Work appropriate Halloween costumes are always a little tricky (Pun intended!) to figure out. This probably goes without saying, but sexy kitty — in fact sexy anything — is never a good idea for the office. And, though it’s tempting this year, dressing as anyone political, like Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton, is also a potential minefield. Add to that list: religious figures and controversial newsmakers like Rachel Dolezal which leads us right into anything that could be construed as racist in any way. Stumped yet? Well, these 10 work appropriate Halloween costumes will get you in the holiday spirit without risking your reputation at the office.
1. Princess Leia
No, not gold bikini clad Princess Leia! Think flowy white, high-necked, long-sleeved, silver belted gown Princess Leia. She’s also carrying a big gun with this outfit (maybe skip that prop at work) and sensible shoes. Rock the side buns and you’re the perfect blend of fun and sophisticated.
Read Related: Halloween at the Office: It Pays to Dress for Success
2. Minion
All you need is a yellow hoodie, a pair of overalls, black shoes, black gloves and goggles for your Minion costume. Totally easy, totally comfy and one of the best work Halloween costumes.
3. Shame Nun
The season 5 finale of Game of Thrones gave us one of the best memes and office appropriate Halloween costumes this year. All you need to be the Shame Nun are a grey head scarf and a grey dress — you could even wear a grey skirt and blouse or even pants if you don’t want to be in costume all day. Carry a big bell and have fun shaming your coworkers.
4. Left Shark
The out of sync Left Shark from Katy Perry’s Superbowl half-time performance went viral earlier this year. You can actually purchase a Left Shark costume from the lady herself.
5. Fifty Shades of Grey
This is a playful way to reference the S&M blockbuster without going R-rated. Find a way to incorporate 50 shades of grey into your outfit using paint swatches.
6. Cookie Lyon
Dress up as a fierce woman like Empire’s Cookie Lyon and you may just channel a little of her power at the office. You can’t miss with head-to-toe animal prints and a fluffy faux fur but Fox’s Cookie’s Closet breaks down all of her awesome ensembles.
7. Flo from Progressive
She’s everyone’s favorite spokesperson and it’s super easy to put together a Flo costume. White polo, white pants, white apron, converse, red lipstick, dramatic cat eye, headband, bouffant and a name tag. Done!
8. Rosie the Riveter
Are there any more work appropriate Halloween costumes than the symbol of women joining the workforce? Embody Rosie the Riveter and the denim on denim trend with a denim oxford, boyfriend jeans and a red bandana. And don’t forget to show off your guns.
9. Orange is the New Black
You’ve got a lot of options when it comes to which Orange is the New Black character you want to be. Just don’t make Julianne Hough’s mistake of going with blackface for her 2013 Crazy Eyes costume!
10. Kimmy Schmidt
The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt is another Netflix series with a costume-worthy character. Kimmy’s outfit on the first episode is a burst of sunshine that will remind everyone of her endless optimism. Get colorful in a print blouse, bright yellow cardi, magenta skinnies and a purple backpack.
