How to Dress Like the Spice Girls for Halloween

The Spice Girls formed in 1994 in Britain as a pop music group famous both for their girl-power songs and splashy fashion. Each member had her own signature persona and crafted a public image to match. Although the Spice Girls officially disbanded in 2001, they have made several reunion appearances and never really left the tabloid scene -- and they remain an instantly recognizable group costume for any five friends. Look to their movie "Spice World" or their live performances for inspiration.

Ginger Spice, a.k.a. Geri Halliwell, was known for her cheeky, over-the-top style. In particular, she wore a Union Jack mini-dress for the 1997 BRIT Awards and an American flag bustier for the MTV Video Music Awards that same year. Either outfit plus a red wig or hair color would capture this Spice Girl's look perfectly. Wear red, white or blue go-go boots to complete the outfit. Feel free to add a fur or feather boa, too.

Sporty Spice, whose real name is Melanie Chisolm, was known for her casual style. To reproduce her look as a costume, pull your hair back into a high, slick ponytail and don a sports bra and shiny track pants. If you want more coverage, choose an English soccer jersey instead. Add a pair of fashionable athletic shoes -- preferably Adidas or Reebok brand -- and you're set.

Posh Spice is perhaps better known now as Victoria Beckham, the wife of English soccer star David Beckham and a tabloid fixture well-known for her cutting-edge style. A pageboy wig, an oversized pair of sunglasses and a black strapless minidress will convey the right attitude for Posh. As for accessories, choose strappy, glittery heels -- the highest you can stand -- and a gold tennis bracelet. Most importantly: Never smile.

Mel B, a.k.a. Scary Spice, favored trousers, preferably low-cut flares, over dresses or skirts whenever possible. She also often wore a cropped top, exposing her abdomen to the world. Camo and animal prints were a common occurrence in her wardrobe. She was also known for having a head full of corkscrew curls, sometimes memorably bound up in twine to form horns. Be sensitive when dressing as Scary Spice; don't use blackface or a clown wig to capture her look, as these choices will come off as offensive.

Emma Bunton -- Baby Spice -- was best known for her boots, specifically Buffalo brand platforms. She also favored a pastel palette and sometimes opted for the slipdress look. For costume purposes, then, a pastel slip or babydoll dress and a pair of platform sneakers will capture the Baby Spice image. You can add a long duster or even a pastel blazer for coverage and warmth if you like. Wear a big smile, hunch your shoulders and knock your knees whenever possible. Blond hair done up in pigtails is also a must.