Hello, October! And with it comes that magical blend of crisp air, pumpkin-spiced everything, and—of course—Halloween. It's the time of year when I can finally justify wearing a cape and calling it fashion, and let’s be honest, no other season offers such an amazing excuse to dress up and embrace your spooky-chic side. But as a mom, costumes have taken on a whole new meaning. These days, it’s less about elaborate getups and more about finding that perfect balance between playful, practical, and of course, stylish. Because why shouldn’t we be the best-dressed on the trick-or-treat route?

Let’s start with a classic: the witch. But not your basic black hat and broomstick deal. No, this year, I’m going for a look that says “mysterious enchantress meets fall runway.” Think of a flowy black dress (hello, maxi that hides everything) with dramatic sleeves—practical for waving a wand and handing out snacks. Add a structured wide-brimmed hat and sleek ankle boots that can take you from trick-or-treating to a grown-up party (or let’s be real, back to the couch). Bonus points if your broom doubles as a vacuum to speed up the post-candy cleanup.

Pro Tip: Look for dresses that have pockets because if you’re like me, you’ll be carrying your kid’s costume accessories, your phone, and 75 tiny candy wrappers. I once forgot my son’s Captain America shield at a neighbor's house and had to sprint back in heels. Never again.

I used to roll my eyes at the thought of matching family costumes. But now? I’m obsessed. It’s like catnip for moms. There’s something so delightfully Instagram-worthy about being coordinated without being too coordinated. One year, my whole family went as a retro circus troupe, and I rocked a ringmaster outfit - red blazer, high-waisted pants, and knee-high boots. It was fierce and functional. My 5 year old was the cutest little lion (which meant I had snacks tucked in my jacket for him to roar at), and my husband? He was an "unwilling" clown but pulled it off like a pro. 

For this year, I’m thinking of going with a ‘70s disco theme. I mean, who doesn’t want an excuse to wear platform shoes and flared pants? Plus, the kids love shiny things, and what’s shinier than sequins? The best part? I can still move freely -whether it’s dancing at the block party or untangling a sugar-crazed child from a bush.

Now, if you’re like me and love a good pumpkin patch photo op, the ultimate win is a costume that transitions seamlessly from daytime fall festivity to nighttime spookiness. Enter the boho chic woodland fairy. Picture this: a flowy, earth-toned midi dress, chunky knit cardigan (because I’m always cold), and lace-up boots that make you feel like you could be wandering through an enchanted forest (or Costco). Add a flower crown and some glittery makeup, and you’re set. 

One year, I thought I was clever with a similar look, but my two-year-old decided my flower crown was a snack halfway through our pumpkin patch visit. Lesson learned: bring extra accessories when toddlers are involved. Still, it was one of the few times I felt both dressed up and comfortable enough to crouch for that perfect family photo.

Yes, I know, cat costumes can feel overdone, but hear me out. We’re taking it to a whole new level this season. Instead of the typical black jumpsuit and ears, let’s elevate the look. Start with sleek black leggings (a mom wardrobe staple), pair them with a chic faux fur vest or jacket (because, duh, it’s fall), and add some pointed-toe flats for a nod to feline elegance. Finish it off with bold cat-eye makeup and a stylish headband with minimalist ears. You’ll look more Paris Fashion Week than Halloween aisle, and you can still pounce into action if your kid’s candy stash gets raided by older siblings. 

Real Talk: I once wore full cat makeup to a preschool event thinking I looked so cute - only to have my son loudly inform everyone I looked like a “scary tiger.” So, now I keep the whiskers subtle. Lesson learned.

Tips for Keeping it Playful and Practical

- Layers are your friend: October can be unpredictable, weather-wise. Costumes with removable layers like cardigans or shawls will keep you looking stylish and ready for any chilly night. (Plus, you can use them to wipe sticky hands. Trust me on this.)

- Comfort is key: Let’s be real - no one is strutting down a runway here. Choose outfits that allow you to walk, bend, and run with ease. After all, someone’s going to have to haul those candy buckets home.

- Get the kids involved: If your little ones are old enough, let them help pick out pieces of your costume. My daughter insisted I add a pair of glittery wings to my witch costume last year, and while I wasn’t sure at first, I have to admit it took the look to the next level. Plus, she loved that we “designed” together. Win-win!

Halloween as a mom doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style for practicality. With a little creativity and some strategic costume planning, you can still channel your inner fashionista - without missing a beat in the trick-or-treating madness. Now, where did I put that glue gun? Those sequins aren't going to stick themselves!

What costume are you thinking of this year? Let me know, and let’s get spooky chic together! 🎃

xoxo