Halloween this year is going to be a rosy affair, with a variety of costumes setting trends and a record-breaking surge in spending, as revealed by the National Retail Federation. The total expenditure on Halloween festivities in 2023 is projected to hit an astounding $12.2 billion, a notable increase of almost $2 billion compared to the $10.6 billion spent in 2022.
Costumes are receiving a significant share of this Halloween budgetary boom, with an estimated $4.1 billion allocated for adult, child, and pet attire. This marks an increase of nearly a billion dollars when compared to pre-pandemic spending levels.
Traditionally favored costumes for adults, such as witches and vampires, remain perennial favorites. This year, 5.8 million individuals are planning to conjure up their inner witch, while 2.4 million intend to embrace their vampiric side.
Spirit Halloween, the United States’ largest Halloween retail chain, notes that costume popularity is often influenced by current pop culture trends. In 2023, the “It” girl is none other than Barbie, with various incarnations like Western Barbie, Skating Barbie, and Skating Ken making their way into Halloween wardrobes. The Barbie movie, which boasts a staggering billion-dollar box office success, has inspired approximately 1.8 million people to channel their inner dolls.
Among other trendy choices, Spirit Halloween is keeping a close eye on characters from recent TV shows and movies, particularly Wednesday and the Addams Family, as well as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, all of which have enjoyed a revival in recent times.
Regarding costumes inspired by iconic eras, while 1980s fashion ruled last year, this season is all about the psychedelic 1970s, characterized by tie-dye, bell bottoms, and fringed dresses. The hippie look is making a comeback, and retailers like Spirit Halloween have expanded their offerings in this category.
For children, Spider-Man is swinging into the top spot, with 2.6 million kids planning to emulate the superhero. Another character gaining immense popularity among children is Bluey, the beloved star of the eponymous children’s show.
In the realm of pet costumes, the past few years have witnessed a surge in demand. Top pet costumes this year include pumpkins, hot dogs, and bats. Pet costume spending has escalated by $200 million since the onset of the pandemic.
It’s worth noting that Halloween enthusiasts are advised to secure their costumes early. Spirit Halloween indicates that the final two weeks leading up to Halloween are the busiest, with many shoppers being last-minute costume seekers. Therefore, the earlier you get your costume, the better – to ensure you’re not left empty-handed in the spookiest season of the year.
