Do you own a thrift store in Canada? Join our directory
Halloween doesn’t have to mean panic-buying polyester or overpaying for a one-night outfit. You don’t need to spend hours crafting or hot-gluing to make it work (unless you want to of course). Some of the best costumes come together from regular clothes and a bit of makeup. The goal is simple: pick something easy to recognize and add a bit of a creative touch to bring it all together.
Thrift stores make that part easy. You’ll find pieces that hint at a character or spark an idea you didn’t plan on. Maybe it’s a leather jacket that says “Greaser,” a velvet dress that feels witchy, or a retro tracksuit that just works. Add a few small touches, call it done, and enjoy the night.
A witch is always a win. Black dress, long coat, dark lipstick.
A vampire takes barely more effort. Anything red or velvet, a little pale makeup, and maybe some fake blood.
A ghost can be more glam than a bedsheet. Try a white slip dress and smudged eyeliner for something a little eerie.
The cat costume still holds its ground. Black outfit, eyeliner whiskers, done.
For something Western, go cowboy or cowgirl. Jeans, plaid shirt, boots.
Low-rise jeans, crop top, glitter. You’re Britney, Christina, or whoever speaks to your soul.
Or go full ’80s aerobics instructor. Bright leggings, oversized tee, and lots of neon. Should be easy to spot amongst the racks.
The schoolgirl or academia vibe works too. Plaid skirt, collared shirt, knee socks.
A pirate is easy to piece together from the women’s blouses section. Add a vest and hoop earrings, and you’re done.
White or red clothes, maybe a halo or horns if you find them. Easy and classic duo.
If you come across an over the top white dress, it’s perfect for a bride or runaway bride moment. Mess up the makeup for drama.
A greaser is as simple as a leather jacket, white tee, and cuffed jeans.
Wide-brim hat, ankle boots, neutral colour palette, iced latte prop.
If you’re lucky enough to find a skeleton tee, that’s your skeleton costume sorted. Otherwise, black clothes, masking tape and face paint do the trick.
Orange dress or oversized sweatshirt, black tights, and a green scarf or beanie for the stem. Add some bold orange makeup or freckles if you want extra charm. Bonus: you’ll be comfortable all night.
When Halloween’s over, don’t let your costume collect dust. Donate the pieces back to the thrift store and call it a community costume rental. You can also pass it along in a Buy Nothing group or save it for next year’s version of yourself. Nothing new gets created and nothing goes to waste. Consider it one less ghost in the landfill.
