Here's your annual reminder that whatever you wear on Halloween doesn't have to be super expensive, especially if you really channel your Halloween makeup skills and pick a super-current costume. (Insert caveat here: If you're one of those people who's been planning their costume since last October and who/s dropped a lot of money to get the *perfect* scary-day look, then just know I appreciate you. Also, I am very much not that person—I coordinate most of my costumes the day of.) If you’re still trying to figure out your costume before Halloween rolls around, there are so many clever, funny, and just flat-out genius ideas out there that don’t require a ton of work...or, more importantly, moolah. You can DIY outfits, be a savvy shopper for some good deals, or just get creative with clothes you already have in your closet.
We've got some current costumes if you want that fresh 2022 energy (I dare someone to dress up as modern-day Carrie Bradshaw in a nightgown), but you've also got your classic fairy and skeleton costumes in here too. As long as you have some makeup, basic craft supplies, and some extra time (OK, in some cases, maybe a ~lot~ of time), you can totally pull these Halloween costumes off. If you want to make an effort, but also save some serious cash, these ideas are evidence that an impressive look is easy to do by yourself or even with a group of friends as a group costume. Ahead, 50 cheap Halloween costume ideas to get you into the spirit.
Carrie Bradshaw 2.0
There are some early sneak peeks from season 2, but if you wanna go with a costume that's recognizably And Just Like That, opt for something from season 1. You could always don a tulle skirt to channel Carrie's OG Sex and The City look, but the most lol-worthy moment from the sequel can come together in a snap: blue cardigan, long gingham dress, rubber gloves, and handkerchief around the face. You probably already have the big sunglasses, tbh.
Amanda Seyfried as Elizabeth Holmes
You can always go in the all-black, red lipstick look that Holmes was known for. But if you wanna pull off a more subtle reference, pick one of the early college outfits Amanda's rocking in The Dropout (hello, '90s rust-colored sweater and striped Oxford!) and then practice randomly lowering your voice while you pitch your big "idea."
Heathers
The ’80s classic starring Winona Ryder serves up so much fashion inspiration in the form of plaid blazers and jackets. You can easily recreate the high school clique movie with items you already own or cheap thrift store finds. Complete your jacket and skirt combo with knee-high socks and heels, and you too can be a Heather for the night. (Or—swipe through this gallery—you could go as Veronica in her, uh, less polished final form.)