Best Outfits in Classic and Cult Horror Movies
“No, please don’t kill me Mr. Ghostface. I wanna be in the sequel.” - Tatum Riley
Though exceptional looks may not guarantee you a spot in the sequel of a horror movie, they will guarantee you a special place in my heart and on my Pinterest board titled - “Outfit Inspiration.”
Halloween movies, more specifically ‘90s and 2000s scary movies are what take over my screen from the very first day of October until Thanksgiving break. Don’t get me wrong, there are so many horror films released before and after this time period that I love just as much, if not more. However, there is something about the aesthetic of this era that screams (no pun intended) Halloween magic, good and bad.
One essential part that I believe brings these movies to life are the powerful and complex female characters who are more than just “the helpless victim.” These characters drive the plot while still managing to give us iconic looks as they fight off the killer.
The following list will be some of my favorite character outfits and wardrobe from beloved scary movies:
Tatum Riley (Scream, 1996)
First we have the inspiration for this list, the legendary Tatum Riley from the hit classic “Scream”, played by Rose McGowan. Though Tatum may have been the best friend and side character, her wardrobe reflected the opposite. Coinciding with her personality, both of these looks were a great representation of the boldness Tatum carries throughout the movie. In the first picture there is some ‘60s inspiration with the psychedelic skirt as well as the short sleeve turtleneck. Though the shape of her outfits are traditionally more feminine, the color of her clothing gives her an edge that applies to her role in the movie. In the second picture Tatum is seen wearing a fitted silver jersey, a popular trend at the time the movie came out. However, in this present day we can still see people styling jerseys as Tatum did back then. The red pants she wears draw your attention to her, but don’t steal any attention from the whole look.
My favorite part of Tatum’s outfits are how two very distinct pieces are blended without it looking overwhelming.
Jennifer Check (Jennifer’s Body, 2009)
There is no talking about Halloween “IT girls” without including Jennifer Check from the 2009 cult classic, “Jennifer’s Body.” Played by Megan Fox, this character had so many outfits, it was hard to limit myself to two. Since the Y2K style has become an ongoing trend these past few years, it seems appropriate that Jennifer's closet continues to inspire people today. Whether it is sparkly white or drenched in blood the iconic white puffer outfit is a staple for this character. Paired with burgundy tights, a leopard print cami and a must have denim skirt this is the last ensemble that human Jennifer wears. However, the darker the storyline of the movie gets, the brighter Jennifer’s outfits become. The pink heart jacket with matching shoes and earrings are a perfect example of the joyful presence her outfits display even after she goes on a murdering spree. Worn with confidence, Jennifer Check’s costume design is just as symbolic as it is timeless.
The Craft Coven (The Craft, 1996)
Talk about accessorizing and styling! With most of their wardrobe focusing on darker tones and colors it was essential that Nancy, Sarah, Bonnie, and Rochelle would showcase their personality through shapes and textures. Hands down, Nancy’s two piece from the left photo is one of my all time favorite outfits in any movie. Nancy usually stands out as she gravitates towards tighter clothing and pants as opposed to the flowy dresses and skirts the other girls wear throughout the movie. With the second photo I mostly focused on how the girls elevate their base outfit with all the accessories they have on. Small round glasses were very prominent at that time along with the knee high socks. And even though all of them are wearing dresses and blazers, the different silhouettes and fabrics display the girls' individuality. I think the outfits in this movie were such a great take on what a coven of witches could possibly look like in more modern times.
Gillian Owens (Practical Magic, 1998)
Gillian Owens played by Nicole Kidman in her green velvet dress will forever be my definition of fall magic. Even without knowing she is a witch her red hair contrasting with the dark green fabric makes her look like a magical being. As opposed to the girls from “The Craft,” Gillian’s witchy ensemble is styled a little less grungy, although they do sometimes share the bohemian factor. Her wardrobe consists of warm and earthy color tones combined with romantic accents, such as velvet and embroidered clothing. Though her appearance is soft and gentle, her outfits often feel like a disguise. Because Gillian’s character deals with a lot of internal struggles it makes sense that her clothing choices would want to mask what is really going on with her. However, some of that intensity does come out from time to time in other outfits she wears. I really believe that this outfit is a good example of how witch appearances can range from traditional and sometimes stereotypical approaches.
Maxine Minx (MaXXXine, 2024)
Yes, I will admit we have a stowaway in the group and it is Maxine Minx from the 2024 slasher film, MaXXXine. As Mia Goth plays an adult film star in 1980’s Hollywood her wardrobe is always taking some fun and unexpected turns. Although I love every outfit she wears throughout the movie, this two piece from the opening scene secured her a spot on this list. Yes, this outfit definitely screams 80’s girl, with the denim acid wash halter and jean combination. I also really liked that her jewelry stood out but it was not exaggerated, since the top and bottoms are already a statement piece. Even though this choice felt a little out of place in this list, it did share one similarity. Just like the girls above, the way Maxine carried herself in this outfit is what really brought it to life.
Written by: Ivana Bustamante Rojo
Cover Design: Lucille Mathieu
