Pop Culture Halloween Costumes for Boys, Girls
Outfits Based on Popular Movies, Television and Politics
Sep 22, 2008
Halloween costumes based on pop culture icons are nothing new. From Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley to the Star Wars characters, certain familiar faces will no doubt show up from year to year. Halloween routinely demonstrates how much movies, television and politics play a huge role in everyday lives.
But what are the particular pop culture costumes that mark 2008? The following are a few choices.
Mad Men
The AMC series has been one of the most talked-about (and Emmy nominated – it won for Best Drama) shows of the year. Viewers love not only the complex story lines, but the style and fashion of the 1960s-era setting.
- Boys: A tailored suit and a 1960s-style hat is all that’s needed to become one of the advertising men. A martini glass is an optional prop, though not recommended for school.
- Girls: It’s all about fitted, ladylike dresses, jewelry (think: pearls) and structured handbags. Hair and makeup should be polished.
Comic Book Heroes
Could there have been one more comic book movie in 2008? The trend keeps rolling on. There are numerous “superheroes” to choose from – and probably only the true comic book experts will be able to tell the difference.
There will probably be a wide option to choose from next year as well.
Political Women
Much has been mentioned in fashion magazines about Hillary Clinton’s colorful pant suits. A recent story in Glamour about the style of women in politics showed photographs of her in a pantsuit of practically every color of the rainbow (for the record, they gave it a “Do”). Pick a favorite color and dress like Hillary! Eagle pin optional.
Michelle Obama doesn’t have quite as recognizable a style yet, but a few studies of recent photographs could give someone costume ideas. Usually she’s seen in tailored dresses.
And it wouldn’t be 2008 without a Sarah Palin costume. In the season opener of Saturday Night Live, Tina Fey already demonstrated how to mimic Palin, particularly with glasses and hairstyle. Be careful of scaring small children.
Gossip Girl
All that’s needed is a private school uniform, luxe handbag and stick-straight hair (especially worn with headband.) Easy!
Sex and the City
The ladies made a splash on the big screen this year. With rumors of a sequel in the works, they aren’t going anywhere soon. Each of the four women has a specific style:
- Carrie: Trendy dresses, "mismatched" clothes, oversized flower accessories
- Miranda: Lawyer suits (work), over-bright casual clothes
- Samantha: Bright, fitted suits; giant cocktail ring (see film)
- Charlotte: Ladylike skirts and dresses -- avoid pants and jeans. Optional: stuffed (or real) dog.
For more Halloween costumes, see Halloween Costumes for Tween Girls
