If you're throwing a tapas party and don't want to spend the entire night in the kitchen, look no further than these tapas recipes. They're yummy small plates of food to be shared among your guests. These smaller servings, typically of unique cuisines, can be a great way to try something new and really impress your foodie friends that always want a little bite!
Most of these tapas recipes come together in no time, which can be super helpful if you lean toward procrastinating the daunting task of hosting. To get you started, we've got the 56 best easy and authentic Spanish tapas ideas. And don't forget — these babies taste even better when paired with a pitcher of sangria!
What are the 3 types of tapas?
Sascha Weber / PEXELS
The three types of tapas include cosas de picar (finger foods), pinchos (which require something like a toothpick to eat), and cazuelas (little dishes served in a sauce).
What are some typical tapas foods?
Valeria Boltneva / PEXELS
Tapas foods are usually served in smaller portions, but they're all delicious. You can serve everything from olives and fried cheese to chorizo and sweet baked churro chips.
What do you serve at a tapas party?
RDNE Stock Project / PEXELS
There are a variety of foods you can serve at a tapas party, but our favorite tapas menu includes jalapeño poppers, fried cheese, savory canapés, and stuffed olives. We love a fig and bacon jam crostini, too!
Our Favorite Tapas Recipes To Share With The Whole Party
Vegan Italian Sausage Hand Pies
Plant Provisions
The only thing better than a new pizza recipe is when that pizza is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. These pies are totally delicious and feature a mouthwatering mix of vegan sausage, vegan cheese, and potatoes. (via Plant Provisions for Brit + Co)
Baked Churro Chips
Brit + Co
Steer away from tradition by making some churros into chips. They’re easy to make in big batches, and they’re even easier to dip into mocha-fudge sauce, caramel sauce or whipped cream. The fact that they're on the sweeter side is a great for switching things up in the tapas department. (via Brit + Co)
Triscuit + Cucumber + Mint + Feta
Brit + Co
A salty Triscuit cracker, paired with refreshing cucumber and bright mint? Sign us up, like, right now. This quick recipe makes for a refreshing tapa that your guests are sure to enjoy. (via Brit + Co)
Blistered Shishito Peppers
Forks & Foliage
Your tapas menu just got a serious upgrade with this recipe. The peppers get blistered over high heat for some massive flavor, then team up with some burrata and olive oil to mellow out the spice. (via Forks & Foliage for Brit + Co)
Chicken Pineapple Skewers
Brit + Co
Sweet meets savory in this top-tier tapas recipe. The skewered meat + fruit allows for such easy snacking! (via Brit + Co)
Chocolate-Covered Cheese Bites
Parmigiano Reggiano
You'd be surprised at just how well sharp cheese and dark chocolate work together! This is definitely one of the most unique tapas recipes we've ever tried, but the combo is so worth it. (via Parmigiano Reggianofor Brit + Co)
Eggplant Moussaka
Forks & Foliage
Moussaka, a tasty compilation of eggplants, garlic, onion, and chickpeas, is an unforgettable tapas menu item. It's vegan by nature, and meant to be served cold for hot summer days! (via Forks & Foliage for Brit + Co)
Triscuit + Cherry Tomatoes + Mozzarella Cheese + Spicy Chili Flakes
Brit + Co
The cherry tomatoes and spicy chili flakes in this tapas food will taste amazing together, especially when you have cheese to cut the tart spice! (via Brit + Co)
Bacon Pastry Twists
Brit + Co
Everyone will be in a twist over how tasty these pastry snacks are! (via Brit + Co)
Baked Brie
Ron Lach / PEXELS
Baked brie is one of the best finger foods to share with your friends. Make sure everyone gets a bite by setting out a baked brie platter complete with crackers, chips, honey, and jam. (via Brit + Co)
Stuffed Mushrooms
Brit + Co
Stuffed mushrooms are one of the best tapas recipes around, because they're painfully easy to make. They're also easily customizable via the filling, so you can switch it up each time depending on the occasion or theme of the get-together you're going to. (via Brit + Co)
Vegan Grazing Platter
The Edgy Veg
Everyone will want a bite from this colorful grazing platter. It's got veggies, it's got fruit, it's got nuts. You can also add in vegan cheeses, mushrooms, hummus — whatever floats your boat. (via The Edgy Veg)
Seared Tuna with Manzanilla Olive Tapenade
The Endless Meal
This bite may look super involved and fancy, but we promise you it's as simple as tapas recipes get. Sear some fresh tuna before using it to top cucumber slices that pair with a delicious homemade tapenade. (via The Endless Meal)
Spinach + Chickpeas (Espinacas Con Garbanzos)
Spanish Sabores
This spinach and chickpea stew is popular in Seville, Spain. Aside from the delicious flavors, the best part about this recipe is definitely the fact that it only takes half an hour to make! The ingredients are all healthy, too, which allows you to eat as much as you'd like to. (via Spanish Sabores)
