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Costume Staples to Always Have On Hand

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Duke chapter.

Looking to strike the right note at your first sorority mixer, but not willing to spend a bazillion dollars every time a new theme crops up? We understand where you’re coming from. Costumes can be a ton of fun, and it’s exciting to see how creative everyone gets. However, not all of us have an unlimited budget. So, we’ve compiled a list of the most important costume pieces to have on hand so that you can always look your best at any mixer!
 
1. A Men’s Button Down Oxford Shirt

This is great for all sorts of parties. Whether you’re having a “walk of shame” party, a western themed party, or any kind of party where you need to dress preppy, the button down oxford is the way to go. If its plaid you can use it for more themes, but if it’s a straight color or striped, that works too! Leave the tails hanging out, put on a colorful bra and a pair of heels, and smear your makeup around for a morning after look. Wear it with ripped jeans, a belt, and boots to complete a western look. To look oh so prep school, tuck it into dark jeans and wear a pair of flats and some pearls.
 
2. Sequins or Sparkles

Either will do, just make sure you’re covered in them! Sequins are so loud that they’re wearable for most any party. Most recently, sequins were spotted in large quantities at a Mardi Gras party. However, they’re wearable to almost any event! Wear funky accessories with your sequins for a wacky tacky themed event. Wear them with a side ponytail for a 90’s look. You can get more glamorous and wear sequins for a movie star look. The best part about the sequins is that you can wear the outfit out!

3. Neon

Be it pants, a skirt, a top, or accessories, anything neon is sure to be a hit at almost any party. Again, like the sequins, neon can be work at a wacky tacky party, or a 90s party (or for a party that’s themed for almost any decade). But, neon can also work for black light parties, highlighter parties, or paint parties. You can also wear neon to any event that rolls into town. Neon leggings are great for events such as dubstep concerts, DayGlow, or any other kind of music event. Or, pair a neon sports bra with any outfit for a sporty look.
 
4. The Classic LBD

I know, I know. The classic little black dress is everyone’s go-to outfit for every event. But, lets be honest here—it works! You can dress up or dress down a little black dress with accessories. Pair it with a funky belt, neon heels, and some crazy jewelry for any themed party. it Add pearls and black heels to look preppy and glamorous. Or, wear it to a semi-formal! It’s the perfect thing to have in your closet for any event.
 
5. Sparkly Heels

Sparkly heels are a staple that every girl needs for her wardrobe. Honestly, they can be used with pretty much anything, and you’ll always get complimented on them. Extra props to you if they’re super high heels, and then you’ll get compliments on how well balanced you are! Either way, sparkly heels work for anything from a Barbie mixer to a formal event. Get a pair, and wear them `till you drop!
 
Image Credit:
Oxford Shirts: http://www.poloralphlauren-shop.com/Designer-Mens-RL-Plaid-Shirts-with-Hood-On-Sale.html , http://www.sheplers.com/mens/plaid/western_long_sleeve/apparel/ , http://www1.macys.com/shop/mens/featured-brands/polo-ralph-lauren/shirts?id=3428
Sparkles: http://blogs.glam.com/glamchic/files/2009/07/sparkle.gif
Neon: http://ofitoday.com/?p=464, http://favim.com/image/59985/ , http://aboutfashionstyle.com/fashion-trend/neon-accessories-for-women/
LBD: http://www.dressity.com/black-dresses-for-women/
Sparkly Heels: http://www.pretty-small-shoes.com/acatalog/small_size_sexy_heels_not_louboutin_Cinderella-Closetoe.jpg

Sabrina is a Junior at Duke University, and is double majoring in English and Public Policy. A born and bred South African, Sabrina has traveled to the USA to pursue her higher education. As well as being a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, Sabrina is also Assistant Vice President for Recruitment for the Panhellenic Association at Duke. Sabrina has written for Duke's daily newspaper, The Chronicle and Duke's fashion magazine, FORM. After graduating, she hopes to attend law school preferably in her favourite city, New York. In her spare time, Sabrina vegges out to various fashion blogs, mindless TV (Pretty Little Liars anyone?) and online shopping (which borders on an addiction). If you manage to catch her in an energetic mood, she's probably on her way to cardiodance (or to the nearest mall).