume $19.99 Buy It

Simone Biles

This year was huge for record-breaking Olympian Simone Biles, who made headlines at the 2021 Olympics after withdrawing from the final team event for the U.S. team. The inimitable athlete has become an inspiring advocate for mental health awareness. Style yourself after the G.O.A.T with a red-white-and-blue leotard.

All you’ll need is this red-white-and-blue Team USA leotard, the same one Biles wore throughout the 2021 Olympics, to transform yourself into the medal-touting Olympian. Pair the outfit with these Olympic socks for an ultra-realistic look.

Team USA Leotard $39.99 $26.99 Buy It

Harley Quinn in ‘Suicide Squad’

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DC’s Harley Quinn is a Halloween staple, and Margot Robbie’s version of the antihero has only given fans more fun ways to adapt her look into a costume. From flashy temporary tattoos to her signature Neoprene bat, it only takes a few good props to transform yourself into the beloved villain.

Harley Quinn Cosplay Costume

This custom-made cosplay costume is all you need to transform into the powerful Suicide Squad member. The head-to-toe set includes a red and leath faux leather jacket with the words “Live Fast Die Clown”embellished on the back, in addition to skintight pants, gloves and headgear.

BUY NOW: $49.99 Buy It

Harley Quinn Red Dress

This show-stopping red dress highlights Harley Quinn’s chic chaos in all its glory, featuring an asymmetrical hem and halter-style top that make for a flattering fit.

BUY NOW: $64.90 Buy It

Training Javelin

Harley Quinn switched out her bat for a javelin in the latest “Suicide Squad,” using her throwing skills to defeat Starro the Conquerer. If you don’t have much javelin throwing experience, you might want to make your own fake weapon out of safer materials.

Vinex AERO Training Javelin Buy It

Harley Quinn Pink and Blue Wig

Harley Quinn’s murderous ways are so captivating because of her sophisticated looks and innocent smile that hide her cunning ways. This blonde wig comes with symmetrical braids and face-framing bangs to replicate Margot Robbie’s look in James Gunn’s “Suicide Squad.”

Harley Quinn Wig $24.99 $21.99 Buy It

Full Body Temporary Tattoos

Of course, no Harley Quinn outfit is complete without her trademark tattoos. This pack features her red and black diamonds, as an ode to her origins as a harlequin clown, and her more sinister inks that say “Lucky You” and “I’m Watching.”

Full Body Temporary Tattoo Bundle $10.95 Buy It

Ahsoka Tano in ‘The Mandalorian’

Ahsoka Tano Costume

Channel the Padawan leader in this in-depth Ahsoka costume, which includes a dark grey cape and her distinct headdress, resembling the triangular one made out of akul teeth that she wears in the series. For a more colorful option, you can opt for this cosplay costume.

Ahsoka Tano Costume $153.99 Buy It

Cruella de Vil in ‘Cruella’

Cruella de Vil has gifted “101 Dalmations” fans with iconic costumes for years, but Emma Stone’s fashion-forward and punk rock take on the Disney villain in “Cruella” is the perfect Halloween opportunity.

Cruella Live Action Finale Costume

Go for another of Cruella’s most memorable looks with this high-quality cape, featuring a fitted inner jacket fastened at the waist and an asymmetrical peplum coak.

BUY NOW: $89.99 Buy It

Half Blonde-Half Black Wig

A convincing monochromatic wig is the first step for an effective Cruella costume. This one features shoulder-length waves and frontal bangs for a dramatic look.

Cruella Half Blonde-Half Black Wig $20.88 $19.59 Buy It

Disney Cruella Red Dress

This striking red dress is a replica of the one Emma Stone wears in the movie, even featuring the antihero’s name embroidered in metallic silver on the chest.

BUY NOW: $54.90 Buy It

‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian’ Wheelchair Cover Set

This “Mandalorian” wheelchair set is just one of many adaptive costumes Disney included in their Halloween lineup this year, making sure kids of all backgrounds are able to look their best on Halloween night. Ride aboard The Mandalorian Razor Crest Ship from Disney Plus’s “Star Wars” series with this cover set, which features detailed sublimated spaceship art, a control panel flap, in addition to immersive light and sound effects.

BUY NOW: $49.99 Buy It

Natasha Romanoff in ‘Black Widow’

This year was huge for Natasha Romanoff, who finally got her own solo movie with “Black Widow.” Pack your electroshock batons and celebrate one of the most talented spies and assassins in the Marvel Universe this Halloween.

All-White Black Widow Jumpsuit

Scarlett Johansson got an all-white costume for Marvel’s latest “Black Widow” release, a departure from her usual black attire. Just like in the comics, the white outfit is a strategic outfit choice that helps her blend into the surrounding snow. This full-body jumpsuit features a belt, cuffs and artillery props for a complete costume. You can also opt for an all-black outfit for a more classic “Black Widow” costume.

