You don’t have to buy new to have an amazing Halloween costume. By getting creative with what you already have, you can save money, reduce textile waste, and make the spookiest season a little greener.
Scary Swaps
A costume swap is a great opportunity to clear out last year’s costumes and find something new! This time of year, swaps are happening everywhere, so keep an eye out!
- Where to look: Local libraries, community centers, schools, and even some nonprofit organizations often host swaps. Here are a few in Chittenden County:
- No swap nearby? No problem! Whether it’s a laid-back gathering with neighbors or a pop-up event on your campus, organizing a swap is a fun, low-cost way to build community and give old costumes a new home.
- Hand-Me-Downs: Don’t underestimate the power of hand-me-downs! If your family has outgrown last year’s costumes, share them with a friend or relative.
Second-hand Spooks
If you’ve ever visited a secondhand store in October, you know there’s no shortage of pre-loved costumes! But here’s the real trick: you can create almost any costume from secondhand finds!
- Think outside the costume rack: If you can’t the costume find what you are looking for at your local thrift stores, explore other areas. Everyday items can be transformed into something magical. A pair of worn western boots and faded jeans? Instant cowgirl! A chic vintage dress and some faux pearls? A fabulous flapper costume.
- Material Treasure trove: If you have basic sewing skills, thrift stores are great ways to find materials. Used tablecloths, curtains, or bedsheets can become capes, cloaks, or even full costumes!
- Pass it on: Once Halloween is over, donate gently used costumes so someone else can enjoy them next year. Just be sure to check with your local store about donation guidelines—some may only accept costumes seasonally.
Creepy Crafts
Homemade costumes haven’t gone out of style, especially when they are upcycled from items you already have.
- Gather materials: old clothes, cardboard boxes, fabric scraps, and leftover craft supplies can all be transformed into unique costume all your own.
- No sewing skills required: You don’t need to bust out the sewing machine to make a great outfit. Hot glue, fabric glue, safety pins, and double-sided tape can all keep your costume together in a pinch.
- Make it a party! For group costumes or fun with friends, consumer making your DIY into a crafting circle or pre-Halloween bash.
Lastly, if you love your costume, wear it again! Keep yours for next year or make those thrifted pieces part of your everyday style. But, if your costume has truly seen its last Halloween, we’ll accept them for textile recycling at any CSWD Drop-off Centers.
Whether you’re a crafty cowboy, a thrifty ghoul, or a sustainability superhero, you’re proving that Halloween fun doesn’t have to haunt the planet.