Chorizo, Manchego, and Olive Skewers
My Modern Cookery
These honey-drizzled skewers embody the rich, fresh flavors of Spanish foods. They're a total fireworks show in your mouth. The best part is there is absolutely no cooking required! They're so easy to put together and can be customized to you and your guests' preferences. (via My Modern Cookery)
Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Bites
The Edgy Veg
For a rounding out a delicious and savory tapas menu, you can't go wrong with these cheese-stuffed garlic bites! They're super easy to make, and you can pair them with any dipping sauce. (via The Edgy Veg)
Fig and Bacon Jam Crostini
Barley & Sage
Smear goat cheese on some toasted baguette slices, add bacon jam and fig slices, and drizzle with honey (or hot honey) to make these tapas. This fresh flavor combination is nothing like you've ever tasted before. It's sure to wow your guests, due its delectable and complex flavor palette. (via Barley & Sage)
Garlic Shrimp with Lemon and Parsley
Spain on a Fork
This simple lemon-garlic shrimp is sure to satisfy. Serve with toothpicks for spearing or crusty baguette slices for dipping. P.S. this is a great dish to pair with some white wine! (via Spain on a Fork)
Spanish Tortilla with Burrata and Herbs
Half Baked Harvest
This recipe using potatoes, eggs, fresh herbs, prosciutto, and burrata is the perfect addition to your tapas dinner party menu. It's simple to make, but the flavors are oh-so complex. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Mushroom Croquettes
Cilantro and Citronella
Croquetas de jamón, AKA logs of ham coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden, are easy to find at most tapas bars in Spain. These bites are filled with mushrooms and made with non-dairy milk, so even your vegan friends can enjoy them! (via Cilantro and Citronella)
Squash Cornbread Mini Muffins
Chef Bai
These cornbread tapas are made with squash to boost your bite with tons of nutritional value, and their size makes them the perfect finger food for sharing with others. They're sweet, yet super savory! (via Chef Bai)
Pan Tumaca
Cilantro Parsley
This tapas recipe originates from old Spanish tradition of finding ways to reuse crusty bread. Adding tomato and olive oil will soften up your crust to be topped with flavorful meat and spiciness! (via Cilantro Parsley)
Fried Cheese Curds
Culinary Hill
Fry some cheese curds in your oil of choice, and this tapas finger food is ready to be enjoyed! Get ready to make a big batch, though, because these crunchy, creamy bites are addictive! (via Culinary Hill)
Chorizo Al Vino Tinto (Chorizo in Red Wine)
Caroline's Cooking
The red wine in this dish gives an extra layer of flavor that you just cannot miss. This recipe tastes delicious with both mild and spicy chorizo, so it's a great option for everyone. They're also super light, which makes them perfect to serve before a larger meal. (via Caroline's Cooking)
Brie Stuffed Crispy Baby Potatoes
Half Baked Harvest
Potatoes at a party are always a win. These brie-stuffed potatoes are unbelievably delicious and provide an elevated take on a classic potato recipe. The addition of truffle oil seriously just pushes these over the edge in terms of flavor. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Bacon + Goat Cheese Pops
The Endless Meal
Make this finger food an easy hack by using skewers to serve them! You'll get a mouthful rich with sweet and savory notes. (via The Endless Meal)
Spanish Cheese Board Easy Tapas Dish
My Kitchen Love
This easy tapas recipe allows you to cover all of your flavor bases on a single board instead of making multiple small plates. This tapas assortment is a yummy twist on the modern charcuterie, and is full of Spanish cheeses, meats, grapes, olives and flavorful spreads. (via My Kitchen Love)
Watermelon Salad with Feta, Cucumber, and Basil
Rachel Mansfield
Keep things fresh and fruity with this unique combination of flavors! This chilled tapas recipe will hit different during the summer, as it's a relaxing and refreshing bite. (via Rachel Mansfield)
Bruschettas
Signature Concoctions
This take on a classic bruschetta bite can take your tapas party so much further, displaying a range of flavors from spicy to sweet. There are so many different ways to customize them that you can bring them out time and time again and your guests won't ever get tired of them! (via Signature Concoctions)
Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Cozy Cravings
These delicious, tapas-worthy chicken wings are prepared in the air fryer, making prepping for a party so much easier. Everyone won't be able to get enough of the spicy, citrusy flavors! (via Cozy Cravings)
Chicken Empanadas Tapas Recipes
Food with Feeling