Black Widow Costume $64.99 $54.98 Buy It

Cassie in ‘A Promising Young Woman’

The knockout final scene of “Promising Young Woman” has likely stayed imprinted in the brains of anyone who saw the dark comedy this year, meaning Cassie’s tantalizing nurse costume and rainbow colored hair makes a perfect, playfully dark Halloween costume.

Nurse Costume

This classic nurse costume features a white mini dress with red crosses and a matching all-fabric hat.

Nurse Costume $33.80 $25.36 Buy It

Rainbow Wig

Complete your transformation into an unhinged girl set on revenge with this bold, rainbow-colored wig, exactly like the one Cassie wears in the movie’s final, gruesome scene.

Rainbow Wig $17.99 Buy It

Crew Members in ‘Below Deck’

The unhinged crew members from “Below Deck” make the perfect group Halloween costume. Just dress up in a simple boat captain costume (like this one, which comes with a dark blue skirt, sailor’s shirt and cap) and an espresso martini for the road, or water, you’re all set.

BUY NOW: $39.99 Buy It

Wanda Maximoff in ‘Wandavision’

The best part of dressing up as WandaVision” is the options! What version of Wanda and Vision you decide to emulate from the Marvel series entirely depends on which TV era appealed to you. Thankfully, the internet is already loaded with options from the most obvious…

Scarlet Witch Halloween Costume

The big Scarlet Witch reveal. By the end of the series Wanda has fully transformed into her first ever Marvel comic costume. We’ve seen hints at it before but the “WandaVision” look brings together the cape, gloves, boots and (most importantly) crown. If you want to take your cosplay to the next level, go with this full set, which includes a tight-fitting top, an ankle-length cloak, a headpiece, leggings and elbow-length gloves.

Wandavision Cosplay Costume $184.99 Buy It

Wanda Wig $24.99 Buy It

Retro 1950s Vintage Dress

As we’re sure you’re aware Wanda appears in various TV decades, try the retro “WandaVision” look for a different spin on this undoubtably very popular spooky season trend. This 1950s-style vintage picnic dress is similar to what Olsen’s Maximoff wears before she becomes the Scarlet Witch.

Retro 1950s Vintage Dress $36.98 Buy It

Wanda’s “Halloween” Costume

Our personal favorite comes from the “very special” Halloween episode of “WandaVision” the “All-New Halloween Spooktacular!” This adorable nod to her earlier comic book roots recreates the classic Scarlet Witch costume in high Halloween form with pink tights and red boots.

BUY NOW: $59.99 Buy It

Vision’s “Halloween” Costume

And what is Halloween Wanda without her Halloween Vision? Make your costuming partner dress up in this “wrestler’s outfit” to complete the look from above. The set comes with a full bodysuit, gloves, shorts, cape and cowl with a diamond-shaped appliqué.

BUY NOW: $59.99 Buy It

LeBron James in ‘Space Jam’

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Considering the plethora of “Tune Squad” merch that came out alongside the premiere for “Space Jam: A New Legacy” in July, it won’t be hard to find a fit that rivals that of LeBron James in the live-action film. Rock Nike’s exclusive Tune Squad jersey and shorts (or more affordable dupes) for an easy, polished Halloween look.

Tune Squad Jersey and Shorts

Get the same effect with this dupe from Amazon, which is made out of breathable polyester fabric and constructed with a loose fit for maximum comfort.

Tune Squad Jersey and Shorts $39.99 Buy It

Daphne in ‘Bridgerton’

If your mid-quarantine “Bridgerton” binge made you nostalgic for Regency Era fashion and desperate for your own Regé-Jean Page romance, you aren’t alone. While you can’t travel back in time to 19th century England, you can dress up in your own dramatic ball gown to channel the lovable and powerful heroine, Daphne Bridgerton.

Long Satin Finger Gloves

No Regency Ball outfit is complete without long, elbow-length gloves to pair with a floor-dragging gown. These affordable ones from Amazon are perfect for a one-night costume, and are made out of Nylon and Spandex for a flexible fit.

Long Satin Finger Gloves $9.99 $8.45 Buy It

Long Pearl Tulle Gloves

If you want to take your Daphne costume to another level, you’ll want to go with these tulle elbow-length gloves, embellished with sleek pearl-like detailing that will give your costume an extra kick.

Pearl Tulle Gloves $19.99 Buy It

Blue Gem Replica Necklace

Daphne’s blue gem necklace might be her most distinct accessory, given to her by Prince Freidrich early on in the season.

BUY NOW: $42 Buy It

Regency Dress

Daphne’s ball gowns tend to be fairly subdued, at least compared to Queen Charlotte’s royal fits. A pink ribbon sash ties in the back of this long cotton gown, detailed with a scooped neckline and ruffled sleeves.

Regency Dress $29.99 Buy It

Daphne Bridgerton-Inspired Crown

Top your costume off with this dazzling headpiece, inspired by the crown Daphne wears in Episode 1. The handmade tiara is constructed with brass filigree stampings sewn onto the crown base and painted metallic gold.

