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Thrifty Halloween Costume Ideas for Collegiates

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

Halloween is right around the corner, and finding the perfect costume as a college student can be a little tricky. There are two problems with Halloween and college. There’s a lot of parties, costume parties, and no one can afford to fit the part. This is when it’s time to get creative. Here are a few ideas for those collegiates out there who need a little inspiration when it comes to a thrifty Halloween.

 

For starters, go through what you already own! Unless you’re like me, you may not have brought your entire wardrobe to school with you. This may limit your options, but don’t give up hope. A simple black or white t-shirt could act as the base for your costume, just play around. You want to look cute and a little sexy, that’s a fact, so what better than upcycling something you already know you look good in. Don’t forget, accessorizing is everything.

 

Angel

Let’s say you find a white crop top and know you own a white skirt of some kind, turn it into an angel costume. Head somewhere cheap and pick up some wings and maybe a pair of white tights. Keep an eye out for a cute head piece, but you could always throw something together with some glitter and a head band. Now load on the highlighter and do a dramatic eyeliner wing and you’re set.

 

Sandy from Grease

Do you have a black top? Something off the shoulder and a pair of black jeans? Why not dress up as Sandy from Grease. Curl your hair and find a pair of red heels and you’ll transform into the 1950’s character!

 

Upcycled T-shirt

One super easy trick to to simply take an oversized t-shirt, any color depending on what you want to be, and find a few images online to paste onto the shirt. This could transform you into a Starbucks coffee cup, and ice cream cone or even a strawberry.

 

School Girl

As expected as it may be, the classic school girl costume is still pretty popular. You could always use a plaid skirt, so if you don’t already own one, it may be worth the investment. Add a tight-fitting top, cardigan, a pair of black tights, or not, and toss your hair in two pigtails and you’re done!

Alien

I have seen posts of alien costumes popping up more and more. This involves some metallic makeup followed by matching metallic or neon colors. While these may not be items you have in your closet, they are pretty fun and may be used again.

 

Grab a Bodysuit

Bodysuits go a long way. The options are endless. A dancer, lifeguard or even Barbie are just a few options you can create with a bodysuit and a pair of tights. You could always toss on a skirt and make your low-cut costume into a sexy maid or a devil.

 

Gumball Machine

I’m not sure how practical this last costume is, but I’ve seen pictures of girls dressing up as gumball machines, and it actually looks pretty cool. All it takes is a red skirt, a tube top and some gumballs. You just glue the gumballs to the tube top and paste a silver/grey dispenser to your skirt and call it a day.

 

All I’m saying is, you don’t have to break the bank to dress up for Halloween this year. All you need is time and a little creativity to think of a great costume. Don’t buy a brand-new costume, when you could make the same thing with stuff you already own! Use these ideas as a starting off point, always checkout pinterest for more ideas and visuals. Happy Halloween!

 

Riley Jenson

Endicott '20

I am a senior at Endicott with a major in Marketing Communication/Advertising and a minor in Professional Writing. I'm passionate about writing and the fashion industry. My dream is to move to New York City.
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Eva Graef

Endicott