I hate gay Halloween; what do you mean you’re the Spirit of Divas Past?
Autumn is always so nostalgic. There’s something about the leaves and the seasons changing that makes us reflect on – and occasionally romanticize – the past. We think of our childhoods and the magic that was our earliest memories of fall, like what those early Halloweens felt like. The chance to be anything or anyone you wanted, if only for a night.
That’s part of why Halloween has had such a long history of being a favorite among the queer community. Dating back to at least the drag balls of the 1800s, Halloween has been a way to escape heteronormative societal standards. The Halloween parties of today may look a little different, but the magic of being whoever or whatever you desire has stayed.
In 2026, we lost so many queer icons; it was downright homophobic. Catherine O’Hara in January, Dolly Parton and Tim Curry back-to-back in August, and Bob Mackie in September. (Someone please keep an eye on Alan Cumming and Cher for the rest of the year.) All absolute giants of the entertainment industry and all very near and dear to the queer community. They shaped our childhoods, teenagehoods, even early adulthoods.
Is it any wonder that this Halloween, my nostalgia lies with these four dearly departed divas? In honor of “gay Christmas,” here are nine costumes to pay homage to these giants of pop culture.
Tim Curry
Frank n’ Furter
The night before Tim Curry’s death was announced, a friend and I went to our local drive-in to see a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. It will always be his most iconic role to me. Plus, every single fit Dr. Frank N’ Furter wears, from their green surgeon’s smock to the notorious corset, is legendary. That means there are plenty of looks to make you feel like a “hot patootie. “
Will Shakespeare
What’s gayer than a period drama? The 1978 miniseries about Britain’s favorite bard gave us a British icon playing a British icon, and so many fabulous outfits to inspire your look this Halloween season. Sure, there’s the dour ruffle collar, but I’d rather point to Tim’s cheeky red doublet or the open-chested, billowy white shirt paired with a black jacket. The series is available on YouTube for free if you’d like to gather some inspiration for what to be—or not to be (ha)—this spooky season.
Catherine O’Hara
Delia Deetz
Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Bee— If only saying “Catherine O’Hara” three times could make her reappear. Lydia Deetz in her red wedding dress is a favorite Halloween, but this year belongs to her artsy, emotionally distant stepmother. Get yourself a red wig, some fabulous black statement pieces, and take yourself absolutely seriously.
Moira Rose
Will we wear wigs? Duh. Moira Rose has become a gay Halloween staple since Schitt’s Creek first aired in 2015, but I’m willing to bet that her famously feathered Dr. Clara Mandrake costume will be front and center. Honorable mentions include her black-fur-hat-and-miniskirt combo and the black trash-bag dress. Really, with enough black and white clothing and statement jewelry, any of her looks are achievable.
Bob Mackie
Choose-Your-Diva in a Bob Mackie Gown
Bob Mackie designed for and dressed everyone from Marilyn Monroe to Miley Cyrus, so there’s no shortage on inspiration. As long as you’re dripping in rhinestones and a distinctive wig of your choice, no one can mistake which showgirl you are rocking his design.
Carol Burnett in THE Curtain Dress
Yes, he’s known for glitter and glam, but wow did Bob Mackie know camp. He famously designed the curtain dress for Carol Burnett’s spoof on Gone With The Wind. This one might take a little more than hot glue and a dream, but there’s no doubt you’d be the belle of the ball. Just be careful you don’t take anyone out with that curtain rod.
Dolly Parton
Backwoods Barbie
Oh, Our Sweet Lady of Appalachia, how I miss you! Always true to her humble roots while maintaining a country girl’s idea of glam, I’ve seen plenty of drag queens lipsyncing in her iconic pink and leopard print look. A quick trip to a thrift store or two should give you everything you need for this look. The yellow pickup truck and hay bales are optional, though.
Mona Stangley
Every single one of Dolly’s outfits from The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas absolutely eats. From that vivacious red dress to the white and gold cowgirl get-up, but the black and red lingerie set absolutely takes the cake. I suppose you could have a friend or your partner dress up as Ed Earl to go sneakin’ around with, but it’s Mona who can make 20 fans turn in every room.
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