We have a serious appreciation for all things creative, like these plus-size Halloween costumes, and we have a hunch you’ll love some of our newest finds, too. Afterward, if you still haven’t decided on which costume to wear this Halloween, gather your group of besties and get their opinion — or, better yet, pick out a group Halloween costume, and you can all dress up together! Here are 40 of the most curve-lovin’ (and seriously hot) plus-size Halloween costumes you’ll find out there this season.

Yandy

Cruella de Vil

Cruella de Vil will always hold a special place among our most-feared villains, right alongside Voldemort and Ursula. After all, she’s going after puppies! But on Halloween, the celebration of the gruesome and morbid, this evilness equates to fabulousness, and we’ll more than forgive you for dressing up like her… just this once.

Walmart

Maleficent

Channel your deepest, darkest powers and channel your inner Maleficent this Halloween. “So you see, the story is not quite as you were told.”

Amazon

Cozy Deer

Wait, so we can look cute *and* be toasty-warm?! We’re sayin’ yes to this fuzzy zip-up.

Yandy

Sexy Stewardess

Get ready for liftoff in this flight attendant costume. If you’re a travel-lover, this is the perfect way to bring your passion into your costume.

Brit + Co

DIY Jessica Rabbit Costume

This has to be the ultimate curvy bombshell character to channel on Halloween. The dress, gloves, hair, and makeup are bold and will definitely put your bangin’ bod front and center. (via Brit + Co)

Amazon

Sexy Kitty

Frisky attitude not included. This plus size Halloween costume might look simple, but it’s anything but basic.

Amazon

Flapper Girl

There’s nothing as fun — and a little dangerous — as the glitz and glamour of the ’20s. Throw on a long string of pearls or do your makeup to look like a ghostly flapper for that extra creative edge.

Brit + Co

DIY Ursula Costume

We’ll always be a sucker for classic Disney costumes. And if you want to give Ursula that extra-special take, you can follow this relatively simple DIY for the costume contest win! (via Brit + Co)

Halloween Costumes

Sea Siren Mermaid

This is — hands down — one of the best mermaid costumes we’ve ever seen. From the form-fitting metallic mermaid “tail” to the bustier top, this is for sure a look to emulate if you want to flaunt your curves.

Yandy

Storybook Alice

Down the rabbit hole you go this Halloween. You never know what’s going to happen when you channel this fairytale classic!

Halloween Costumes

Sea Siren

You had us at gold, sequins, and tulle. Oh, and we’re always down to rule the sea!

Amazon

Ninja

Pop off this Halloween in a comfortable disguise that’s both sleek and sexy.

Amazon

Beauty And The Beast Belle

We’ll always love our classic Disney princesses, especially this beauty.

Amazon

Minnie Mouse

You don’t need a Mickey to look fly as heck in a retro-inspired Minnie Mouse getup.

Amazon

Empress Divine

One of the best reasons to dress up as an ancient Egyptian is obviously the cat-eye makeup.

Amazon

Goth Red Riding Hood

Pay homage to one of your favorite fairy tales with a sexy twist. Plus, if you haven’t worn a cape before, you truly haven’t lived.

Amazon

Flirty Cop

It may be illegal to impersonate a police officer, but no one ever said a flirty cop was off-limits!

Halloween Costumes

Cinderella Fairy Godmother

We could all use a fairy godmother, albeit notthis scheming one from Shrek. Still, this is a hilarious costume, and we’re definitely eyeing that wand and wig combo.

Yandy

Commando Cutie

Serve your country by wearing this retro army green uniform.

Amazon

Harley Quinn

We’re impressed with the mismatched thigh-highs and color-coordinated armbands on this plus-size Halloween costume.

Amazon

Cozy Bat Costume

The name of this costume says it all. If you’re in the mood to prioritize comfort, you’ll feel extra-snuggly in this cozy bat costume.

Amazon

Ghostbuster

If you loved the all-female Ghostbusters as much as we did, grab your friends and go as the whole crew. The best part? On Halloween, there will be plenty of monsters to bust, which makes a great conversation-starter!

Amazon

Queen Bee

Everyone at this year's Halloween party will be buzzing about you in this flattering bee costume. You are the queen, after all!

Amazon

Poison Ivy

Wow, here’s a sexy take on the evil Poison Ivy.

