Ah, Halloween. For many of us queer women, it has always been more than just a night of playing dress-up. It’s a rare moment in time when we can let our imaginations and identities run wild. In a world that often doesn’t make space for outliers, Halloween is when we can express what we like, who we are—or who we’ve always wanted to be—without fear or judgment.
It’s the one night when it’s socially acceptable to be witchy, to embrace our inner dom black cat, to explore more masc energy, or to be as gloriously flamboyant as we please. Halloween has been our permission slip to experiment, to play, and to be free.
Whether you’re stepping into the boots of your favorite warrior princess or channeling the chaotic vibes of a beloved villain at a lesbian bar or at home, here are some iconic lesbian Halloween costume ideas that are as legendary as they are meaningful.
Agatha and/or Rio (Agatha All Along)
Ugh, I’m obsessed with Marvel’s newest Agatha All Along show about queer witches. It follows Agatha after the events of Wandavision. And is brimming with that 90s romantic witchy nostalgia. On top of that, the first episode’s fight starts off with a very queer tension.
The best part of this is that they rock many different outfits from their time-warped adventures down the witch’s road. Or you can go for their most classic styles.
For Agatha, that’s long black wavy hair, smokey eye makeup, mid-century Salem-style clothing with a dark purple cloak, and gold necklace with an oval locket.
For Rio’s classic look: boots, black leather tights, a long-sleeve green dress paired with a lace or beaded vest and topped off with a deep green witch hood. Long black hair cascades down, and a scythe.
Lou & Jackie (Love Lies Bleeding)
For those who want to channel some 80s vibes with a dash of rebellion, look no further than Lou and Jackie from Love Lies Bleeding. This gritty, raw portrayal of a lesbian relationship against the backdrop of a bodybuilding scene offers a costume option that’s both edgy and nostalgic.
Jackie’s punk aesthetic—think curly hair, a tank top with a sports bra, an 80s colorful jacket, and a pair of shorts—brings out the tough yet tender side of her character. Lou’s mullet and denim ensemble, complete with a Red Crater gym tank top or shirt. Don’t forget the 80s high-top socks. Add a few accessories like a weight belt or even a toy gun, and you’ve got yourself a costume that screams both strength and defiance.
Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan’s vibrant, eclectic fashion sense and theatrical performances make her an ideal muse for a standout Halloween costume. In a music industry that still often lacks visible representation for lesbian and queer women, Chappell brings much-needed visibility and positive role models, with her music resonating deeply within the queer community, especially lesbians.
One of her most iconic looks is the “Pink Pony Cowgirl” ensemble, a celebration of all things bold and playful. This look includes a pink cowboy hat, a short pink bodysuit, and pink and silver accessories. Pair it with bold makeup, cowboy boots, and over-the-top jewelry—or even a pink lasso for added flair.
Another memorable outfit is from her Tiny Desk concert, featuring a short pink strapless dress, silver accessories, a crown, pink long gloves, and pink high boots. To complete the look, finish it off with a pair of pink butterfly wings for that whimsical touch.
Xena & Gabrielle (Xena: Warrior Princess)
Let’s kick things off with the dynamic duo that defined 90s television and became a hallmark of lesbian subtext long before it was mainstream. Xena and Gabrielle weren’t just warriors—they were pioneers. They traveled the world together, battling evil, defending the innocent, and slowly but surely becoming a queer cultural touchstone.
The beauty of Xena and Gabrielle as a Halloween costume is in the sheer recognizability of their outfits. Xena’s iconic leather corset, pleated skirt, and knee-high boots scream power, while Gabrielle’s green crop top and earthy, rustic style make her the perfect complement to Xena’s intensity. Don’t forget their weapons—because what’s a warrior without her sword or chakram?
Valkyrie (Marvel/Comics)
For those who want to embody warrior strength, Asgardian Valkyrie from the Marvel universe is an iconic choice. As one of the few confirmed queer characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, she’s hinted at romance with Captain Marvel in Thor: Love and Thunder.
