The fashion industry has derived inspiration from horror films for generations. Stark, gothic styles have been a staple of Halloween fashion, creating a sinister ambiance within the world of cinema.
The modernization of scary movies has incorporated aberrant fashion elements, such as the natural wardrobe amongst characters in Jordan Peele’s “Get Out” or Dani’s (Florence Pugh) flower-covered May Queen dress in “Midsommar,” as many films now rely on psychological elements.
However, certain fashion statements can never die. Here are some of the most iconic Halloween styles delineated in film.
Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” is a prime example of vintage horror. This 1960s thriller is produced in black and white, leading it to employ other tools besides color to showcase its unnerving semblance.
The lead Marion Crane (Janet Leigh) is seen wearing a 60s-style swing dress, along with lacey undergarments. This portrayal of slasher victims was ubiquitous in horror films produced during this time period.
In Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack’s 1933 film, “King Kong,” Ann Darrow (Fay Wray) furthers this depiction as she is featured wearing similar attire when being captured by the giant ape.
Don’t say his name three times, or you might be confronted with the biggest fashion icon in cinema history. Beetlejuice’s pinstripe suit has become a pinnacle of Tim Burton’s 1998 film “Beetlejuice” and a considerable influence for tick-or-treaters looking for the perfect costume.
One of Micheal Keaton’s most iconic characters is seen wearing three – his lucky number – rusty watches, which are haphazardly placed across his left wrist, also paired with a gold ring on his index finger.
In one of the most infamous scenes from the film, Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) is seen wearing an all-red wedding dress — a dress that has become a Halloween staple since the release of the film.
Shelley Duvall has a history of fashion statements and “The Shining” is no exception. This 1980 Stanley Kubrick film features Duvall, playing Wendy Torrance, in a printed button-down layered over a beige turtleneck with a corduroy overall dress – a look that has become one of the most recognizable outfits from any horror film.
Disney’s “Hocus Pocus” serves as a representation of fabulous witches. These three sisters – Winifred (Bette Midler), Mary (Kathy Najimy) and Sarah (Sarah Jessica Parker) Sanderson – are seen wearing muted corset dresses with Victorian-inspired patterns.
Jewelry is an integral detail of these looks. The witches are sporting rings on almost all 10 digits, all of varying sizes and materials along with lace gloves and beaded necklaces.
This blood-stained prom dress served as a symbol of Carrie White’s (Sissy Spacek) redaction of innocence. The elegant setting juxtaposes the crimson-red tarnish of the dress, creating an unforgettable scene.
This hooded killer had viewers believing their next phone call would lead them to the same deadly fate. Bearing a resemblance to the notorious Grim Reaper, this costume has served as a token of terror throughout the industry.
With Halloween approaching, you can turn to these fashion symbols to create your next costume.