Amazon

Oktoberfest Fraulein

The beer maid costume is always a safe choice. It’s cute and classic, and you get to wear pigtails.

Yandy

Sexy Nurse

They’ll need a nurse after you knock ’em out with this costume!

Amazon

Snow White

If you’re going to wear this outfit out on the town, you’ll definitely have at least seven admirers following you wherever you go.

Amazon

Pinup Sailor

Sail the open seas with this cute and comfy sailor costume. This retro getup is all about the accessories!

Yandy

Miss Muerte

Another way to celebrate Halloween is to celebrate the dead. Do it in style with this awesome costume.

Amazon

Cozy Skeleton

If you’re into traditional bones, this comfy number will surely scare the living dead out of you.

Amazon

Grease Pink Lady

This is the perfect Halloween costume for when you don’t really want to dress up. Flats? Check! Awesome jacket to keep you warm? Double check!

Walmart

Supergirl

No one is going to mess with you in this costume, and you just might feel faster than a speeding bullet.

Halloween Costumes

Spanish Senorita

With plenty of sass and a whole lot of ruffles, this costume will have you dancing for joy.

Amazon

Mrs. Incredible

Be your own superhero with this sleek Elastigirl costume. You would look totally incredible in it.

Amazon

Dark Alice

We wouldn’t drink the tea that this Alice serves. While we do love the original blue that Disney’s Alice wears, we are really digging this all-black dress too.

Amazon

Batgirl

Trick-or-treat in the name of justice! Grab Superman and bring him along too, because you two are friends now, remember?

Amazon

Hippie

Keep this Halloween totally tubular by donning this adorable retro dress with go-go boots and a fun '70s eye makeup look!

Amazon

Friday The 13th Miss Voorhees

If you’re team Jason, then you need to buy this sexy number. While we’re not sure who would ultimately win this fight, we’re sure this outfit is already winning our hearts.

Walmart

Justice League Wonder Woman

While Superman is cool and all, we are particularly fond of Wonder Woman. She’s a badass chick that we are ready to represent. Flying an invisible jet doesn’t hurt, either.

Yandy

Cat Burglar

Feeling feisty? Go classic cat with a twist. Meeeow.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

This edible crescent-roll cornucopia is our way of making a normal cheese boardmore festive — and definitely more fun — during the holiday season. Our go-to this time of year is a massive cheese plate that can stand alone and be the main attraction, or the starter for a larger meal. Press on for the surprisingly easy steps to braid a breaded cornucopia.

Chris Andre

Materials + Tools:

  • 1 roll of tin foil
  • 2 packages of crescent rolls
  • 1 egg (for egg wash before cornucopia goes into the oven), optional

Chris Andre

Instructions:

Start by sculpting tin foil into the shape of a cornucopia (it looks like a cone with an upturned tail). Pro tip: Lightly pack tin foil so it's easier to remove later from your baked cornucopia. Crescent rolls should be buttery enough that this shouldn't be difficult.

Chris Andre

Your tin foil mold should look a little something like this.

Chris Andre

Pop open the crescent rolls and cut the triangles into strips. Pinch together the ends of strips to make strips longer.

Chris Andre

Braid crescent roll strips. You can make these as fancy as you want. Not a braiding pro? Skip this step and leave those strips alone.

Chris Andre

Wrap tin foil cornucopia with braids/strips. Make sure you cover all the tin foil. Leave a little wiggle room at the opening of the cornucopia, so that when you’re done baking you can pull some of that tin foil out.

Chris Andre

Use any extra dough to cover the bottom of your cornucopia. Pinch the sides and anchor those braids/strips in.

Chris Andre

Brush on egg wash before placing your cornucopia in the oven. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. Take out of oven and cover spots of cornucopia that are already golden brown with extra tin foil. Bake for another 20 minutes at 250 degrees Fahrenheit.

Chris Andre

Let it cool down until it’s easy to handle. Remove tin foil.

Chris Andre

Place cornucopia in corner of your cheese plate. Arrange cheese on your serving tray.

Chris Andre

Add crackers — we like to have two or three options.

Chris Andre

Don’t forget to fill up your cornucopia. It's called "the horn of plenty" for a reason. Fill with fresh fruit like grapes, apples, and pears.

