Halloween is fast approaching, and the impending pressure to present looks that are unique yet recognisable, and impressive yet seemingly effortless, makes choosing a costume an increasingly harder task every year. Whilst looking to celebrity fashion moguls and social media stars would be the most obvious source of inspiration, it’s fair to say that their budget doesn’t exactly match student funds.
The number of potential options shoved in your face on social media may be overwhelming but The Mancunion might be able to help you out… Take one more look at your wardrobe before you spend your entire student loan on an online order. You might find you have almost everything you need for the perfect cool girl outfit to make everyone think ‘I wish I’d thought of that’.
Pirate
Arguably the most versatile and easily attainable costume, as there are so many identifiable versions of a classic pirate look. Yes, there are determining features; boots, a chunky belt, and lots of metallic accessories, but you could pretty much make a pirate look out of anything, and it’s pretty difficult to make uncool.
Sugar Plum Fairy
Although a fairy is a longstanding go-to when it comes to Halloween, the concept of a sugar plum fairy elevates the already elegant costume. All you need are some pale pink/purple accents, and then you have an excuse to label your outfit as something that sets you apart.
Devil
Some say basic, others say iconic for a reason! Don’t be scared to go back to the classics if you have a cute red top you’re dying to wear.
Playboy Bunny
Channel Bridget Jones with this iconic Halloween staple. As long as you have some ears, wear as much or as little black clothing as you feel comfortable in. If you’re heading to the centre on your night out, be prepared to see girls in this outfit in pretty much every direction!
Explorer
A cute, easy, throw-together look that shows off your funky camo pieces. Bonus points for bringing a stuffed animal along with you.
Adam Sandler
Can’t be bothered to dress up? Go as fashion icon Adam Sandler. We’d bet money on you being able to make one of his iconic baggy outfits from things you already own.
Freddie Krueger
Flex your impeccable taste in film by going as one of the most iconic movie villains of all time. Slightly more effort may be required to achieve the perfect look, but it’s a guaranteed win.
Carrie White
Although Stephen King’s Carrie is a horror classic, it could be said that this costume is criminally underdone, and is a perfect excuse to get glam in your favourite pink (or red!) dress.
Tyler Durden
Anger the film bros as female Tyler Durden: what more convincing do you need?
Mia Wallace
Even if you don’t have a wig, anyone with dark hair could easily pull off this super simple yet effective 90s throwback Uma Thurman look.
Jester
An elevated take on the usual clown costumes which adds an alluring twist to your outfit. Don’t forget to utilise Pinterest, as some doll-like or almost psychedelic makeup would really complete the look.
Holly Golightly
Anyone who knows anything about fashion would instantly recognise this look as the pinnacle of chic and elegance, and it’s relatively straightforward to recreate. Go for something other than the Amazon corset by opting for a look you definitely already have in your wardrobe.
Leopard
With the rising popularity of this particular print, there is no doubt that that this will be one of, if not THE halloween costume of the year.
Have an almost completed outfit but missing some key accessories? If you are first year student, you might not be fully aware of all the amazing shops that Manchester has to offer. A quick trip into Arndale would most likely solve all of your problems, as they have two amazing fancy dress shops with everything you could possibly need.
Hidden Corner and Duty Free not only have full costume packs, but everything from corsets and wigs to fake moustaches, for really affordable prices. Although these shops are reliable, never underestimate what you could find charity shopping, and with Manchester being absolutely littered with them, be sure to check out Didsbury in particular for some great budget friendly finds.
