Hot Halloween Costumes For The Ladies

This Halloween, dress to impress in 2011′s hottest pop culture costumes.

All Hallow’s Eve is the only national holiday entirely dedicated to outrageous fashion — and who wouldn’t want to take advantage of that? This year, forego the whole “sexy witch” or “occupational harlot” idea and shoot for something more original — and more reflective of the times. After all, what’s so great about Little Red Riding Hood when you could be Gaga for a night?

(check out our costume picks for the fellas)

Black Swan

This dramatic costume, from last year’s hit thriller “Black Swan,” is the perfect balance of dark intensity and sensual grace — much like main character Nina’s role in “Swan Lake.” Sexy without trying too hard, spooky without being ghoulish. And let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to go out in a tutu?

Lady Gaga

The best part about masquerading as the Queen of Theatricality is sheer creative freedom. There are dozens of fabulous, flamboyant looks to choose from (just don’t try to replicate the meat dress, please). If you’re up to the challenge, mix and match a few signature pieces — the hair bow, fishnets and mile-high platforms, to name a few — to create your own Gaga-esque look.

Swashbuckler

This year, the classic swashbuckler costume is getting a new twist, thanks to Penelope Cruz’s ass-kicking character in the latest “Pirates of the Caribbean” film installment. The fierce, form-fitting ensemble is sexy without showing much skin, so when you walk outside, you’ll be warm without a bulky jacket.