Because no one ever complained about chicken, cheese, and carbs – and we're not about to start. This genius tapas idea takes under 30 minutes to prepare and each bite is filling enough that you wouldn't need to serve much else! (via Food with Feeling)
Vegetarian Jalapeño Poppers
Live Eat Learn
You'll want to eat tons of these flavorful bites! Get into the crunch with these baked jalapeño poppers. This tapas recipe has the perfect amount of spice that will allow all of your guests to enjoy bite and bite again. (via Live Eat Learn)
Spanish-Style Tomato and Butter Bean Dip
Fresh Off the Grid
This addictive tapas party dip is so simple, you can even make it on a camping trip! Don't be fooled by the simplicity though, it's still delicious AF. You can pair it with pita chips or sourdough bread for a treat that's sure to impress. (via Fresh Off the Grid)
Gambas al Ajillo
A Spicy Perspective
This spicy shrimp tapas recipe can be used to toss with pasta or served on skewers! The choice is yours. They're packed with garlic, arbol chile, and sherry flavor that makes it a standout dish on a big tapas spread. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Bacon-Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese and Pecans
The Cookie Rookie
These four-ingredient bites are both crispy, chewy, and creamy all at once. They'll add some flavor and texture variety to your tapas menu! (via The Cookie Rookie)
Mini Quiche
Culinary Hill
Quiche recipes are always a hit, so why not make them bite-sized for your tapas party? You can take this recipe in so many different ways to produce some truly unique flavors. This has got to be one of the best tapas recipes out there. (via Culinary Hill)
Chickpea Cranberry Lettuce Wraps
Chef Bai
Make entertaining a crowd super simple with these fresh lettuce wraps. You'll get a mouthful of sweet cranberry, but also some savory notes. These tapas pack in tons of nutrition, though you'd never guess it. They're high in fiber and low in fat, making them great to even just make as a snack for yourself! (via Chef Bai)
Pan Con Tomate
A Spicy Perspective
This snack is common in Spain, and just one of the easiest ways to make tapas recipes. Fresh, oily, and garlicky, we could never pass up pan con tomate. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Flank Steak with Goat Cheese on Toast
Steamy Kitchen
Grilled flank steak and roasted red pepper sit atop creamy goat cheese and crusty bread, but the real kicker is a roasted fig and onion jam that adds a perfect touch of sweetness. (via Steamy Kitchen)
Blistered Padrón Peppers
What's Gaby Cooking?
Olive oil, salt, lemon juice, and heat transform these Spanish peppers into a party-worthy tapas food. Your guests will be blown away by how much punch these little peppers pack. (via What’s Gaby Cooking?)
Zanahorias Saliñadas Tapas Recipe
Tara’s Multicultural Table
These vibrant pickled carrot slices, served in olive oil and parsley, make a refreshing accompaniment to heavier, meatier tapas. (via Tara’s Multicultural Table)
Spanish-Style Meatballs
Grab a Plate
Meatballs are a welcome guest at any tapas party. These small bites are made with spicy chorizo, a Spanish staple. And, don't be surprised by their tiny size – these easy meatballs are big on flavor. (via Grab a Plate)
Heirloom Tomato, Basil, and Manchego Toast
Half Baked Harvest
If your tomatoes are in-season, you'll want to make this mother of all tapas recipes: tomato-manchego toasts topped with basil. They look gorgeous, so they're super fit to serve at a tapas celebration! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Two-Minute Olive Tapenade
Mommy Musings
Black olives, capers, and olive oil make one salty spread that you’ll hungrily smear on endless baguette slices during your tapas party. (via Mommy Musings)
Fried Calamari with Cilantro Aioli
Baker by Nature
Looking for a tapas dish with a little wow factor? Behold this simpler-than-you-think squid appetizer. The aioli dipping sauce is sooo good, you're going to be making these again and again. (via Baker by Nature)
Pan-Fried Cauliflower
Just a Little Bit of Bacon
Quick-fried cauliflower is a healthier alternative to fried cheese or meat, but it still tastes indulgent. One of the best parts of this tapas recipe is that you can fry it a few hours ahead and throw the pieces in the oven to get crispy again. (via Just a Little Bit of Bacon)
Balsamic Roasted Grape and Brie Crostini
Barley & Sage
Toasted baguette slices are topped with brie, balsamic roasted grapes, and toasted pecans along with balsamic glaze, thyme, and black pepper. It's like a party of flavors in your mouth! (via Barley & Sage)
Broccoli and Cheese Hand Pies
Feel Good Foodie
Handheld snacks are just a massive 'yes' from us. These hand pies are packed with cheese and broccoli to deliver the most satisfying bite. If you're a fan of broccoli + cheddar soup, you're going to love this tapas recipe. (via Feel Good Foodie)
Sriracha Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Half Baked Harvest
