Halloween is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning your epic look for the spooky season. Whether you’re going all out for a party or simply want a killer costume for trick-or-treating, the right makeup and outfit combo can make you stand out. For the glam-loving queens out there, here are the top Halloween makeup and costume ideas for this year that blend creativity, style, and a little bit of fright.
1. Gothic Glam Vampire
Vampires are a Halloween classic, but this year it’s all about going gothic and glamorous. Think bold, dark lip colors—deep reds, blacks, or even purple—and dramatic smokey eyes. Add some faux fangs and pale, ethereal skin for an undead but ultra-chic look. You can complete the look with a high-collared cape or a velvet Victorian gown. Don’t forget the blood-red accessories for extra drama.
- Makeup Tip: Use a black liquid eyeliner to create a winged eye look, and add silver glitter to the inner corners for a spooky yet glamorous touch.
2. Barbiecore
With the rise of the Barbie aesthetic in 2024, thanks to the pop culture phenomenon around the doll’s iconic status, channeling your inner Barbie this Halloween is a top choice. Whether you go for the Classic Barbie with the pink outfits and blonde hair or switch it up with a more modern twist (think futuristic Barbie), the possibilities are endless.
3. Glittering Skeleton
Skeleton makeup is always a hit, but in 2024, it’s all about adding a glittering twist to this spooky favorite. Use black and white face paint to create your skeletal base, and then go over the top with glitter accents on the cheekbones, forehead, and eyes to create a glam-meets-ghoul look. Pair this with a sleek black bodysuit or something more elaborate, like a sequined dress.
- Makeup Tip: Use highlighter and glitter to make your bone structure “glow” and add some rhinestones to the eyes for extra sparkle.
4. Witchy Glam
Witches are another Halloween staple, but this year, go for a more mystical and glamorous take on the classic witch. Opt for jewel-toned makeup—deep greens, purples, and golds. A bold lip color like plum or black can add drama to your look. Finish off with a wide-brimmed hat, an elegant black dress, and some mystical jewelry.
- Makeup Tip: Create a smokey eye with shimmering green or purple shades, and don’t shy away from adding some face jewels or a touch of gold glitter for a truly bewitching appearance.
5. Cyberpunk Baddie
If you’re looking for something edgy and futuristic, the cyberpunk aesthetic is a bold choice. Think neon colors, metallics, and sharp, angular makeup lines. Use metallic face paint or eyeshadow to create a futuristic vibe, and add some neon hair extensions or wigs to make the look pop. Pair it with a sleek, body-hugging outfit or bold, structured accessories.
- Makeup Tip: Use silver or metallic blue eyeshadow, and create geometric shapes around the eyes for a more robotic look. Neon eyeliner or lipstick will take this costume to the next level.
6. Fairy Queen
For those who want to keep things on the whimsical and enchanting side of Halloween, dressing up as a fairy queen allows for plenty of makeup creativity. Use pastel or metallic eyeshadows, and add soft glitter accents to the cheekbones and eyelids. A flower crown, wings, and a flowing gown will complete this ethereal look.
- Makeup Tip: Go for shimmery, pastel hues and add some tiny faux jewels to your face to create an otherworldly, ethereal glow.
7. Pop Art Diva
Channel a comic book-inspired pop art character this Halloween with bold, exaggerated makeup that mimics the style of classic comic strips. Think sharp black lines outlining your facial features, bright primary colors for lips and eyes, and polka dot accents. This look is all about bold contrasts and exaggerated expressions.
- Makeup Tip: Use white eyeliner or face paint to create dots across your face, and outline your lips and facial features with black eyeliner to really bring the comic book effect to life.
8. Femme Fatale Cat
Who says a cat costume has to be basic? Go for a sleek, femme fatale take on the classic black cat by incorporating leather or velvet textures in your outfit. Think catwoman vibes, with a sleek bodysuit, high boots, and dramatic, winged eyeliner to complete the feline effect. Add some faux fur accents for extra glam.
- Makeup Tip: Keep the makeup dramatic with a heavy winged liner and black lipstick. For a fun twist, use a little gold highlighter on your nose and whiskers.
9. Glamorous Zombie
Zombies are always a hit at Halloween, but you can make this gruesome character glamorous with some high-fashion touches. Keep the classic zombie look with pale skin, dark circles, and faux blood, but add a touch of elegance by incorporating metallics or glitter into your makeup. A torn-up evening gown or formal attire with blood-splattered accessories makes for a spooky-glam combo.
- Makeup Tip: Use dark reds and purples around the eyes and cheekbones for a hollowed-out look, but add glitter or rhinestones to give your zombie a glam upgrade.
10. 1920s Flapper
Step back in time with a 1920s flapper look for Halloween. This costume is elegant yet playful, with signature pieces like fringe dresses, pearls, and feathered headbands. The makeup is just as bold—think thin eyebrows, dark red lips, and smokey eyes.
- Makeup Tip: Go for a dark, sultry eye look paired with a bold lip color like deep red or plum. A sequined dress or feather boa completes the ensemble.