Halloween is approaching. Like every year, during this time, the topic of appropriation and racism arises when people don depictions of Native Americans, Blackface, and the like. To prevent people from getting dragged by conscious communities, we are merging the ‘camp’ art of exaggerated and artificial with cosplay to bring you some awesome non-appropriating Halloween costume ideas for the ever-evolving fashionista. Let’s jump right in!

1. Butterfly

 (SZA inspired butterfly look. Image by @latifah.osazee via Instagram )

You can never go wrong with a butterfly costume. Whether you purchase or custom-make oversized wings, create a bomb makeup look, or recreate SZA’s ‘Love Galore’ look, a butterfly Halloween costume can be a great way to showcase your individuality and symbolize growth, transcendence, rebirth, and beauty.

2. Squid Game 

You may have heard of the Netflix-streamed Korean series Squid Game, or seen the ‘If Squid Game was in *insert African country*’ TikTok videos. Wearing a Squid Game costume may be inexpensive, unproblematic, and a great conversation starter.

3. The Proud Family

Let’s be real. The Proud Family was the epitome of the Black family in the cartoon world in the early 2000s.

To recreate the classic Penny Proud look, head to your local thrift store, find a white or cream-colored tee, and pair it with a burgundy-colored skirt, a magenta cardigan, white socks, and black chucks. Add some pigtails and you are ready to go!

If you are feeling more of a rough and tough look, you can opt to dress as a Gross Sister. For this costume,  you can paint yourself greyish blue, and sport a white shirt and blue or jean overalls.

4. The Clovers from 'Bring it On'

When you hear that “Brr, it’s cold in here, there must be some Clovers in the atmosphere” you know what time it is. The iconic Black cheerleaders from Compton, known as the Clovers, were a microcosm of Black culture and the way it is extrapolated and profited off of by mainstream White masses. The Clovers were not having it! Celebrate the cultural impact of the Clovers by sporting the cheer outfit this Halloween.

5. ASAP Rocky at the 2021 MET Gala

 (ASAP Rocky and Rihanna at the 2021 MET Gala. Image by Instagram )

If you are a makeup artist or are interested in experimenting with new makeup looks,  the Halloween season is a great time not only to explore your interests but to also gain exposure on social media channels using Halloween-themed hashtags.

8. The Black Panther