There is nothing quite like the stress of figuring out a Halloween costume. Rather than figuring out something high concept or painfully witty, why not turn your attention to the red carpet for some inspiration? Over the years, there have been plenty of memorable, iconic fashion moments that lend themselves to an easy, yet highly recognizable costume come Halloween night.
Go old school with Grace Kelly’s pale green Oscar gown, or opt for something a bit more contemporary, like Kim Kardashian’s floral Givenchy gown that she wore while pregnant to the Met Gala. Looking to be a bit sexy? Rihanna’s see-through CFDA dress or Jennifer Lopez’s plunging green Versace are the way to go. Here, click through for some of the most iconic red carpet looks over the years to re-create this Halloween.
Hugh Grant and Elizabeth Hurley at the 1994 Four Weddings and a Funeral Premiere
A couples moment so iconic, even Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner re-created it.
Jennifer Lopez at the 2000 Grammys
Ah, the look that created Google Images.
Gwen Stefani at the 1998 MTV VMAs
Channel your inner Harajuku girl this Halloween.
Gwyneth Paltrow at the 1999 Oscars
Make sure to have your Best Actress statuette on hand, too.
Britney Spears at the 2001 AMAs
If you’re really crafty, you could theoretically piece together your old jeans into a dress to reference this Britney Spears moment from the early aughts.
Grace Kelly at the 1955 Oscars
Have an Old Hollywood Halloween this year.
Zendaya at the 2024 Dune Premiere
While you might not have access to the Mugler archives, a high-fashion robot à la Zendaya would be quite cool.
Lady Gaga at the 2010 MTV VMAs
Beware of salmonella poisoning.
Lady Gaga at the 2010 Grammys
A safer Gaga option, health-wise.
Rose McGowan and Marilyn Manson at the 1998 MTV VMAs
McGowan’s barely-there look is cemented in the naked dressing hall of fame.
Kim Kardashian at the 2021 Met Gala
All you need is a long body stocking, boots, and a fitted t-shirt.
Angelina Jolie at the 2012 Oscars
Do your best Jolie impression in a classic LBD with a bold leg split.
Rihanna at the 2015 Met Gala
To stay comfy, but still make the statement to end all statements.
Kim Kardashian and Kanye West at the 2013 Met Gala
Kardashian’s Riccardo Tisci-era Givenchy dress was compared to everything under the sun—including grandma’s ugly floral couch—but it’s pretty damn memorable.
Rihanna at the 2014 CFDAs
“They’re covered in Swarovskis, girl!”
Cate Blanchett at the 2024 Borderlands Premiere
Blanchett wore fashion darling Hodakova to a 2024 premiere, but you can likely make the same top with a visit to the cutlery drawer in your kitchen.
Beyoncé at the 2016 MTV VMAs
Ice Queen realness.
Bjork at the 2001 Oscars
Bjork ruffled a few feathers at the Oscars in this swan dress. So can you this Halloween.
Cher at the 1986 Oscars
Cher’s look was by Bob Mackie, but of course.
Source: W Magazine