Creative “Green” Halloween Costumes

Halloween is around the corner, being celebrated by both young and old. While many may purchase a famous character costume at the local store, there are plenty of ideas for accessories or complete outfits in your closet or closest thrift store. So put on your thinking cap and imagine creating these costumes by reusing as many items as possible:

Prom Queen – old prom or bridesmaid dresses put to good use

1980s Rock Star – big hair, eye makeup either dressed up or down

Tourist – Hawaiian shirt, jeans, sun glasses and old map or brochure

60s Hippy – faded jeans, tie-dyed shirt, sandals

Ghost / Snowman – any old sheet could work with a few accessories

Skunk – black and white combination using sweat suit

Dog / Cat – same as above with brown or yellow options

Ladybug – red shirt with black pieces sewn or pinned to it

Train Engine – decorate a box, dress in blue shirt, jeans, where a cap

Dice – get a friend and decorate two boxes to fit

Scarves, hats, bathrobes, blankets and more can be used to make wonderful and unique costumeswithout creating waste.  Always check your closets before buying something new.  After the parties, be sure to donate unwanted items.  Schools and other organizations occasionally offer costume swaps in September and early October. Consider participating in one next year if you have little ones to dress.

When you do purchase from a store, look for quality. A good gorilla suit can be used for years, as can wigs, many masks and fairy wings.  If this is a holiday you enjoy, be as green as possible and have fun whatever you are!