We’ve all been there—last-minute panic over what to wear for Halloween. If you’re in a bind, maybe it’s time to think outside the box. Here are a few tech-inspired costume ideas that you can whip up with little effort.
Check out these quick and geek-chic Halloween costumes with varying levels of effort required.
Recursive Self-Improvement
Concerns from AI pioneers such as Dario Amodei and Sam Altman about the rapid development of artificial intelligence are well-documented. The real concern arises if AI can engage in “recursive self-improvement,” allowing it to evolve without human oversight, potentially outpacing control efforts.
For a clever costume, consider dressing up as the “ideal you” that you envision when making New Year’s resolutions. Carry a self-help book—like “Atomic Habits”—a yoga mat, and a big water bottle. Feel free to excuse yourself from the party under the guise of a therapy session, which is just your way of wanting to go home. Don’t forget to brag about your impressive sleep score from your Oura Ring. You embody the notion of self-betterment—you are recursive self-improvement.
A Deceptively Cute AI Agent
Meta and OpenAI both recently introduced adorable AI avatars that may look harmless but could be more menacing than they appear. Remember, if you want to recreate the iconic black turtleneck look of Elizabeth Holmes, it’s best suited for blondes.
To embody an AI agent, find a fluffy jacket or colorful feather boas and add a quirky hat or glasses for flair. Consider wearing a bright outfit, and throughout the party, casually ask guests if you can gain access to their Gmail accounts.
While you may call them “pervert glasses,” it’s undeniably unsettling if someone starts recording you without permission—ideal for Halloween vibes.
Simply grab any glasses, and attach a red or white dot to mimic a recording light. To enhance the creepiness, you can wear normal glasses while claiming to be “the guy recording with the light muted.” Just avoid any actual recording without consent.
Mark Zuckerberg’s Distinctive T-Shirt
Mark Zuckerberg’s attire has become quite recognizable, often donning loose, boxy black t-shirts.
While it may be tough to duplicate his black-on-black style, you could attach a note to yourself that states, “Building is my love language.” For something spookier, opt for his Latin-themed shirt which translates to “Either Zuck or nothing” for added drama.
An AI Usage Limit Notification
For some, nothing is scarier than hitting a ceiling on their Claude tokens.
To create this costume, grab a cardboard piece and print out notifications indicating you’ve reached your usage limit to frighten fellow coders. You don’t have to dress goth; just be yourself.
A PHP Vulnerability
The recent PHP crisis has left many shuddering as vulnerabilities were uncovered that could threaten digital infrastructure. This Halloween, you can embody a PHP vulnerability.
To create this costume, simply wear a t-shirt with “PHP” written on it. Embrace the vulnerability aspect by sharing your feelings all night long—open up to your friends about life’s fragility. If discussing emotional topics becomes awkward, just play it off like it’s part of the costume.
Bryan Johnson
This costume idea practically sells itself.
Bryan Johnson (Encore)
Couples costume alert!
If you have multiple parties to hit and want your costumes to align with a theme, once you’ve sorted your cozy outfit, prepare for the second costume as the controversial biohacker: GLP-Bryan.
Earlier this year, Johnson publicly shared his unique method of relaxation, describing how lying atop his partner calms her and releases oxytocin. This could be a tough costume to emulate, but if you’re pressed for time, wear any casual clothes you already own. Just be warned—lying on your partner at a party might raise some eyebrows, but that’s Halloween for you.
