Remember last year when you saved up your hard-earned cash, searched costume stores high and low and bought the perfect sparkly dress, sunglasses and blonde wig? Then when Oct. 31 rolled around, you spent hours in front of the mirror applying your makeup and getting dressed. You were feeling pretty hot, weren’t you? At least until you showed up to that Halloween party as Lady GaGa No. 13, that is.
The last thing anyone wants on Halloween is to get caught wearing the same, cliché costume as half the party guests; It’s the college version of wearing the same prom dress as your high school nemesis.
But to avoid this fashion faux pas, it’s all about currency and creativity. If you want to make a fashionable entrance this Halloween, you have to think out with the old and in with the new.
**Old: The Cast of Jersey Shore**
**New: The Cast of Keeping Up with the Kardashians**
Not to sound harsh, but Snooki and crew need to disappear this year. It’s time to trade in your hair bumps for butt bumps and fake tans for fake eyelashes. Add bronzer, a little black dress and heels to complete the look. Sexy, fun and affordable.
**Old: Tom Brady**
**New: Aaron Rodgers**
Guys, I know how easy it is just to throw on a football jersey and call it a night. But at least pick a player we don’t see all the time. Besides, speaking as a completely objective journalist who might or might not be from Wisconsin, the Packers are better anyway.
**Old: Barack and Michelle Obama**
**New: Prince William and Kate Middleton**
The President and the First Lady are quite the fashionable couple, but it’s safe to say they have been overshadowed by the royal frenzy that is Will and Kate. A great option for couples, men can wear a scarlet jacket and blue sash, while women can wear white dresses, veils and the iconic blue sapphire ring. Bonus points for talking with a British accent all night.
**Old: Billy Mays**
**New: Steve Jobs**
Too soon? Maybe. But what could be an easier costume than wearing a black turtleneck, glasses and an iPod?
**Old: Katy Perry**
**New: Nicki Minaj**
As much as I admit I loved the sight of cupcake bras and blue hair last year, all the California Gurls need to make way for the newest girl in Hollywood: Nicki Minaj. The “Super Bass” singer has caught the eye of the public with her bright clothes and even brighter hair. Nicki definitely seems like this year’s most daring, fun costume. Think pink hair, neon dresses and playful makeup.
**Old: The Cast of Sex and the City**
**New: The Cast of Gossip Girl**
Carrie and Co. undeniably are fashion icons, and what fashionista wouldn’t want to be them for Halloween? But these equally trendy New Yorkers tend to get overlooked: Blair Waldorf and Serena van der Woodsen. For Serena, look for eclectic, bohemian clothes and accessories. For Blair, look for preppy blouses and patterned tights. Don’t forget about the trademark headband. These are costumes you can put together just by digging through your closet. You’ll look so good, not even Gossip Girl will know your little secret. XOXO.