If you’re planning to party or trick or treat for Halloween, of course you need a costume.  When it comes to costumes, think recycled. 

Look through your wardrobe and see if you have any old clothes that fit the bill.  A long black dress or some long black layers of clothes would be a great base for a vampire or witch costume.  Still have your old prom dress?  Cut it down to make a princess dress for your daughter.  A green turtle neck and green sweat pants are the perfect base for costumes like Peter Pan, or even a turtle.

Don’t have anything at home?  Instead of hitting up a big box store to buy something that’s cheap looking and synthetic, go to your local thrift store.  Put together an outfit from a certain time period — see if you can score a flapper dress, a leisure suit, or some 80’s leg warmers and a sweatshirt to cut up.  See if there are any uniforms in stock.  Maybe they have an old wedding dress, or a first communion dress for a child’s costume.  Rummage through costume jewelry and other accessories.

Get creative and see what you come up with.  If all else fails, nothing beats an old sheet.