Need a Halloween costume? We got you.

With Halloween rapidly approaching, many Barstow students find themselves desperately in need of a costume. You might feel the pressure of choosing a costume that’s not too basic, boring, and niche, but that everyone recognizes. The trials and tribulations that go behind choosing a costume are vast, but don’t worry, the B-Line Staff is here to help you. 

Basics

First, it’s always good to consider the classics. These are your standard costumes that are cute but have a little flair. Many of these could work for those of you who want your costume to be lowkey. For many of these costumes, you can also wear the pieces you’ll need again. 

First on our list is Angel and Devil. This costume basically only requires you to buy some kind of headpiece, i.e. angel halo or devil horns. Of course, you can enhance the look with wings, gloves, and other accessories, but simply sticking to a white or red outfit and adding your headpiece will make you instantly recognizable. 

Additionally, a fairy costume would be easy, as all you need is a monochromatic outfit and wings. A special touch, of course, would be to add glittery eye shadow and blinding highlight as makeup, but that can all come second.

Another great option is being something such as a witch, vampire, or zombie. You can easily make these costumes identifiable by adding vampire teeth, a witch hat, etc.

There’s always a wide range of what we like to call ‘occupation costumes.’ Dress as a firefighter, a doctor, a nurse, a teacher, a banker, an accountant, a barista etc. The world (or the job market) is truly your oyster. 

Single Costumes

A timely choice is any character from the Barbie movie. This could include Barbie’s iconic two-piece hot pink set, Ken’s black and white cowboy outfit, or any of the other multitude of characters from the film. With a huge range in the cast, you can customize this costume for a duo, group, or single person. 

If you want to become Barstow’s next it-person, consider dressing up as Natalie Portman’s character in the critically acclaimed film, Black Swan. With a black pancake tutu, ballet tights, a black leotard, and dramatic black eyeliner, this costume is definitely attainable (especially if you have a ballerina friend). 

For those of you who peaked in middle school, return to your roots and dress as a VSCO girl. The name might be misleading, but this costume is for all genders. All you need is a multitude of scrunchies, an overly baggy T-shirt, a puka shell necklace, and your best sksksksksks. Carry around a hydro flask for extra credit. Nostalgic, yes. Basic, also yes. 

Duo Costumes

For those wanting to be more unique this year, there are some options that are topical and perfect for 2023. First on our list is Taylor and Travis. This pair is one of the most talked about duos of the year, and living in Kansas City makes the costume all the more special for Barstow students. All you’ll need is a Kelce jersey and a recreation of one of Taylor’s outfits, making this costume super obtainable.

We personally love a Justin and Hailey Bieber costume. The husband and wife made headlines this year after attending Hailey’s the Rhode launch, Hailey’s skincare company. Hailey was dressed in a glamorous red dress paired with high heels and flawless makeup, while Justin followed behind in a gray shorts and hoodie tracksuit set. The juxtaposition of the two outfits was captured by paparazzi and has made the rounds on TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram. This costume will be both recognizable and funny, and can really only be done this year.

For those interested in the finer things in life, or simply reminisce about your childhood, dress as Frog and Toad, the duo that revolutionized what it meant to be ‘roommates.’ The duo is still in our hearts 15 years later, and their earth-tone aesthetic is sure to be a hit. All you need is frog hats and various accouterments from sage green to burnt umber. 

Group Costumes

You might be asking yourself what to do if you have a big group this year. Fortunately, there are tons of fun and creative options this year. A good group costume must be able to fit a lot of people, be easy to buy, and, of course, recognizable. First on our list is The Wizard of Oz. This costume is great because it can fit a lot of people and is easily referenceable. Notable characters include Dorothy, the Cowardly Lion, the Tin-Man, the Scarecrow, Glinda, The Wicked Witch of the West, and even Toto. With such a vast range to choose from, it’s easy and fun to shape the costume for your group.

 Another great group idea is Scooby Doo. With Velma, Daphne, Fred, Shaggy, and Scooby, this costume can fit anywhere from 2-5 people. Don’t we all love the mystery, and, of course, the aesthetic of Mystery Incorporated that fits perfectly into the spooky season? The clothing for these costumes is easy to obtain, either on Amazon or from a thrift store, making it both affordable and adorable. 

Do you have a sweet tooth? We sure do. Look no further for the greatest group costume idea of all time. You and your friends can be Strawberry Shortcake and her merry band of Berry Besties. The characters are Strawberry Shortcake, Orange Blossom, Blueberry Muffin, Raspberry Torte, Plum Pudding, Huckleberry Pie, Lemon Meringue, and Angel Cake. Super cute!

The B-line staff hopes these ideas have helped you formulate your costume ideas. We wish a spooky, scary Halloween, full of treats (and tricks).