Some of the best Halloween costumes don’t have to involve elaborate purchases. When you’re running out of time and funds, it’s good to know that you can make some creative costumes without breaking the bank — or spending hours putting the outfit together. Whether you want to be spooky or cute, there are plenty of easy, DIY choices that will make you ready for trick-or-treating in no time. Ready to see what costume treasures are lurking in your laundry hamper and closet? By following these tips, you can put together fun homemade costumes with everyday items.
If you want to look like you spent a lot of time on your costume and you need a quick solution, then you can’t beat being a jellyfish. All you need is a clear umbrella and some ribbons or streamers. Then, attach the streamers at the ends of the umbrella and walk around with the umbrella over you. To complete the look, wear an outfit that is the same color as your streamers. For example, if your streamers are white, then wear a white tunicand leggings. This will make the whole look cohesive and stunning.
If you want to take this look to the next level, fasten some battery-powered LED lights to the interior of the umbrella. As the sun sets, turn on the lights. Not only will you be able to see where you’re going with a light on your person at all times, but you’ll gain the admiration of people around you. To get this special addition to your umbrella, search for affordable LED lights online and order them a week in advance.
Did you know that you can give your work clothes some festive Halloween replay value? Turn your business clothing into a quick “secret agent” outfit that costs you $0. All you need to do is dress like you’re going to a high-profile job interview, throw on some sunglasses, and maybe a wireless earbud, and you’re all set.
Suits with men’s dress shirts, blazers, ties, and slacks are sure winners for this look. Women can also wear their best business casual outfit for a costume that’s worthy of a spy movie. This costume can have a more dramatic effect if you make it a group theme — so get a few friends together and be secret agents at your next party.
If you can find a set of fairy wings or cat ears in your home, then you have more options than you can imagine for dressing up. For instance, throw on some cat ears with a black turtleneck and leggings to be a Halloween cat. If you have some eyeliner in the powder room, draw on whiskers to look extra cute.
A set of wings can also be converted into quick and easy costumes. Put on a white maxi dress for women and then put on the wings to be an angel. If the wings aren’t white, glue cotton balls or white craft feathers onto them to make the outfit uniform. This can be converted into a fairy outfit easily as well — just use a variety of colors and lots of sparkles.
When all you have are ordinary items in your home, you still can pull off some cool looks. One can transform into iconic favorites like the lumberjack with a men's flannel shirt, jeans, and boots. Since these items are fall favorites, you can often find these pieces around the house in October. Striped shirts, especially black and white ones, can be used in a variety of recognizable costumes like mimes, burglars, and sailors. If you’re short on time, then grab an apron and some flour. Pat yourself and the apron with the flour and you’ll look like an instant baker! And, as always, you can use the tried and true costume that only requires one item: bed sheets. Cut two holes in your sheet and throw it over your head. You’re now a spooky ghost who’s ready to party.
With all these costume goldmines just hanging around your house, you’re sure to have many options, even if you’re making a costume at the last minute.