October is the month of magic, mystery, and mischief, culminating in one of the most awaited festivals of the year – Halloween! As the leaves change colours and the air turns crisp, it’s time to prepare for an unforgettable All Hallows’ Eve. In this round-up, we delve into the key Halloween trends that will dominate October 2023, from costumes to decorations and everything in between.
H3FFWP // DIY Halloween jars with zombies and smoke. // Contributor Name Credit: Dina Belenko.
Immersive Virtual Halloween Experiences
In 2023, Halloween celebrations are going beyond traditional parties and haunted houses. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies are taking center stage, allowing people to experience spine-chilling adventures from the comfort of their homes. Expect to find virtual haunted houses, interactive ghost tours, and eerie escape rooms, where you and your friends can embark on thrilling quests together, regardless of your physical location.
2AMXJK5 // Playing a horror game using a VR headset. // Contributor Name Credit: Ievgen Chabanov.
Iconic Throwback Costumes
Nostalgia reigns supreme, as classic and iconic Halloween costumes from the past make a grand comeback. Get ready to see trick-or-treaters dressed as beloved characters from vintage movies, TV shows, and cartoons. Expect to encounter superheroes, witches, vampires, and even retro video game characters wandering the streets in search of treats.
2C66MKX // Participants at the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade, New York City, USA in the 1980's. // Contributor Name Credit: Laperruque.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Halloween
In line with the growing awareness of environmental issues, this spooky season will witness a surge in sustainable and eco-friendly Halloween practices. People are opting for biodegradable decorations, eco-conscious costumes made from recycled materials, and candy choices that support ethical and eco-friendly brands. From atmospheric solar-powered lights to compostable pumpkin decorations, Halloween enthusiasts are determined to celebrate with a green conscience.
2K33T0N // Zero waste, plastic-free trick-or-treating with pumpkins and paper bats. // Contributor Name Credit: Iryna Khabliuk.
DIY Halloween Decorations
In the spirit of greater creativity and personalisation, DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Halloween decorations are gaining popularity. People are embracing homemade spooky crafts, such as ghostly lanterns made from recycled jars, eerie silhouettes crafted from cardboard, and hauntingly beautiful wreaths adorned with faux spiderwebs and bats. Embracing DIY decorations adds a unique touch to your Halloween ambiance while showcasing your artistic skills.
2K33T0N // Making halloween decorations including traditional carved pumpkins and garlands. // Contributor Name Credit: Oleksiy Boyko.
Peculiar Feasts
. Given a special seasonal boost, bakeries and restaurants will offer an array of eerie desserts, such as ghost-shaped macarons, pumpkin spice cupcakes, and mummy-inspired cookies. For adults, Halloween-themed cocktails and mocktails will be the talk of the town, featuring concoctions like “Witch’s Brew” and “Vampire’s Kiss.”
2D8K5R1 // Themed baked goods. // Contributor Name Credit: Joanna Kozinska-Kudera.
Inclusive and Diverse Celebrations
Diversity and inclusivity are the pillars of Halloweens to come. More than ever, people are encouraged to embrace costumes that pay homage to different cultures, heroes, and historical figures from around the world. Expect to see a wider representation of characters and a celebration of unique identities, fostering a sense of unity and understanding. .
2KB4HTT // A gender-inclusive Latinx sign, part of a colourful D铆a de Muertos (Day of the Dead) altar display. // Contributor Name Credit: Chris Allan.
From embracing virtual experiences to donning throwback costumes and incorporating sustainability, get ready to embrace the spirit of Halloween however you see fit, for the month of thrills and chills is just around the corner! Be sure to use us to gain inspiration and a broad overview of all the key visual trends taking over this October.