Halloween on a Budget: Creative Costume Ideas for College Students
Halloween is creeping up on us, and throwing together a last-minute Halloween costume for that party you just heard about two days ago is almost a rite of passage in college. With most of our money spent on books, no one has the money–let alone the time–to shop for a costume. But don’t worry, I’ll save you the trip to Spirit Halloween. Here are the top DIY Halloween costumes on a student budget.
- Ken from Barbie
Finding a blonde wig and denim from the back of your closet and being prepared to sing I’m Just Ken on command is all you need for this costume. Add a fanny pack or sunglasses for extra Kenergy. This low-effort costume is even better if you have a Barbie to match with!
- Oppenheimer
If you have a suit, and a fedora, and can hold a serious face for a long time, this costume is for you! You won’t be attempting any experiments with this costume but you will stand out as the infamous physicist. To get even more into character add a clipboard and a pair of glasses as a nice touch.
- Breadwinner
You’ll be the champion of the night with this clever and funny costume. All you need is a few medals and a loaf of bread or two to pull this costume off. If you don’t have medals on hand, a creative alternative is cutting out a “No. 1” on gold paper and looping a string through a hole in the paper to serve as your medal. This costume is effortless and sure to get some laughs.
- Bob Ross
On the hunt for some chocolate and a few happy little trees? With a fluffy brown wig, a tucked-in blue button-up, and a paintbrush in hand you have transformed into the legendary American Painter, and you’re ready to spread The Joy of Painting. This costume is simple yet funny and sure to catch the eyes of all the easels at the party. And remember there are no mistakes–just happy little accidents.
- FBI Agent
Calling all special agents! A blazer or suit jacket over a white top and some extra dark shades are essential to this secret mission. Get creative and design your own FBI agent badge either with the online design tool Canva or by cutting out one of your own with construction paper. Grab a couple of friends, and you’ve got your own Criminal Minds team on the hunt for a spooky night of fun.
- Scarecrow
With a little makeup, a floppy hat, and a cozy flannel you’ve got the perfect scarecrow look. For makeup, draw a stitched line from the corner of your mouth to the middle of your cheek and cross it with a few stitches– a simple yet creative way to look like you wandered out of a cornfield. For an extra aesthetic, thrift a sweater, cut out a few holes in it, and pair it with ripped jeans. This costume is cute, inexpensive, and perfect for fall. Bonus points for being warm and comfy all night.
- Skeleton
A few partygoers may have a bone to pick with you with this classic costume! This budget-friendly custom is a perfect chance to show off your artistic skills with fun makeup. All you need is an all-black outfit and for makeup, draw lines along your mouth, darken your nose, and apply dark eyeshadow around the eye for an eerie deadly look. Want a more realistic vibe? There are several video tutorials on the best makeup look. If you make a mistake while applying your makeup just remember– It’s going tibia okay. (Sorry, I couldn’t resist that one)
- Honorable Mentions: Lumberjack, Farmer, Cowboy/girl
For last-minute costumes, these are an easy idea that can be put together with everyday items in your closet. A flannel, an old pair of jeans, and a belt are the basics for this outdoorsy look. For accessories tie a bandana around your neck, pair with a cowboy hat, and some funky boots. Going for a straightforward costume like this keeps you from reaching in your pockets, simple and quick to put together and it’s easy to groove through the night.
Happy Halloween Bluejays!
