Halloween, at least in Italy, is a divisive holiday: between those who find it a goth carnival and those who consider it a pagan custom to be eradicated, there is no one idea that brings everyone together. Nevertheless, it is increasingly celebrated not only among children but also adults.
The tradition of Halloween has uncertain origins (more on this in a moment), but its costume parties are certain. And if you are wondering how to dress up for Halloween, don’t worry: we at Fratinardi are here to recommend 3 last-minute looks for your fancy dress parties!
A little bit of history
We’re not here to bore you, so we’ll keep it short: it’s not the Devil’s Day as is often believed, but a Christian ( and that is right) and Catholic holiday that originated in Ireland with probable Celtic origins. That it later became a consumerist and commercial holiday is just the ‘natural’ evolution of every Western celebration (Christmas, Valentine’s Day… Carnival…).
Tradition traces its origins back to Samhain, the Celtic New Year, celebrated on 31st October. On that night, it was believed that the boundary between the realm of the dead and that of the living became blurred. The souls of the dead returned to Earth to greet their loved ones, who left food on the table especially for them. Another version has it that they lit fires and wore masks to frighten the souls who returned to Earth on that night for the same reason.
With the arrival of Christians in England and Ireland, All Saints’ Day was established in its place to counteract a die-hard tradition and the last day of October became All Hallows’ Eve, hence the word Halloween.
The Irish changed their traditions over time and, amidst vigils and prayers, it was not uncommon to see medieval beggars on Halloween night asking for food by knocking on house doors in exchange for a prayer to their dead: if they refused, they wished misfortune and bad luck. Hence the more famous trick-or-treating.
The celebration evolved over time, leaving behind traces of the distant Celtic past and remaining essentially a Christian festival. Only when Irish migrants, in America in search of fortune, exported it, did it become what it is today: a harmless consumerist holiday that today gives us frighteningly glam parties!
Three last-minute looks for your party
If you have been invited to a Halloween party and you really don’t know how to dress up, we at Fratinardi can help you. Girls, don’t worry: we have the solution to everything. Going through the trends of this 2023, we have found the perfect looks for all tastes!
WITCH: FOR THOSE WHO DON’T GIVE UP FEELING SEXY
If you like to dare with femme fatale looks in everyday life, then you certainly can’t pass it up on Halloween night. For you, we have come up with a sensual look that never goes out of fashion.
A Marella slip dress (to be cinched at the waist with a Liu Jo belt) teamed with a Love Moschino handbag and NeroGiardini stiletto ankle boots. Is it cold? Then go with a Flacomina fur coat to protect yourself from the elements.
WEDNESDAY ADDAMS FOR A FRIGHTENINGLY CYNICAL HALLOWEEN
If you’re feeling cynical and want the world to know it, emulating your heroine Wednesday Addams is for you!
For you, we’ve come up with a style that’s a bit bon ton but with punchy details: a sheer Patrizia Pepe dress with a studded collar. You can’t fail to match it with our Ermanno Scervino studded shoulder bag and Dr. Martens loafers. Also here, if the cold weather is looming, we thought of a Marella coat.
Barbie for a day
Pink lovers of the world: this Halloween you will rule it! Barbie is back in the limelight with her film and we are taking the opportunity to become her for a day.
A sparkling fuchsia dress by Fracomina, Love Moschino handbag and Marella coat, both strictly pink! The shoes? A fantastic cream pumps with a gold heel by Guess.
Conclusion
Whatever your style, don’t give it up on Halloween night! We at Fratinardi hope we have given you some great suggestions and helped you find the perfect costume!
Remember: you can find us in Battipaglia (Salerno, Italy) and online at Fratinardi.it/en. Whatever you need, shoes, clothes or accessories, we will be happy to help you find what’s right for you.