Chris Andre

Add nuts like walnuts and pistachios to fill in any empty spaces. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary and sage to finish it off.

Chris Andre

Voilà! Invite over your friends, open a bottle of wine, and dig in!

Chris Andre

A cornucopia cheese board will become your new favorite holiday tradition.

Show us your crescent-roll cornucopias on Instagram and check out our baking classes (and our Easy Thanksgiving Desserts piece) for more holiday food inspo!

DIY Production and Styling: Paris Fried

Paris Fried: Paris loves any excuse to celebrate and throw a themed party. She loves experimenting in the kitchen and has a terrible sweet tooth. When she's not crafting in her studio, she's at the farmers' market buying seasonal produce or at her favorite local theater watching double features.

This post has been updated.

Halloween is supposed to be full of spooky surprises, freaky frights, and twisted thrills – but even though we really do love ALL the scary Halloween costumes, we also enjoy killing the disguise game in hilariously original, pun-filled get-ups. This year, consider swapping out that “pretty” look for some much-needed humor to any and every spooky gathering. Scroll on for 85 of the most hysterically ridiculous Halloween costume ideas — guaranteed to help you bring the funny and keep the Halloween party laughing all night long.

Brit + Co

Eleven from Stranger Things

Leggo her Eggo.(via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Thing 1 and Thing 2

Get joined at the hip like these iconic Dr. Seuss characters in simple blue wigs and red maxis. “Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting!” (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Wrecking Ball

That’s right; we turned Brit’s belly into Miley’s wrecking ball. Miley's signature face and tongue are optional.(via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Wayne and Garth

This duo pulls off Wayne’s World flawlessly. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Broad City

We give all our "yesses" to Broad City and the two kweens that are comedy geniuses – Abbi and Ilana. If you haven’t seen this episode intro yet, you HAVE to. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Bowie Emojis

It’s officially time to put on your red shoes and dance the blues, baby. (via Brit + Co.)

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Bernie Sanders

This is just... too much. It’s time to feel the Bern. (via Brit + Co.)

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Lisa Frank and a Unicorn

Be sure to hit up your local Goodwill store for all the inspo. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Sue Surprise

ICYMI, the SNL skitfeatures Kristen Wiig in one of our all-time favorite roles. First, do your homework (AKA watch the clip) and then have a field day with this kooky character. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

The Revenant

This movie is so intense we think it’s worth recreating for years to come. And whether you’re Leo or the ferocious bear, you’re sure to have an epic Halloween holiday. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

The Simple Life

We still can’t get over the fact that these two once had a show where they entered the blue-collar world and worked among the rest of us. Recreate this throwback costume and make sure to bring the ‘tude. (via Brit + Co.)

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Egg

This punny costume is fun because of the whole “egg” thing but also because it takes a matter of minutes to put together! Just add felt! (via Brit + Co.)

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Hipster

Our favorite — but at the same time our least favorite — type of man. (via Brit + Co.)

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LaCroix Boy

We know you want to. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Abbi and Ilana from Broad City

From season three’s “Game Over” episode where Abbi competes in the Soulstice Games and Ilana loses her job at Deals! Deals! Deals!, this costume pairing just might be two of the show’s most iconic looks. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Ghostbusters

You’ll never believe it, but the secret behind this funny Halloween costume is Tupperware containers! (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Avocado Toast

This costume is so not basic. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

’80s Andre Agassi and a Tennis Ball

This goofy couple’s costume is really cute, even sans bump. It’s time to win an ace on that contest – match point, y’all. (via Brit + Co.)

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Forrest Gump and Lieutenant Dan

Channeling your inner Gary Sinise and Tom Hanks for the duo to end all duos. Run, Forrest, run! (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Hocus Pocus

We love this witchy twist! “I put a spell on you, and now you’re mine.” (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Cher and Dionne from Clueless

If you’re totally buggin’ over what costume to wear, why not bring out your inner Cher from this classic ’90s film? Or, whatever. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Donald Trump

Expect to see plenty of political costumes thisHalloween. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Pokémon

Pikachu and Ash are always a popular duo during Halloween, so be as creative as possible when dressing up your pets. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Target Lady

Watch and learn in this SNL skit starring Kristen Wiig, who deserves a Halloween character every single year. Hot chicken! (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Netflix + Chill

