Published: Oct. 16, 2019 By
Woman in black dress holds a small orange pumpkin in her hands

Halloween is quickly approaching, which means it's almost time for fun costumes, candy and all-things spooky. While Halloween costumes can get expensive, there are ways to dress up without going over your budget. Here are some money-saving tips for your costume this year.

Go through what you have

You might have everything you need already to create a great Halloween costume. Here are some quick but clever ideas using what’s in your closet:

  • Smarty-pants: Take some Smarties candy and use double-stick tape to attach the rolls to a pair of pants.
  • Your favorite emoji: With a yellow shirt and some Sharpie markers, anything is possible!
  • The Office Halloween costumes: Whether you want to be a three-hole punch like Jim or a black cat inspired by Pam, The Office has some great simple costume ideas you can recreate from your wardrobe.
  • “When life gives you lemons…”: Make a name tag for your shirt that says “life” and carry some lemons to share with others.
  • Your favorite Snapchat filter: If you enjoy crafting, create your favorite filter to wear. Whether it’s a flower crown, floppy dog ears or rainbow vomit, there are many options to choose from!

Hit the thrift stores

If you have a costume idea already in mind, check out some of the best thrift shops in Boulder to complete your look. Thrift stores and second-hand shops are great for scoring unique finds and saving money. Plus, some of these locations have special sales and deals where you can get items even cheaper.

Trade with a friend

If you still have the costume you wore last year, your friends might also have theirs. Coordinate a trade for a low-cost and stress-free costume!