Riss’s Halloween Hall of Fame + 10 Costume Ideas for 2026
For someone who says she never really celebrates Halloween I find myself dressing up almost every year. With Halloween coming up, I’m taking a look back at five of my favorite costumes—from a classic black cat to a full Padmé moment. And if you’re still staring into your Pinterest wondering what to wear, I got you. I’ve got 10 ideas for you, too.
The Black Cat
Black outfit. Cat ears. Done.
There’s a reason this costume keeps coming back every Halloween, twas infact my first ever Halloween costume as a baby. You can add whiskers and a little black nose, or keep your regular makeup and let the ears handle the explanation.
The Cheetah
This one is a throwback to 2014… yeah high school Riss. It was all about the makeup. An animal-print top set the scene, but the spots, nose, and whisker details turned it into a whole look.
If you already have animal print in your closet, this is a good excuse to put it to work. Just leave yourself enough time for the face paint.
Padmé Amidala
Tis but a master piece… forever a Star Wars girlie!
This Padmé look is probably my favorite. SURPISINGLY an Amazon find. Here is the link.
The Pirate
Seemed to always find myself at Tandy’s Pirate Party so one year I just bought the whole look.
A pirate costume also gives you plenty of freedom: start with the hat, then build around boots, a skirt or pants, and whatever dramatic accessories you can find. Talking like a pirate all night is between you and your friends… classic!
The Scarecrow
Back in the day I did a listener voted Halloween costume and this was the choice from the voters. Wore it to Tandy’s Halloween party back in 2018. It’s a fun mix of cute and creepy, and the makeup ties everything together.
Kim Possible
…no notes. So easy to create at home. Just need a red wig.
10 Costume Ideas to Try This Halloween
- Dolly Parton: Big blonde hair, rhinestones, fringe, and a toy microphone. The higher the hair, the closer to Dolly.
- Bad Bunny’s Grass: Dress in green and attach faux grass or felt blades all over. Add bunny ears to help land the joke.
- Granny Gone Wild: A floral nightgown, rollers, slippers, and oversized glasses. Carry a purse full of candy and offer unsolicited advice.
- Pitbull, Mr. Worldwide: A bald cap, sunglasses, a suit, and a globe. Your only response all night? “Dale.”
- Reba McEntire: A big red wig, sparkly outfit, and microphone. Walk into every room like you’re about to sing “Fancy.”
- Guy Fieri: Spiky blonde hair, sunglasses, a flame shirt, and a spatula. Welcome to Flavortown.
- A Walking Red Flag: Wear red and pin little warning signs to yourself: “Texts ‘you up?’” or “Claps when the plane lands.”
- Hannah Montana: Wig. Mic. Sparkles.
- Santa Claus: HO HO HO.
- The Neighborhood Gossip: A bathrobe, slippers, rollers, and binoculars. You’re just checking the mail… for the seventh time today.