This is the ultimate couple’s costume that will have all your friends saying 'yassss.' Netflix and chill probably win for hilarious yet kinda sexy slang, and this outfit is so easy to DIY, too. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Throwback Snapchat Filters

These Snapchat filters are easy to DIY with some face paint and perseverance. Learn how to do a puppy, bee, or flower crown filter for the Halloween makeup tutorial win. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Treasure Troll

The key here is getting that wig just right. It’s like backcombing on steroids. The other key? You’ve gotta completely own this look. Like we said, it’s a bold move for anyone to wear what is basically a nude suit, so make sure you have fun with it.(via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Mean Girls

Pay homage to the ultimate Mean Girls movie by dressing up as the clique. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Kristen Wiig as Dooneese

This SNL character wears all kinds of outfits, so find the craziest dress at a thrift store to channel your best Dooneese. The key piece is, of course, the tiny hands! (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Grace and Frankie

So you’ve already tried Cher and Dionne and Thelma and Louise. Next on the list with your BFF: these two sassy women are from our fave Netflix hit, Grace and Frankie. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Real Housewives

Grab a glass of rosé, a Grey Goose with lots and lots of lemons, or even a bottle of skinny margarita mix and work it on Halloween night as a quotable, fearless star of Bravo’s iconic series. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Hillary Clinton

HRC makes for an inspiring AND hilariously iconic costume. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Saved by the Bell

You pretty much have to dress like a cast member of this show at least once in your life. Halloween is nothing if not an excuse to enjoy all of our favorite throwback styles. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Gangnam Style

Remember how this video went crazy viral?! We sure do. And TBH, it doesn’t really ever get old. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Beetlejuice

Eyeballs and serious DIY mask-making skills are required for this monster version of the couple stuck in the attic in one of our favorite spooky flicks. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

David S. Pumpkins and the Skeletons

If you’ve yet to see this SNL‘s skit that this costume is based on, then TBH, you haven’t really lived. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Waldo and Wenda

You can never go wrong with classic picture book characters like these two. But can you pick them out of the party crowd? (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Gay Royalty

Fellow peasants, thou princes have arrived to rule the land and look dang good, too. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Bananas in Pyjamas

Let’s be real — the showBananas in Pyjamasis pretty bizarre. But since we love eating bananas and we love wearing comfy pajamas, it kind of works, right?! (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Dino Duo

Quickly transform you and your bae or bestie into prehistoric creatures with this simple felt DIY, and you’ll be getting your roar on in no time. Be sure to practice that perfect dinosaur walk. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Andy Warhol and Marilyn Monroe Pop Art

We think Marilyn said it best: “Give a girl the right pair of shoes and she’ll conquer the world.” And she’ll conquer the costume contest, while she’s at it. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Operation and Surgeon

Bringing this classic board game to life delivers comfort for the both of you, a hint of sexy, and without a doubt a buzzing nostalgia. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

David Bowie and Prince

These two next-level musicians will always hold a dear place in our hearts. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Daria and Jane

All we have to say is: “You’re standing on my neck.” These two teens were never very impressed, but that somehow made us love and laugh with them even more. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Wisdom Teeth Abbi and Co-Op Ilana

From two different Broad City episodes – but perfect for pairing – this simple and non-basic costume will keep you feeling silly and shouting “yasss queen” to each other all night long. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Carpool Karaoke

Is it just us, or is James Corden’s Carpool Karaoke series one of the greatest gems of the internet? Try it out and pick your funny Halloween costume from any of our favorite guests — like the always groovin’ Justin Timberlake. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Nerd

This fail-safe costume always comes through when you’re in a bind. You might want to bring your Good Grammar Is Sexy tote for carrying all the candy you’re going to score.(via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Sriracha

Now you can dress as everyone’s favorite bottle with a green cap! But also, feel free to think outside the box. Use your imagination to be a “hot mama” if you’re expecting, “hot and bothered” with your BFF, a “hot ticket” if you’re on the prowl or (for your pooch perhaps?) a “hot dog.”(via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Sushi

Yum! Why not grab a few friends and dress up as your favorite roll? Sushi roll, that is. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Uber and Lyft

We turned these two rival transportation companies into a very driven couple. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Step Brothers

This is SUCH a classic. Whether you’re partners, friends, or actual stepbrothers, it’s sheer comedic genius every time. (via Brit + Co.)

