Have a spectacular Halloween, vintage style
by Rebecca Lewis, posted Oct. 31
Halloween is almost here and with the struggling economy, it’s even more important to stretch the dollar further. If you have done your research on buying Halloween costumes you will realize that store bought costumes can get pretty costly.
It’s time to get the creative juices flowing and think of ways to buy cheap, fun costumes that won’t break the bank.
There are many options when putting together your Halloween attire. My personal favorite is going through old clothes tucked away in the attic. I would always go to my grandmother’s trunks that were filled to the brim with old clothes, hats and fun dress-up items. I can remember being a pioneer girl from the 1800’s and a ‘50s carhop chick.
If you don’t have access to grandmother’s trunks there are other places to get creative costumes. Vintage shops and resale stores are great options. In downtown Columbia, there are many stores that sell unique items sure to catch someone’s eye.
Absolute Vintage is just one store downtown that specializes in gently worn clothing that can be turned into your next Halloween costume. Colleen Blake, an employee at Absolute Vintage, explained that along with regularly priced items, the store also rents out Halloween costumes and accessories. The store also claims to be the place to find that one special item needed for your costume.
“Just the other day a girl came in looking for the final piece to a pirate costume. She ended up buying a peasant shirt to complete the outfit,” Blake said.
For some people, it might just be the thrill of finding something original to wear rather than the need to find something less expensive.
Brittney Fogle, store shopper and MU student, said it’s the idea of finding something fun that draws her to shop vintage.
“Everyplace you go there is something trashy or slutty looking. I want something cute and real,” Fogle said.
Blake explained that there are plenty of people shopping at Absolute Vintage, especially for last minute items.
“Sales are doing just as good as last year, even though people are worried about money,” Blake said.
So, whatever your party plans are for this Halloween season, remember that there are always other options than buying a premade costume that can be fun and cost efficient.
