When people think of Halloween films, they tend to think of the sheer terror and jump scares associated with this scary genre. But, if like me you love fashion (and I’m sure you do), Halloween movies are more than just frights and ghouls. The outfits found in Halloween films are often synonymous with the films themselves and remembered for years. So… which outfits are the most memorable?
Scream
Given credit for re-igniting the public’s love for horror films, Scream also created one of the most iconic film outfits of all time, Ghostface. But I strongly believe there is one outfit in the film more fashionable than Ghostface… Drew Barrymore’s blonde wig. I’m not joking. Accompanied by the film’s plethora of oversized knit jumpers and turtlenecks, this infamous spooky movie remains one of the most recognisable pieces of '90s Halloween media.
The Shining
Stephen King and Stanley’s Kubrick’s collaboration is truly creepy, focusing on the psychological breakdown induced by isolation, and the destructive cycle of domestic violence. Despite this, its vintage charm places it on this list. Shelley Duvall’s overalls and turtlenecks add to the beautiful isolation of the film, surrounded by the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Most notable are the blue dresses of the identical twins (the scariest twins ever), a constant motif throughout the film.
Midsommar
A slightly more modern pick, but just as memorable in terms of its fashion and clothing choices. Its beautiful fashion is symbolic, and integral to the film's Nordic haunting atmosphere, set in the countryside of Sweden. Most memorably, there's the Mayflower dress worn by Florence Pugh. The thousands of flowers combine to create a claustrophobic atmosphere, as Dani is consumed by nature – reflecting her entrapment in the cult.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
This LGBTQ+ cult classic is probably the most memorable on this list in terms of fashion. Tim Curry as Dr. Frank-N-Furter is ingrained into watchers’ memories, in his daring platform high heels and sparkly corset. The flamboyance and camp of this film is reflected in its outfits, as Brad and Janet discard their traditional ideas of sexuality and gender (and their clothes…), celebrating a multitude of different identities.
So, there we have it. There are so many more epic blockbusters that could have made it to the list, but those were the most iconic, in my opinion. I’m off to watch Scream now…