Again, you could never go wrong with prepping cauliflower bites as far as tapas recipes go. This easy recipe leverages that Buffalo flavor we all know and love! It is one of the most flavorful and easy tapas you can whip up. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Mexican Tortilla Roll-Ups
Culinary Hill
These roll-ups are perfect for snack time, and easy to make with simple ingredients so that even little ones at your tapas party can enjoy! They're zesty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. (via Culinary Hill)
Caprese Crostini
Salt & Lavender
These garlicky caprese crostini melts are a delicious crowd-pleaser that is low-effort for the host! The crispy baguette paired with the sweet tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and balsamic drizzle makes for a fantastic tapas treat. (via Salt & Lavender)
Whipped Feta, Corn and Zucchini Crostini
Live Eat Learn
Whipped feta cheese sits atop a crunchy crostini to balance out all of the comforting flavors of this tapas recipe. It's perfect for a snack, a party finger food, or an appetizer before a big meal. (via Live Eat Learn)
Artichoke Stuffed Mushrooms
Culinary Hill
These tasty stuffed mushrooms are buttery and savory and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes! The ingredients are superior and include two types of cheeses, scallions, and artichoke hearts. (via Culinary Hill)
Roasted Cauliflower Bites with Mint Dip
Salt & Lavender
Try something a little bit different and whip up some cauliflower to be dipped in this fresh mint concoction. It takes less than 30 minutes and is vegetarian-friendly! (via Salt & Lavender)
Spinach Artichoke Cups
Rachel Mansfield
This tapas recipe is like the classic dip, but even better. It's ready in 15 minutes and is made with all gluten-free ingredients, allowing you to accommodate your guests' varying dietary needs. (via Rachel Mansfield)
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This article has been updated.
'Spider-Man 4' Is Officially Happening, And Of Course Tom Holland Spilled This Important Detail
Oct 23, 2024
Tom Holland and Zendaya are the "it" couple right now, and they're both at the top of their game. Tom Holland took a recent break from acting and has been doing phenomenal charity work with his Brothers Trust foundation, while Zendaya's had hit after hit with Euphoria, Dune 2, and Challengers. And it looks like the couple, who met doing Spider-Man: Homecoming, could be doing another new Marvel movie. Here's everything we know about Spider-Man 4.
Is Tom Holland's Spider-Man 4 coming?
Emma McIntyre/Getty Images
Yes, we're getting a Spider-Man 4! Tom Holland finally confirmed the news during an October 22 appearance on The Tonight Show, and in true Tom fashion, already revealed a huge piece of news: the movie will start shooting next summer. "Everything’s good to go — we’re nearly there,” he said. “Super exciting. I can’t wait!”
Before the movie was confirmed, producer Amy Pascal told Variety (when asked if they're making a fourth film), “Of course, we are."
It might feel like a new movie conflicts with the fact Spider-Man: No Way Home set up an MCU without Tom Holland's Peter Parker, especially since Tom said he needed to take a break from acting after The Crowded Room "broke" him. ("I’m now taking a year off, and that is a result of how difficult this show was," he tells Extra.)
However, Tom's also been very vocal about how much Spider-Man means to him, and how much he loves the movies. He also told Variety at The Crowded Room premiere in 2023 that he was already “having meetings” about the next installment.
“The simple answer is that I’ll always want to do Spider-Man films,” Tom tells Deadline at the Sands Film Festival. “We have the best in the business working toward whatever the story might be. But until we’ve cracked it, we have a legacy to protect...The third movie was so special in so many ways that we need to make sure we do the right thing.”
What has Tom Holland said about returning as Peter Parker?
Jay Maidment/Sony Pictures/Marvel
Tom Holland recently revealed that he's actually already read a script for Spider-Man 4 — and that he loved it! “We have a creative and we have a pitch and a draft, which is excellent,” he tells the Rich Roll Podcast (via Variety). “It needs work, but the writers are doing a great job. I read it three weeks ago and it really lit a fire in me. Zendaya and I sat down and read it together and we, at times, were bouncing around the living room like this is a real movie worthy of the fans’ respect.”
“One of the things is that, with Marvel, your film is a small cog in a large machine,” he continues. “That machine has got to keep running. You have to make sure you can fit into that timeline at the right time to benefit the bigger picture. That’s one of the challenges we’re facing. The time in which we need to get that done is a tall order but definitely achievable with the people we have working on it now.”
