I love Halloween. I love watching horror movies, eating candy, and replaying “The Monster Mash” way too many times. My favorite thing about Halloween, though, is getting to wear costumes. As someone who loves fashion and creating outfits, I always try to find ways to make my own costumes and not spend an absurd amount of money at Spirit Halloween. Considering I have no sewing abilities whatsoever, I tend to “compile” costumes and outfits rather than thinking I’m a contestant on Project Runway. 

One thing I have noticed over the years is how easy it is to replicate looks based off of characters from TV shows, movies and even video games. Most of the time they’re wearing everyday clothes that you can find in your own closet, which makes the costume task a lot easier, and who knows, maybe you’ll make a costume that can double as a cute outfit!

Before I get into my costume process, I have one major tip: ignore gender. It’s Halloween, be whoever you want and wear whatever you want.

Here’s somewhat of the process I go through when it comes to choosing a Halloween costume:

  1. Search for ideas. Gain inspiration. Use Pinterest, Instagram, Tumblr, Google images. Wherever you can see pictures of characters and ideas is where you gotta look.
  2. Make a list of ideas that you like. Write down key aspects of the character or look.
  3. Browse your closet to see if you have anything that you can use (We’re broke in this house so gotta save where we can).
  4. Go THRIFTING. Honestly, just do that in general instead of spending money at Forever 21. You can find such unique pieces at thrift stores and it won’t break the bank at all.
  5. Put it all together. Made adjustments if needed (The amount of shirts I’ve cropped in my day is unreal), and remember it doesn’t have to be a perfect replica. An inspired look can go a long way.
  6. Have fun and a HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

As proof that you can use basic clothing items to make costumes, here are some of the ones I’m planning on wearing this Halloween and the week leading up to it:

Flynn Rider from Tangled

Danny Fenton from Danny Phantom

Mickey/Minnie Mouse

Fred Jones from Scooby-Doo

Velma Dinkley from Scooby-Doo

Author

  • Stefano

    Hey, I’m Stefano! I’m from Somers Point, NJ currently attending Arcadia University pursuing a Media & Communications degree. I love Broadway and musical theatre, as well as fashion and photography. I have an obsession with chai lattes and corgis. I enjoy traveling and exploring what the world has to offer.

    View all posts