Her complex character and rich backstory make her not just a warrior but a fully realized hero.
Valkyrie’s costume is all about powerful, warrior-like aesthetics. Start with a warrior’s bodysuit, complete with chest plates, armor, and boots. Add arm guards and wing-like headgear. For the hair, you have options: blonde, black, or even silver—all of which are canonically accurate at different points in her story. A blue cape adds a touch of regality, and don’t forget to carry a spear to complete her fierce warrior vibe.
Consider incorporating a flying unicorn—Valkyrie’s mythical steed in the comics. If you’re attending a party with a partner, they can even join you as the unicorn for a playful and funny duo costume!
Lexa & Clarke (The 100)
For fans of post-apocalyptic drama, warriors, and tragic love stories, Lexa and Clarke from The 100 make for a dreamy Halloween duo. Their relationship, which blossomed amidst chaos and war, became a symbol of leadership, sacrifice, and resilience in the face of impossible odds. Lexa, the stoic commander with supreme warrior instincts, and Clarke, the pragmatic survivor, embodied the strength and vulnerability of two women trying to save their people while also finding solace in each other. And their on-screen chemistry? Whew.
Regarding their costumes, Clarke’s look is all about practicality with a touch of grit. Think messy blonde hair with braids, a fitted leather jacket over a dark shirt or tank top, and black skinny jeans tucked into combat boots. Then add the accessories—belts, gloves, and arm guards for that extra layer of survivalist chic.
Lexa’s warrior attire is equally fierce. Her hair, often pulled half back tightly with braids, her face paint with black markings around her eyes. For the outfit, go for a black leather ensemble—some warrior shoulder paddings—paired with black boots. Accentuate the look with more metal and leather pieces, like straps or gauntlets, to capture her presence as commander.
Jobu Tupaki (Everything Everywhere All at Once)
Jobu Tupaki from Everything Everywhere All at Once is an incredibly powerful choice; as a complex character representing the struggles of queer identity, Asian-American expectations, and the weight of familial and societal pressures. She embodies rebellion, empowerment, and the fight for freedom from conventional norms. Also, her costumes are visually striking, each representing a facet of her rebellion against a world that tries to confine her. Her most iconic looks:
- Gothic Lolita Dress: This look is a blend of dark elegance and playful rebellion. The short, frilly black dress with puffed sleeves, a high collar, and white lace details. Pair it with black platform shoes and bold makeup for a striking.
- Elvis-Inspired Outfit: This sparkly white jumpsuit features a high red collar, flared pants, and plenty of rhinestones, all topped off with her signature pink hair.
- Golf Outfit: The pastel-colored golf ensemble is another standout. Complete with a visor, gloves, and a skirt, this look contrasts the sport’s traditional neatness with Jobu’s ominous presence.
- Goddess Outfit: This costume includes a pearly pleather bodysuit paired with a tulle skirt, an Elizabethan ruff with a pearl base, and strands of pearls draped around her waist. Complete the look with pauldrons, long pleather gloves, a hair bagel with crisscrossing braids, and pearl hoop earrings to embody Jobu’s divine and otherworldly energy.
- Chaos Look: For those who want to fully embrace Jobu’s unpredictable nature, the chaos look is the way to go. Sneakers, fingerless gloves, and a mix of multicolored and multi-styled patchwork clothing create a sense of beautiful disorder. Pair this with Picasso-inspired makeup to truly capture Jobu’s embodiment of chaos and rejection of norms.
Villanelle & Eve (Killing Eve)
If you’re feeling a little more chaotic this Halloween, Villanelle and Eve from Killing Eve might be more your speed. Their relationship epitomizes “it’s complicated”—a high chemistry obsessive cat-and-mouse game that walks the fine line between passion and destruction.
Villanelle’s outfits are as bold as her personality, from the pink tulle dress that’s as impractical as it is unforgettable to her more tailored, high-fashion looks. Pair that with Eve’s more subdued, practical trench coat and work attire, and you’ve got the perfect contrast that captures the essence of their relationship: impulse versus control.
