Need Halloween costume inspo? We’ve rounded up some Chicago-themed ideas for all types of people planning to dress up — from the uber crafty to the procrastinators.
Classic Costumes
The Bean. Shiny, iconic, need we say more? Plus, uh, it’s kinda scary? At least the way I’ve seen it done.
Malort. Dress as the city’s signature spirit with a pin, shirt, or DIY costume.
Group Costumes
Monty & Rose. Paste on feathers, make a beak, and go as the lovebirds, or rent some creepy mascots. Tell friends to grab binoculars and go as birders.
“The Bear” cast. Throw on a blue apron, greasy shirt, and fake tatts. The look isn’t complete unless you and your crew bring Italian beef sammies.
‘90s Bulls. Find vintage jerseys, tracksuits, and a couple trophies to go as Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman. Maybe the short friend can go as GM Jerry Krause. (That would be me. I am the short friend.)
Moo & Oink. Speaking of mascot rentals, find a partner to be the cow to your pig, aka the faces of the local grocery store chain. Song and dance is required with this costume — as is emailing it to your fav newsletter writer.
Creative Costumes
Dibs. Walk around with a folding chair or a traffic cone, and become the city's fav parking space–saving tradition.
Ghost bus/train. Dress up as your fav missing line or route.
Last-Minute Costumes
Mayor Lori Lightfoot with Modelo. A baggy suit and a big ol’ case of beer is all that is needed for this costume.
Sad sports fan. Dust off the jerseys and tees: It’s been a tough year for Chicago sports teams.
Chicago flag. Got a white tee? Some light-wash jeans? Cut out four six-pointed red stars. Costume done *mic drop*
Have more ideas? Tell us, and we’ll share with the rest of you!
The Best Chi Costumes

Sidney Madden

Chi-inspired Halloween costumes. (Jose M. Osorio / Tribune / Getty; Scott Olson / Getty; Tim Zielenbach / AFP / Getty; Jeff Haynes / AFP / Getty; Raymond Boyd / Getty; Fuzzy Gerdes / Flickr; Kelly Martin / Wikimedia Commons)
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