As college students, let’s face it: we procrastinate. So of course getting a Halloween costume somehow fell into that category this year. In case you forgot to have your mom take you grocery shopping with a buzz down the Halloween aisle at Target over fall break, I’ve whipped up a guide for all my last minute costume hunters.
1) I generally write and support fabulous fashion – but this year go as the fashion victim. It’s an unexpected costume, and if you generally dress nicely year round, this is the perfect way for you to showcase all the ‘trends’ you hate – all in one outfit. Think gaudy spandex leggings as pants, a fake Louis Vuitton purse, bright blue eye shadow, a streaky fake tan, bleached blonde wig, and outdated miniskirt. Basically, anything you find repulsive to wear – put it all together this year be the fashion victim.

2) Got the munchies? Not a problem this Halloween. For the person who gets really hungry while out celebrating, be a vending Machine. Dress in black attire of your choice, and duct tape little bags of chips, chocolate bars, gum, beef jerky, and any thing else you can think of, all over your body. Use masking tape to add prices or funny taglines under each of the items and gladly accept cash or change from your buddies trying to eat up your getup.

3) I’m not sure what the forecast for weather is, but we are in Wisconsin, which means it could rain, snow, storm, or hail at any split second here. For the dreary, stormy night- the perfect costume is a jellyfish. You can use an umbrella you have at home or, preferably, pick up a clear dome-shaped one. Next step, use clear boxing tape and attach party streamers, metallic ribbons, Mardi Gras beads, random iridescent fabric and fringy things to your dome. As for your actual dress attire? A shiny dress, a purple ensemble, or anything sea-like would all be appropriate. And if it rains, your friends are seriously going to be wishing they all went with this creative idea.

4) Speaking of the weather – I have a simple idea for guys and gals. The “Partly Cloudy with a Chance of Rain” is a easy, made in minutes costume. The recipe you ask? A blue T-shirt, some cotton balls, a bit of tape and a water gun do the trick. Make sure you water gun is clearly plastic and see-through. You’re not out to sketch your friends and go as the next campus mugger.

5) For the gentlemen who have a tough time getting the ladies. You must practice, practice, practice – and what better way than to get in the shoes of a Hugh Hefner costume! You may not have hundreds of plastic, blonde bombshells chasing you down, but regardless you can play the role for one night and see what happens. The outfit guidelines: put on your pajamas (and sleeping in the nude is not your pajamas), get a silk robe, and a pipe. Instant babe magnet.

6) Ladies, ladies- sport some current fashion in your closet. The chic costume flapper girl is an easy to make fall back for last minute procrastinators. Luckily the flapper style dress is a hot item on the racks at any typical trendy retailer like Forever 21 or H&M. You cold also find a fringe dress at a vintage shop – which is even better. Complete you costume wit a long pearl necklace, a feathered headband and some unique heels. Red lipstick and 20’s style makeup will polish the look perfectly.

7) Okay I have another completely ridiculous idea- for the ultra last minute or super lazy kid. Concept: “Black mail.” You can make this outfit quicker than a 2 minute Hot Pocket. Wear all black and put a postage stamp (enlarged if you are feeling ambitious) on you chest. Donezo!

8) My best times in front of the TV as a child were spent watching Rugrats – or Scooby Do . Take this Halloween for a ‘90s throwback and mock your favorite pop cartoon. If you are a blondie- Angelica Pickles from Rugrats is a pretty easy fix . The attire: A long-sleeved orange shirt, a purple dress on top (easy find at Forever 21), some teal tights, orange socks, purple bow ties and flats. You could be the big girl version! (Who thought that little brat would ever grow up.) Be sure to act extra snotty and play the part.

I hope one of these ideas works for you! But if not, the most important this is to be creative! Halloween is the only time of year when you can get a little wild with your wardrobe. My advice is to take full advantage of that.

On my last note- for the best places near campus to find those vintage, freakishly amazing, unique and thrifted costumes ( everyday thrifted items if you are like me) – take trip to Milwaukee’s Value Village ( 729 S. Layton Blvd.) or the upscale Goodwill called “Retique” located in the Third Ward (190 N. Broadway.)
Good Luck!
Oh, and Happy Halloween!