I enjoy getting Halloween costumes for my kids. However, some of the full-priced costumes can be extremely expensive. I remember one year my daughter was a pumpkin fairy. Along with the costume, the wings, hat, shoes and tights were all sold separately. To spend $30 on something that is only going to be worn a few times is not feasible for some families. The good news is there are ways to get an inexpensive Halloween costume for your child.
Costume Swap
My MOMS club often has a costume swap. You bring an old costume or two and exchange it with someone else. If you are lucky someone else will have a costume your child likes in the right size. You can easily invite your friends with children over for a Halloween swap. Having refreshments and music will get kids excited about picking out a costume.
Consignment and Resale Shops
The Children's Orchard near my house is very picky. They only take costumes that look brand new. For this reason, this is a good place to get that expensive Cinderella or Spiderman costume. Consignment and resale shop will often have gently worn costumes. You can hardly tell they are used. If you take your kids costume shopping, you don't even have to focus on the fact that the clothing is used. Just tell them they are going costume shopping.
Wait for the Sales
For my daughter's first three Halloweens, she didn't really care about what she wore. Thus, I would often wait until a few days before Halloween before shopping. By this time, the costumes were usually 50% off. Of course, if your child is set on being an Avenger for Halloween, this might not be the best idea. However, if your child is open to a type of costume or isn't particular to just one idea, you could really save some cash.
Make It
I, unfortunately, have limited sewing skills. However, if you can get a good deal on fabric, this could be the way to make a unique or thrifty costume. For parents more like me, there are dozens of "no-sew" ideas out there. Cats, ghosts and farmers are all quick and easy costumes. If you can make a getup out of clothing and materials that you already have at home, this is a frugal option.
This Halloween, be creative, shop the sales and find a great, thrifty costume for your kids.
More from Melissa:
5 "Mom-Approved" Halloween Activities for Children
