Halloween costumes ideas to “creep” up with the trends in 2023

From viral internet sensations to blockbuster movie characters, CanCulture has got you covered with some modern costume ideas.

By Hafsa Hanif

It's that time of year when we put the "boo" in "boogie" and the "eek" in "chic." 

In this eye-popping, cobweb-clearing and absolutely bone-chilling list, we're going to explore the hottest, trendiest, and most outlandish Halloween costume ideas for 2023. Forget the phantom of past costume trends— it's time to summon the spirits of characters, memes, and moments that define this year!

Here are seven costume ideas that will transform your Halloween into the very essence of 2023, you won't want to miss a single spine-tingling detail.

Workout Barbie and Ken

Because the Barbie movie was the phenomenon that it was, Barbie costumes are only to be expected for this year’s spooky season. Spice up your Barbie costume by turning your Halloween into a fitness fiesta with Workout Barbie and Ken costumes! For Barbie, this ensemble includes a vibrant workout-themed outfit that’s both sporty and spooky. And don't forget your leotard - it's pretty much mandatory for this one

Grab a partner to complete the Workout Ken costume, so you and can be a spooktacular fitness duo that is sure to haunt the dance floor.

The Addams Family

 Wednesday Addams l Gomez l  Morticia 

From the popular Netflix series Wednesday, get ready to step into the dark and mysterious world of the Addams family as Wednesday Addams for Halloween! This costume embodies the eerie and iconic character played by Jenna Ortega. With a gothic black dress, pale makeup and her signature braids, you will transform into be the spookiest member of the family. Enlist a few friends and complete the Addams family ensemble to make the coolest “family-friendly” group costume. 

Loki

Buy it here


Why did Loki never excel in mathematics? Because he could never figure out which side he's on – 'odd' or 'even'! Ride the wave of the Loki TV series’ second season and conquer the costume contest with your Loki attire, and remember, with great mischief comes great responsibility (to have fun)!

Rihanna from the Super Bowl LVII Halftime Show

Zip up | Gloves | Mic prop | Sweater

If you want a jaw-dropping moment like Rihanna had at the LVII Super Bowl, then consider recreating her iconic all-red outfit at her pregnancy announcement performance. You do have the option of purchasing the original outfit worn by Rihanna by LOEWE for just over $2000, but if you are on a slightly tighter budget, it would not be difficult for a DIY outfit that still encompasses Rihanna’s fierceness.  

Ice Spice 

Speaking of icons from this year, it would be unjust not to mention hip-hop's newest princess and everyone’s obsession — Ice Spice. Whether you are looking for a munch or wandering around delis, this Ice Spice costume is bound to catch the attention of everyone in the room. Grab an orange curly wig, your best outfit and a bad “B” attitude, and you are all set. 

Spider-Punk

This list would not be complete without the spider-verse’s newest favourite rockstar. Whether it’s the version from the comic book or Spider-Man: Across the Spider Verse, dressing up as Spider-Punk will guarantee your presence to be an edgy and eccentric one.

Drake and Adonis

This duo costume idea is in honour of the recent release of For All the Dogs by Toronto local legend- Drake. This Halloween’s trendiest duo costume idea is crowned to that of Drake and Adonis, who also made major waves with his feature on the album. There are many ways to dress up to pay tribute to the father-son duo, one of the more creative ones includes a red apron for the drake costume (from his recent performance on tour in a red apron) and a curly blonde wig for the Adonis counterpart. 

Taylor Swift from The Eras Tour

The “Queen of Pop” made major headlines with the Era Tour this year. With this Taylor Swift-inspired costume, you'll be rocking the superstar's signature style and you'll be the life of the party, just like Taylor herself. Put on your stylish attire, grab your guitar (real or air) and prepare to "never go out of style" as Taylor Swift. You can also pick outfits that resemble any “eras” for a twist. Remember, in this costume, you're always "fearless" and "ready for it!"

As the clock ticks towards the eeriest night of the year, 2023 is poised to deliver a Halloween like no other. We’ve unveiled seven costume ideas to define moments from here and now. In a world where past costume trends are banished into shadows, we step into terrifying your friends and family with 2023-inspired attire.

Let this night be filled with spine-tingling chills, unforgettable moments and a touch of magic that only 2023 can provide! 

Iconic movie and TV characters played by Canadians to recreate this Halloween

If you haven't picked your Halloween costume for this year yet, here’s a list of characters notorious for their unique style.

By: Anna Maria Moubayed

(Abby Grant / CanCulture)

(Abby Grant / CanCulture)

As Halloween slowly begins to approach, many people go through their existing wardrobe to put together a fun costume, while others start hunting for costume ideas and clothing pieces. Either way, you’re in luck! This article has a list of Canadian actors from movies and TV shows, with roles that put them on the map.

1. Catherine O’Hara

This Canadian actress, comedian, and writer was a central character in the classic holiday film Home Alone. All you need to be Kevin’s mom is a beige coat, a white shirt, a scarf to protect you from the winter cold, a pair of gold earrings, and a worried look on your face. Walk around town looking for your son, screaming “Kevin!” and people are sure to recognize you as one of the best movie moms of all time.

