While there are many Halloween costumes [1] known for being updated with skimpy, skin-revealing details [2], there are also plenty of ways to add a dose of modesty [3] to an iconic look [4]. Most of the time, all this requires is a subtle styling trick, such as adding a pair of tights, layering on some basics [5], or adjusting hemlines until you're comfortable.
Whether you've been inspired to pull off Marilyn Monroe's "Seven Year Itch" halter dress, thanks to all the hype surrounding Netflix's "Blonde," [6] or you'd like to transform into another famous movie character [7] such as Mary Poppins, you can still work your pieces into a confidence-boosting, alluring outfit that turns heads without a single provocative detail.
If you're still inspired by Beyoncé's memorable Rosie the Riveter costume after all these years (the multi-hyphenate posted an Instagram [8] of her take back in 2014), roll up the sleeves of your denim shirt and team it with a go-to pair of jeans or shorts that lifts your bum and makes you feel good. Then, complete the ensemble with color-popping pumps if you desire extra flair or height.
And, if you want to be a "cat" woman without a completely curve-hugging leather or latex catsuit [9], there are plenty of ways to spin the notion on its head — perhaps opting for a stylish animal-print blouse and leggings but amping up the drama with black makeup, ears, and drawn-on whiskers.
Ahead, find 11 different ideas for pulling off your classiest Halloween [10] costume yet.
— Additional reporting by Tara Block
1920s Flapper
Get your "Great Gatsby" on with a look inspired by the rebellious flappers of the 1920s. While you can go short with the hemline on your fringed dress [12] ($95), it's still loose enough so as not to be overly constricting or revealing — and you can wear it with tights.
Little Red Riding Hood
A little black dress topped with a red cape makes for a sultry twist on the fairy-tale heroine that's still 30-something approved. A red, textural cape [13] ($29) can offer you more coverage, and you can also layer with tights and choose flat boots instead of heels.
Mary Poppins
Mary Poppins is a simple costume to put together, and you can get away with a pretty short skirt with black tights. Make sure you decorate her signature hat [14] ($9) and carry a Victorian-inspired brocade bag [15] ($70).
Snow White
Disney princess Snow White gets a retro twist with this 1950s-style outfit that shows off your curves. Essentials include a blue dotted top [16] ($60), yellow skater skirt [17] ($21), and waist-cinching red belt [18].
Holly Golightly
Nix Holly Golightly's more traditional black dress for this easy combo — just an eye mask, earrings, and men's button-down shirt [19] ($85). It's provocative without going over the top.
Carrie Bradshaw
Throw on a tutu [20] ($17) and pink top or bodysuit [21] ($36) to pull off the original "Sex and the City [22]" heroine Carrie Bradshaw. You don't have to show a ton of skin to achieve her look.
Pan Am Stewardess
There's just something about those '60s-era flight attendant uniforms that pops, while still leaving most to the imagination. You can even shop a pre-owned Pan Am bag [23] ($70, originally $99) on a secondhand site.
Rosie the Riveter
Kick Rosie the Riveter's attire up a notch with short shorts and high heels, plus the classic denim shirt [24] ($303) and red bandana [25] ($6). There's nothing more attractive than a hard-working woman.
"Cat" Woman
If you're not comfortable going out in a full-on leather catsuit, style leggings and a stylish leopard top [26] ($165). You can draw on whiskers and makeup for added effect.
"The Birds"
Channel '60s blonde bombshell Tippi Hedren from the Alfred Hitchcock thriller "The Birds" with a vintage-inspired two-piece consisting of a cardigan [27] ($50, originally $78) and pencil skirt [28] ($70, originally $80).
Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn's white halter dress [29] ($40) from "Seven Year Itch" will always be a classic with the right pleating. Finish the look with simple sandals or pumps.
