Halloween 2025 is shaping up to be as much about pop culture and internet virality as it is about spooky makeup and haunted houses. If you’re prepping for campus parties, Haunted Hallways or Lab-o-ween, here are the top costume trends you’ll see and how you can make them your own.
1. Rumi from “KPop Demon Hunters”
Leading costume trends this year are characters from Netflix’s “KPop Demon Hunters.” Rumi’s vibrant hair, futuristic outfits and bold energy make her a favorite among students and partygoers alike.
2. Elphaba and Glinda from “Wicked: For Good”
With the upcoming sequel to “Wicked,” Elphaba’s green-skinned look and Glinda’s pink glam style are trending, Isabella Cavallo, commerce expert, says. These costumes are ideal for individuals or friends pairing up, bringing Broadway magic to campus.
3. Viral TikTok duos: Louvre thieves and meme characters
TikTok continues to influence Halloween choices, with couples or friends dressing as viral characters like the Louvre thieves or other trending memes. These costumes are playful, clever and perfect for social media content, Tatler, a fashion magazine, reports.
4. Classic movie & TV duos
Costumes from beloved franchises remain a staple. Examples include Anakin Skywalker and Padmé Amidala from “Star Wars,” twins from “White Chicks,” or Mario and Luigi. These recognizable outfits are perfect for both nostalgia and group creativity.
5. Superheroes and villains
Superhero costumes like Superman, Spider-Man and Batman continue to dominate. Villains such as Joker and Harley Quinn or Maleficent also remain popular, providing dramatic and visually striking options.
6. Animated and video game characters
Characters from animated series and video games, like Labubu or Minecraft’s Chicken Jockey, are trending for both solo and group costumes. These outfits are playful, colorful and perfect for college parties or themed events.
7. Nostalgia and Y2K-inspired looks
Throwbacks to early 2000s shows and pop icons like Hannah Montana, Lizzie McGuire or classic Disney characters are big this year. Nostalgic costumes are a fun way for students to revisit childhood favorites while incorporating DIY flair.
8. Food and pun costumes
Humorous costumes such as peanut butter and jelly; burger and fries; or milk and cookies are trending for 2025. These fun and lighthearted options are easy to DIY and perfect for friends or couples.
9. Modernized horror and gothic styles
Classic spooky costumes — witches, vampires and ghosts — have received a 2025 update with luxe fabrics, bold color accents and creative silhouettes. These are perfect for students who want traditional Halloween aesthetics with a modern twist.
10. Creative DIY and sustainable costumes
Sustainability and thrift-driven DIY costumes are increasingly popular, according to Google Trends. Reusing clothing, adding unique props, or upcycling old outfits allows students to create one-of-a-kind looks while staying budget-friendly, the Google team reported.
Halloween 2025 offers something for everyone, whether you want to go dramatic, funny, nostalgic, or viral. From Broadway witches to viral TikTok duos, classic superheroes to Y2K throwbacks, students can mix creativity with current trends to make a memorable statement. For Oakland University students, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase personality, connect with friends and capture fun memories on campus and in the local community.