Studio DIY

Croquembouche

If you’re not familiar with this type of French wedding cake, it’s made from dozens of tiny cream puffs. So cute *and* delish! (via Studio DIY)

Brit + Co

The Breakfast Club

“So I guess we are who we are for a lot of reasons. And maybe we’ll never know most of them.” (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Twins

Let’s journey back to 1988 when the world accepted the idea that Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito could be… twins? Wait, what? (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Juno

Next, we have everyone’s favorite pregnant teen, Juno! Channel a little bit of attitude and apathy, grab an empty Slurpee cup, and you are well on your way. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Party Animals

Let’s turn the clocks back to an imaginary New Year’s Eve party in the ’50s! (via Brit + Co.)

Studio DIY

Googly Eyes

If you’re looking for something big and dramatic for Halloween photo time, these googly-eye balloons would make for some great party decor and a costume photo prop. (via Studio DIY)

Brit + Co

Dumb and Dumber

“Oh look, frost!” (via Brit + Co.)

Studio DIY

Bowl of Cereal

Since pool floats are in — and pool noodles are out — why not turn ’em into a bowl of Fruit Loops? Re-purposing props are the green goddess’ way of keeping things fresh every Halloween. (via Studio DIY)

Brit + Co

Emoji Couple

Since we’re talking emoji here, here’s another adorable emoji couple costume that is sure to go viral. Plus, it’s really easy, considering you can make this costume using what’s already in your closet. (via Brit + Co.)

Studio DIY

French Fries

This costume is hilarious and, not to mention, it’s a DIY. The fries can be made using upholstery foam. (via Studio DIY)

Brit + Co

Trainwreck

This costume is definitely a potential rock-directly-from-your-closet look. Since this one is a little more understated, it will require you to play the part with your partner throughout the night. Don’t forget to brown bag it! (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

#TheDress

This debate was one that divided families, ended friendships, and made you question your relationship. And now, the optical illusion is a totally wearable and nostalgic Halloween costume. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Pancakes and Syrup

They say that breakfast is indeed the most important meal of the day. Grab your sidekick and rep this very special meal in full stack and sticky syrup form. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Takeout Night

A t-shirt that doubles as a costume? This is every procrastinator’s dream! (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Minions

When in doubt, you can always turn to animated movies for a little funny Halloween costume inspo. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making an adorable homemade Minion costume. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Zoolander and Hansel

“Listen to your friend Billy Zane, he’s a cool dude!” (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Tight White Pants

No idea why this is hilarious? It’s definitely a deep cut, straight from Jimmy Fallon’s archive on The Tonight Show. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

John Lennon and Yoko Ono

Channel your inner rockstar(s) by becoming these two legends this Halloween. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Gilly and the Teacher

If you haven’t seen the SNL skitfeaturing Kristen Wiig, you’re overdue. “Her name is Gilly and she’s at it again, causing lots of ruckus like a barnyard hen. She’s always making trouble, her hair is like a bubble. Knock, knock, who’s there? It’s Gilly.” (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

The Grand Budapest Hotel

In true Wes Anderson fashion, this movie castis all kinds of quirky-strange, perfect for a funny Halloween costume. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Brawny Man

This is officially the easiest DIY costume ever, but it’s original enough that it still works. The Brawny Man is all kinds of handsome, so prepare to have a little arm candy by your side all night. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Sizzling Bacon

Halloween just might be the only day of the year when wearing this dress would be remotely appropriate. Or, take the opportunity to channel Lady Gaga’s epic meat gown. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co/NBC

Garth and Kat

Thanks to the regular SNL skit, our two favorite songwriters are welcome to crash any of our holiday parties! (via Brit + Co.)

