In our household, Halloween isn't so much an evening as it is a full-blown season. By the time the 31st arrives, we've already been knee-deep in fake blood, spooky decorations, and monster theme tunes - and we keep the fun going well into November. The decorations stay up until the Christmas ones take over on the 1st of December, and we have multiple parties in that time. It's a bit of a family tradition now, and who am I to argue with tradition? Especially when there's a child involved who's quite convinced zombies are for life, not just for Halloween. So, naturally, I was looking for a costume that could help to see me through this extended spooky period - something fun, a bit eerie, but still flattering. And this baby blue dress really delivered. It's clearly inspired by a certain iconic horror film (you know the one - long hallways, creepy twins, "forever and ever"), and it leans just the right amount into that reference. Instantly recognisable to those in the know, but still subtle enough to feel stylish rather than silly. The colour is lovely - a soft, glossy baby blue with a satin-like sheen that gives it a slightly surreal, doll-like quality. I was genuinely impressed by the fabric, which feels smooth and cool to the touch and looks far more polished than your average costume. The puffed sleeves and two-tier ruffled skirt give it some shape and movement, and the overall silhouette is charmingly unsettling in that sweet-but-sinister way. Perfect for this kind of look. I wasn't entirely sure about the collar - a bit too prim and proper for my taste - but the lace detailing is well done and fits the aesthetic. The ribbon belt was probably the one element that felt a little on the cheaper side, but it serves its purpose, and the two rose clips that come with it were actually higher quality than expected. They help pull the look together and give it a more finished feel. Fit-wise, it was slightly snug but not uncomfortably so. I managed to get it on and off quite easily thanks to the generous zip at the back. And most importantly, it's comfortable. I could wear it all evening without itching, adjusting, or plotting my escape after an hour. That alone makes it a winner in my books. A little unexpected bonus was the face paint set included - red, white, and blue. I'm still not quite sure how that ties in thematically, but it's certainly useful. I imagine it could be used to ghostify the look further, or add a little gore if you wanted to go full horror. Either way, it's a thoughtful inclusion and adds a bit of extra value. And speaking of value - at £21.99, I think it's very good. You get the dress, socks, accessories, and the paint, all in a package that looks and feels far better than many budget costumes. In fact, it's a shining example of how far these kinds of pieces have come. I remember years ago trying on costumes that felt like they'd fall apart if you sneezed in them. This one? It feels pretty well made. In short: it's eerie, it's elegant, and it's weirdly wearable. A great buy for anyone who likes their Halloween with a touch of vintage horror and a hint of satin. And especially for someone who's a fan of a certain author, like yours truly.
