Halloween used to be all about ghosts and witches. But what was a holiday full of cobwebs and cauldrons revolves around something else: the spirit of the times.

Simply put, broomsticks are so last season. Nowadays it’s all about the Halloween hit. The entire month of October has become a great opportunity to show off your broad knowledge of pop culture. It’s an IRL quiz among Halloween-goers in which they try to outsmart and outsmart each other with “if you know, you know” costumes.

But while it’s all about current events, the real Halloween joy comes from DIYing and hunting for vintage costumes instead of buying new ones. Trust us, a lovingly crafted unusual reference will give you a lot more cultural cachet than a sexy kitten you buy at the store. So, for next week, here are seven of the most ‘2024’ costumes to get you started.

It’s raining Rish

For the most authentic look at the deposed Conservative Prime Minister, you better hope it rains. Pull out your fanciest suit, finish with a blue Tory tie and shiny loafers (the former Prime Minister preferred Prada when he wasn’t ruining the sambas for the rest of us) and then stand outside, ideally in a downpour, for a lectern while Things Can Only Get Better blares in the background.

It’s important to keep your head up while the rain hits your face. You’ll know you’ve nailed the look when the drops trickle down your hair and pile up on your shoulders. Stay challenging.

A brat

It’s been four months since Charli xcx released her album Brat, which quickly got into the summer mood. If you don’t know what a brat is by now, I’m afraid this isn’t the look for you – it would be like dressing up as Mia Wallace without having seen Pulp Fiction.

For the real brats among us, there are many iterations to choose from. You could follow Charli’s advice and stick to the essentials: “A pack of cigarettes, a Bic lighter, and a white strappy top with no bra.” Alternatively, dress from head to toe in brat green, that particular lurid shade cherished by everyone from the Green Party to Kamala Harris. Or you can wear a “365 PARTYGIRL” baby T-shirt and a pair of tiny shorts. You can also put on a pair of black wraparound sunglasses, bring a stack of pants, or an odd Granny Smith apple. Just remember: it’s a Halloween brat and it’s completely different, but still a brat.

The fabric

This creepy body horror is perfect fodder for a friends/couples costume. For Demi Moore’s character Elisabeth Sparkle, you’ll need a banana yellow coat, tobacco-colored gloves, and oversized black sunglasses. That little cardboard box that’s been sitting in your hallway for the past week? Pick it up and hold it under your arm. For the ‘better version’ of Elisabeth (aka Sue from Margaret Qualley), go for a pink lamé bodysuit straight out of an ’80s aerobics class. Add matching pink leg warmers and eye shadow and walk around shouting, “Check yourself” whenever anyone looks your way.

Moo Deng

Dressing like the internet’s favorite baby pygmy hippo isn’t easy, but it’s guaranteed to be a conversation starter. Especially if you want to draw attention to the endangered native West African species. While you could opt for a hippo-themed onesie or gray sweatpants, the key to emulating this one-year-old is glowing skin – Real glowing skin – and a sassy attitude. Pour the baby oil on and get to work on those indignant facial expressions. As for accessories? It’s all about Moo Deng’s beloved garden hose.

Timothée Chalamet

While the above image of Timothée Chalamet was taken on the set of his next film, the American sports drama Marty Supreme, he could just as easily have been photographed working in some of London’s cozy wine bars/small restaurants. For those who aren’t au faitstart with wide-leg pants and a sleek white cardigan. Next comes a loose shirt, unbuttoned over the top. Add a delicate chain or pearls and wire frame glasses. To complete the look, grow a rat-boy-tache. The perfect whisker level? Similar to the early days of Movember.

Donald Trump

With Halloween falling just days before the US election, a spooky take on Trump is an easy choice. But instead of going for a statement ear bandage or a Maga hat, why not channel his McDonald’s stunt and opt for an apron? You will also need a white shirt (note the French cuffs) and of course: Republican ketchup-red tie. Don’t forget to walk past the nearest golden arches to pick up your final prop: his favorite extra salted fries.

The Gallaghers

These heroes of Britpop are an easy ‘cultural reference costume’ win. Plus, their wardrobe staples – from polo shirts to baggy jeans, football shirts to hooded parka jackets – are not only easy to come by, but practical for when you inevitably end up hanging around outside complaining about the line for reunion tour tickets. Although Liam has recently fronted campaigns for Stone Island and Berghaus, second-hand sites are full of jackets that will help you get his look. Accessories are also essential for Gallagher brother cosplay. Think bucket hat, tinted sunglasses and worn-out sneakers. A can of lager and a lot of swagger complete the picture.

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