Halloween [1] gives you the chance to embody a new character [2], even for a brief moment. Take, for example, Megan Thee Stallion [3], who recently paid homage to the popular Japanese manga series "Sailor Moon" in a custom uniform [4] mirroring the main character Usagi Tsukino's costume. She wore a blue-and-white corset and pleated skirt for a performance, illustrating how you can step into another identity for a special occasion.
If you're into creating your own costumes, rest assured — you don't have to splurge on a look to nail a specific theme. In fact, when it comes to our Halloween getups [5], combining existing closet staples often leads to unexpected pairings that work well for the holiday. Take inventory of what you currently have. Whether it's a little black dress [6], fun printed pajamas [7], or a pink matching set [8], consider creative ways to repurpose certain pieces.
One garment filled with limitless Halloween [9] costume potential? The bodysuit. Many of us already have this versatile one-piece sitting in our drawers, so why not use it for a one-and-done costume? Today's fashion trends will provide a wellspring of ideas if you need some thought starters. A soft pink bodysuit can be styled with matching patent leather jeans to achieve a Barbiecore-inspired look [10]. You can also tuck a lavender bodysuit into a light blue pleated skirt to exude Kawaii vibes [11]. Or, take a cue from Megan Thee Stallion and wear your striped bodysuit with a mini skirt to mirror Sailor Moon's uniform.
Ahead, get more inspo on how to transform your bodysuit into a full-fledged costume.
— Additional reporting by Marina Liao
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: A Matrix Character
The look: Just Cavalli Vegan Leather Mock-Neck Bodysuit [13] ($570)
Pair it with: Black leather pants, high-heeled boots, and a whip.
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: Barbiecore-Inspired Playboy Bunny
The look: Nasty Gal Feather Trim Satin Corset Bodysuit
[14] ($26, originally $52)
Pair it with: Matching pink knee-high socks, bunny ears, and white Mary Jane heels.
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: Poison Ivy
The look: Windsor Poisonous Fatale Halloween Bodysuit [15] ($55)
Pair it with: Green velvet ankle boots, a string of fake poison ivy leaves, layers of jewelry, and a red wig.
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: Black Swan
The look: Madewell Turtleneck Bodysuit [16] ($50)
Pair it with: A fluffy black jacket, sheer tights, and ballet flats.
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: A Sailor
The look: Musier Paris Dido Viscose Blend Jersey Bodysuit [17] ($74)
Pair it with: A white pleated skirt or pair of shorts, a sailor hat, and a silk neck scarf.
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: A Pumpkin
The look: Out From Under Marianne Seamless Long Sleeve Bodysuit [18] ($45)
Pair it with: Orange-colored bottoms and a pumpkin cutout tacked on the front of your bodysuit.
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: Girl From Outer Space
The look: Versace Jeans Couture
Space Print Cutout Tulle Bodysuit [19] ($350)
Pair it with: Patent leather jeans, glitter booties, and fake silver star tattoos.
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: A Ballerina
The look: Fleur du Mal Eco Luxe Jersey Bullet Bodysuit [20] ($35)
Pair it with: A pink tulle skirt, sheer tights, and beige lace-up flats.
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: Skeleton
The look: Forever21 Skeleton Graphic Bodysuit [21] ($25)
Pair it with: Matching jeans or tights with black knee-high boots.
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: Beyoncé in "Single Ladies"
The look: Susana Monaco One Arm Bodysuit [22] ($158)
Pair it with: A microphone and black peep-toe pumps.
Halloween Bodysuit Costume Idea: A Leopard
The look: Under It All Printed Mesh Bodysuit
[23] ($68)
Pair it with: Spotted leopard ears, black tights, and black flats.