Quick and Clever Halloween Costume Ideas

By Elinor Smith

Skip the costume-in-a-bag: Invest in an item you can use even after October 31.



Pearl Strand Necklace by Express

Channel a 1920s flapper-or even Coco Chanel herself-by wearing this 60-inch strand of acrylic-and-glass pearls with a loose-fitting black shift dress. After Halloween, double-loop them over a silky work blouse.

To buy: $35, express.com.

Related: 10 Silly Halloween Costumes for Pets







Belle of the Ball Skirt by ModCloth

If you're obsessed with Mad Men (and who isn't?), then get dolled up Betty Draper-style in a tulle-lined satin skirt-with red lipstick and a faux cigarette in hand, of course. Later on, the skirt will be your go-to for cocktail parties.

To buy: $50, modcloth.com.

Related: 5 Spooky Halloween Cocktail Recipes







3/4 Length Dress by Vero Moda

With this sequined polyester dress, all you have to do is supply the fairy dust and wand to create a look that's positively magical. Better yet, you'll have your New Year's outfit set, too. Also available in steel grey.

To buy: $112, yoox.com.

Related: 7 Picks for Halloween Faces







Ethnic Chandelier Earrings by Forever21

Slip on these gold-tone statement earrings with a peasant blouse, head scarf, and last summer's maxi skirt, and watch yourself transform into an exotic gypsy. Or add a crystal ball and, poof, you're a fortune-teller. These danglers also work wonders for spicing up your regular-old jeans.

To buy: $7, forever21.com.

Related: 6 Statement Earrings







French Sailor's Shirt by L.L. Bean

Put on this nautical top with navy wide-leg pants and say a hearty "Ahoy, matey!" or two. Extra points if you add a white sailor cap. A true classic, this relaxed-fit cotton shirt goes with anything from a black skirt to jeans. Also in three other color combinations.

To buy: $30, llbean.com.

Related: Comfortable Fall Weekend Wear








Romanian Blouse by Calypso

This embroidered cotton blouse is pretty groovy all on its own. Once you throw on bell-bottoms, platforms, and a headband (tie-dye, preferably), you'll really be far out, man. Also available in chambray, blush, and acid.

To buy: $129, calypso-celle.com.

Related: Classic (and Easy to Wear) Fall Fabrics








Oversize Leopard Scoop Tank by Bebe

This micromodal leopard tank will stay fashionable for years, but for now, it becomes a purrr-fect cat getup. Don't forget the whiskers and pointy ears.

To buy: $34, bebe.com.

Related: Update Your Wardrobe by Mixing Prints





Hick Ory by Bronx

Related: Bootie Buying Guide

Lasso these teak-colored leather boots to partner with a cowboy hat and your most beaten-up jeans. And when you're not playing dress up, they'll stylishly complete all your casual fall looks. Also available in black.

To buy: $175, piperlime.com.




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