With Halloween quickly approaching, our thoughts turn to…what else? Costumes! Well, okay, candy, but costumes are a close second. If you’ve visited a party store or costume shop lately, your jaw may have dropped at the prices, but there are plenty of ways to create a fun, clever costume without putting a huge dent in your wallet.

Use what you have. Almost everyone has items on hand that can easily be turned into costumes with very little add-ons. Wedding gowns, graduation caps and gowns and uniforms (sports or work) are great and very easy to use. A bathrobe with slippers (the fuzzier, the better!) is fun and comfy. Even too big or too small clothes can work as, say, “Weight Watchers’ biggest success” or “Weight Watchers’ dropout”. Look through your closet, garage, attic or whatever and see the possibilities.

Borrow! Call your friend who does all those church plays or the one who used to do theater in college. Chances are, they have some costumes or props lying around. Even if they don’t, they may be able to give you some good, budget-friendly ideas.

Check out local thrift stores. These are an excellent place to find so many different things: clothing, shoes, jewelry, props, etc. Go to the largest ones that you know of for the best selection. Out of style clothes are great for costumes; you could be a 60’s hippie, a 70’s disco queen, an 80’s yuppie or a 90’s grunge guy. Or, mix & match different styles and create your own unique character.

Make makeup your focus. Using makeup as the focal point of your costume is much cheaper and easier than a full-body dress up. You could wear all black and do the extreme contrast Gothic makeup. Or do some cuts and bruises and wear a sign that says, “you could’ve told me she was the bouncer’s girlfriend!” Again, be creative and who knows what you’ll come up with.

If you’re still stumped, try mixing up variations of different characters. For example, don a business suit, carry a briefcase and wear fangs to be a lawyer vampire. Or dress as a politician with a Pinocchio nose. Children may not understand, but you’re sure to give some adults a chuckle.

Think ahead for next year. After Halloween, costumes, makeup and all things bewitching are reduced in price dramatically, usually up to 75% off. Grab some for you and the kids during this time and save a bundle. You can always add a few accessories next year to dress it up more if you want.

Remember to have fun and indulge your imagination! There’s no rules…it’s Halloween! This is the time when you can be what you always wanted or dress like you never can otherwise. Be creative and enjoy!!

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This entry was posted on Friday, October 17th, 2008 at 7:29 am.