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So Good It's Scary: 5 of Our Favorite Looks from Classic Horror Movies

Thrill master Alfred Hitchcock once said, “The more successful the villain, the more successful the picture.” But forget the (male) villain — cult horror films would be nowhere without their leading ladies. These women endure emotional turmoil, homicidal maniacs, and the occasional bloodbath, and manage to look stunning while doing so. In honor of Halloween, here are some of the most iconic looks from our favorite horror movies and super easy ways to achieve them.


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Samantha Hughes, 'House of the Devil'

Horror Movie Heroine Shopping Guide

It's hard to know whether the nice elderly couple you're babysitting for are sincere or Satanists. Samantha found out the hard way. This chunky knit sweater and parka ensure that you're ready to face the elements (or the icy hand of death); snakeskin ankle boots and wide-leg jeans keep it from feeling too casual.

Shop it now: Topshop beanie, $26; Wilfred Free sweater, $135; NLST jacket, $795; Zara denim trousers, $49; Topshop boots, $220.

Helen Shivers, 'I Know What You Did Last Summer'

Horror Movie Heroine Shopping Guide

Helen was always the most fashionable of her friends: she won a beauty contest — right before they accidentally killed an innocent man and covered it up. Tapered pants and a crop top in muted colors conjure her '90s look; metallic accessories keep it fun.

Shop it now: Zara trousers, $69; Zara boots, $139; Wilfred top, $85; Moschino cap, $595; Topshop backpack, $105.

Carol Ledoux, 'Repulsion'

Horror Movie Heroine Shopping Guide

Carol might have barricaded herself in her apartment for days due to her crippling paranoia, but her boudoir-worthy wardrobe works outside, too. The longer length and color of this slip dress keeps things demure, and the platforms add a fun, retro feel.

Shop it now: H&M platforms, $79; H&M socks, $6; Rick Owens dress, $407; Fleur du Mal bra, $78, Satomi Kawakita ring, $190.

Rosemary Woodhouse, 'Rosemary's Baby'

Horror Movie Heroine Shopping Guide

Despite becoming the host for Satan's child thanks to her manipulative husband and secretly-in-a-coven neighbors, Rosemary always managed to dress impeccably. Capture her flirty '60s style with a floral-patterned A-line skirt, sparkly chunky heels, and bunny stud earrings.

Shop it now: Eckhaus Latta top, $459; Marc Jacobs skirt, $1,200; Miu Miu pumps, $745; Aamaya by Priyanka earrings, $278;

Suzy Bannion, 'Suspiria'

Horror Movie Heroine Shopping Guide

Suzy was talented enough to be accepted to a prestigious (but sinister) German dance academy and her style fit right in with her elegant, more experienced classmates. Beige culottes, a bright white fur, and a wide brimmed hat make for a perfect laid-back European vibe. The detailing on the kitten heels and the gold bangles adds visual interest.

Shop it now: Aquazzura pumps, $795; Zara hat, $39, Toga faux fur jacket, $830; Rachel Comey culottes, $345; Zara bangle, $22 for set of 2.

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