Halloween costumes can be tricky. It can be easy to put it off until the last minute or just change your mind. Maybe you found out someone else has the same costume you were using. Perhaps you want to do something a little different, or maybe you didn’t even plan a Halloween costume and you need to throw something together. No matter the reason, you probably have most of what you need already in your closet. Yes, you might be surprised to know that you can throw together some great Halloween costumes from items you already have at home. Here are a few ideas to get you started!

1. A Black Dress

A little black dress is a must for any woman’s wardrobe, but did you know it doubles as a great Halloween costume? Because it’s neutral, a black dress can be turned into so many different things. 

• Witch: Add some makeup, and a witch hat, while carrying around a cauldron for a makeshift witch costume!
• Cat: Grab a pair of cat ears as well as a black boa and throw on some black tights and black shoes. If you’re good with makeup, add cat whiskers on your face and use a dot of lipstick for a pink nose. Voila! You’re a cat.
• Fashion designer: Add some glam makeup, a slick hairdo, a fancy purse and some pearls to look like a designer. You can even add some sunglasses for added flair. 

There are so many other options, but these are a few jumping-off points.

2. Leggings and a Long Sleeve Black Shirt

Most women these days have a few basic items in their closets. Try a basic black layering tee and black leggings. This might seem simple, but it’s a great canvas for several different outfits. Here are a few ideas:

• Artist: Add a small white apron, a paint pallet, a paintbrush and a beret to look just like an artist.
• Grapes: Another fun costume that will take a little more work is turning yourself into grapes. Blow up a bunch of purple or green balloons to look like grapes. Then tape the balloons to your shirt and leggings in a tight cluster. It’s probably best to put this together with your outfit already on and maybe have a friend help, if you can. Finish off your outfit with a pair of black flats.
• Burglar: For a very simple Halloween costume, you can add a black mask, a black beanie and black shoes. For added fun, you can “sneak around” your Halloween party to entertain your friends.

There are so many fun ways to dress up in neutral colors! If you don’t like any of these ideas, you can always look up more Halloween costumes and see if this ensemble could be adapted to work as something you like better.

3. An Old Formal Gown

You might have at least one old formal or dressier gown lying around from a high school dance. There are a number of fun ways you can dress this up depending on the color and style. Plus, how many times will you have the opportunity to wear your formal dresses? This is another great way to get some use out of them. Here are a few ideas.

• Miscellaneous characters: Start by thinking about the color of your gown. Is it pink, green or maybe white? Think about characters from movies and books you like that wear those colors and adapt your dress to fit that character.
• Princess: If all else fails, a really easy thing to do is dress up as a princess. Add some high heels, glitzy jewelry and, of course, a tiara for a fun grown-up princess outfit.

4. Activewear

Activewear is wildly popular these days. Most people own at least a set of yoga pants or joggers, and a workout tee. So, use your activewear as a costume. It’ll be warmer, more comfortable and you know you’ll look great! Here are a few ideas to dress up your activewear.

• 80s lady: If your activewear is neon colors, you’re all set to look like you’re from an 80s workout video. If not, try to add a few neon-colored accessories. You can also add a big side pony and sweatbands to take the look up a notch.
• Personal trainer: You can always just wear your regular activewear and say you're a personal trainer. Add a stopwatch around your neck and carry around a clipboard for some fun, added touches to your costume.
• Barbie from Toy Story: You can always use your activewear to look like a character from a popular book or movie that usually dons activewear. A favorite among many in recent years has been Barbie from Toy Story,.

5. Cardigans

Cardigans are one of our must-haves for fall layering, and, you guessed it, they can also be made into a few Halloween costumes. One of our favorites is using it to dress up as an old lady. Simply put on a floral knee-length or a floral midi dress and put the cardigan on top. Button it up all the way, add pearls, brooches, big earrings and some old-school glasses. Don’t forget your pantyhose and a pair of flats or low-heeled shoes. Then grab a gray wig and you’re all set. You’ll be the cutest little old lady at the party!

So, if there ever comes a Halloween when you don’t have a costume well planned out, have no fear. Your closet and house most likely contain just what you need to put together great Halloween costumes. Since you’re also using clothing you wear somewhat often (with the exception of the ballgown), you’ll know your outfits will feel great and fit well. 

If you’re going through your closet and you realize that you need some new modest dresses, blouses, shirts or shorts, Sweet Salt has a great selection. We have some wonderful pieces that are great for everyday wear that can also be transformed into a Halloween costume with just a little creativity!