Wednesday Addams & Enid Sinclair (Wednesday)
While the show presents them as best friends, many fans have started shipping them as romantic partners, drawn to their on-screen chemistry from enemies to friends and opposites attract. Even Jenna Ortega, who plays Wednesday, expressed interest in seeing their relationship explored further. During the premiere event for the series, Jenna shared with PRIDE on the red carpet that “in a perfect world, we would have been a thing.” Emma Myers, who plays Enid, also acknowledged fans’ hopes for a potential romance in an interview with Elite Daily, noting the strong connection between the characters.
Wednesday’s look is iconic in its gothic 90s. Her black dresses, often paired with chunky combat boots or loafers, give off a dark, moody vibe. Her signature black hair, styled in two braids with bangs, completes the look, making her instantly recognizable as the queen of deadpan wit and dark humor.
Enid, on the other hand, is all about color and quirkiness. Her blonde hair, streaked with pink, and her colorful, feminine outfits create a stark contrast to Wednesday’s darkness. Whether she’s wearing pastel hues or her uniform, Enid’s style is playful, expressive, and unapologetically bold.
Alternatively, you could both wear Nevermore Academy uniforms with the hair and shoes of Enid and Wednesday.
Anne Lister & Ann Walker (Gentleman Jack)
For a sophisticated 1800s British costume, Anne Lister and Ann Walker from Gentleman Jack offer an elegant choice. Their real-life romance, set in the 1830s, has made Anne Lister a revered figure in lesbian history, often regarded as the first modern lesbian. Their relationship brought visibility to queer love in an era where it was hidden away, and their distinctive Georgian period clothing makes this pairing both visually stunning and meaningful.
Anne Lister’s style is all about sharp tailoring and androgyny. Her neatly styled dark hair pairs perfectly with dark suits that include waistcoats, high collars, and fitted trousers. Think of her as a 19th-century dandy with a dash of swagger and a penchant for well-tailored coats. For accessories, a top hat or a cane can add to the authenticity of her look.
Ann Walker, by contrast, embraces the feminine elegance of the time. Her soft, simple curls frame her face, and her dresses are classic examples of 19th-century fashion, with gentle colors, intricate fabrics, and modest silhouettes. Opt for pastel shades or floral patterns, and add accessories like gloves or a parasol for a refined touch.
Sailor Neptune & Sailor Uranus (Sailor Moon)
For a blast of anime nostalgia with a lesbian twist, Sailor Neptune and Sailor Uranus from Sailor Moon are iconic childhood choices. One of the first openly queer couples in mainstream anime, their relationship was revolutionary, representing love, loyalty, and magical power. Their vibrant colors and distinct sailor uniforms make them instantly recognizable and perfect for a Halloween duo.
Sailor Neptune’s look is all about elegance and grace. Her long, wavy green hair pairs perfectly with a white top featuring a green collar and navy blue bow tie. Add a green pleated skirt, white gloves with green ends, and a pair of green heels to complete the outfit.
Sailor Uranus brings a bit of edge with her short pixie-cut yellow hair and navy blue accents. Her uniform mirrors Neptune’s, with a white top, navy blue collar, and yellow bow tie, paired with a navy blue pleated skirt, white gloves with blue ends, and navy blue high-heel boots. Both characters wear chokers, golden earrings, and golden tiaras on their foreheads.
Kelly & Yorkie (Black Mirror’s San Junipero)
For those who want to embrace the power of love and nostalgia, Kelly and Yorkie from Black Mirror’s San Junipero offer a heartwarming and stylish option. Their time-spanning love story, set against the backdrop of the 80s, is celebrated for its rare queer happy ending and its exploration of life, love, and loss. The 80s retro aesthetic adds a fun, vibrant touch to this costume idea.
Kelly’s look is all about bold, 80s-inspired fashion. Her black curly hair is paired with a black bow top. She rocks an iconic purple leather cowboy jacket with fringes on the sleeves. Black leather pants and black and purple beaded necklaces complete her ensemble, giving off a confident, rebellious vibe. She has other looks throughout the time travels that you can pick from as well!
