TrueStar Staff 
When it comes to niche Halloween costumes, think cultural references, archival fashion, and DIY flair designed to make people turn heads and express identity through style.
No offense to the stereotypical angel with the attached headband halo and white faux-fur wings that litter the streets every year. If this is you, here’s a curated guide on how YOU can stand out at your next creepy function. With with these options, you’ll turn heads, out of amusement or a lack of knowledge due to the nicheness of your costume.
Niche Halloween Costumes
- Akasha (Queen of the Damned): It’s hard to do this one right, but if you walk like royalty and bite like rebellion, you’re already a step ahead. Channel your inner vampiric opulence with body armor and divine vengeance, like Akasha taught us.
- Michiko Malandro (Michiko & Hatchin): Absolutely iconic, and not recognized nearly enough for its cultural relevance in fashion. Where streetwear meets femme outlaw, grab some gold hoops, and with beige shorts, red leather jacket, a bralette top, and unapologetic heat, you’ll live to be a walking reference that only the coolest understand.
- Serena (MTV’s Downtown): There’s been a resurgence in views and edits of the 90s hit “MTV Downtown,” specifically dialogue shared between Serena and fellow characters, the niche aspect of this idea, is that the purple hair is striking and you can interpret her late 90s / early 00s mall gothic energy in a way that’s unique to you. Layered textures, chunky boots, and that “don’t ask me to smile” attitude are your compass in navigating the look.
- Office Siren (LITERALLY): Mermaid meets Businesscore, grab a blazer, pearls, and embody the wet-look with accessorizing and styling. Serve HR meets Atlantis vibes this year, a reference most won’t understand, but surely a fun explanation to break down to those confused.
- Nana Osaki (NANA): Think archival Vivienne Westwood meets Punk rock. If you have a love for fashion and anime, Nana Osaki is the perfect character to reimagine for Halloween. Leather, chains, and a faux cigarette you DON’T light.
- Venus Flytrap: Botanical femme fatale. Imagine poison ivy but more intentional – green mesh, petal sleeves, and extreme lashes that blink caution.
- Fancy Nancy: With an uproar in Fancy Nancy-themed parties, reimagine a childhood favorite through maximalist chic aesthetics. From tulle, tiaras, too big, and an extensive vocabulary. Embody extra-ness and elevation with this costume.
This Halloween, let’s skip the basics? Dress how you please, like a mood, memory, or even a metaphor. Halloween is for your costume to say what words cannot. Most importantly, have fun, and be safe.
By Journey Powell, Senior, Spelman College
Instagram: journeyaliah
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