Peter Parker is one character fans take very seriously, and I know that with Tom and Zendaya at the front, this movie is going to be just as special as Spider-Man: No Way Home!
Will Zendaya be in Spider-Man 4?
JoJo Whilden/Sony Pictures/Marvel
With the recent news that Euphoria season 3 was delayed — and the cast has been given the greenlight to take other projects — it's totally safe to assume Zendaya will return for Spider-Man 4. And fans are hoping for even more characters they love! "Hopefully Kingpin, Scorpion, Daredevil and Black Cat," says one Reddit user.
Forbes has also recently reported Sydney Sweeney could be joining the cast of Spider-Man 4. Sydney was in Madame Web earlier this year, and after rumors she booked the role thinking she was joining the MCU, this newest Tom Holland film would give her the opportunity to do just that. We could see her as Gwen Stacy, or as Felicia Hardy/Black Cat. Considering we've already gotten an extensive plotline surrounding Peter and Gwen in Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone's universe, I'm hoping we'd see her as Felicia!
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Ringsdirector Destin Daniel Cretton is in talks to take over from Jon Watts, who directed the first three movies.
Has Spider-Man 4 started filming?
Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures/Marvel
Spider-Man 4 will start filming in "next summer" according to Tom Holland, which we're taking to mean the summer of 2025. Based on the schedule for Spider-Man: Far From Home, we could see Spider-Man 4 in the summer of 2026.
What will be the title of Spider-Man 4?
Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures/Marvel
We don't have an official name for Spider-Man 4 yet, but fans are already coming up with new ideas. Some fan titles include The Spectacular Spider-Man,Spider-Man: Homeless, and Spider-Man: Home Again. I'd love for Spider-Man 4 to continue with the "home" theme, but switching things up with a brand new title would provide a fresh feel we haven't gotten before. I'm excited to see what Marvel goes with!
What are the Tom Holland Spider-Man movies in order?
Columbia Pictures/Sony Pictures/Marvel
Tom Holland has three Spider-Man movies, but he also shows up in some other MCU titles. If you want to watch all the movies Tom Holland plays Peter Parker, here's how you should watch them:
- Captain America: Civil War
- Spider-Man: Homecoming
- Avengers: Infinity War
- Avengers: Endgame
- Spider-Man: Far From Home
- Spider-Man: No Way Home
What do you want to see in Tom Holland and Zendaya's Spider-Man 4? Let us know in the comments!
This post has been updated.
My boyfriend and I rang in the new year in Barcelona, arriving NYE night and randomly popping into the most fun tapas bar: Entrepanes Díaz in the L'Eixample district. We ate bombas con carne, tortilla española, and the first of many patatas bravas (fried potatoes with a paprika-rich tomato sauce and aioli, so good!).
I studied Spanish in Seville and Granada after college, so it was comforting to return to Spain and its siesta/tapas lifestyle. Many naps were had to accommodate late nights out. Even in January, the weather in Barcelona was mild and the food was fantastic everywhere. This summer, inspired by our trip, I made my own patatas bravas with a jamón board and tinto de verano, a summery drink of red wine, lemon soda and ice, or sangria's lighter, easier cousin. It was a perfect summer meal and so easy to pull together! Here are 10 recipes to try your own delicious spread inspired by Spain.
