As leaves begin to fall and October’s chill creeps in, Halloween enthusiasts across the U.S. are already planning their costumes. This year’s most popular ideas reflect a collision of pop culture, internet virality, nostalgia, and classic fright. Based on searches, retailer offerings, and media reports, here are the top five Halloween costumes for 2025—and what’s behind their popularity.

1. Wednesday Addams (Netflix’s Wednesday)

Jenna Ortega’s portrayal of Wednesday Addams continues to dominate the Halloween zeitgeist. The signature dark dress with white collar, braided pigtails, and deadpan expression has become an all‑but guaranteed crowd favorite. According to multiple trend reports, “Wednesday” remains one of the top pop culture characters people want to embody this year, Sassy Feeds says.

The appeal appears twofold: the look is instantly recognizable, even if done simply, and it taps into the resurgence of gothic‑style aesthetic in youth culture. For many, it’s a chance to be spooky without resorting to elaborate makeup or special effects, states Sassy Feeds.

2. Barbie & Ken / Barbiecore

Once again, Barbie is everywhere. The Barbie movie and its cultural aftereffects have inspired costumes that lean heavily into full‑color pinks, high‑gloss accessories, and nostalgic playfulness. Group and duo costumes—Barbie & Ken pairs are particularly popular—are riding this wave, states The Geo Vision.

One spin‑off trend of this is “Rollerskate Barbie,” which brings in retro fashion and a touch of whimsy. Whether people aim to replicate one of Barbie’s many looks (from classic doll chic to more stylized versions seen in media), the theme is dominating both retail shelves and social media feeds, notes 92 Q.

3. AI & Tech‑Inspired Costumes / Futuristic Robots

Thanks to the increasing prominence of artificial intelligence in both headlines and everyday technology, costumes with cyberpunk, robotic, or synthetic themes are trending highly. LED accents, reflective or metallic fabrics, holographic accessories, and robotic makeup or prosthetics are showing up in costume inspiration lists, according to Buz Deliere.

These costumes hit a sweet spot: they allow for creativity and technical showmanship, and they feel timely. For some, they’re statements about the future; for others, a chance to play with shine, light‑up effects, and transformation, according to Sassy Feeds.

4. Super Mario Bros. & Video Game Nostalgia

Nostalgia remains a strong force. After the popularity of The Super Mario Bros. Movie and renewed interest in classic video games, characters like Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach—and even villains like Bowser—are among the most popular costume picks, states Buz Deliere.

This trend appeals to a broad demographic: kids who grew up playing the games, parents who want family costumes, and young adults drawn to retro or playful looks. It’s also a practical costume choice: overalls and hats go a long way, according to The Geo Vision.

5. Taylor Swift ‑ Eras Tour & Swiftie Themes

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has built a legacy beyond the concert stage: its fashion is now a template for Halloween. Fans are drawing from Swift’s many eras—glam, country, pop, indie—for costumes that capture a moment: whether a fringe‑laden stage outfit, cowboy boots and hat, or more subtle accessories like red scarves or themed jewelry, according to Yahoo Shopping.

Swiftie culture also means group participation: friends attending the same show or fan community often coordinate eras. The fashion is varied, meaning those on a low budget or without costume stores nearby can still pull off a recognizable look using pieces from their wardrobe, states Delaware Today.

Why These Trends?

Together, these top five costumes reflect what people are looking for in 2025: recognizability, cultural relevance, nostalgia, and flexibility. Costumes that are too obscure may not have the same impact; ones that are too complex may be out of reach for many with limited time or money. The winners this year hit a balance—they’re memorable but doable.

Retail data, Google Trends, and media coverage show that classic costumes still matter too, especially for children. For example, a study of 35 classic costumes from Chicco (mermaid, dinosaur, skeleton, monster, bat among them) showed that across different states, classic looks continue to be very popular.

Regional and Classic Choices Are Still Strong

While pop culture is driving many of the top trends, classic motifs remain resilient, especially among kids. According to Chicco’s Most Popular Classic Halloween Costume by State,” costumes like mermaids (in 7 states), dinosaurs (6 states), bats (6 states), monsters (4 states), and skeletons (3 states) still dominate in their respective regions.

These classics are often easier to put together last minute and are accessible in design and price. They also allow people to participate in the holiday without needing to track down licensed character costumes or trending looks.

Some Good Tips to Know Before You Buy

• Stock up early: Popular costumes—especially those tied to current pop culture or tech effects—sell out fast. (Sassy Feeds)
• Check sizing and durability: Many trendy costumes use novelty materials (sequins, LEDs, plastics) that can be fragile. Quality varies.
• Mind your weather and practicality: Costume photos often look great in controlled settings, but Halloween nights can be cold or wet. Layers help, and flexible footwear can make or break the night.
• Budget wisely: Some trends allow for mix‑and‑match or repurposing items; others demand buying special pieces. Classic costumes and DIY versions often offer more cost‑effective options.

One More Look at Halloween Costume Fun

If 2025’s costume trends are any indication, Halloween continues to be a reflection of what people love, admire, and follow—on screens, online, and in memory. Whether you go gothic with Wednesday, go pink with Barbie, get futuristic with AI, level up with Mario, or celebrate eras with Taylor Swift, the costume you pick says a lot. And this year, it seems people want to wear what they recognize, what resonates, and what makes them smile—or shiver.