NEW YORK, Sept. 17, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO), with AOL, Inc. (NYSE: AOL) as exclusive distribution partner, is launching an original six-episode Halloween web series, premiering October 7. For the first time ever, three fashion design hopefuls have been selected to compete against one another to create a Halloween costume for Martha Stewart.

Martha loves Halloween. Each year, Martha's costume is specially-designed -- an alter ego of horror, fantasy, or just plain fun. This year, contestants in Shriek or Chic: Martha's Haute Halloween Challenge will get the chance to design and create a costume for Martha to choose from -- using the makeup that Martha wears on the cover of the October issue of Martha Stewart Living (now available on newsstands) as inspiration.

Starting October 7, the intense three-week challenge will unfold in six videos with one new episode releasing daily, for six consecutive days on both Marthastewart.com and Aol.com. Viewers will go behind the scenes at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia headquarters in New York City, where the contestants will work around the clock. Expect to see surprise visits from Martha herself, as well as renowned fashion designers Ralph Rucci and Erin Fetherston.

Highlights from the series include moments with Martha and the competition's mentors from Martha Stewart Living, Kevin Sharkey, Executive Editorial Director, and Kate Berry, Creative Director; a fabric shopping spree; the 24-hour-a-day drama as the finalists sketch, design, and construct their head-to-toe masterpieces; and a grand presentation of the three costumes to Martha.

The series will conclude in a dramatic finale as Martha announces the winner by appearing in the costume of her choice in front of the contestants and an audience. The videos, bonus footage, and more Halloween content from Martha Stewart can be found at marthastewart.com/shriekorchic.

Get a sneak peek - watch the series trailer now at marthastewart.com/shriekorchic!

About Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc.

Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) is a diversified media and merchandising company, inspiring and engaging consumers with unique lifestyle content and distinctive products. The Company reaches approximately 100 million consumers across all media platforms each month and has a growing retail presence in thousands of retail locations. MSLO's media brands, available across multiple platforms, include Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Everyday Food; the Company also offers books and utility Apps. MSLO's television and video programming includes "Martha Stewart's Cooking School" and "Martha Bakes" series on PBS, in addition to made-for-the-web video and a vast library of how-to content available online. Martha Live, a radio show hosted by Martha Stewart, airs every weekday on SIRIUS XM Channel 107. MSLO also designs high-quality Martha Stewart products in a range of lifestyle categories available through select retailers, including The Home Depot, Macy's, JC Penney, Staples (together with Avery), PetSmart, Michaels and Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores. The MSLO family of brands also includes Chef Emeril Lagasse's media and merchandising properties. Additional information about MSLO is at www.marthastewart.com.

About AOL

AOL Inc. (NYSE: AOL) is a brand company, committed to continuously innovating, growing, and investing in brands and experiences that inform, entertain, and connect the world. The home of a world-class collection of premium brands, AOL creates original content that engages audiences on a local and global scale. AOL helps marketers connect with its audiences through effective and engaging digital advertising solutions.

SOURCE Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc.