Simple and Inexpensive Costume Ideas

Answer 1

People wear costumes for all sorts of reasons these days: parties, holidays, or simple fun. Costumes can be rented or purchased, but that can get expensive—especially when the costume is elaborate. But you can come up with costume ideas of your own, saving money and creating an original costume that will have all your friends raving.

The simplest costume ideas come from your own closet. Most commonly, hobo costumes can be thrown together from outdated pieces of your own clothing or from a box of old clothes that has been stored in the attic. Used clothing stores are another source of oversized clothing that can be mixed together to create a frumpy look. A cotton sack stuffed full of lightweight odds and ends along with a smudge of dirt on each cheek, and you’ll look like you’ve been riding the rails for years.

Scarecrow costumes are another option that can be created from your own closet. If you’re a teenager, maybe some of your Dad’s old plaid shirts and faded blue jeans can be put together in a way that makes a funny costume. Add a little makeup, some hay, and a droopy hat, and you’re set to go.

That same plaid shirt and jeans can make for a dandy cowboy or cowgirl costume, too. Just add boots and a hat, maybe a bandana, and you’re done.

Old formal wear can be drafted to create the look of a princess or queen. The older the party dress, the better. A little costume jewelry and some Opera gloves—either your grandmother’s old one or a pair you find at a second-hand shop—will have you looking regal no matter what your usual style is.

A Goth look is usually easy to create from your own closet. All black clothing paired with a leather belt creates a dark look that will have everyone around you doing a double-take. Heavy eyeliner, black lipstick, and a quick muss of the hair will finish off the look. Add a pair of cheap plastic vampire fangs, and you’ll be ready for the ultimate costume holiday: Halloween.