It’s getting colder, and the trees are turning colors. This could only mean one thing: Halloween is on its way. For many, the stress of finding the perfect costume is worse than the fear of haunted hayrides and horror films. However, today’s media-and pop culture obsessed society will provide some recognizable, if not ubiquitous, costumes. 

The front-runners this year are no surprise. “Jersey Shore” and Lady Gaga-themed outfits will rule the dance floor. The fist-pumping Italians will battle the beat, while little monsters will “Just Dance” the night away. 

While many Villanova students are from the so-called “dirty Jerz” and resent the association with the reality TV show, it won’t stop the guidos from coming out for the night. The hit MTV show has had massive success, and “Jersey Shore” costumes are sure to be popular this year. Snooki, Pauly D and Mike “The Situation,” the show’s biggest stars and current American icons, are not only cheap, easy costumes, but also, if done well, easily identifiable. Just make sure to emulate only the cast’s appearance and not their actions. 

Last year, Lady Gaga costumes consisted largely of blonde wigs with hair bows and bedazzled sunglasses. This year, Gaga fans — little monsters — will get a little more creative in honor of the pop queen. 

If appearing in a meat dress at this year’s VMAs doesn’t qualify her as costume inspiration, her live performances (complete with a dozen or more costume changes) do. Lady Gaga costumes will come in many varieties this year, including the Americana ensemble from “Telephone,” complete with sunny yellow hair and the lobster glasses she sported in London. 

Another pop icon likely to inspire this Halloween is the California girl, Katy Perry. “Daisy dukes, bikinis on top” will be completed with bubblegum-pink lipstick and some temporarily blue hair for this costume. The star was named No. 1 on Maxim’s 2010 Hot 100 list and has been blowing up the charts with her sweet voice. To spend a night as Katy Perry may provide a glimpse into her current stardom. 

If these two singers aren’t enough, one nerdy group may also grace us this Halloween, singing our favorite pop, rock and show tunes. The “Glee” characters are not only for theater kids but for anyone who enjoys a good singing performance. The cast is diverse, featuring ultra-preppy Rachel Berry, ditzy cheerleaders Brittany, Santana and Quinn, popular football players Puck and Finn and the ever so bitter Sue Sylvester. There is a “Glee” costume out there for everyone to don this Halloween. Being a good singer is not required, but if you plan to do any method acting it will be greatly preferred by anyone who finds themselves in your presence. 

Newcomers this year will also provide us with costume ideas for Halloween. Following narrowly in Lady Gaga’s footsteps is the rookie performer Ke$ha. With her distinctive matted locks and blackened eyes, Ke$ha’s look will be easy to recreate and maintain — the grungier the better. For a more formal look, throw on a trash bag dress and a waist-length blonde braid to imitate Ke$ha’s VMA attire. Either way, a badass attitude is required. 

Winning the hearts of men and women alike this year is the ever charming Isaiah Mustafa as the Old Spice Guy. “Look at your man, now back to me,” the famous line by the studly actor, inspired many to purchase Old Spice body wash. His wit, combined with his appearance makes the Old Spice Guy irresistible. Although none can accurately reproduce his charms, this Halloween, many may try. The costume is free if you’re already an Old Spice user. Just grab your body wash and a towel, and you’re sure to turn a few heads (for one reason or another). Just don’t expect to be surrounded by swooners, unless, of course, you are Isaiah Mustafa himself. 

Lastly, with the buzz around Facebook reaching 500 million users this year and the release of “The Social Network,” one famous computer genius has been in the spotlight. Mark Zuckerberg, the billionaire behind Facebook and No. 1 on Vanity Fair’s list of 100 most influential people of the information age, is a wealthy nerd one might wish to be. 

It doesn’t take much to dress like Zuckerberg. A suit and some curly locks may be enough, as long as your Facebook affiliation is apparent as well. 

With so many recognizable pop culture icons, this Halloween is bound to be a celebrity-filled event. Whether you’re into singing, fist pumping or just looking good, there’s a costume for you that’s bound to fool the paparazzi.