Halloween is definitely my favorite holiday (though I’m guilty of now always dressing up!). What other day of the year gives us such ripe people watching? Everywhere you look are people taking on alternate personas in the form of costumes, elaborate or simple, beautiful or gory, and most of them so creative you never would have thought it up yourself. See here some of our favorite costumes of 2014.

Get Creative

What makes a Halloween costume awesome? Sometimes it’s the attention to detail, or the realism, with every tiny stitch lending to the authenticity of the disguise. And sometimes the quality makes no difference, because it’s the idea behind the costume that makes it magical. When someone gets creative and makes you laugh or wish you had thought of it,that is truly a great costume. Some have taken the galaxy print to the next level and dressed as the solar system. And, of course, pop culture often lends itself to the making of some pretty hilarious costumes.

The mermaid costume is a ton of fun, and you don’t have to resort to a cheap tail and plastic shell top from the discount costume store, either. Lauren Conrad gives detailed instructions on her website on how to channel your inner sea goddess — with sequin fabric and real shells!

Greek mythology is ripe for costume ideas. Any divine being or (or monster) will give you a timeless look that is sure to draw some attention) And if you go the DIY route, you can really get creative. Medusa’ssnake hair can be executed in any number of ways — and they all look awesome.