Halloween is around the corner, and if you’re anything like me, you’ve spent the majority of October racking your brain (and your Instagram feed) for the perfect makeup *look* for the big night.
And if, (also like me) you’re not exactly an expert with the ol’ brushes, it can be a bit of struggle to conjure up something that’s a) recognisable, b) easy to do, and c) still looks majorly cool. Plus, some of us just don’t fancy smothering our whole faces in paint à la Pennywise, and that’s okay.
Luckily, this year’s biggest trend for Halloween costumes and *looks* seems to be that of our fave nostalgic icons, with little to no makeup required (or at least none that requires great skill and expertise).
So, without further ado, here are some of our fave ideas for those who want to look spooky, but not scary – and with minimum effort. We’ve got you covered.
By Beth Ryan
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1 The 90s pop star lookThere’s nothing we love more than a 90s pop icon. Spice Girls, Christina Aguilera, and Britney Spears – they gave us legendary fashion moments, timeless pop anthems, and an endless supply of girl power. Fortunately, some of their most recognisable looks are pretty easy to emulate (on the makeup side of things, anyway). For Xtina’s look, which Kylie Jenner paid homage to back in 2016, opt for a light nude lip and very dark eye – and don’t worry too much about application – it’s all about that ‘Dirrty’ wild-child vibe. For Britney’s classic ‘Oops I did it again’ get up – use a frosty silver or blue eyeshadow all over the lid (we’ve all got some left over from the 90s, right?) and add an ultra-glossy pink-nude shade for the lips. To emulate Ginger Spice – opt for thick liner and XXL lashes, and a bright red or brown lipstick (the 90s were all about brown lipstick, of course). Want to really commit to the look? Add some money-piece highlights and grab your gal pals to complete the group.
Our tip: if you’re not a regular false lash wearer – make sure to practice beforehand. Applying them is not always as easy as the tutorials make out. Otherwise, you can always opt for eyelash extensions at the salon to cut out the step altogether. Too easy.
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2 Your fave nostalgic movie character
Sometimes, our fave films can give us the best Halloween costume inspo. One of the easiest (and hottest, in our opinion) Halloween icons is Pulp Fiction’s Mia Wallace. The costume itself is super simple – a white button-up shirt, black trousers, and a black wig – and the makeup is just as easy to replicate. Subtle black liner, a light coat of maroon lipstick, and you’re good to go. Wednesday Addams is another Halloween classic – and for good reason. The movie version doesn’t wear much makeup, but there have been a tonne of interpretations of the character, so feel free to take some creative licence. Add some liner or a smokey eye, and some black lipstick to really add to Wednesday’s goth vibes, and obviously top it off with her characteristic braids. If you’re more into chick flicks (same here), then go for the most iconic of them all, and channel your inner Mean Girl with an homage to the Queen Bee of Queen bees: Regina George. There are so many looks to choose from, but for a simple version – pair your checked skirt and cardigan with oh-so-00s pink blush and glossy lips. That’s so fetch.
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3 Our beloved childhood cartoons
Let’s be real – Halloween is the perfect excuse to relive your childhood (apple-bobbing, anyone?), so why not recreate a look from your fave Saturday morning cartoon fix? It may be a bit niche, but the Beret Girl from an Extremely Goofy Movie is too cute (and simple) to not include here. Draw on a black nose, add lashes, dark blue eyeshadow, and a dramatic winger liner, and finish with a berry-coloured lip. Beret obligatory, of course. We’re also obsessed with this darker interpretation of Chel from The Road to El Dorado – opt for dark lips and eyes and add a fake lip piercing to make this a Halloween-appropriate look. Finally, our beloved childhood series – Recess. And which better character to recreate than everyone’s favourite bad gal – Spinelli. Opt for subtle eyes and a darker nude lip – what could be easier? It also makes for the perfect group costume – grab a few pals and convince them to be TJ, Mikey, Gretchen, and Gus. You can even throw in a few of the Ashleys if you have extra group members. Scaaa-ndalous.
Still struggling with the makeup side of your costume, or just fancy going all out this year? Why not leave it to the pros and book a makeup appointment instead.
With Treatwell, you can book hair & beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area.
