If you woke up after Halloween weekend surrounded by empty candy wrappers, a major headache, and an empty bank account you regret draining for that one costume you just had to have, you’re not alone.
Don’t freak out —the lifecycle of a Halloween costume doesn’t have to end on Nov 1. There are many easy ways to rework, reuse and recycle costumes. Here’s a guide to six different ways you can find a new life for the items in your costume bag.
For costumes with scarves or bandanas.
If you dressed up as a pirate or cowgirl, its likely you have a big handkerchief or scarf left over from Halloweekend. Don’t throw these out! These accessories can be reworn as belts with plain jeans or tied up into an up-do to elevate the basic pony tail. If the bandana/scarf is large enough, these also make for cute backless tube tops in the summer.
Anything with a corset,
A corset and bloomers are the key ingredients to a variety of different costumes. If you don’t plan on rewearing a corset for next years halloween bash, there are other ways to get more wears out of it.
For a quasi street-wear/business casual look, wear the corset over a button up shirt with a mini skirt or dress pants
However, some corsets are too gaudy looking to be worn as a casual piece. But, deconstructed they can still serve you well! To spice up any pair of sneakers, replace the shoe laces with the ribbon that ties the back of the corset. This is an easy way to make plain shoes look a little more girly, while salvaging some material from a piece that you can’t wear again.
What to do with left over tutus!
Lucky for you, tulle is a super easy material to work with and can be easily transformed. After cutting a portion of the tutu it can be uses to create hair bows —serving the coquette style that has been dominating Pinterest as of late. Here’s a tutorial on how to get to crafting some new hair accessories.
Another DIY that tulle lends itself to is a decorative hanging display instead. Ruffly wall decor is a creative and fun way to spice up your space. This blog offers a great guide for creating your personalized wall decor. The model that they provide does require a lot of tulle, but a mini version would look just as cute if you only have one or two tutus to spare.
If you can’t rework it…recycle it!
Not all things are meant to last. But you can bring a new life to your costumes.
- If you have something thats more family-friendly, donate to WeenDream , a nonprofit that gives free Halloween costumes to kids across America.
- Sell a full costume or separate pieces on Depop to sustainably make a few bucks
- Visit to any local donation center around State College
- Organize a costume swap within your friend group, sorority/fraternity or other clubs you’re involved in
Fish nets, Stockings and thigh highs —Oh my!
These funky accessories are not just meant to be worn on halloween. Tall boots are trending for fall and winter this year, which pair perfectly with high socks and micro skirts.
If all else fails, it’s always a good idea to hold onto your costumes for the future. You never know when you might need a sneaky pair of devil ears! Post your new-old looks and tag @VALLEYmag on Instagram.