Yorkie, on the other hand, embraces a softer, geek-chic aesthetic. With medium-length wavy hair and thin-rimmed reading glasses, she rocks a light pink collared top covered by a pastel-colored lightweight jacket. High-waisted shorts with a belt complete the look, giving her that quintessential 80s charm.
Velma & Daphne (Scooby-Doo)
For a playful yet iconic duo, Velma and Daphne from Scooby-Doo are a nostalgic choice that’s both instantly recognizable and packed with queer subtext. While the show never explicitly confirmed a romantic relationship, Velma’s intellectual charm, and Daphne’s fashionable flair have sparked countless fan theories and headcanons over the years, making them a beloved pairing in the queer community.
Velma’s nerdy look is all about comfort and classic style. Go for a red bob wig or simply tuck your hair into a red headband, then add thick black-rimmed glasses. Her signature orange turtleneck, red skirt, long orange socks, and red flats complete the ensemble.
Daphne’s look, on the other hand, is all about glamor. A short-length purple dress paired with a green scarf around the neck, a purple headband, and purple flats will give you that unmistakable Daphne vibe. If you want to add a little modern twist, consider upgrading her look with a more fitted dress or some fun, retro accessories.
Barbie & Barbie… or Ken
For those who want playful subversion, dressing as Barbie (and perhaps another Barbie or Ken) is a versatile costume choice for femme and/or masc couples. With themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and feminism—Barbie offers endless possibilities for creative expression. The vibrant colors and iconic looks make it a fun, eye-catching option for Halloween. And it’s a great way to proudly reclaim today’s femininity, which is often bullied by our patriarchal society.
The most famous recent Barbie and Ken outfits are from Western-inspired looks from the 2023 movie. For Barbie, wear a hot pink Western-style sleeveless top, scarf, and fitted pants that flare at the bottom. Pair it with long blonde hair and a white cowboy hat to complete the ensemble.
For Ken, embrace the all-black cowboy look with a long-sleeve top, belt, and pants paired with white boots and a short white wig. Add a white cowboy hat, and you’re good to go.
Or do their 80s roller-blading costume ideas with neon bodysuits and a fanny pack!
Morticia & Gomez Addams (The Addams Family)
For the queers who want to embody the ultimate gothic couple, Morticia and Gomez Addams from The Addams Family are a timeless choice. Their relationship, full of dark passion and unwavering devotion, has made them an enduring symbol of love that thrives outside the norms of society. Morticia, with her air of mystery and sensuality, and Gomez, with his charming eccentricity, are the perfect duo for a Halloween that’s both elegant and eerie.
Morticia’s look is all about drama and allure. Her long, flat black hair frames her face, which is often accentuated with red lips and nails. A full-length, v-neck dress with long sleeves creates that signature flowing silhouette that’s both haunting and seductive. Her presence alone is enough to turn heads, and when paired with Gomez, the couple exudes an irresistible magnetism.
Gomez’s style is dapper with a dark twist. His slicked-back hair and signature mustache give him a debonair look that’s enhanced by a dark, stylish suit. Whether you opt for a necktie or a bow tie, the key is to channel that old-world charm with a modern edge. For a playful touch, consider carrying a golf club as an accessory—after all, Gomez’s quirks are part of what makes him so lovable.
Marceline & Princess Bubblegum (Adventure Time)
For a colorful and whimsical take on queer love, Marceline and Princess Bubblegum from Adventure Time offer a fun and fantastical costume idea. As one of the first openly queer couples in mainstream animation, their relationship has been celebrated for its depiction of love that transcends differences, making them beloved icons in LGBTQ+ culture.
Marceline, the vampire queen, rocks a laid-back yet edgy look. Her long black hair flows down her back, and her outfit is simple yet striking: a red tank top, jeans, and brown boots. For added flair, throw on a wide-brimmed yellow hat, and don’t forget the vampire fangs!
