As Halloween approaches, many may find themselves gravitating toward classic and simple costume ideas, such as dressing up as a cat or a vampire, using just a bit of eyeliner or some fake blood. However, 2025 is shaping up to offer a variety of creative and viral makeup looks inspired by film and pop culture that are both trendy and easy to replicate. Renowned makeup artists have shared their top picks for Halloween looks that will have everyone talking.
Gothic Glamour Inspired by “Wednesday”
Pop culture plays a significant role in shaping our costume choices, much like the whirlwind of Barbie-themed costumes in 2023. This autumn, with the return of Netflix’s “Wednesday,” we can expect gothic-inspired glamour to take center stage.
Franchesca Villar, head of beauty at Cosmetify, notes, “Matte skin, sharply defined eyeliner, dark berry or brown gothic lips, and sculpted cheekbones contribute to that moody aesthetic.” Celebrity makeup artist Bryony Blake also emphasizes the appeal of recreating the iconic look of Wednesday Addams. “Most of us likely have dark matte eyeshadow and black eyeliner lying around,” she explains. “Pair that with a slightly paler foundation than usual and a stunning brown lip, and you’ve nailed it.”
Versatile Witchy Glam
Another classic option that remains ever-popular is the witch costume, which can be anything but dull. “Witchy glam is incredibly easy to achieve at home,” says celebrity makeup artist Mira Parmar. “All you need is black shadow, an eyeliner, and red or berry lips, along with a touch of sparkle.”
This look allows you to tap into the moody and punkish trends seen on the runways this season, with inspirations drawn from characters such as Elphaba and Glinda from “Wicked.” With the second installment of the film set to release in November, expect witchy aesthetics to be all the rage.
The Coquette Clown Trend
Not all of the upcoming trends for Halloween are rooted in movies. The coquette aesthetic, prevalent on TikTok, is also making waves in Halloween fashion. The ‘coquette clown’ is emerging as a fresh, stylish twist on the traditional spooky clown. “The pastel-spooky aesthetic, sometimes referred to as ‘pinkween,’ is still thriving,” Villar mentions. “Soft pinks and candy colors are influencing makeup trends.”
To achieve the ‘coquette clown’ look, Boots’ senior beauty specialist Leanna Elisha Feryn suggests starting with a flattering pink blush, whether in powder or liquid form, and building your look from there.
- Apply a flush across the bridge of your nose and cheeks, blending gently up to your temples.
- Use a fine-tipped eyeliner pen to draw delicate painted details that add an edgy touch to your look.
- Complete your transformation with fluttery false eyelashes to create enchanting, doll-like eyes.
Shimmering Skeleton Inspiration
This season, metallics have made a significant impact on fashion runways, from Roberto Cavalli’s ‘Gilded Age’ collection to Louis Vuitton’s eye-catching presentations. It’s no surprise that these trends have influenced Halloween looks, particularly that of the skeleton.
To create a stunning shimmering skeleton appearance, focus on shading carefully.
- Start by following the lines of your cheekbones, temples, and jawline to craft hollow areas, much like contouring.
- Take your time with this step; applying less product will make it easier to blend.
- Opt for a cool-toned contour for added definition and depth, and avoid using white paint, which can come off as costume-like rather than high fashion.
- Finish your look by applying highlighter to the high points of your face for a luminous contrast. A shimmery formula will catch the light beautifully.
To elevate your skeleton look even further, consider adding face gems. Parmar suggests using “futuristic metallics and pearlescent colors” to mimic the high points of your face where a skeleton would typically protrude. Strategically placing these gems around your eyes, cheekbones, and lips will enhance the overall effect and make your Halloween look unforgettable.
With these trending makeup ideas, your Halloween transformation can be both stylish and easy to pull off, ensuring you stand out at any celebration.
