How to Prep for Halloween on a Budget

It's finally here- one of my favorite times of year has arrived. No, I'm not talking about the oncoming winter (in fact, I'm dreading the cold), I'm talking about HALLOWEEN! This weekend always proves to be one of the craziest of the year and I can't wait to show off all my costumes.
The one problem I have with Halloween, however, is the buckets of cash I end up dropping on putting together multiple costumes, tickets for shows and events, candy, pumpkins, alcohol, and everything else that makes this holiday awesome. This year, I'll be going to 4floors and Kill Halloween, so I'm trying to figure out ways I can save money without missing out on all these events.

My first tip is to make your costumes yourself! As cool as pre-made costumes can be, they can be really expensive. First come up with a creative idea, then start piecing your outfit together. Borrow clothes from friends, search your closet for hidden treasures, and hit up dollar stores or other cheap shops like Urban Planet, Ardenes, Claire's, Forever 21, and more. Try to get things that you'll be able to wear again so that your money truly is well spent!


It also doesn't hurt to improvise parts of your costume. Even if each piece isn't exactly reflective of your character, it should still be fine. My first costume is going to be Natalie Portman's character of the Black Swan: and she wears a detailed black tiara. Instead, I'm going to wear a feathered and jeweled headband, which I think will be a good enough substitute.

For the tutu, I visited Eva B's, which is a vintage store on St. Laurent near St. Catherine's. This shop has an awesome "pit" where you can find mountains of old clothes all sold for just $1. The store also has amazing costume rental opportunities; the basement is a labyrinth of epic costume pieces that you can pick and choose as you please. I found a perfect ballet skirt for my character and rented it for only $5,70. I do have to return it in a week, but it works perfectly for my outfit and my budget.

Another easy way to save money is to not go out every night. Pick which events you really want to splurge on, and go to a house party or watch a scary movie with friends for one night. Trust me, you'll be partying hard even if you choose not to buy a ticket for one or two nights. On Saturday, I'm going to a party at my good friend's house and two girlfriends and I are dressing up as the Powerpuff Girls. Choosing one simple costume and one more complicated one also helps you save a few bucks. Also, it's fun to do group costumes!

As of now, those are the plans I have for the weekend. Who knows, maybe I'll get inspired and figure out a third cheap costume! Have an awesome Halloween, and happy shopping!