Fall festivities are rapidly approaching, and with it, begins the adventure of choosing the perfect costume for any celebration. Regardless of the occasion, knowing how to quickly pull a great costume together is a useful skill. Our goal here at the Student Money Management Center is to provide you with the thrifty know-how that will allow you to dominate any Costume Competition without breaking the bank.
Additionally, checking out local thrift stores is a great way to find affordable items that can either help you find the inspiration for your costume or help you accessorize and pull your image together. Creatively recycling clothing you already own or props that you have used from past costumes can also help reduce your expenses for this endeavor.
The best way to pull this off is to plan your costume in advance. You and friends can save some money by sharing some of the frequently used costume preparation products, like that classic vampire makeup kit. Also remember, your friends may have a menagerie of former costumes that they may be willing to share. Saving a few dollars here and there can really go a long way.
The most important thing you will want to do is create a budget for your costume. Figure out how much money that you are comfortable and willing to spend on this costume. If you are unable to buy a premade costume then it may be best to make one yourself.
DYI Costumes
By Sean, SMMC Peer Mentor