Easy Spanish-Inspired Cheese Board
There's something about a cheese board that feels like a party, even if it's just the two of you. This Spanish cheese and ham board is ready in minutes and serves as a fun twist to your usual weeknight or girl dinner. (via Averie Cooks)
Seared Tuna with Spanish Manzanilla Olive Tapenade
This bite may look super involved and fancy, but it's actually a super simple tapas recipe. Sear some fresh tuna before using it to top cucumber slices that pair with a delicious homemade tapenade. (via The Endless Meal)
Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho with Grilled Bread
It's tomato season and I'm so not sad about it. I love this vibrant, refreshing chilled soup that's creamy, tangy, and full of bright flavor. It's perfect for lunch or a surprising start to an entertaining meal. (via The Original Dish)
Spanish Tortilla With Burrata And Herbs
Tortilla española, or a Spanish omelette, is one of my favorite dishes and I've made it several times. Tieghan Gerard's recipe uses potatoes, eggs, fresh herbs, prosciutto, and burrata, yum! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Gambas al ajillo (Spanish Garlic Shrimp)
This is another tapas I love to order if it's on the menu. Packed with garlic, arbol chile, and sherry flavor, it's the perfect dish for a light summer meal. Here's the classic Spanish recipe from Curate Tapas Bar in Asheville, North Carolina. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Skillet Grilled Seafood And Chorizo Paella
I'm still dreaming about the vegetarian paella I ate in Barcelona at Taberna El Viti. It was the best I've ever had. This recipe uses a mix of chicken, chorizo and seafood, but you can leave them out to make a vegetarian version too! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Pan Con Tomate (Tomato Bread)
This popular snack in Spain often comes free with a glass of wine. It's a great way to enjoy the season's tomatoes with garlic, EVOO, and toasty bread. (via A Spicy Perspective)
Patatas Bravas
This Spanish recipe is all about the paprika-rich sauce. Traditionally fried, Julia Frey of London-based Vikalinka uses an air fryer for the potatoes while I roasted them in lieu of frying or having an air fryer. Enjoy! (via Vikalinka)
Ham and Manchego Cheese Croquettes Recipe
My BF ordered these at probably every meal. It is a quintessential tapa – crispy on the outside and creamy in the middle with Serrano ham and Manchego cheese from Spain. (via La Tienda)
Baked Churro Chips
For dessert, buck tradition by making some churros into chips. They’re easy to make in big batches, and they’re even easier to dip into a chocolate sauce, dulce de leche sauce or whipped cream! (via Brit + Co)
Join our newsletter for more recipe ideas, and check out our cooking and baking classes for more inspo!
Lead image via Vikalinka
Every year since I was old enough to choose my Halloween costume, I've gone with my current fictional character hyperfixation. We're talking Amy March from Little Women, Lucy from Narnia (twice), Belle from Beauty in the Beast (three times), and even Eurydice from Hadestown. So I know a good pop culture Halloween costume when I see it.
New York Comic Con 2024 was filled with people who love movies, TV, and comics — and who know how to put together a good costume. This past weekend I saw everything from Disneybounds (a catchall term for easier, streetwear version of iconic costumes) to cosplays involving lights and smoke. And I catalogued them all away because they make incredible Halloween costume inspo. The best news is these are all pretty easy and they're definitely recognizable. So no more having to explain who you are! Here are 17 of the coolest pop culture costumes I saw at NYCC to use for your own 'fits this year.
Glinda & Elphaba from 'Wicked'
Universal Pictures
My jaw literally dropped when I saw two cosplayers in full head-to-toe costumes from the new Wicked movie. And when I say full costume, I mean it — people were having to step around Glinda because her ballgown was so big! If you're not so sure about a full gown, opt for a pink corset and mini skirt for G, or a little black dress for Elphaba, instead.
'The Handmaid’s Tale'
Brit + Co
A white cap and a red cape? Babe, it literally doesn't get easier than this.
'Agatha All Along' Costumes
Chloe Williams/Brit + Co
Agatha All Along is Marvel's newest hit show, and as a costume girlie I was so excited to see outfits from the series IRL! I was also shocked at how easy they are to recreate. Billy just wears a sweater and jeans (which you probably already have in your closet), while Agatha opts for a teal trench.
Scarlet Witch's Suit From 'WandaVision'
Chloe Williams/Brit + Co
And of course it wouldn't be a comic con without dozens of Scarlet Witches! Wanda Maximoff is such a beloved character, it only makes sense that fans would wear full cosplays, or turn her iconic costume into a sweater & jeans look like I did! If you're feeling crafty like me, I was inspired by @MagicWithMeg's jeans and painted the design on a pair of black jeans. The only thing you'll want to note here is that I made sure to paint white on the base before the red — it made it stand out perfectly.
Obviously, I wore my Scarlet Witch shirt to meet Wanda herself, Elizabeth Olsen.
'Game of Thrones'
Brit + Co
Winterfell will never go out of style! Reuse that red cape from The Handmaid's Tale costume, or go for a leather look. Either way, you'll look very stylish.
Megan
Geoffrey Short/Universal Pictures
One pop culture costume that made me laugh out loud was M3gan from the 2022 flick of the same name. Buying the costume dress will save you a ton of hassle (meaning you can focus on scaring your neighbors), but all you need to recreate it is a khaki mini dress.
Anne and Marilla from 'Anne of Green Gables'
Ken Woroner/Netflix
Anne of Green Gables is one of the stories I hold closest to my heart, and I was so excited to see a duo dressed up as Anne Shirley and Marilla Cuthbert! Especially since it's just an excuse to wear cottagecore dresses all Halloweekend long.
'Everything Everywhere All At Once' Costumes
Allyson Riggs/A24
Everything Everywhere All At Once costumes are so easy to recreate — and this Elvis costume x pink wig combo is simply too iconic to pass up. I'll take any excuse to have a bagel in-hand.
