Every great Halloween party needs to have a theme! This year, our lesbian costume ball is being hosted on Dia de los Muertos or the Day of the Dead so we’re calling it a Dead Man’s Party! Wondering what to wear for this queer Halloween party? Don’t worry boo, we got you.

Here’s our style guide with costume inspiration so you don’t look like death, even if you’re dressed as em.

If you’re unfamiliar with the latin American holiday celebrated every November 2nd you can read more here. On this day we honor the dearly departed, loved ones and ancestors who have passed over but for this one special night can come and visit their friends and families if invited by the ofrenda altar.

The most famous figures associated with the Day of the Dead is called La Catrina, an elegantly dressed skeleton representing the dead. Elaborate skull facepaint and a crown of flowers (marigolds are traditional) are important parts of the look.

The themes most associated with Dia de los Muertos are death, afterlife, ancestors, skulls, guardians of the dead, and the veil between worlds.

You can wear costumes ranging from La Catrina, to undead creatures, spirit guardians, portrayal of an ancestor, or anything else associated with death and the afterlife. Make sure your regalia is always respectfully donned.

Got a great cosplay that fits the theme? We’d love to see it! Some classic characters we think are ripe for this theme include Jack Skellington from The Nightmare Before Christmas, Lydia, Adam & Barbara, or Juno from Beetlejuice, Uncle Fester from The Addams Family, Casper, and a more recent favorite Lisa Frankenstein’s boyfriend.

Undead creatures, death deities, and guardians of the afterlife are great choices for costume’s this year - ghosts, ghouls, wights, zombies, grim reaper, alebrijes, guardian angels, gate keepers, underworld beings, and otherworldly messengers. Get creative!

Are you a goth-leaning queer that loves a good brood? This is your year! Bring on those dark and moody looks. We can’t wait to see you all for our lesbian Halloween ball on November 2nd in Austin and Seattle!