It's the middle of the semester, and for most of us, our funds are running a little low. This doesn't leave much room for Halloween costumes - especially not that $150 costume of your dreams on that fancy Web site. Just because you can't buy a costume doesn't mean your costume should be boring, so put away your sheets and brooms because we have a few of the best do-it-yourself ensembles for this Halloween.
You have to be careful with do-it-yourself costumes, though, because they are usually bland, predictable and unstylish. The sheet-over-the-head ghost (why would you ever cut holes in a sheet to look that ridiculous?), the black cat (come on, now you're just asking to look like everybody else) and the wicked witch (a hat doesn't count as a full costume) are all so over. Try some of these cute ideas this Halloween instead:
1 Paris Hilton: Break out your Juicy sweatsuits and Uggs because it doesn't get much easier than being Paris. Just tuck your pants into your boots, carry a McDonald's bag and perfect that Paris pose-worthy pout. If you want to go the extra mile, buy a little tiara to go with your ensemble or, better yet, a stuffed Tinkerbell dog. If you loved Paris most in her jailbird phase, add a striped shirt underneath that juicy jacket, and maybe even some handcuffs.
2 This one is basic and fabulous. Wear head-to-toe gold and carry a little shovel. In addition, make sure you wear gold makeup, and in this case, body glitter is acceptable. It is Halloween, after all - we'll turn a blind eye. To go all the way, try a fake tanning spray (not a cancer box - those UV lights are never a good idea).
3 This one's perfect if you're at a party and you don't want to talk to someone. Wear black and white, or even black and white stripes if you have them. Ideally, you would have a French beret, or cap of some sort, with bright red lipstick and over-the-top red circles on your cheeks. White face makeup is optional.
4 This one is for all you creative cuties that just love to be original on Halloween. You need one large clear plastic bag, two packs of multicolored balloons and a piece of ribbon. Cut two leg holes and two armholes into the bag and blow up all the balloons to about the size of your fist. Step into the bag and put the balloons inside the bag. Tie a ribbon around your neck and you're ready to go. There's no need to be cold in skimpy costumes - you know that no man can resist a bag of jellybeans.
5 Locked out: I'm sure everyone has seen that pissed off person at the front desk of their residence halls - they are dripping wet and answering questions about their hometown and father's first name. We all lock ourselves out sometimes. Unfortunately, some of us lock ourselves out when we are going to shower and don't realize it until after the shower. It happens, and now it's time to joke about it. This costume is for all you AU students that don't want to try too hard but would still love to get a good laugh. Wrap yourself in a towel and carry around a sign that says "Locked Out," but actually wear something under the towel.
We can't wait to see you all looking fabulous on Halloween!
Stay Stylish, Lara and Virginia