If you’re still trying to figure out what to wear for Halloween this year, you may want to think twice before reaching for that familiar costume.
A new survey found that many Americans think some Halloween looks have simply been done too many times.
According to Talker Research, 75% of respondents said there are costumes they consider “played out.” The survey of 2,000 Americans found that the most overdone costume is a “sexy” version of just about anything.
About 29% of respondents said it’s time to retire the look.
Pirates came in second at 25%, followed by any version of the Joker at 22%.
Here’s the full list of the 10 most played-out Halloween costumes, according to the survey:
But don’t take that as a sign to skip Halloween altogether.
The survey found that 68% of Americans believe you’re never too old to dress up for Halloween.
Still, plenty of people are planning to sit this one out. Seventy-six percent of respondents said they don’t plan to dress up this year, while 77% said they don’t plan to attend a Halloween party.
And for those who are dressing up, some of the costume ideas are definitely more creative.
Survey respondents mentioned dressing as a circus peanut, a flock camera and a Polish sausage. Others are sticking with classic characters, including Dr. Alan Grant from “Jurassic Park” and the Wicked Witch of the West from “The Wizard of Oz.”
The Talker Research survey was conducted online Sept. 2-8, 2026, among 2,000 Americans with internet access.
