A simple equation: October = Halloween = Costume Parties(Me not knowing what costume to wear). It's basic algebra (right?), people!

When it comes to costumes, specifically those of comic book characters, I've had to either pick one of the few mainstream black characters or do my own take on a white character. Snore.

I could easily buy a cheap batman mask and call it a day (actually, I've done this before), but if I'm going to a costume party then I want to become a character for a night. Why not? If (insert attractive white male celebrity) can seamlessly become a character like Captain America or Thor with a simple costume, then I should be able to easily fit a character too.

Luckily, more and more black comic book characters are being pushed to the forefront! In the past year alone we've seen treasures like Black Panther in "Captain America: Civil War" and Luke Cage in Netflix's new show as well as Finn in "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" and Will Smith's portrayal of Deadshot in Suicide Squad. These characters being introduced or reintroduced to the masses means more than just cool additions to the list of costume ideas-- it means more representation. It means progress.

Even though anyone can relate to and appreciate characters like Superman, Batman and Wolverine, it's important for everyone to be able to see themselves being represented in characters. Sure, they're just fictional characters, but they actually have the ability to empower us!

If you're a black comic book fan (or not) and want some inspiration for costume ideas, this is for you! Here are 10 awesome comic book characters from the Marvel and DC universes to draw some inspiration from:

1. Storm

Storm is hands down one of the best heroes in the entire Marvel universe! She can control the weather and she practically started the grey hair trend. Plus, Beyoncé pulled this look off at Ciara's birthday party last year.

2. Black Panther

Black Panther is a king AND his suit has claws. Do you really need any further information?? This is also a good idea for one half of a couples costume, as he was married to Storm.

3. Static Shock

Hold on, let me make a mental note to order a Static Shock t-shirt ASAP. Anyhow, Static Shock was one of my favorite TV shows as a kid before I even knew that he started out in the comic book world. Further, both the show and the comics are were excellent. Personally, I would be honored to dress up as him. Plus, this can be a duo costume if you have someone to be Richie.

4. Luke Cage

There's actually a few different versions of Luke Cage's costume so there's some options with this look. I would probably go with the more modern version of the hero.

5. Amanda Waller

This woman is a COMPLETE BADASS, but always rocks a classy, business formal outfit. If you need a bit of help getting into character, you can watch Viola Davis flawlessly portray her in Suicide Squad.

6. Blade

This would probably be one of the easier costumes to pull off. All you really need is black, army-looking attire and a killer pair of shades.

7. Misty Knight

This is a great costume, especially if prefer wearing your natural hair out and already own a couple of red pieces of clothing. It's also perfect if you want to pull off a tough-yet-trend-yet-thotty look aka what costume parties are all about. 10/10 would recommend.

8. Bishop

Fun fact: this is Storm's cousin and one of my favorite members of the X-Men! If you have longer hair and at least a red scarf handy then this may be the perfect pick for you!

9. Falcon

All you really need to pull this off is a great pair of red wings. No big deal. This also makes for half of a great duo or an unknown fraction of a great group costume. You'd just need a Captain America and/or a few other Avengers.

10. War Machine

This is probably the most elaborate costume on the list. Actually, I'm not quite sure how you'd pull this one off without either spending a lot of money on a costume or spending a lot of time trying to DIY. But if you've got it, go for it! Go to a party solo, in a duo with an Iron Man or in a group of Avengers.

With costume parties approaching, no matter who you are, remember this: Regardless of who you choose to dress up as this year, you do have options! You can transform into a cool comic book character (or TV/movie character, entertainer, politician, athlete, etc.) too.