The 6 Best Retro Halloween Costumes for Women in 2023

Shop these affordable getups just in time for spooky season.

Cara O’Bleness | Sep 25, 2023

Hippie costume.

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The first day of October is just around the corner, and that means spooky season is upon us. Whether you’ve got several monster mashes lined up on your calendar or are hosting a shindig of your own, now is the time to start thinking about costumes.

Perhaps instead of a couple’s costume or a current pop culture-inspired look, you’re interested in something a bit more vintage. If you want to channel a character from the past or stick with a tried-and-true classic costume, we’ve got you covered with the following choices.

Pink Lady from Grease

Maxim Party Supplies Women’s Vintage Pink Lady 1950s Satin Jacket Costume for Adults with Polka Dot Neck Scarf, $16.97 (amazon.com)

You can never go wrong with the 1978 hit musical on Halloween. Embody one of the four original Pink Ladies with a simple accessories kit that won’t break the bank. It comes with the satin jacket and neck scarf, which you can pair with black pumps and pants already in your closet.

Solo in the Spotlight Barbie

Glitter Black Layered Tulle Mermaid Maxi Dress, $59.99 (sthcute.com)

You know this one—Margot Robbie channeled a similar look at the Los Angeles premiere of Barbie over the summer. Be trendy while rocking a vintage aesthetic with this look from the 1960s.

1920s-Era Flapper

PLULON 1920s Sequin Beaded Fringed Flapper Dress with ’20s Accessories Set, $37.89 (amazon.com)

A classic retro costume, this black-and-gold set comes equipped with everything you need to transform for the evening. It’s also available in an option with a red or black-and-silver dress.

Rosie the Riveter

We Can Rosie Costume Kit, $34.95 (amazon.com)

If you have a denim jumpsuit in your closet, this affordable accessories kit is a great way to throw together a quick—and cute—vintage costume.

Groovy Woodstock attendee

SOMSOC 7 Pieces ’70s Women Hippie Costume Fringe Vest Bag Pant Headband for Halloween, $36.99 (amazon.com)

This 1970s-inspired hippie costume comes complete with flower power-adorned pants, a fringe vest and tons of vintage accessories.

Pan Am Airline Attendant

Retro Stewardess Costume, $34.95 (amazon.com)

Have you ever wanted to personify a retro flight attendant? With this adorable getup, now is your chance.

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Published Sep 25, 2023

CARA O’BLENESS

Cara is a trending news writer/editor for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. A passionate writer and editor with more than 10 years of experience in print and online media, she loves storytelling and believes that words have the power to change the world. Prior to joining the team, Cara worked as a writer and editor across a number of content verticals, including food, lifestyle, health and wellness, and small business and entrepreneurship. In her free time, Cara loves reading, spending time with her family and making her way through Michigan’s many microbreweries. She is a graduate of Michigan State University's School of Journalism.