While the idea of dressing up gets kids, teens and early twenty-somethings squealing in excitement, it often gets parents silently praying that the end of October never comes…or that somehow Leap Day abandons its comfy post in February.
I don’t have kids of my own but I empathize anyway. My mother forced me to utilize old clothes and be an “Indian Princess” for almost five years in a row. And no, I couldn’t even pretend it was Jasmine-esque.
At the time, I thought it was SO unfair, but now that I have to pay for my own costumes, I’m back shuffling through my closet and thrift shops.
So, here are some ideas to ease the pain of pinching of wallets and of mom’s fingers when they’re sewing/sticking/cutting/gluing/Velcroing/stapling/taping costumes
1. For Ideas & Inspiration: Your (or their) childhood memories.
Often, out fondest memories are those that occurred during our childhood. And this comes well into play when trying to think of a unique costume.
TV shows from my childhood days were Looney Tunes, Tom & Jerry, the Angry Beavers, Ren & Stimpy, Beetlejuice. The list goes on and on. Choose one of your favorite TV shows, or cartoons, and dress up like them. The best part is – since it’s been so long, you get a lot of creative license.
The best costumes are those that harken back to younger days or memorable characters. So, if your child is stuck with a broom and dark hat, ask him or her about their favorite children’s book. But beware, you may end up having to make a giant caterpillar costume.
2. For Materials:
For materials, obviously Michael’s is the best for craft supplies, but look around you for other much needed items.
For example, a Winky the House Elf costume (from Harry Potter) needs lots of oven mitts and tea cozies. Where can these be found? Goodwill Stores!
If the costume in question is any costume related to a specific decade, check out your local thrift stores – they’re treasure troves and sometimes, a few good finds can make the costume idea.
3. For Accessories: DIY Sites, Pinterest & “PS I Made This”
The power of Etsy and Pinterest has shown people all over the world that homemade crafts can be stunning and easy! Instead of spending money on cheap plastic accessories, make something that you can enjoy forever.
Pinterest’s DIY boards have crazy simple and innovative ideas ranging from how to make Wonder Woman head jewelry to glittery witches shoes!
“PS I Made This” is particularly cool for creating fashion items, jewelry and crafts – all of which can be incorporated into costumes or kept around for nights out!
4. For Unique and Health(ier) Treats:
Check out KiwiShop for organic Halloween treats! All adults know why candy is so bad for kids. It rots teeth, causes cavities, heightens the risk of becoming overweight, and makes kids so hyper!
KiwiShop has a ton of organic treats for not only your kids, but the neighbor’s also. And we’re sure, they’ll be thanking you in November. The treats range from organic gummy bears to lollipops in cool flavors like Mango Tango and Ginger Zest.
Maxim encourages the use of (and especially the ingestion of) organic products. We believe the least amount of chemicals introduced into our system the better – it protects our health. So this Halloween, protect your child from getting teased by letting them have a cool costume and by giving out some organic candy, in hopes of perhaps inducing healthy eating habits!
And, if all else fails Moms, make your kids dress up as you and give out tricks at the door instead!