Once candy corn makes its return on the supermarket shelves, you know it's official: Halloween is almost here! We’re all guilty of scrambling to a novelty shop at the last minute to find the costume that best expresses our alter ego, but how often do we re-wear that Batgirl costume stuffed in the back of the closet? Basically never.
VIDEO: DIY Halloween Costumes for Kids
Our three favorite words: add to cart.
So this year, why not build an outfit around a dress you'll actually want to incorporate into your fall wardrobe long after the tricks and treats have passed? We've scoured the lands and found an array of transformative dresses that can turn you into a witch, a goddess, or a disco diva with the addition of a few simple accessories. Scroll down to see (and shop) our favorite picks. We promise, you’ll definitely be revisiting these dresses in the future.
’50s Lady
For a classic retro vibe, go for a fit-and-flare dress with a ladylike print. Add a strand of pearls, short gloves, and kitten heels to complete the look. Red lips don’t hurt either!
Sexy Red Devil
Let your inner bad girl out for the night with a smoldering dress in crimson velvet. Finish the look with a red horned headband and fishnet tights.
Purr-fect Leopard
The sex kitten within is just waiting to take her Halloween walk on the wild side! The essentials? A sleek leopard-print dress and kitten ears. For a cutesy touch, use a dark eyebrow pencil to draw a triangle on the tip of your nose and add whiskers.
Evil Queen
Conjure your favorite Disney princess’ nemesis with a bejeweled gown in a deep red shade. Throw on a fab tiara and grab a scepter and you’re good to go.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Who didn’t love Holly Golightly’s elegant wardrobe in this classic 1961 film? Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn and take a sleek LBD for a spin, accessorized with a wide-brim hat, large sunnies, and a pearl choker.
Screen Siren Marilyn Monroe
Ask anyone about The Seven Year Itch and the first scene that comes to mind is Monroe standing over a subway grate, trying to keep the skirt of that iconic white dress from blowing over her head. Take a cue from the sultry film legend and pair your dress with white strappy sandals.
Fierce Skeleton
If you don’t have time to put together an elaborate costume, this one’s for you. All you need is this killer LBD and a body-paint kit to create a skeletal motif on your face—be as minimal or as detailed as you’d like.
Egyptian Goddess
This flowy gown is the perfect nod to Cleopatra. Add a thin gold headband, a rope-tie belt, and tie-up flat sandals to channel the Queen of the Nile.
Disco Diva
Bring back the disco era with a shimmering number that would make even the dancing dolls of Studio 54 jealous. Don’t forget to pile on the faux diamonds and resurrect those platforms!
Roaring ’20s Flapper
We love the movement of this fringe! Capture the essence of the original party girl in this flashy dress. Up the glam with a sparkly headband and feather boa.
