Everything You Need To Be A Stranger Thing For Halloween
Break out the Eggos and your old walkie-talkie.
If you’re still obsessing over Netflix’s breakout series “Stranger Things,” you’re not alone. As an ode to classic scary movies and 80s nostalgia, the series is as addicting to us as Eggos are to Eleven.
The greatest thing about “Stranger Things,” though, are the characters. Now that Halloween is just around the corner, you’ve got the golden opportunity to dress up as the one you connected with the most.
Whether you plan to channel the spunk of Eleven or the unsung heroic spirit of Barb, we’ve got your shopping list for everything you’ll need to dress the part. TBPH, I think you’d be able to find 80% of your “Stranger Things” costume at Goodwill, but here are some suggestions to get you started!
Eleven
Eleven is the bomb. She’s like a Jedi Master with “Matilda”-like superpowers, which she uses to protect the people she loves. It’s no wonder everyone wants to be this strong, waffle-loving gal for Halloween. According to clothing retailer Lyst, Eleven is the most in-demand Halloween costume this year, but here’s how you can easily DIY yours.
What you’ll need:
- Pink collared dress, $25 from Etsy
- Blue windbreaker, $17.99–21.99 from Chief
- Tall sporty socks, $3.87 from Hit a Double
Optional/encouraged:
- Eggo waffles
- Blonde wig
- Fake blood to dab under your left nostril
- Death stare
Joyce
Joyce is a force to be reckoned with; NOTHING will stop her from finding her son Will. She’s legit ready to take on anything to find him, even if it involves communicating with him through Christmas lights or axing a hole in her house. You’ve gotta love Joyce’s unconditional dedication and fierce spirit.
What you’ll need:
Optional/encouraged:
- A (pretend!) axe
- A bundle of Christmas lights
The Boys (Mike, Dustin, Lucas)
Whether they’re playing Dungeons and Dragons in the basement or risking their lives behind their oblivious parents’ backs to find their best friend Will, the three boys are the heart of the show. Their banter, nerdy jokes and loyalty to one another are the definition of #FriendshipGoals. Although they have different personalities, their clothes tend to look the same and their look is easy to replicate.
What you’ll need:
- Striped polo, $37.95 from TGW
- Beige corduroy jacket, $69.99 from Sportsman’s Guide / Blue corduroy jacket, $58.03 from Back Country
- Utility pants, $23.99–24.99 from Old Navy
- Trucker hat, $8.99 from Ebay
Optional/encouraged:
- Walkie-talkie
- Backpack
- Bike
Barb
Barb is low-key one of the best characters in the show, even though she has minimal screen time (RIP, girl). She is an extremely loyal friend to Nancy (I mean, how many times can you really put up with being a third/fifth wheel?). There’s something about her we can all relate to. We hardly knew ye, Barb, but your beautiful spirit lives on strong.
What you’ll need:
- Ruffly blouse, $23.50 from Gap
- High-waisted mom jeans, $14.99 from Glik’s or Denim skirt, $16.99 from Macy’s
- Oversized glasses, $7.95 from Amazon
Optional/encouraged:
- Red wig
- Library books
- Gummy bears/fake blood if you want to be “Zombie Barb” and pretend slugs are crawling out of your mouth
Nancy
Nancy Wheeler proves first impressions aren’t always accurate. We’re introduced to her as the nice, brainy girl who seems easily swayed by others, but she proves throughout the series she’s fiery, strong-willed and a complete badass.
What you’ll need:
- Boat-neck striped shirt, $39.50 from J. Crew
- Black jeans, $58 from Urban Outfitters
- Red corduroy coat with fur, $70 from Macy’s
Optional/encouraged:
- Baseball bat
- Messenger bag
Steve
Steve seems like your typical high-school douchebag, especially when he slut-shames Nancy and bullies her friend Jonathan. However, he outgrows his jerk phase and proves he’s not only a good boyfriend, but actually has a decent heart. Oh, and his hair is A+ phenomenal.
What you’ll need:
- Long-sleeved green shirt, $17.99 from East Bay
- Khaki pants, $33.71 from American Eagle Outfitters
- Elvis wig for THAT HAIR, $19.99 from Halloweencostumes.com
Optional/encouraged:
- Baseball bat
- Jean-Ralphio
Jonathan
Brooding, misunderstood and sensitive are a few words to describe Jonathan. He connects with Nancy on a deeper level. Just when they’re thisclose to getting together, Steve suddenly becomes a good guy, stealing back Nancy’s heart. Maybe next season, brah.
What you’ll need:
- Denim jacket with fur collar, $73 from ASOS
- Brown flannel shirt, $29.99 from Cabela’s
- Black jeans, $19.99 from H&M
Optional/encouraged:
- Your best brooding stare
- Camera
Which resident of Hawkins, Indiana will you be dressing up as this Halloween?