When Amy Dickinson, columnist for the Chicago Tribune, said that "Halloween costumes are getting less scary, more sexy", she wasn’t just kidding.
These outfits won’t show up on your doorstep this Halloween - they’re strictly for grown ups.
Pirate wenches and witches, nuns and nurses are still hot, but who would expect Little Bo Peep to have a peep show of her own?
Couple costumes are still popular in 2008, with a suggestive twist. After all, what’s a bolt without a nut?
As for the men, their tastes in dress up fall somewhere between the humorous to well, um, totally tasteless.
With Americans spending over $5 billion dollars a year on the wacky, weird and wonderful night of fantasy, retailers like Frederick’s of Hollywood and Forplay push to the edge of decency.
In fact, some costumers online have hidden catalogue pages for ‘sickos’, available only to those over 18. And yes, they do check!
Justifying Naughty Fashion
Halloween Makes Sexy Costumes OK
Trend Themes
1. Sexy Halloween Costumes - Opportunity for retailers to push the boundaries of decency and offer provocative costumes for adults.
2. Couple Costumes with a Twist - Chance for creative entrepreneurs to innovate and offer suggestive couple costumes with unexpected twists.
3. Humorous Men's Costumes - Potential for retailers to tap into the market for funny and tasteless costumes, specifically designed for men.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - Retailers like Frederick's of Hollywood and Forplay can capitalize on the increasing demand for sexy and provocative Halloween costumes.
2. Fashion - Fashion brands can explore the market for unique and creative couple costumes with unconventional twists.
3. Entertainment - Opportunity for costume designers and retailers to create humorous and tasteless costumes targeted at men.