The party invitations are being handed out, pumpkins are carved and the candy is ready for the trick-or-treaters. The scariest holiday of the year is fast approaching and costumes are flying off of the shelves. What will you be for Halloween?
You don’t have to buy a $200 costume, instead save your money by thinking outside the box. Here are a few tips to help you find the perfect costume:

Think outside the box

Be creative. There is nothing wrong with sticking to the traditional police officer or sexy nurse getup, but don’t forget about other possibilities. Think of a costume that you haven’t seen anyone else wear.
Instead of blowing your cash on something you’ll only wear once, remember – there are clothes you can use instead.
Be real

Be real

Photo taken from ChicagoPhotoShop Flickr account.

Think about popular TV shows or magazines and go from there. With reality shows as popular as they are, there are many people you could dress up as without spending big bucks. For example, you could dress as Snooki from “Jersey Shore.” All it would take is some orange makeup, a tight shirt, short skirt, some heels and a poof. The best part about it is that it’s not some costume that someone else was able to buy in stores.

It takes two

Think about popular TV shows or magazines and go from there. With reality shows as popular as they are, there are many people you could dress up as without spending big bucks. For example, you could dress as Snooki from “Jersey Shore.” All it would take is some orange makeup, a tight shirt, short skirt, some heels and a poof. The best part about it is that it’s not some costume that someone else was able to buy in stores.

Think about popular TV shows or magazines and go from there. With reality shows as popular as they are, there are many people you could dress up as without spending big bucks. For example, you could dress as Snooki from “Jersey Shore.” All it would take is some orange makeup, a tight shirt, short skirt, some heels and a poof. The best part about it is that it’s not some costume that someone else was able to buy in stores.

Get thrifty

Photo courtesy of Natalie Holsinger

Visit your local thrift stores. Search for fabric and accessories to complete your costume. Thrift stores are filled with vintage clothing and old-school treasures. You can buy a pair of bright spandex leggings, a fanny pack, some slouch socks and a headband, and maybe even find a retro cassette player. With all those accessories, you have your 80’s look completed. Some thrift shops even sell wigs for cheap.

Ridin’ solo

Photo taken from deonsdreaming's flickr account

Not in the mood to pair up? Go solo by picking an easily recognized celebrity. Girls, take your little black dress, a pair of big black sunglasses and a pearl necklace. Then tie your hair in a bun and you’re Audrey Hepburn.

Guys, throw on a plain white t-shirt and a pair of fitted jeans, get some aluminum foil for your “grill,” throw on some shades and a Jamaican rasta dreadlock wig and call yourself Lil’ Wayne.