Vintage Fashions as Halloween Costumes

Homemade Costumes from Clothes Already in Your Wardrobe

Oct 23, 2008

Looking to save some money this Halloween? If you are a vintage fashionista, consider looking at your wardrobe and assembling a look from a bygone decade.

Times are tight. You might not have an extra $50 to spend on an adult Halloween costume or a costume rental. Fortunately, if you already have some vintage or retro inspired clothes or accessories in your wardrobe, you may just have to spend a few more dollars to assemble a Halloween costume. Here are some suggestions for putting together a thrifty but fashionable Halloween costume using already existing clothes in your closet.

1920s Flapper

Let silent film actress Louise Brooks be your inspiration. Flapper girl basics include clothing with fringe, dresses with a dropped waist, long beaded necklaces, and shoes with buckles or bows. A cloche hat or sequin headband will top off your look. If your hair is long, consider pulling it back in a bun and using styling gel to create curls around your face. Don't forget the red lipstick and eyeliner.

Copy that 1950s bad-girl look sported by screenwriter Diablo Cody and model Dita Von Teese by slipping into a pencil skirt or Capri pants, heels, and a fuzzy mohair sweater. Tie a scarf around your neck and be sure to wear your hair in a ponytail. Again, red lipstick is your friend.

Think peace and love, man. If you have a pair of boot -ut pants or flared jeans from a few seasons ago, wear them. A very long broomstick skirt will work also. Poet shirts and flowing floral blouses will look great. Clogs and sandals are essential footwear. If your hair is long and straight, part it down the middle à la Ali McGraw in Love Story. Top off your look with a couple of beaded necklaces from a thrift store.

If you and two of your friends are looking for a theme, consider Charlie's Angels. Wear high-waisted jeans or flared trousers and platform shoes. A simple halter top or blouse will do. Recreate Farrah Fawcett's signature hair style with hot rollers and some hair spray.

It is very easy to recreate the look of Robert Palmer’s all-girl back up band made famous by his videos “Addicted to Love” and “Simply Irresistible”. All you need is one or two of your friends to dress up in the same way. The foundation piece for this costume is something that most women have in their wardrobe already: a little black dress. Heels are helpful but not essential. A wide belt will give you a more authentic 1980s look. Next, pull back your hair in a tight bun, powder your face white, and wear bright red lipstick. Voila! It’s a totally ‘80s look that most people will recognize.

The copyright of the article Vintage Fashions as Halloween Costumes in Women’s Fashion is owned by Marsha West. Permission to republish Vintage Fashions as Halloween Costumes in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.