The Best Halloween Costumes of 2011

It's that time of year again, when the leaves are turning, punch bowls are filling with some combination of vodka and juice, and collegiettes™ nationwide are donning costumes they've been working on for weeks, if not months. We all know the famous line from Mean Girls: “Halloween is that one night a year when you can dress like a total sl*t and no one can say anything about it.” But who really wants to be another carbon copy wearing lingerie and mouse ears? If you want to stand out from the crowd with your friends, your boy, or on your own, read on for the best Halloween costume ideas of this year and get inspired!

1. Nicki Minaj
Nicki Minaj's songs have long been the soundtrack for long nights out at the club and late night joy rides with your girls. But can you impersonate her? She's known for her wild fashion choices and hair colors that look they belong on one of those potbellied trolls from the 80's, so why not give the Nicki Minaj look a try? You're all serious young professionals-to-be, so there's a good chance this is the last time you'll ever be able to pull off neon blue hair and bright pink lipstick at the same time, not to mention a sequin two-piece and 4-inch heels. Now's the time to pull out some fake nails, one-wash hair dye and plenty of jewelry.

2. Black Swan
We all watched as Natalie Portman pliéed her way to greatness on the big screen last winter. She wowed us with her mad ballet skills, stunning beauty and fabulous costumes. If you've ever had dancing aspirations or if you just loved the feathers that sprung up on her arms as she spun around toward the end of the movie, consider giving the Black Swan look a try. You will probably have luck finding a tutu at Goodwill or another thrift store, but if not, check out this simple step-by-step video and make your own! Don't be shy with the black eyeliner, either. For makeup help, try to find a friend with a steady hand and watch this simple video. Best of luck, collegiettes™! Make Natalie proud.

3. Angry Birds
This one will definitely require a few dedicated friends and plenty of preparation time. For addicts of this viral video game, though, it'll be worth it. First, pick whether you'll be the regular red, huge red, yellow, egg or green bird. Or maybe you'll decide to be one of those weird green pigs with the mustache or the hardhat. If you're feeling extra daring, you can pretend to launch yourself across the room and bump into your friends in true Angry Birds fashion. Angry Birds costumes can be found at Toys R' Us and many popular costume shops, but it'd be more fun and original to make your own. Try raiding craft stores for fabric and whip out your basic sewing skills, or employ the skills of a crafty friend or family member.