If you’re like me, October is your favorite month of the year. Cold weather, beautiful foliage and, most importantly, HALLOWEEN!! As a Halloween fanatic, I’ve been around the block a few times (to trick or treat, of course). So, I’ve gathered a bunch of spooky do’s and don’ts to help you get the most out of your Halloween costume!
Do: dress for the weather.
Missouri weather can be pretty unpredictable, but it’s expected that the weather during Halloweekend can be cold and biting. Make sure to stay warm and dress in layers while you’re out and about. If you’re planning on taking pictures in your costume, have a warmer version of your costume with either more layers or a jacket over top. You can also plan a warm backup costume in the event of frigid frights .
Don’t: over-accessorize.
While wearing tails, wings or cloaks might be imperative to your costume, save them for your Instagram photos. Wearing these large and often obstructive accessories might look cute, but these items will be torn, spilled on and mostly destroyed by the end of the night. Not only will these items be ripped apart, but you’ll be more likely to hit — or trip — most people in a 3-foot radius.
Do: have multiple options.
At MU, Halloween is a weekend-long event. To make sure you’re not wearing the same dirty clothes each night, try to have multiple costumes prepared. If there’s a specific costume you want to wear, focus on making or buying that costume. Then, just make the rest of your costumes from your closet!
Don’t: wear expensive items.
Halloween can get very messy, so make sure not to wear anything you’re not okay with getting dirty or damaged. So, that means no family heirlooms, fancy clothes or expensive jewelry.
Do: reuse!
There are many Halloween costumes you can make from your closet. Try to reuse as many pieces as you can. Not only will this help you save money, it will also save closet space. If you need to buy new items, check out thrift stores for more affordable and sustainable options! Some easy DIY costume examples are a cowgirl, cat, witch or vampire!
Do: be prepared.
There’s nothing worse than scrambling to make your Halloween costume the night of. Instead, try to think of Halloween costumes at the beginning of the month. Not only will this give you an idea of what to shop for, it gives you a better piece of mind. By being prepared, you can spend more time having fun instead of stressing out over a costume!
Most importantly: Don’t: be a jerk.
Don’t wear anything offensive. Dressing as a nationality or engaging in cultural appropriation are not acceptable costumes. Don’t dress up as any racial, ethnic or religious stereotype either. Make sure Halloween is fun for everyone, which means making it inclusive for everyone.
Edited by Ever Cole, ecole@themaneater.comCopy Chief: Emily Rutledge, erutledge@themaneater.com