Halloween isn’t just about candy corn and mischief; costume hunting is cutthroat. But when funds are low, how can you achieve that cute and creative look that will make you stand out in the crowd? Here’s how every collegietteäcan get crafty with feathers, rhinestones, and face paint to create a perfect (and cheap!) Halloween ensemble.
1. Flapper
You stumble into class every morning in jeans and a T-shirt—add a little glamour to your life! Arrange rhinestones in stripes, designs, or at random on a mini-dress. For the full 1920’s effect, cover a cloth headband with jewels and glue on a feather that matches your dress. A boa will pump up the volume—and don’t forget the heels!
2. The Black Swan
Natalie Portman didn’t win an Oscar for nothing. You’ll turn heads (and possibly stomachs, for those who have seen the movie) in a black leotard and tulle skirt. Add on some black feathers and rhinestones to replicate the prima ballerina look—just remember the difference between the Black Swan and a Vegas showgirl (unless that’s the persona you want!). The smoky eye is a must.
3. Bloody Bride (or Doctor, Nurse, Zombie, or Vampire)
You collegiettesäwho like to put the fright in Fright Night know that every costume needs a little fake blood to liven things up (or deaden them down). If you can’t splurge on the CGI-quality wounds, maintain your gore appeal with some red face paint. Splatter it on your clothes, your neck, or your arms; it all depends on the fate of your character. We suggest using paint sparingly on your body—you don’t want to be that girl who ruins everyone else’s costumes while she’s dancing!
4. Tiger Lily or Pocahontas
If you grew up watching Disney, you know that these independent ladies had all the boys wrapped around their little fingers. Wear a natural-hued dress and paint on tribal designs (or string on beads and seashells). Dab on face paint and build a feather headdress or choker—if you’re feeling ambitious, use the feathers to give the dress some dimension.
5. Pop Singer
You might not have yet achieved your dream of becoming a triple threat (it’s a sore subject for us too), but you can on Halloween! Channel Lady Gaga by embellishing a leotard and making a lightning bolt around your eye with rhinestones or face paint. If you’re feeling especially scandalous, cover a nude leotard or dress with some strategically placedrhinestones to mimic Britney’s 2000 VMA outfit. The same idea works for Rihanna, Katy Perry, Ke$ha, and Nicki Minaj. Feel free to use feathers and any other craft item you can find (if it’s bright and shiny, these ladies have probably worn it!).
Whether you go for a group theme with friends, dress to match your other half, or fly solo, you can turn heads on Halloween without breaking the bank. Check out your local crafts store and let your creativity take it from there—the possibilities are endless!