Studio DIY

Raining Men

David, Josh, Leo, George… the gang’s all here! Pick your fave studs and follow along with the instructions for one hunky rainstorm we’d all like to weather. (via Studio DIY)

Brit + Co

Zoya the Destroya and Liberty Belle

You’re destined to have a *knockout* Halloween when you dress up as this dynamic GLOW duo. We’re always in it to win it! (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Denim Horses

Horseheads are a thing, and we happen to have two. So, if you really have no idea what to be this Halloween, just Amazon Prime a pair and get ready to get creepy all night long. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Windblown Man

We’ve all had those bad umbrella days… (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Spice Girls

Though we’re all about bringing back Sporty, Scary, Baby, Posh, and Ginger, go the unexpected route and simply dress up as your favorite spices. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Breaking Bad

Let them cook! (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Hawaiian Punch

How ’bout a nice Hawaiian punch? This punny couples costume is part Hula Girl, part Rocky Balboa. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Bun in the Oven

Maternity costumes FTW! Dress your bump up as an actual bun in the oven. (via Brit + Co.)

Brit + Co

Hall and Oates

Yep. We went there. You really do make our dreams come true. (via Brit + Co.)

With these funny Halloween costumes, we've got your next idea waiting.

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Though Black Friday is traditionally the official start of the holiday shopping season, we argue that it’s been kicking since mid-October. We know, we know: it still feels extremely early to start thinking about the holidays, but they’ll be here before you know it! Plus, many brands and retailers are already promoting their holiday goodies with plenty of sales and discounts available right now.

If you’re ready to embark on your holiday shopping journey, but still need answers to questions like ‘when’s the best time to shop?’ and ‘where should I shop for gifts?’ and even ‘how the heck do I save money this season?’, you’ve come to the right place. Consider this your go-to guide for holiday shopping in 2024.

Scroll on for our best guidance on navigating this busy time of year and finding the best gifts possible!

When's the best time to do holiday shopping?

Kaboompics / PEXELS

The best time to do holiday shopping really all depends on your personal shopping goals. Do you want to get a jump on items you know will sell out soon? Do you want to save the most money possible? Do you want to focus on handmade, personalized gifts? These factors will undoubtedly influence your holiday shopping schedule.

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

Shopping early can be advantageous for all of the aforementioned goals. A lot of retailers start promoting their holiday products early on, giving you ample time to snatch up that limited-time lip kit or fancy water bottle you’ve been eyeing way before the holidays.

Plus, some of the best deals for holiday shopping happen ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday – in 2023, Experian observed a surge in early spending in October, thanks to early discounts, a trend likely to continue in 2024.

Finally, shopping early can be especially helpful if your plan is to focus on handmade or personalized gifts, giving the artisan you buy from (or yourself, if you’re DIY-ing your gifts) plenty of time to craft the item with love and care.

Gallup reported in 2023 that one in four shoppers start shopping as early as September, a trend likely to continue in 2024 – so you might already be embarking on your shopping spree!

Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS

If right now is just still too darn early for you to start holiday shopping, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are some of the best times to shop since so many retailers offer their largest discounts of the entire year. Plus, the late November-early December timeline can feel a bit more appropriate for the gifting season opposed to late October-early November, when everyone’s still recovering from Halloween.

The only thing to consider during this time is the shipping timelines for the items you purchase – but most retailers will typically advise their specific shipping schedules, so you don’t risk your goodies arriving late.

Where should I shop for gifts?

Ron Lach / PEXELS

You have three main options when it comes to where to shop for holiday gifts: online, in-store, and via our amazing gift guides. Of course, each method has its advantages and disadvantages.

Shopping in-store offers a tangible experience: the opportunity to hold specific items in your hands and gauge exactly what they’ll be like when you give them as a gift. The pitfall with shopping in-person is that it typically requires a commute and journeys through potentially very busy malls and shopping strips, which can add to the already-stressful holiday experience.

In-store shopping can be more physically exhausting, but it’s all about preference! Sometimes strolling through the stores that get all dolled up for Christmas is the best part of the season.

Andrea Piacquadio / PEXELS

Per Google, 65% of those planning to shop for the holidays say they will shop online more. Shopping for gifts online can be super helpful since you can centralize your findings in your browser’s bookmark tab or via virtual cart(s). Plus, shopping online can pose more opportunities for saving some money: lots of retailers typically offer discount codes for online users, especially if you sign up for their digital marketing channels (like email and text) and make a purchase.

Shopping online isn’t just shopping, either. The internet can be a stellar research tool to help you vet whether certain products are worth it, where they can be bought, and when they’ll be available. In fact, Google reported that more than half of U.S. holiday shoppers who went into a store last year say they looked up product reviews online and/or located an item in-store by checking it online.

