15 Best Pop Culture Halloween Costume Ideas for 2022

You can always be a witch, ghost, vampire or ghoul for Halloween, but that's not nearly as fun as using your costume to make a witty reference to 2022. Let this year's wildest moments, biggest movies, TV show specials, celebrity couples and more inform your look, and rock one of these pop culture-inspired Halloween costumes. Here are our top 15 in no particular order.

Abbott Elementary

Consider this the ultimate group Halloween costume of 2022. Show up and show out as Philadelphia's finest teachers: Janine Teagues, Barbara Howard, Melissa Schemmenti, Gregory Eddie and Jacob Hill from the hit TV show, Abbott Elementary. Snag a patterned maxi dress for Janine, a purple cardigan for Barbara, a leather jacket for Melissa, a gray sweater for Gregory or Jacob, and a pack of very official-looking blue lanyards.

Encanto

Encanto technically came out in 2021, but "We Don't Talk About Bruno" continues to live on. Transform your family into the Madrigals with a set of embroidered midi dresses for Mirabel, Isabel, Luisa and more and an oversized green poncho for Bruno.

Only Murders in the Building

"I know who did it!" Broadcast your love of Only Murders in the Building season two by dressing like Mabel Mora, Oliver Putnam or Charles-Haden Savage. (Or the entire trio, if you can convince two friends to coordinate.) You'll want a yellow coat for Mabel, a purple sweater vest for Oliver and a dark gray sports jacket and fedora hat for Charles. Add an artificial green parrot to portray Mrs. Gambolini for a cheeky finishing touch.

Stranger Things

Stranger Things season four introduced us to so many new characters: Eddie Munson, Chrissy Cunningham, Argyle, Vecna, etc. Pick your favorite or assemble an all-star team with a few clever accessories. You can rock a Hellfire Club shirt and denim jacket, a Hawkins High cheerleading outfit, a Surfer Boy Pizza uniform or a neon-blue hoodie like Max Mayfield.

"Running Up That Hill"

We couldn't possibly mention Stranger Things without talking about the song it revived from the 80s. If you'd rather be something more abstract, grab this crewneck and go as "Running Up That Hill" by Kate Bush.

Serena Williams

One of the greatest athletes of all time, Serena Williams, announced her retirement earlier this year and we're still not over it. Pay homage to the legendary tennis pro and her final match with a sheer black top, a black skirt, black sneakers and — of course — a Wilson tennis racket.

Top Gun: Maverick

Top Gun: Maverick absolutely dominated this year's box office. Fly in style with other fans by slipping into an army green jumpsuit or brown leather bomber jacket. And whatever you do, don't forget the helmet or a pair of aviators.

The Bachelorettes

Now here's a Halloween costume that's perfect for best friends. Nod to Gabby Windey and Rachel Recchia's shared season of The Bachelorette by donning floor-length gowns inspired by their "Night One" looks. Your Gabby should be in a sheer number with black sequins, and your Rachel should rock white lace. Complete the 'fits with faux red roses.

House of the Dragon

Unleash your inner Targaryen — in the spirit of House of the Dragon — with a silver-blonde wig, a waistcoat and a dragon mask for your good-natured partner. If you're going for Princess Rhaenyra, opt for the plum-colored coat. Otherwise, snag the black jacket to become the brooding Daemon.

"It's Corn"

Admit it: You know all the words to the now-viral TikTok song, "It's Corn." Better yet, say nothing at all and instead show up to the Halloween party in this phenomenal corn-on-the-cob costume. Everyone will get the idea.

Blake Lively + Ryan Reynolds

Pregnant people, rejoice! Blake Lively recently debuted her bump at the 10th Annual Forbes Power Women's Summit and provided some serious maternity Halloween costume inspiration. Grab a golden, figure-hugging dress and your best guy or gal to instantly evoke thoughts of the happy celebrity couple.

The Summer I Turned Pretty

Did any show make us laugh, swoon or scream in frustration this year like The Summer I Turned Pretty? Recreate that heart-pounding scene at the deb ball by slipping into a white floor-length gown, complete with white satin elbow gloves and a pearl headband. Or, if you prefer one of Belly's more casual looks, opt for a comfy "Cousins Beach" sweatshirt and cut-off shorts.

Elvis

If ever there were a year to dress like Elvis, it's this one. Pay tribute to the King of Rock and Roll by putting on this iconic white jumpsuit. The outfit is crafted from polyester, includes the red scarf and studded belt, and will leave your family and friends all shook up.

Taylor Swift

The only thing more iconic than Taylor Swift announcing her next album at the VMAs is what she wore to the after-party. Take cues from the pop star and pull up to the Halloween party in a blue satin slip dress, a white feather boa and silver heels. Accessorize with silver star stickers or iron-on patches to hint at Midnights, just as the Easter egg queen herself did.

Lightyear

If your little one loved Lightyear, then surprise them with their very own Space Ranger costume. The polyester jumpsuit is just as comfortable as it looks and features all of the same artwork as Buzz's costume. Best of all? Parents can coordinate just by wearing white button-downs, jeans and headphones and becoming agents of "Star Command."