Princess Bubblegum, on the other hand, is all about regal elegance with a pop of pink. Her long, bubblegum-pink hair is her signature feature, and she wears a crown perched atop her head. A floor-length pink gown with puffed sleeves and a high collar completes her royal look. If you want to add a playful touch, consider incorporating some of her more scientific accessories, like test tubes or a lab coat.
Adora & Catra (She-Ra and the Princesses of Power)
For those who love a mix of magic, adventure, and a dash of futuristic flair, Adora and Catra from She-Ra and the Princesses of Power are a powerful duo. Their relationship, which evolves from enemies to lovers, is one of the show’s central narratives, and their dynamic has made them a favorite among LGBTQ+ fans. She-Ra is celebrated for its explicit LGBTQ+ representation, and Adora and Catra’s journey is a testament to the complexities of love, loyalty, and redemption.
Adora’s look is heroic and bold, reflecting her role as the series’ protagonist. Her thick blonde hair, often styled in a high ponytail, pairs with a short white dress featuring gold accents, a red cape, and a magical sword. Catra, on the other hand, brings a darker, more feline-inspired aesthetic. Her wild, brown hair is paired with cat-like ears, and her outfit is a red sleeveless jumpsuit with clawed gloves around her arms and a belt.
Harley Quinn & Poison Ivy
For a mix of chaos, rebellion, and undeniable chemistry, Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy are the ultimate anti-heroine duo. Their deep bond and playful dynamic have made them a fan-favorite pairing, particularly in the comics and animated series where their relationship evolves from friendship to romance. Their vibrant, contrasting looks make them a visually stunning and easily recognizable choice for Halloween.
Harley Quinn’s look is all about theatricality, dual colors, and a dash of madness. Her signature pigtails, often dyed in contrasting colors like red and blue, pair with her bold makeup—think smudged lipstick and dramatic eye shadow. Her fitted, one-piece bodysuit, divided into red and black sections, is often accessorized with a white, ruffled collar.
Poison Ivy, by contrast, brings a more sultry, nature-inspired aesthetic. Her long red hair is her most striking feature, often styled in loose waves or curls. She wears a green, strapless bodice adorned with leaves and vines, paired with matching bottoms and green or brown footwear. To complete the look, consider adding some leafy accessories or even temporary ivy tattoos to capture her connection to nature.
Sappho
For those who want to embody an ancient pioneer of sapphic literature and lesbian representation, Sappho is a timeless choice. As a renowned poet from ancient Greece, Sappho’s work and life have made her a symbol of love, desire, and empowerment through art and expression. This is actually where the term Sapphic comes from! Often regarded as one of the earliest known figures to write about same-sex love, Sappho has inspired generations of feminists and LGBTQIA+ movements, making her a meaningful costume for history and poetry lovers alike.
Sappho’s look can be beautifully simple yet elegant, reflecting her ancient Greek style:
- Robe/Chiton Dress: A typical Greek dress, the chiton, is both classic and graceful. This long, flowing garment can be sleeveless or have short, wide sleeves. To create the look, find a fabric that drapes well and fasten it at the shoulders with fibulae (brooches or pins). The fabric should be cinched at the waist with a belt or girdle, allowing for gentle folds and pleats that create a soft, shaped silhouette.
- Hair: For a hairstyle that complements the look, go for long hair half tied in the back, long curls, or a chignon at the nape of the neck. You can also add a decorative headband or ribbon to evoke the styles of ancient Greece.
Read More Queer Articles
- Welcome to 2024: The Year of the Lesbian
- The Lesbian Renaissance of the 2020s
- Things I Learned From Lesbian TikTok as a Baby Gay
- 2024 Lesbian Slang Terms to Update Your Queer Vocab
- How to Look Lesbian: A 2024 Guide to Queer Fashion Codes
- Queerbaiting: The Controversy Affecting Your Favorite Stars
- Is Rainbow Capitalism Really That All Bad?