Now that October has arrived, it's time to stop procrastinating and start considering what exactly to wear come Halloween. You may be obligated to dress up for a costume party, or maybe to take some trick-or-treaters around the neighborhood — or maybe you enjoy getting into costume for the holiday. Either way, you don't want your outfit to come off as too childish (or worse, like you're still in college). Finding chic Halloween costumes can seem tricky, but there's an unexpectedly fruitful place you can mine for ideas: the latest fashion week runways.
Here's the thing: It's not that you need to recreate a designer ensemble from head-toe-toe. Instead, focus on finding inspiration from a collection's broader sartorial themes. The runway is one place where creativity runs abound, which makes it an ideal starting point for creative costuming. Taking cues from the likes of Alexander McQueen and Chanel, there's plenty of unintentional outfit inspiration to be had. And it's up to you whether you want to shop for new and cool pieces you can use on Halloween (and again come November), or if you simply want to repurpose a few key items that you already own. Either way, let these five high fashion looks serve as your source of Halloween inspiration.
Westworld — Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2019
For all the HBO devotees along with fans of this fall's prevailing cowboy-inspired trends, channel your creativity (and recent purchases) into a Westworld costume inspired by the dark western looks on the runway at Alexander McQueen. Admit it: It's easy to imagine Dolores in a riff on this cool ensemble. To recreate it yourself, cinch an off the shoulder dress with a wide waist belt, then add some cowboy boots and an attitude of childlike wonder — it'll be a dead giveaway.
Beach Goth — Chanel Spring/Summer 2019
Want to pull together a costume that's a little bit out of the ordinary? Consider reimagining your spooky October vibes and going beach goth, an aesthetic that marries two unexpected partners: island vibes and all black. Inspired by some of the unexpected oceanside ensembles at Chanel, mix and match witchy staples with tropical pieces like a straw hat and cool sunglasses.
Track Star — Off-White Spring/Summer 2019
If you want a costume that's both ridiculously comfortable and ridiculously easy, look to Virgil Abloh's latest collection at Off-White, which was heavy on the athletic aesthetic. For the simplest take on this ensemble, go for a full bodysuit and running sneakers. But, if a spandex one-piece feels like too much, leggings and a workout top will suffice. Then, throw on a costume medal or construct your own Olympic torch for good measure.
Greek Goddess — Chloé Spring/Summer 2019
On the creativity spectrum, dressing as a Greek goddess isn't exactly novel, but it is both stylish and simple. Inspired by the breezy dressing on the Chloé runway, break out a romantic floaty dress and your favorite pair of gladiator sandals. If you're somewhere that runs the risk of being chilly come October 31, opt for a longer hemline and a coordinating robe coat.
Mick Jagger — Saint Laurent Spring/Summer 2019
Want to channel the style of a living legend? Go for a Mick Jagger-esque rock 'n' roll ensemble a la Saint Laurent. A graphic blazer is a piece you'll be sure to wear even once the holiday is over, so it's a worthy investment. Layer on plenty of leather and leopard and you're look is complete.