BUY NOW: $75 Buy It

Patrizia Reggiani in ‘House of Gucci’

“House of Gucci” doesn’t come out until Nov. 24, but the viral behind-the-scenes shots and the cinematic trailer is proof enough that the movie will be full of high-fashion moments that are worth a costume. We already know Lady Gaga is gifting us with years of cosplay and costume ideas with her portrayal of Patrizia Gucci.

Idopy Faux Fur Coat

The outfit is halfway complete with the help of this faux fur coat, just like the one Gaga is seen wearing in the trailer

Oversized Vintage Sunglasses $32.77 Buy It

Gucci GG0036S Sunglasses

I mean, if you’re dressing up as the wife of the Gucci heir, it’s a good excuse to splurge on some designer shades. But if you can’t afford the hefty price tag, there’s always these knockoffs. Shhh, we won’t tell.

BUY NOW: $390 Buy It

Grace Karin Vintage Dress

You can’t go wrong with this sleeveless, deep red cocktail dress which features a wrap closure and ruffled skirt. Plus, its versatile silhouette means you can continue wearing it past the 31st.

Grace Karin Dress $38.99 Buy It

Star and Barb in ‘Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar’

The tackier the better when it comes to a Barb and Star costume. A noisy Hawaiian button-up, straw hat, one very strong mystery cocktail and you’re all set.

Furtalk Beach Straw Hat

This wide-brimmed beach hat is perfect for any poolside vacation, and is sure to be Barb and Star-approved. But Star also loves a visor moment, so you can always go for this colorful paper straw visor instead.

Furtalk Beach Straw Hat $25.99 Buy It

Amazon Essentials One-Piece Bathing Suit

It isn’t a Vista Del Mar vacation without a super floral, very tacky one-piece bathing suit. This one from Amazon comes in a wide range of tropical patterns and colors for you to choose from.

Amazon Essentials One Piece-Bathing Suit $28.90 Buy It

Ayliss Printed Beach Sarong Cover-Up

Cover up with this bright sarong, made out of ultra-soft chiffon for a comfortable fit.

Ayliss Printed Beach Sarong Cover-Up $16.99 Buy It

Hawaiian Lady Aloha Shirt

Of course, Barb and Star aren’t always in the water. Go for a Hawaiian button-up and khakis to channel the matching fits the duo wears while busy with their motel antics.

Hawaii Lady Aloha Shirt $29.00 Buy It

Maholo Floral Leis

No matter what, you’ll want to accessorize your outfit with colorful floral leis that Barb and Star can’t get enough of.

Maholo Floral Leis $9.99 Buy It

Boho Raffia Clip-On Earrings

Flashy accessories like these bright yellow clip-ons are a perfect addition to the bohemian outfit.

Boho Raffia Clip-On Earrings $12.99 Buy It

Women’s Capri Pants

Barb loves a bright capri pant. These pink ones with an elastic waist are comfortable and fit the vibe perfectly.

Women’s Capri Pants $19.99 Buy It

Lace-Up Keds

You’ll need to have plushy keds for all your motel antics, and for running away from evil Sharon Fisherman. These funky and colorful sneakers feature a unique, bright design with criss-cross laces.

BUY NOW: $54.95 Buy It

UV Glow in the Dark Steampunk Rave Goggles

No, we didn’t forget about Sharon Gordan Fisherman, Kristen Wiig’s duel villainous character, who hatches a nefarious plot to kill everyone in town. Pair these funky goggles with a hooded white jacket and you’re all set.

UV Glow in the Dark Rave Goggles $9.99 Buy It

Ted in ‘Ted Lasso’

Thick Black Mustache

Ted Lasso’s mustache is so beloved it has it’s own Twitter account, with upwards of 5,000 followers. Your costume won’t be complete without a little above-the-lip grooming.

Thick Black Mustache $5.15 Buy It

Casual Dark Blue Tracksuit

A Halloween costume has never been comfier than with this matching tracksuit set, just like the one Ted Lasso wears on the field.

Casual Dark Blue Tracksuit $35.99 Buy It

AFC Richmond Shirt

Rep Lasso’s AFC Richmond soccer team with the same t-shirt jerseys the players wear on the show. Top it off with a whistle and you’re good to go.

BUY NOW: $40 Buy It

Grace Fraser in ‘The Undoing’

Nicole Kidman’s Grace Fraser is on the brink of a psychotic break for a majority of “The Undoing,” which sees her deal with the murderous consequences of her cheating, sociopathic husband — but she does it all while wearing one show-stopping outfit after another. Each grand coat in her collection is practically a leading cast member, making the Upper East Sider a chic costume choice for Halloween.

Red Faux Leather Gloves

Every Grace Fraser outfit features an autumnal color scheme, with compelling contrasts that mirror the drama of each scene. One of her most memorable pieces are her bourdeaux-hued gloves that she pairs with a long dark-green trench. While the exact ones Fraser wears are sure to bear a Bergdorfs-worthy price tag, this faux leather dupe will do for Halloween.