HCA Unveils Hottest Costume Trends for 2023

Halloween & Costume Association Unveils Hottest Costume Trends for 2023 Amidst Slow Start to the Season

MT LAUREL, NJ (September 27, 2023) - The Halloween & Costume Association (HCA) has just revealed the hottest costume trends for 2023, providing Halloween enthusiasts with inspiration for the absolute favorite holiday among both millennials and Gen Z. While 2022 saw a fast start in costume shopping, 2023 appears to be taking a slightly different approach, but the HCA remains confident that Halloween will be as amazing as ever.

Popular Trends for Halloween 2023:

• Pop Culture Icons: Calling all Swifties! Costumes paying homage to Taylor Swift, Super Mario Brothers, Wednesday Adams, and The Little Mermaid will all make a big splash this year. These costumes draw inspiration from beloved pop culture figures, reflecting the enduring popularity of dressing up as a favorite character from film, music or television.
• Barbie Movie Looks: Halloween fans can prepare to channel their inner Barbie and Ken with a dazzling array of costumes inspired by the Barbie Movie. This year, a spotlight is set to shine on Barbie and Ken couples and family costumes to include western wear and the iconic pink power jumpsuit.
• TMNT: Cowabunga! The Mutant Mayhem Movie has spurred a resurgence of turtle power. Modern Turtles will share the stage with beloved Classic TMNT Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael, and Donatello costumes. Whether one is a fan of the new or the classic, the Turtles are poised to remain a Halloween favorite.
• Creepy, grim and skeleton Costumes: Eerie and haunting, scary costumes are experiencing a robust resurgence. These spine-chilling ensembles cater to those who relish a touch of the macabre.
• Nostalgia, Fantasy, and Medieval Costumes: Costume enthusiasts can embark on a journey to another era with costumes inspired by nostalgia, fantasy, and medieval themes. From embodying legendary characters to transforming into mystical creatures, the possibilities are endless.
• Accessories Galore: In 2023, the devil is in the details. Accessories, particularly wigs, are experiencing high demand as they play a crucial role in completing one's Halloween look.

While Halloween is always an eagerly anticipated holiday, there are some unique factors affecting the start of the season this year. "In 2022, we witnessed a lightning-fast start, but 2023 presents a different rhythm. Regardless, the spirit of Halloween remains strong, and we're confident that this year will deliver its own brand of excitement,” said Gregor Lawson, HCA Chairman, and co-founder of MorphCostumes.

HCA has identified three key elements contributing to a slower start in costume sales:

• Tuesday Halloween: Halloween falling on a Tuesday has historically not been the most conducive for elaborate celebrations, prompting some to prolong decision making.

• Economic Strain: Although most people can afford Halloween celebrations, many are delaying costume purchases to avoid tying up cash, given ongoing economic uncertainties.
• Confidence in Availability: After well-publicized shortages in 2021, consumers may have more confidence in finding the costumes they want closer to Halloween, leading to delayed shopping.

As August sales represent only a fraction of the total, the HCA remains optimistic for Halloween 2023, envisioning a significant uptick in sales as the October festivities approach, potentially surpassing last year's numbers. The continued year-over-year growth of Halloween is a highly encouraging indicator, firmly establishing the foundation for yet another spectacular October celebration.

The HCA has countless costume connoisseurs available for interview. For tips, trends, & random reasons to sport a superhero suit, please reach out!

For Media Inquiries, Expert Commentary or Product Samples please contact Aneisha McMillan at amcmillan@hiaonline.org/ 910.849.9003

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About the Halloween & Costume Association

Known as THE industry source for Halloween, with cumulative sales of $3 billion, the HCA has earned the title of “EXPERT” when it comes to all things costume related. These are the folks that live and breathe October all year long and can dish for days on the myths, legends, trends, traditions, safety tips and devilish details that only a true insider would know.