Quick Costume Ideas

Halloween may be the same date every year, but there’s always an event that unexpectedly pops up and requires a last-minute costume.  This year, it could be a virtual happy hour with friends or co-workers, or trick-or-treating with the kids.  Regardless, if you’re caught off guard with nothing to wear, here’s some simple, low cost, and even, no-cost options.  

Five Quick Costumes Ideas

Sports Star – Suit up in your favorite team’s jersey and appropriately colored athletic gear and its game on.  Every costume party I’ve ever hosted had at least one “Pittsburgh Steeler” or “Philadelphia Eagle” in attendance.  We even had a “Dallas Cowboy” show up once.  I mean, nobody talked to him, but that’s another story.    

Professional Costumes – Every year party supply and department stores are full of police, and firefighter, pilot, flight attendants and other occupation-related costumes.  If you happen to be one of the former, or an EMS worker, a member of the armed forces, a chef, or member of some other professional organization, don your work gear and you’re good to go.  

This year, if you happen to be a doctor, nurse or any member of the medical profession, your work uniform doubles as a superhero costume.  Wear it proudly.  

Decades of Options – Each decade has its own distinct vibe.  Dig out your 70s bell bottoms, your 80s neon gear and leggings, or your 60s mod dress and go-go boots.  Thrift stores are a great resource for inexpensive pieces, but parents and relatives may also have buried treasures and one-of-a-kind accessories to borrow. 

Onesies-R-Us – Not sure why, but these one-piece wonders are everywhere lately.  I have a friend, who shall remain nameless, who has more than a dozen by now.  In addition to keeping you snug and warm, they are great costume starters.   Above is an adult sized onesie I found at Walmart, and the best part is, it doubles as pajamas.

Classics Rule – When in doubt …go for the classics. An old sheet, black marker and scissors is all you need. Happy haunting!

Whatever the costume occasion this year, these suggestions will help you effortlessly whip together an alter ego as good as anything you could have purchased in a store.