Spooky Season Outfit Inspo From The Most Iconic Horror Movies

As we've officially entered spooky season, having fun with your outfits is a must. In fact, dressing up is a foolproof way to boost your serotonin through self-confidence, and with gloomier days ahead, that's exactly what we need. While Halloween costumes give you a chance to dress up as some of your favorite horror film characters, the truth is that one can pay homage to horror film fashion in a much more wearable manner too.

Infamous characters like Nancy Downs and Wendy Torrance have laid out the templates, and it's up to us to reinvent their wardrobe choices as everyday looks. From large blue nightgowns to pink zip-up hoodies, getting inspired by some of horror's best fashion moments is easier than you think. While not everyone may get the reference, true lovers of the genre might just notice the inspiration behind your spooky season outfit.

Horror film-inspired fashion is all about paying homage to your favorite on-screen fashion moments, and when it comes to Y2K looks, nobody did them better than Jennifer Check. Played by Megan Fox in the 2009 horror-comedy "Jennifer's Body," the character's most recognizable 'fit featured a Barbie pink zip-up hoodie covered in red hearts. Recreating the look is as easy as putting on a pink hoodie — and it's up to you whether it is cropped or oversized. If you go the oversized route, be sure to check out our guide on how to style your favorite oversized hoodies and sweatshirts!

Depending on where you're located, spooky season often comes with weather changes. One moment it's chilly and the next one the sun is shining brightly, which is why transitional fashion is key. Pairing a turtleneck with a miniskirt, like Tatum Riley in the 1996 slasher film "Scream," creates a classic fall fit. Played by Rose McGowan, the character layered the look with a denim jacket for an additional touch of warmth. The fun combo is an easy way to style an old turtleneck for a brand-new look.

As a true genre classic, the 1968 psychological horror "Rosemary's Baby" provides an unexpected fashion moment many might not think to pay homage to. The blue nightgown that Rosemary Woodhouse, portrayed by Mia Farrow, wears is a piece that can actually work for fall if styled correctly. Worn as a dress over pants and with a statement jacket, the oversized dress hints at the cult classic in a very fashionista way.

The 1996 teen horror "The Craft" served us numerous exquisite ' 90s-style moments, but Nancy Downs' gothic fashion choices remain the most memorable. Played by Fairuza Balk, the character was equal parts mesmerizing and scary, and her outfits contributed to that. To rock a Nancy-inspired look for spooky season, all you need is black clothing and lots of jewelry. While the character's layered necklaces were predominantly black, opting for silver or gold adds a touch of color while also modernizing the look. A 'fit like this one is perfect for those who want to explore the resurrection of '90s grunge. 

In 1978, Laurie Strode showcased the epitome of simple '70s fashion. Portrayed by Jamie Lee Curtis, the character's flared jeans and baby blue button-up offered a monochromatic look that is chic yet casual and works for a plethora of occasions. Decades later, the outfit can be worn the same way or reinterpreted by pairing baggy jeans with a white tank top and an unbuttoned blue shirt. A simple combination like this one is a great spooky season go-to.

The impact of the 1975 horror-comedy musical "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" on beauty and fashion is undeniable, as the film's bold choices changed the trajectories of trends. The late Tim Curry portrayed Dr. Frank-N-Furter, pushing boundaries of conservative style and preaching self-acceptance. While there are plenty of looks to choose from, a sultrier spooky season piece we're obsessed with is this front lace top. For an eye-catching look, throw it on under a pantsuit to add some balance to the heavily structured silhouette.

A little black dress is a fashion staple for a reason, and for spooky season, taking a note from Tiffany Valentine's book adds a vampy option to style it. Portrayed by Jennifer Tilly in the 1998 slasher comedy "Bride of Chucky," Tiffany wore an iconic dress that featured spaghetti straps and a short hemline — a simple silhouette that has been popular for decades for a reason. Accessorizing with a statement necklace or sunglasses is among the casual ways to style your favorite little black dress, but the truth is that a simple LBD works perfectly well on its own.

Certain colors always come back in style when spooky season arrives, and green is certainly one of them. In the horror film "The Birds," Tippi Hedren stunned as Melanie Daniels in a matching green set. While going all out and dressing head to toe in green is a bold choice, you can also pay homage to this horror icon's timeless fashion by adding a green jacket or cardigan to your outfit.

Most people don't necessarily think of exquisite fashion when someone mentions "The Shining," but the truth is that the 1980 psychological horror actually showcased a unique layering technique. In the film, Wendy Torrance, portrayed by Shelley Duvall, rocked a turtleneck underneath a button-up and overalls. Adding a button-up over a turtleneck creates an unexpected silhouette that allows you to layer for unpredictable weather in a fun and surprising way. Perfect for the fall!

A comfortable, slightly oversized brown coat is a fall staple for many, and as spooky season begins, it also pays homage to an on-screen fashion moment. In the 2018 remake of the 1977 Italian horror classic "Suspiria," Mia Goth portrays Sara Simms, whose brown coat is the epitome of cozy fall fashion. Paired with black accessories, it's easy to see why many consider a brown coat to be a closet staple.