Halloween is coming up, and for many, that means finding a costume. And while you probably don’t want to show up in the same costume as last year, there are plenty of ways to come up with new ideas rather than buying yet another single-use costume.
“82.5% of the materials found in Halloween costumes are plastic.”
Hubbub UK
According to a report by environmental charity Hubbub UK, 82.5% of the materials found in Halloween costumes are plastic. And when you consider how many costumes are thrown away after a single use, it’s estimated that the annual plastic waste generated from the industry is equivalent to about 83 million water bottles – from just one Halloween!
We can, and should, do better. This year, why not look through your closet for some easy costume ideas, host a costume swap with friends, or head to pre-loved secondhand stores like HULA to find something you can reuse over and over again?
We’ve done the heavy lifting for you with the following eight DIY Halloween costume ideas:
1. Squid Game
Jean-Paul Gaultier Long-sleeved Turtleneck and Pants Set
This shimmery two-piece set can be worn separately long after Halloween, meaning it won’t go to waste like most single-use Squid Game costumes. To make it more like the actual track suit seen on the show, add your own white racing tape down the sides of the arms and legs, and finish it off with some numbered stickers on the left chest.
Available on HULA
2. Kate Middleton at the Bond premiere
Dundas Gunmetal and Gold Sequinned Long-Sleeved Maxi Dress
Kate Middleton stunned on the red carpet of the most recent Bond Premiere. To channel her look, grab this gunmetal and gold V-necked maxi dress for the same, stunning effect this Halloween.
Available on HULA
3. Mummy
Fendi Ivory Sleeveless Top
A mummy costume never goes out style, and neither does this Fendi sleeveless top. Pair it with white leggings for the full look, and wear itagain and again with a pair of jeans, black mini skirt or whatever bottoms you have in your closet.
Available on HULA
4. Cruella
Joseph Black and White Abstract Blazer
Save the dalmations – and the environment – with this pre-loved black and white abstract blazer from Joseph. All you need are a black-and-white wig, jumpsuit and thigh-high boots to match, and some blood-red accessories to complete the look.
Available on HULA
5. Karate Kid
Diane Von Furstenberg White Long-sleeved Top With Purple Red Belt
Wax on, wax off… Bring out your inner karate kid with this pre-loved DVF long-sleeved top that can be worn again and again by switching out the belt.
Available on HULA
6. Michael Jackson in Thriller
Acne Studios Red Goat Leather Biker Jacket
Get set to thrill in this red leather biker jacket from Acne, just like the late Prince of Pop himself from his iconic and legendary music video for ‘Thriller’.
Available on HULA
7. Tin (Wo)Man
Ellery Metallic Shiny Silver Sleeveless Layered Drape Mini Dress
Dress like the classic Tin (Wo)Man from Oz with this shiny silver Ellery dress, which will no doubt look just as fab at your next cocktail party.
Available on HULA
8. White Walker from Game of Thrones
Alexander Mcqueen White and Grey Abstract Fur Prints Long-sleeved Mini Dress
From what we hear about the Game of Thrones prequel, the origins of the White Walkers will soon be revealed. Stay ahead of the game by dressing up like one of the grisly characters with this very apt Alexander McQueen mini dress.
Available on HULA
Remember, these DIY Halloween ideas are just the start! Buying secondhand is already better than buying brand new single-use Halloween costumes, but the best thing you can do is to go through your own closet to see what you already have – and what you can make of it. Good luck and let us know what you come up with by tagging us on Instagram @8shadesofficial!
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See also: 5 most and least sustainable fabrics
