Can’t decide on a Halloween costume? Read this first
Written by Jordan Murray
Halloween is coming up at the end of this month, which means that it’s time to think about Halloween costumes!
It can be difficult to come up with a costume that is unique and cute. Not to mention, Halloween can often breed costumes that are offensive or costumes that culturally appropriate, and these must be avoided at all costs.
Here are tips for finding a Halloween costume that is fun and not offensive:
1. Make a pop culture reference
If you are stuck and can’t figure out what to do for Halloween but you know you want to embody a person, look toward your favorite characters and figures of pop culture for inspiration.
If you have a favorite movie or TV show that you haven’t seen personified, try emulating one of the characters. If you have a favorite celebrity that has become a meme or attracted a lot of attention, make a funny joke and reference the meme with your costume. Seeing people dressed as your favorite meme or TV character always makes Halloween fun.
2. Don’t appropriate a culture that isn’t yours
The number one rule for choosing a Halloween costume: Do not appropriate cultures.
Over the past few years, more and more people have been called out for culturally appropriating with their Halloween costumes. Cultural appropriation is completely unnecessary and avoidable. This means no dressing up in a Native American headdress, no ninjas and absolutely no blackface.
3. Hit up your local thrift store
If you are having trouble trying to find a unique costume, or you want to be more cost-effective, try thrifting. Not only does this save your wallet, but it is much better for the environment. Thrifting also forces you to look for unique pieces and think out of the box. Use thrifting to make Halloween costumes your own and to add your own flare.
Photo by (@meganlee/unsplash)
5. When in doubt, see what’s in your own closet
If you are struggling to find a costume in store or online, don’t be afraid to look in your own closet. We often forget to look for inspiration in the clothes we already have. Use layering and basics as a base and add purchased accessories to finish off the look. This works best when imitating a celebrity or TV or movie character.
Photo by (@micheile/Unsplash)
6. Back to the basics, but let's elevate them
If all else fails or you are going for a simplistic look, it’s always okay to go back to the basic costumes we know and love — the black cat, vampire, witch and cowboy. These are such cute costumes but often lack creativity. Elevate the basic elements to make the looks more unique and interesting. If you are a black cat, instead of wearing a black dress, style some black pants with fun cut-outs with a textured black top that has an interesting cut. If you are going for a witch, expand your color palette from just black to include purple, red and burnt orange. Play with colors, textures and cuts.