Alternatively, grab whatever obnoxious item you can find around the house and turn it into “designer clothing” to fully embody O’Hara’s famous Moira Rose character from the Canadian TV show Schitt's Creek. This can span anywhere from a tablecloth with a belt to your pet as a headpiece. Of course, pay close attention to the wig you choose to match the outfit and your mood. Most importantly, don’t forget the red lipstick.

2. Eugene Levy

If you want to have a cute couple’s costume, here’s an idea: Moira’s character is only complete with her husband, Johnny Rose, who was played by Canadian actor, comedian, producer, director and writer Eugene Levy. Put on your best suit, borrow your dad’s best handkerchief and add some flour into your hair to get that iconic “silver fox” look. Now all you have to do is buy a town for your son.

3. Matthew Perry

Matthew Perry is a Canadian-American actor, executive producer, and comedian. He is best known for his role as Chandler Bing in the TV series Friends. Practice your jokes, sarcastic remarks, and stressing the wrong words in a sentence. All you need for his look is a shirt, your dad’s vest, and maybe a funky tie.

4. Jim Carrey

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The famous actor, comedian, writer, and producer is known for his energetic performances, making sure you’ll be the life of the party. With his long list of movie and TV show characters, you have many options. Let’s focus on three movie characters that would make great Halloween costumes.

Stanley Ipkiss, his character from The Mask will require you to drink a lot of coffee to match his energy. Other than that, all you will need is a green mask or face paint and a dashing yellow suit.

Be your natural self dressing up as Lloyd Christmas, Carrey’s character from the movie Dumb and Dumber. Wear your most comfortable clothes, get the bowl cut, and add in a tooth gap. All that’s left is your partner in crime and your dog-shaped mode of transportation.

Alternatively, grab your craziest pair of pants, along with your craziest shirt, and maybe a fluffy pink tutu to replicate another one of his famous characters: Ace Ventura from the movie Ace Ventura: Pet Detective. Perhaps the most important part of this costume will be getting the hair just right, so make sure you stock up on a lot of hair gel.

5. Sandra Oh

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Get ready to show off all your high school biology knowledge! Oh’s famous character, Cristina Yang from Grey’s Anatomy will not only be a killer Halloween costume but also highly effective as a COVID-19 safety measure. Incorporate a medical mask into your costume to stay safe.

You can also dress as her helpful principal character from The Princess Diaries or a badass teacher from Ramona and Beezus. Grab a nice shirt and a matching pencil skirt, and get ready to deal with princess drama or make a troubled little very happy.

6. Ryan Gosling

Polish up your dance routine, make sure to practice your jazz pieces on the piano, and put on your best suit and tie set to be Ryan Gosling’s famous character Sebastian "Seb" Wilder from La La Land. Let your friends know that you might break out in song at any moment and they should consider themselves warned. See if you can borrow a pair of tap shoes to complete the look.

7. Christopher Plummer

This legendary Canadian actor had a career that spanned seven decades. Who wouldn’t want to be him? His iconic role in the classic movie The Sound of Music portrayed the strict, yet caring and handsome Captain Von Trapp. For this look, you will need a dashing suit, fit for a captain, and either a guitar or a whistle, depending on whether you want to be the strict or caring side of the Captain. Finally, you will need seven children. The latter is usually hard to find, but you could always substitute them with pets, plushies, or potatoes.

8. Rachel McAdams

Grab any pink piece of clothing you own, we’re going shopping! Channel your inner spoiled, popular high schooler by putting together a jarringly pink and undoubtedly uncomfortable outfit. Rachel McAdams’ iconic Regina George character from Mean Girls is sure to make people recognize who you’re dressed up as instantly. This evil genius not only bossed the crew around but wreaked havoc when things didn’t go according to her plan. Get ready for the “spring fling” like it’s your Olympics. Have you started training yet?

9. Michael J. Fox

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Maybe the future will get better? It is no secret that the Back to the Future movies are staples in movie history. Become Michael J. Fox’s legendary character Marty McFly and get ready to travel. All you need is a pair of jeans, some layered shirts, a confused look on your face, possibly your passport and proof of vaccination to be able to travel, and a puffy vest to top it all off; the perfect outfit for a Canadian fall.

10. Tommy Chong

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Tommy Chong’s character Leo from That 70s Show is possibly the perfect Halloween costume. Grow out your hair and beard and find a ’70s closet you can invade. You will need a lot of denim clothing. Truly let your weird side shine with this character. Share your hippie-era stoner wisdom with the people around you, and the worthy will listen.

These classic characters make for great Halloween costumes. Whether you have all the time in the world to put together the perfect outfit or you want to use what you already have and create a last-minute costume, these characters will get you recognized by all trick-or-treaters. Don’t be scared of modifying these costumes to fit your style, comfort, and our Canadian weather. Happy Halloween!