Autumn is upon us. Trees shed colourful leaves, jack-o-lanterns smile eerily from neighbours’ porches, and cashmere sweaters catch our eye from long-forgotten corners of our wardrobes. College students appreciate the crisp morning air without needing to leave their houses, and they diligently attend Zoom lectures each day. Halloween won’t be the same this year: spatial distance guidelines indicate that trick-or-treating will not take place, the only haunted houses people will be visiting are their own, and ghouls and ghosts will not be attending parties fit for even the hippest of witches. However, there are still a variety of costumes that will put you and your family in the Halloween spirit and ensure a good time for everyone.
Harold the Scarecrow from “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark”
While many of us grew up reading the bone-chilling trilogy by Alvin Schwartz, new horrors were brought to light in the 2019 film adaptation. Many elementary teachers banned the disturbing books from their classrooms following the release dates though the 1980s and the 1990s, claiming the content to be “grotesque” and “R-rated.” Harold the Scrarecrow makes several appearances throughout the movie and is on the front cover of the feature film. If you’re aiming for creepy, this is the costume for you!
Astronaut
Although this may seem like a popular and recurring costume, this year the astronaut costume has a deeper meaning. When Space X launched the Falcon 9 on May 30th, 2020, the entire world watched in awe and commended the Space X astronauts for their bravery. This costume is a reminder of recent positive aspects of 2020. In this costume, you’ll shine brighter than a photon ring around a black hole!
Classic Black Cat
Look cute and classy in a black cat costume! October is Black Cat Awareness month for a variety of reasons. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, black cats in shelters have a harder time finding a forever home than their lighter-coloured counterparts. This could be because many Americans believe that black cats are synonymous with bad luck (in countries such as Japan and Britain they are actually considered good luck), they aren’t always as easy to photograph, as well as many other ridiculous reasons. Donate here today: http://blackcatrescue.com/ and here, https://crumbsandwhiskers.com/black-cat-fund to help raise awareness about the stigma surrounding black cats and to help keep those who need a home safe and fed.
La Casa de Papel (Money Heist)
Bella ciao, bella ciao, bella ciao ciao ciao! The catchy theme song of the hit series “Money Heist” has surely been stuck in everyone’s heads this year. The masks worn by the heist criminals are enough to unnerve anyone. Streetwear clothing and the unique mask are all you’ll need to recreate this fun costume!
The Hardcore Hiker
It’s no secret that quarantine has given both long-time seasoned hikers and beginning hikers the opportunity to spend a weekend in the mountains more often. Breathtaking views, muddy trails, and a chance to decompress are always a good time. Dirt, grime, bugs, and all, this costume is perfect for those who can’t get enough of the great outdoors.
The Weeknd on his “After Hours” Album Cover
One of the greatest albums released this year, “After Hours” maintains a psychedelic, tragic “big-city” aesthetic. The gory depiction of the singer/songwriter Abel Makkonen Tesfaye with a bloody face inspired many cosmetic artists. This was his fourth studio album and was released on March 20th, 2020 by XO & Republic Records. Abel maintained a very red-pigmented appearance throughout the album’s promotional material, music videos, and artwork. A red suit with (fake) blood and a pair of sunglasses are all you’ll need for everyone to know who inspired your costume!
Hazmat Suit
This year you don’t have to contain toxic spills to wear a hazmat suit. You can protect yourself and look iconic! Hazmat suits will definitely be trending this year, whether it is Halloween or simply for a typical day.
Da-hye Park from “Parasite”
If you’re looking for a costume that you can create from clothes you already own, this is the outfit for you! In the hit film “Parasite,” a wealthy South Korean couple hires a young boy to tutor their daughter and the boy’s family begins scheming to become employed by the couple. The film takes a surprising and scary turn (don’t worry: no spoilers here!) and both families’ lives are changed forever. Dress up as Da-hye Park, daughter of Mrs. and Mr. Park, for a BOO-jee and easy costume!