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On Halloween, most of us fall somewhere between Heidi Klum and Jim Halpert. That is, we’re not going to win any $1,000 costume contests, but we’ve also been around the pumpkin patch long enough to know that no one is too cool to don a costume for one night (or two, depending on how many parties you’ve been invited to). But there’s got to be a better way than shelling out $100 every year for a costume that’ll just sit in a box for the rest of eternity.
There most certainly is, and we’re here to show you the way. Now that we as a society have generally shifted away from the ghouls and goblins to pop culture costumes, all you have to do is pick a distinct enough TV or movie character, musician, meme or other well-known figure that people will recognize them through a couple strategic garments, but who also wears clothes that you can employ in your wardrobe the rest of the year.
For example, Eddie Murphy as Dolomite is out because there’s no way you’re pulling off satin-accented paisley suits Monday through Friday. Same goes for the Joker. On the other end of the spectrum is something like Downton Abbey, which is also out because done up in white tie attire you could be anyone. Below, we’ve detailed five costumes with the two essential garments you’ll need, and that you’ll be able to put away in your closet and dresser (instead of under the bed) come November 1.
Cliff Booth from Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
Essentials:
Optional accessory:
- Pit bull
Theo Decker from The Goldfinch
Essentials:
- Jacket: Tailored Herringbone Coat from Tommy Hilfiger
- Scarf: Solid Navy Cashmere Scarf from Joshua Ellis
Optional accessory:
- Print out “The Goldfinch” painting, glue it to cardboard, then wrap it up in newspaper and hold it to your chest all night
Kanye West at “Sunday Service” at Coachella
Essentials:
- Shirt: Oversized Purple Crewneck T-shirt from ASOS
- Pants: Lilac Purple Cargo Trouser from Acne Studios
Optional accessory:
- Multicolored hair dye and a posse of similarly dressed disciples
Mister Rogers from A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood
Essentials:
Optional accessory:
- A true interest in the small talk people are trying to make at your Halloween party
Thomas Wake from The Lighthouse
Essentials:
- Hat: Roll Up Yacht Cap from Quaker Marine
- Jacket: Manchester Wool Peacoat from Todd Snyder + Private White V.C.
Optional accessory:
- Pipe, weathered beard and complete and total fluency in Melville-ian English
We've put in the work researching, reviewing and rounding up all the shirts, jackets, shoes and accessories you'll need this season, whether it's for yourself or for gifting purposes. Sign up here for weekly style inspo direct to your inbox.
