Last Minute Costumes

The Halloween 2009 survey conducted by the National Confectioners’ Association revealed that 43 percent of adults cite costumes as one of the most indispensable parts of the holiday. The idea of dressing up as something other than ourselves—perhaps expressing a hidden part of ourselves—is a modern take on an ancient tradition of disguise.Whether dressing up for a costume day at work, for a costume party on Halloween or just to join in the fun when handing out treats, a costume is as close as your closet. Here are a few ideas for a last minute Halloween makeover.

Decade Specific Costumes

Costumes for specific decades such as the 1950s, 1970s and 1980s can be pulled together with either modern pieces or a reach into the back of your closet and a few accessories.

For the ‘50s, think wool skirts (the fuller the better), twin sets, anklets, loafers and pearls. Curl your hair tightly and add a pair of horn-rimmed or cat’s eye glasses. Or channel Audrey Hepburn from the movie “Funny Face” and don a pair a black leggings, black flats, a striped, boat-neck top and a black chiffon neckerchief. A beret adds even more flair.

The 1970s have never been more represented in modern fashion. Go for wide-legged jeans, an embroidered tunic, a cross-body suede bag, and small round sunglasses. Tuck long, straight hair under a bandana or a suede cabbie’s cap.

For some of us, the ‘80s weren’t that long ago. Admit it, you might still have a few leg warmers and baggy sweatshirts in the back of this closet or in a storage box. Add tons of makeup and you’re there!

Ghoulish Get-ups

Vampira: It seems like Count Dracula’s female converts are always dressed in fancy frocks, so go for a black evening gown, long black gloves, a glamorous up-do and pale makeup. Add bright red lipstick, some fangs purchased at the drugstore and maybe a little fake blood dribbling down your chin.

She-Devil: Dress in simple black; add a red cape from a discount store and a pair of horns. For a more glamorous she-devil, wear a black evening gown under the cape.

Witchy Woman: Start with a basic black dress, black hose and shoes, and add a witch’s hat from a Halloween store, and of course carry a broomstick.

And, if all else fails, dress in everyday clothes and remember Christina Ricci’s Wednesday Addams, who says, “I’m a homicidal maniac. They look like everyone else.” Carry a fake axe for effect.