Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023 | 2 a.m.
Powered by Goodwill of Southern Nevada
Halloween is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like us, you’re probably starting costume preparations early. For a truly memorable DIY option, hit your local thrift store to seek out affordable, eco-friendly ensembles destined to win the costume contest. Here are ideas for a one-of-a-kind spooky-fit.
How to thrift the perfect costume
1. Don’t procrastinate
We recommend starting your costume hunt in September or early October to ensure enough time to find the right pieces and avoid picked over stores.
Didn’t get to it early? Fortunately, thrift stores are a treasure trove for last-minute ideas. Dive in with an open mind and be willing to shift ideas based on what you find.
2. Don’t be afraid to sew, alter or dye
Part of what makes DIY costumes so fun is the willingness to create. Use the clothes you find thrifting as a guide,
but remember that anything can be altered. Cut the sleeves, belt the waist, dye it a different color entirely—whatever it is, it can likely be altered to suit your needs, so keep an eye out for garments that just need a little tweaking.
3. Shop around
Check out a few different thrift stores to see what you can find. You can also shop some thrift stores online. Check out ShopGoodwill.com if you’re looking for something specific. You can search by keyword, price, location and more.
4. Looks for donated costumes
Often, you can find pre-worn costumes at a fraction of the price as in store. Even if you’re DIYing, check what’s in the costume pack for harder-to-find accessories like wigs or emblems.
5. Donate!
Don’t forget to donate your costumes when you’re done to give them a second life!
Costume ideas
Barbie and Ken
What to look for
Barbie: Pink Western wear, bandana, white cowboy hat.
Ken: Black jeans and collared shirt with fringe, bandana, white cowboy hat
Tips: Look for basic clothing that fits the bill and embellish later. Craft stores will have fringe, glittery decals and more to make the costumes recognizable.
Frankenstein and Bride of Frankenstein
What to look for
Frankenstein: Older suit you can tatter, Face paint, a spooky wig
Bride of Frankenstein: Long white dress, black lace accessories, costume jewelry, a wig or hair coloring
Tips: The details are what makes these costumes, so don’t worry too much about the perfect outfit, it is what you make it.
Garden Gnome
What to look for
Mixed pattern clothing, tops with lace collars, rain boots, an apron
Tips: Make a simple gnome hat out of felt, and it will bring the entire outfit together.
Celeb Dog
What to look for
Plastic flashy bling, gold-rimmed sunglasses, a black tee that will fit your pup.
Tips: Any dog costume is cute regardless of what you’re able to find in-store, so search for close-enough options and get ready to snap adorable pictures.
Why thrift?
Thrifting your costume opens the door to a variety of options, inexpensive price, and it’s an opportunity to give back to the community while diverting waste from landfills. Goodwill is a nonprofit organization that uses the revenue from in-store and online shopping to fund free career services to those in need.