Kaboompics / PEXELS

Last but not least, scrolling gift guides has to be our favorite place to shop for gifts – and not just because we write and publish them.

At their very core, gift guides help streamline the holiday shopping process, alleviating the stress that bubbles up when you’re wondering what the heck to shop for in the first place. Our gift guides are backed by real people, real experiences, and real opinions from our editorial team. We only promote products that we really love and believe in, oftentimes ones we’ve tested and reviewed ourselves.

We have gift guides for just about everyone on your list, with more on the way! Check ‘em out:

What are the best kinds of gifts to give?

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The best kinds of gifts to give are thoughtful gifts that consider the giftee’s interests, wants, and needs. These gifts can be sentimental, practical, or both simultaneously. What matters most in a gift is that it’ll be meaningful to them past just the holiday season, whether it’s helping them get through daily tasks, reminding them of a memorable trip or event, or giving them small doses of joy.

“Shoppers are increasingly looking for personalized and unique gifts that reflect the recipient's personality and interests,” says Mia Anderson, Owner of ChicSew. “With the rise of online shopping, many consumers are opting for curated gift boxes or experiences that add a special touch.”

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Gift boxes, personalized items, books of interest, self-care goodies, and even gift cards can all be thoughtful gifts depending on the recipient. If you have no clue what your giftee is into, it’s not a bad idea to ask them what they want the most!

“My idea of a great gift is something that is in tandem with the recipient's interest and offers something new to the person, be it learning a new skill, enjoying a calming activity, or simply spending quality time with the family,” says Alfred Christ, Sales Manager & Marketer at Robotime. “This season, we encourage shoppers to shift their focus on quality and the memories their gifts will create and not just merely material aspects.”

When is Black Friday?

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Black Friday is always the Friday after Thanksgiving. This year, Black Friday lands on November 29.

When is Cyber Monday?

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Cyber Monday is typcally the Monday after Thanksgiving. This year, Cyber Monday will land on December 2. Oftentimes, retailers and brands extend their online offers through the week (coined Cyber Week) after the event. Salesforce reported that 67% of shoppers in 2024 plan on shopping during Cyber Week!

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The holidays at Starbucks are creeping up on us, people! Peppermint Mocha season will return on November 7. If you’re a die-hard Starbucks fan, you know Red Cup Day is a whole holiday in itself – the frenzy for a free reusable cup is truly no joke. There’s even an entire website dedicated to counting down the madness! Even though there’s no official word on when Red Cup Day 2024 will be, there are several clues that cue us into the annual event. Scroll on for details!

What is Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day is Starbucks’ highly-awaited annual event that marks the start of holiday beverage season at the coffee chain. For one day only (and while supplies last), customers who order any of Starbucks’ holiday drinks will receive a reusable red cup that features a bespoke design for the respective year.

Starbucks

Here’s a list of all the drinks rumored to be available on the Starbucks holiday menu starting November 7:

  • Peppermint Mocha
  • Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha
  • Caramel Brûlée Latte
  • Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
  • Chestnut Praline Latte
  • Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew
  • Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai

What do the red cups look like for 2024?

Starbucks

Starbucks hasn’t officially announced when Red Cup Day will be for 2024, let alone what the famed red cups will look like this go-around. The one obvious point is that the cups will be red! They’ll also likely feature some festive motifs that echo the holiday season. Last year’s red cups boasted playful white and green stars and ornament-like shapes.

Why should I participate in Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day = freebies, which can feel really rewarding if you’re really into receiving free goodies. Plus, it’s just a fun way to lean into the holiday spirit. The red reusable cup keeps giving beyond Red Cup Day, though! Every time you use the reusable cup for future Starbucks orders, you get a 10-cent discount as well as 25 bonus stars toward your Starbucks Rewards account to save up for more discounts on drinks, food, and merchandise.

When is Starbucks' Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

Again, Starbucks hasn’t alerted us on when Red Cup Day will be for 2024, but based on previous Red Cup Days, we can infer it’ll land on the third Thursday of November. In 2022, Red Cup Day happened on November 17, and for 2023, it was November 16. The third Thursday of November in 2024 hits on November 21, so mark your calendars, everyone!

Additionally, check back here for official info as Red Cup Day approaches.

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This post has been updated.