There is no bigger influencer on costume trends than pop culture, specifically movies and television.
Each and every year, ensembles seen on big and small screens trickle into reality via costumers and Cosplayers.
What will be the big influencers in 2018? Expect to see residual influence of 2017 blockbusters “Wonder Woman,” “Justice League,” “IT” and “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.”
Here are 10 more films that could impact consumer wants in the next 12 months. (Listed in order by release date.)
“Black Panther” — Feb. 16
Black Panther, which featured the first black comic book superhero in 1966, finally gets to take center stage. The character’s sleek and stylish uniform should be a popular costume, although the movie will have long been out of theaters by Halloween.
“Avengers: Infinity War” — April 27
It’s supposed to be an Avengers-meet-Guardians of the Galaxy thing. Literally, that’s what it’s going to be. That is the plot.
“Solo: A Star Wars Story” — May 25
The return of Lando Calrissian might wind up being more influential in the costume world than the title character.
“Deadpool 2” — June 1
Deadpool was ultra-popular two years ago when the first film was somewhat of a surprise runaway hit. The sequel should spike popularity again, and it also features the Cable character, played by Josh Brolin.
“Ant-Man & The Wasp” — July 6
Both of the lead characters will sport revamped suits in this Marvel Comics sequel.
“The Predator” — Aug. 3
This reboot coupled with the franchise’s 1980s cult popularity could make the sinister alien, which is supposed to get updated armor, a player at Halloween.
“Slender Man” — Aug. 24
Definitely the most outside-the-box idea on this list, “Slender Man” could be a sneaky hit that inspires costume-wearers or it could be absolutely nothing. It’s worth putting on your radar, though.
“Venom” — Oct. 5
Evil Spider-Man in black isn’t a new character, but it does come to the forefront in a big-budget feature film that will hit theaters just weeks before Halloween.
“Halloween” — Oct. 19
The Michael Myers mask is always popular at Halloween, but with a fresh flick in theaters, it could see an uptick this year.
“Aquaman” — Dec. 21
Aquaman’s leading role debut won’t be out in time for Halloween, but the character’s costume momentum should begin in time to impact the market.
— Zeke Jennings, Managing Editor