Princess Irulan and a Sandworm from 'Dune 2'
Warner Bros. Pictures
Dune 2 has a lot of iconic duos. Paul and Chani, Feyd Rautha and Baron Vladimir Harkonnen. But the combo I didn't expect to see at Comic Con was Princess Irulan and a sandworm. But now I need this tan dress and chainmail ASAP.
Harry Potter and Hermione
Brit + Co
I also saw plenty of Hogwarts students during my time at NYCC, and Harry and Hermione are always a great choice for a Halloween costume. Grab some Wizarding robes — after you figure out your house of course.
Troy and Gabriela from 'High School Musical'
Disney Channel
Troy and Gabriela might be the easiest couples's costume of all time. An East High jersey and a red mini dress are all you need! (Microphones not needed, but encouraged).
Glen Powell in 'Twisters'
Universal Pictures
White tee? Check. Cowboy hat? Check. Tiny, adorable dog? Check. My friend, you've got yourself a Twisters Halloween costume!
Cinderella
Jonathan Olley/Disney
The 2015 Cinderella rewired my brain, and seeing someone show up to Comic Con in Lily James' gorgeous blue ballgown rewired it all over again!! If the full gown is too much, try our easy DIY Cinderella outfit instead!
'Star Wars'
Brit + Co
Dressing up as a Jedi really just means wearing the most comfy Halloween costume ever. Just grab some leggings and wrap some fabric around your body and you've got an easy Rey costume for the holiday.
Baby Yoda
Disney
And in the Star Wars of it all, I also saw a baby dressed up as Grogu and I couldn't handle the cuteness! This onesie is a must.
The Powerpuff Girls
Amazon
While I saw someone rock a Powerpuff Girls tee, you can also grab a matching set in blue, green, or pink to make this costume more screen-accurate.
A Camp Half-Blood Student From 'Percy Jackson & The Olympians'
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The perks of having an older sister means I've been able to ask her all my more embarrassing questionsgrowing up. My whole life, we've chatted about everything from periods to sex to giving birth. Then one day, right before I graduated high school, she gifted me a book that changed everything: Nancy Redd's Body Drama: Real Girls, Real Bodies, Real Issues, Real Answers. It not only helped me understand my body more, but it also helped soothe some of the insecurity I had before my postpartum body developed into what it is today.
I eventually gifted Body Drama to someone else, but I never forgot about how beneficial it was, and I always thought there should be more work like it out in the world. As it turns out, Nancy Redd wasn't done normalizing bodies and questions bout sexual health — the author and Wirecutter journalist just released The Real Body Manual: Your Visual Guide to Health & Wellness! Not only is it a great resource for those who are looking for answers to more specific health questions, but it's something I continue to revisit on the days my insecurity dampens my mood!
I chatted with Redd to understand more about her work — and I came out understanding even more about myself and how I want to help raise the future generation.
The Difference Between 'Body Drama' And 'The Real Body Manual'
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If you've had the pleasure of sticking your nose in Nancy Redd's Body Drama, you're familiar with how well-researched and thorough it is. In that regard, The Real Body Manual is no different — but Redd highlights it's still a "totally different book." She says, "The world has changed dramatically, and we're talking so much more about bodies, and we see a lot more bodies."
Despite seeing all those "real" bodies on TV and otherwise, women — and people in general — still don't feel great about themselves. According to a 2022 study, 32% of teens had a negative opinion about their acne, while 31% weren't comfortable with their weight. Meanwhile, another study shows that 80% of women have referred to themselves as "fat."
To combat troubling statistics like those, Redd hopesThe Real Body Manual can help. "I think we're all operating with not enough information about the world we live in, and I think the more information we can receive in a safe, educated, medically-accurate space, the better," she explains.
Redd also really wanted to write a book that taught both her son and her daughter about their changing bodies — and she feels this is the perfect time for everyone to come together and learn about the way bodies not only look, but function. She likens these lessons to learning about world geography. "We don't just need to know about the small town we live in. We need to know about the state, country, the world-at-large," she stresses. And she thinks The Real Body Manual can help you "learn about your own body, your friends, and the people in society you live with."
If you look at the group of friends I have today, everyone doesn't have the same body shame. One of my friends is a little taller and curvier than I am while another is shorter and rounder. I dealt with acne-prone skin and dark spots while my best friend Cookie didn't really struggle with that. It's honestly rare that everyone will look the same — and that's okay! But learning about what's going on with all of us helps bridge our experiential gaps and creates better shared understanding.
And with that in mind, here are the 4 things I learned about my body — and all bodies — when chatting with Nancy and reading The Real Body Manual.
