5 Easy Halloween costumes inspired by 2024’s most iconic movie characters
Minimum effort, maximum impact

Have you left your costume shopping too late this year? These movie-inspired Halloween looks are easy to put together with pieces you already own.
PSA: Just in case it slipped your mind, Halloween is just under a week away. Not only that, but it also coincides with Deepavali this year. So, if you’ve been too focused on getting your outfits sorted for the Festival of Lights to even think about what you’re going to wear when the sun goes down, fret not—we’ve thought it through for you.
Ahead, we’ve rounded up some of 2024’s best leading ladies for you to emulate this Halloween. Not only is the makeup super easy to achieve, but you can also complete the look with clothes and accessories you already have in your closet!
Elphaba from Wicked
Set to open in theatres this November, Wicked is the movie adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical, following the untold story of The Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz. The film has had its fair share of controversies lately, but none of the noise detracts from the absolute icon that Elphaba is. If you’re a former theatre kid with a penchant for green body paint, here’s an easy costume for you. Just braid your hair, paint yourself green, slap on some red lippy and throw on a shapeless black dress—hey presto, you’re Elphaba!
Lisa Swallows in Lisa Frankenstein
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Written by Diablo Cody, the mind behind the 2009 cult classic Jennifer’s Body, Lisa Frankenstein is camp indulgence and nostalgic horror all in one. Starring Kathryn Newton and Cole Sprouse, the movie embraces the ‘80s in all its neon glory. To emulate Newton’s look, all you need is a heavy hand with your makeup and a big teasing brush for your tresses. Once you’ve loaded on the eyeliner, prepped your pout in scarlet, curled your hair and teased out your tight ringlets, just throw on your best Stevie Nicks ‘fit and head out!
Maxine Minx from MaXXXine
The final instalment in Ti West’s X Trilogy sees actress Mia Goth taking on 1980s Hollywood—that means big hair and bold eyeshadow. If you want to keep it safe and simple, Maxine’s signature blue eyeshadow and nude lips are super easy to achieve. But, if you’re looking for something a little more striking and recognisable, you could try emulating the revenge look she rocks in the film, as shown in the tutorial below.
@laurenmaykirkland Maxine Minx/Mia Goth in MaXXXine – easy Halloween makeup tutorial 🌟 also a 2024 installment to the ‘X’ and ‘Pearl’ looks I did two years ago!! She’s giving all the 80s vibes #maxxxine #x #a24 #maxineminx #maxineminxmakeup #maxinemakeup #halloweencostume
Sue from The Substance
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The Substance is the most talked about film right now, and for good reason. Starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, the film follows a woman’s desperate and grotesque pursuit of youth through a black market substance. The perfect blend of satire, commentary and body horror, the film is one of the most poignant releases of 2024. Unfortunately, Demi Moore’s prosthetics are probably a little out of your budget and skill level for this Halloween—so, instead, why not go as Sue? All you’ll need is some pink eyeshadow, a high ponytail and a pink swimsuit to boot.
Dolores from Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
Real talk: We were going to suggest donning your Michael Keaton finest and going as the titular character, but honestly, dressing up as the ex-wife is going to be a lot easier. You see, instead of painting yourself white and spray-painting your hair green, you just have to etch out some staple stitches with an eyeliner pencil and slip on a black dress. No wacky wardrobe or excessive post-party cleanse needed!
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