Bridge of Frankenstein, Credit: Archive Photos/Stringer

With Halloween next week, we’ve been looking for some costume inspiration. While attempting to gather some ideas from spooky icons like the Bride of Frankenstein (left), Elvira, Mrs. Munster and Morticia Addams, we realized that despite their over-the-top, unnatural appearances, each of these ladies has something ‘on trend’ about them. Proof, perhaps, that some beauty trends always circle back.

Elvira

Ok, so the bouffant-mullet with bangs isn’t necessarily a style we would ever (ever) recommend, but for the protagonist of a comedy horror film it works for her—though it definitely makes you wonder what secrets she’s got hidden in that massive hair.

From a beauty standpoint, we acknowledge that the woman’s got a little (ok, a lot) going on. But our main take-away is her statement lip—dark, Bordeaux-colored, vampy lips are on trend this fall and definitely stand out.

Editor’s tip: Keep in mind that Elvira’s heavy hand while applying makeup is OK only insofar as her being a dramatic, fictional character. To really rock a statement lip, go light on the rest of your makeup for a more natural look—let your lips do the talking!

Lily Munster

Being that the Munsters are a family of benign monsters, Mrs. Munster’s look is fairly tame. Sure, if you’re going grey, you probably want more of a sprinkle as opposed to two giant streaks but sometimes you just have to embrace what you’ve got, right?

Apart from her hair, Mrs. Munster’s got killer eyelashes. She’s likely wearing falsies (which are, by the way, totally appropriate for Halloween) but there’s still something to be said about the transformative ability of mascara. Think about it: How often do you apply only mascara and feel like a whole new woman? Regardless of what you’re doing or wearing, mascara is, quite literally, an eye opener.

Editor’s tip: While some people are blessed with naturally, perfectly curled lashes, other needs a bit of help. To get the most from your mascara, prep your lashes by curling them first—your eyes will look wider and more awake.

Morticia Addams

The ultra-glam matriarch of the Addams family, Morticia is as synonymous with Halloween as pumpkin pie is to Thanksgiving. She also pulls off super pale skin with dark hair and makeup better than anyone.

Particularly notable is her classic red mani. Between the nail art and neon trends of the summer or metallic this fall, it’s sometimes hard to keep up. But a red nail is something that never goes out of style.

Editor’s tip: If you’re choosing a particularly bold nail polish color, remember that sometimes less is more. Rather than having long talons like Morticia, keep your nails filed short for a classy, chic look.

BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN

Last, but not least, we have Mrs. Frankenstein aka, The Bride of Frankenstein. Being brought back from the dead can do a number on a girl (talk about dry skin and hair). But what’s admirable about lady Frankenstein is that she’s got her own unique style. While these other women have their slinky black dresses, Mrs. F opts for white and flowy. Sure, she’s got the heavy eyeliner and the statement lip, but check out that hair! With straight jet black locks seemingly being the trend amongst these spooky ladies, the Bride of Frankenstein diverges from the pack with a wavy updo. Yes, electrocution plays a role in her look but the point here is this: What everyone else is doing might not be right for you – play with what you’ve got.

Editor’s tip: Play up your face shape and skin tone. Don’t pick a bob or bangs because they’re popular. Talk with your stylist about what cut is the most flattering for you!