1. Understanding Your Body Doesn't Have To Look Like Everyone Else's
I grew up during a time where certain body types were celebrated more than others in media, and it had a negative effect on how I perceived my own body. I believed I wasn't supposed to have stretch marks because video vixens didn't, and became horrified when I discovered them in middle school as a slender girl. Not only that, but I didn't really develop curves until after I gave birth which made me feel like an outlier in my community.
Recent studies found there's a link between teens aged 16-18 years old developing body dysmorphia and social media...which doesn't sound surprising. And while there are countless body positive accounts that also exist — and I really do promise I'm not saying to completely ditch your socials — sometimes you have to take a step away from it (and other influencers) if it's having a negative impact on your self-esteem.
"Some bodies naturally look like those in music videos. I think separating that from being able to find love or have purpose in your life — they're completely separate things," Redd insists. She breaks things down even further by explaining why you not looking a certain way doesn't discount you from enjoying life. "Some people are born with the ability to be tennis stars, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't pick up a tennis racket because you're not Serena Williams."
The main point she drives home is that "every person can have a great time with their bodies" which is why The Real Body Manual reads like an encouraging, evidence-based love letter to readers.
2. Loving Yourself Is A Choice
Just like I had to make the decision to fully accept the body I have, it's something Nancy says everyone has the ability to do. "It's literally a choice," she says before one of her kids quickly pops into our convo. In a tender moment, she asks her child, "Hello, do you love your body?"
This brief encounter circles back to the reason why The Real Body Manual matters — it opens up these conversations with our kids, offering a tangible resource for others. I know I try to have more conversations like this with my son, and I've even encouraged him to hug himself when he needs a little dose of self love.
"The things that matter — having purpose in life, feeling love, being a good community member — don't have much to do with whether you have hyperpigmentation, freckles, cellulite, etc.," she says. "The more you know from the beginning of your journey that bodies look different, the easier it is for you to accept [yourself]. But if the only bodies you're seeing are sexualized in pornography, videos, and magazines, you don't have a real basis."
It's one of the biggest reasons she intended for The Real Body Manual to be a visual guide.
3. Your Naked Body Is Beautiful
"I really like showing people what the body actually looks like for the most part," Redd says. Yeah, that's right — The Real Body Manual features real people's bodies, not just illustrations. In doing so, she says, "Everyone can see someone who resembles them." It doesn't matter if you're heavy-set, a person with different sized breasts, or anything in-between. The point is that you'll be able to find yourself somewhere in The Real Body Manual.
My mother told me how little information her own mom shared with her about bodies. Because of that, my mom always stressed that she wanted my sister and I to have access to whatever information we needed. She wanted us to be informed, and never inhibited by her own lack of comfort over a topic. But not all parents feel comfortable sharing with their kids.
Redd says, "I don't think it was done with malice. I think people are just working with whatever they have which is not a lot." She further notes people have chosen to refer to genitals as "down there" for both men and women instead of saying the proper term for them for their autonomy. I'll be honest — growing up in a religious background often means sexual shame was attached to very normal things like breasts and penises.
Not everyone was on board with me telling my toddler he has a penis instead of saying "pee pee" — or not talking about it at all, if we're being honest. But I wanted him to feel comfortable with what he was born with, and to know that his dad having the same anatomy is normal. "We just don't use the proper names for things which increases this shroud of secrecy about it. We aren't taught health literacy," Redd says.
4. 'The Real Body Manual' Is A Must-Have For Pre-Teens, Teens, And Adults
Funnily enough, Redd informs me that October is actually Health Literacy Month, making all this really round out. We should know what's going on with our bodies, whether it's the proper terminology, what changes we're going through, what we can look like. Ignorance only makes our experiences more confusing and harder — especially when we're young and probably have a million different questions.
She explains that if you ask people specifics like 'How does a period work,' then they may not know the answer. "The same goes for if you ask what's the difference between a freckle and a mole," Redd explains. "It may not seem like these things are a big deal, but when something goes wrong, you need to know 'I need to get this thing checked out.'"
Information is power, and when armed with information about our bodies we can lead safer, healthier lives. Instead of wondering why we don't talk about things enough, Redd decided to take the bull by the horns and talk about them — and she thinks you should talk about them, even (and sometimes especially) when they're uncomfortable. She says, "Any time you feel shame or discomfort discussing your body, that's a sign you don't have enough information."
If you find yourself unable to ask other people questions, but want to start feeling comfortable in your body, I highly recommend that you read both Body Drama and The Real Body Manual because they're equipped with detailed explanations — and helpful imagery — about how bodies actually look, work, and feel.
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