Low-cost, Last-minute Halloween Costume Ideas

From our Smarty friends at Goodwill Industries of the Southern Piedmont

Don’t want to shell out big bucks for a Lady Gaga costume this year? With Halloween lurking just around the corner, now is the time to start raiding Goodwill’s selection of funky clothing and accessories for costumes that you can put together yourself for barely any investment. To help get your creative juices flowing, here are a handful of clever costume ideas assembled from items typically found at any Goodwill store for under $10. And don’t forget, by shopping at Goodwill, you aren’t only getting a good deal, you are also helping people in our community find work!

For the ladies:

80’s prom queen: Purchase a formal dress adorned with puffy sleeves, huge bows or sequins to carry this look. Go heavy on the costume jewelry, blue eye shadow and poufy, teased hair to top off this style.

Dancing With The Stars: Another prom-style dress is the main component of this costume. You can either cut several star shapes out shiny fabric and hot glue them to the dress, or just show off some skin! Time to get on your dancing shoes.

Katy Perry: Yes, she’s so 2010, but you can easily find the basics for this pop princess outfit while thrifting. Look for a one-piece romper, or alternatively, a high-waisted pencil skirt and heart-shaped top (halter or spaghetti straps will nail the look). Add a pair of fun sunglasses and a dramatic headband or hat over your softly curled 40’s-style hair (or use a colorful wig).

Gypsy: Pair a colorful, long skirt and loose-fitting white blouse with a shawl or scarf and loads of jangly jewelry (large hoop earrings, bangles and beads work best).

For the guys:

Tennis player from the 70’s: Those short shorts so popular during this decade are generally in abundance in the men’s section. Pair it with a too-tight t-shirt or polo shirt and add a headband, wristband and any tennis accessories lying around (bag, racket or balls).

Old Spice guy: Whether you want to flaunt your six-pack or need to suck in your stomach, this is the easiest costume out there. Grab a white towel or white linen pants and flip-flops from Goodwill, and don’t forget your bottle of Old Spice aftershave. Just make sure to say the word ladies in a deep voice frequently throughout the night.

Rock star: A black t-shirt, tight black jeans and sunglasses will complete this grungy look. Bonus points if you can score some old drum sticks hidden among the musical instruments, or a great 80’s hairband wig. A scruffy appearance, fake tattoos and a little bling from the jewelry counter will go a long way in enhancing your appearance.

Mad Men: What guy wouldn’t want to look this good? Goodwill has tons of great vintage suits – make sure to choose a 60’s style slim-fitted suit in a dark color, a thin tie and thin black belt, and plenty of hair wax. Don Draper always has a drink in hand, so swing by the glassware section and choose a signature lowball glass or tumbler to carry with you.

Be sure to check out Goodwill’s blog for more ideas, or follow them on Facebook or Twitter to ask about costumes and more!