The Wildest Wardrobes: A First-Person Journey Through Beetlejuice's Most Iconic Costumes
Let me tell you, as a lifelong fan of the weird and wonderful, few things in cinema history have stuck with me quite like the costumes of the Beetlejuice universe. From the first time I saw Michael Keaton's striped suit back in the day, I knew fashion could be a character all its own. Now, in 2026, with the sequel's impact still fresh, it's clear these outfits aren't just clothes; they're the visual heart and soul of Tim Burton's bizarre, delightful world. They tell stories, define personalities, and, frankly, they're just a whole lot of fun to look at. So, let's take a trip down memory lane and into the afterlife to appreciate the threads that made these movies iconic.
First up, let's talk about Bob. Talk about a silent but stylish scene-stealer! In Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, Betelgeuse's assistant might not say a word, but his bright yellow suit screams for attention. It's a masterclass in how simplicity can be striking. When Bob and the gang crash into the real world, that blast of yellow against the more mundane backdrop is pure visual comedy gold. It proves that in Beetlejuice's world, even the "boring" outfits are unforgettable.
Going back to the original, one of my personal favorite subtle nods is Delia's striped glove look. Remember that dinner scene? She's rocking a black and white striped blouse with a black glove twisted into her hair like some avant-garde headband. The genius here is the connection to the main man himself. That striped pattern is a dead ringer for Betelgeuse's signature look. Whether Delia knew she was channeling the demonic decorator vibes is up for debate, but the outfit is a perfect, creative fit for the film's oddball aesthetic.
Then there's Lydia Deetz, all grown up. Her first appearance in the sequel, hosting her "Ghost House" show, hit me right in the nostalgia. She wears a simple yet powerful black dress with a plunging neckline and a big belt, her hair in those iconic sharp gothic spikes. This outfit isn't about flash; it's about statement. It tells us Lydia has matured, she's got a career and a kid, but she hasn't lost an ounce of her spooky, authentic self. It's like seeing an old friend who's still totally true to who they are, and that's pretty damn cool.
Her daughter, Astrid, has a costume that's pure character genius. For Halloween, she dresses as Marie Curie in a shimmery gray dress with a high lace neck. This isn't just a pretty costume; it's the key to understanding Astrid. She's a skeptic, a girl of science who doesn't believe in her mother's psychic abilities. Dressing as the pioneering scientist who literally died for her radioactive discoveries? That's some next-level, thematic costuming that perfectly foreshadows her own risky journey.
Speaking of new characters, Willem Dafoe's Wolf Jackson was an instant classic. An afterlife detective who only got the job because he played one on TV? Only in Beetlejuice. His look sells it: a regular suit, but with a chunk of his skull missing, showing off his greenish-blue brains. It's the perfect blend of creepy and whimsical—gruesome but presented with such artistic flair that it's more fascinating than frightening. It fits the movie's tone to a T.
Of course, we can't forget the O.G. looks. Lydia's black floppy hat ensemble from the first film is legendary for a reason. That loose black dress and giant hat as she arrives at the Maitland house? It was our first glimpse of her, and it screamed that this was no ordinary teenager. This outfit wasn't just goth fashion; it was a declaration of independence, curiosity, and a deep, unique personality.
And what would a Beetlejuice list be without the man himself? Betelgeuse's burgundy wedding tuxedo from 1988 is a thing of beautiful, chaotic glory. Maroon suit, ruffly white shirt, big bow tie—it's untraditional, slightly ugly, and perfectly eccentric. It mirrors his complete disregard for rules and matches Lydia's red dress in the most hilariously dysfunctional way. It makes 100% sense for a demon trying to trick a teen into marriage.
The sequel gave us another stunning wedding look: Delores's black wedding dress. Betelgeuse's vengeful ex-wife wears a gown with delicate chiffon sleeves, a sparkly corset, and a flowing skirt fit for a macabre princess. In a franchise where no one wears white to their wedding, this dress is a standout. It's gorgeous, it's dark, and it suits her soul-sucking vendetta perfectly.
Which brings us to, in my humble opinion, one of the greatest costumes in movie history: Lydia's red wedding dress from the original. The poofy, polka-dotted red gown with the teased Bride of Frankenstein hair? It's iconic. It's the visual definition of a goth teen being forced to marry an undead demon. And the fact that it makes a glorious, nostalgic return in the sequel's musical number? Chef's kiss. It's wild, colorful, and a perfect bridge between the two films.
But let's be real, the crown jewel, the outfit that started it all and will live on forever, is Betelgeuse's black and white pinstripe suit. It's timeless. It's unforgettable. It is Beetlejuice. The simple color scheme of black, white, and that signature moldy green has become synonymous with the franchise. It reflects his kooky, deranged nature in the most visually succinct way possible. That suit is more than fabric; it's a symbol of a very special kind of cinematic magic that prioritizes strong storytelling through the strangest, most wonderful facets of imagination. Here's to many more years of these iconic looks haunting our pop culture consciousness. What a ride!