Halloween is all about having the most creative costume. Here are some costume do’s and don’ts to keep in mind as Oct. 31 approaches.
DO: Keep it Classy
There are an abundance of costumes with labels like “naughty nurse,” “sexy cop,” “hot nerd,” etc. Instead of wearing a ton of spandex on a cold night, be more practical. Being creative goes a long way, and you will get many more comments on your costume. Costumes can still be flirty without being scandalous. So who will you be: Marilyn Monroe or Audrey Hepburn?
DO: Group costumes or couple costumes are a fantastic idea, especially if you participate in a sorority or fraternity on campus. The important thing about group costumes is to make sure that everyone shows up to the Halloween party or else the theme won’t make sense. Dressing up with your friends is always fun and it’s hard to go wrong if you’re all dressing up together! Couples’ costumes are adorable and a great way to be noticed at a party.
DO: DIY
Get crafty with DIY costumes. They save money and are fun to make. If your closet doesn’t look promising, Salvation Army and Good Will are great places to find the odd, hard-to-find pieces that will really enhance your costume. On Halloween, you are sure to be that much more excited to wear your masterpiece. DIY does take more time, so be sure to plan ahead in order to gather all of the materials you will need. Pinterest has many great ideas for DIY costumes.
DO: Be Funny
Some of the most memorable costumes make people laugh. Forrest Gump or Ron Burgundy are always good choices. Just remember not to go overboard.
DON’T: Carry Too Many Props
One prop with a costume is fine. You can sit it down as the night goes on; sometimes costumes require an accessory. If there is more than one prop, leave the extra ones at home. Too many props are too much to handle. Besides, how can you do the “Monster Mash” or “Thriller” with props in your hand?
DON’T: Be Too Complicated
Wear something that takes a sentence to explain. Any longer than that creates an awkward situation. If the person you are talking to hasn’t seen the very obscure movie character you are, it’s even worse.
DON’T: Get Paint – of Any Kind – Involved.
I admire people who make the effort to cover their whole body with paint. But you are not doing yourself or anyone else any favors. I guarantee that after about two hours you will start to flake, or worse, sweat. And you have potentially sweated on someone’s couch and left not-so-nice puddles and stains.
DON’T: Overpay
Halloween only lasts for one night, so don’t overpay for a costume. If you purchase a costume for over $60, return it.
This is the day to be creative and adventurous. Whether you borrow your mom’s pearls or dig out your Superman cape, please remember you’re going out in public. Those Facebook pictures will haunt you way past this ghostly holiday.