Ten Costumes Under $10

Here are some easy costume ideas to create when money (and time) is tight. Most of them can be assembled with things you already have around the house. If not, make a quick trip to your neighborhood thrift store and you’re good to go.

Miss America
What little girl doesn’t have a tiara somewhere in her home? If you don’t have a fancy dress, shop thrift stores or peruse eBay for gently used pageant and flower girl dresses.

Complete the look with a homemade sash saying “Miss America” or “Miss (insert the name of your home town)”. Have her carry a bouquet of artificial roses.

Nerd
Slacks and a shirt buttoned up to the top are the basis of this costume. The accessories are what make it fun: pocket protectors, calculators, and thick glasses (pop the frames out of a pair of sunglasses and wrap the bridge with tape). Part hair in the middle and use gel to slick it down.

Spa Beauty
For this costume you’ll need a bathrobe, towel (wrap around your hair), slippers, and a facial mask. Other options: a shower cap and bath brush.

A facial mask can be created by mixing 3 Tbsp. cornstarch and 1Tbps. flour. Stir in 3/4 cup light corn syrup and 1/4 cup water. Mix until smooth and use food coloring to tint. Use a paint brush or cotton swab to apply; wash off later with water.

Hippie
Start with a worn out pair of bell-bottom jeans and flip-flops. Tie-dyed tees work well, but if you don’t have one use a plain one and draw a peace symbol on it with a black permanent marker. Part your hair down the middle and top off with a bandana as a headband.

Tourist
If you took a summer vacation, you most likely have what you need for this costume. Start with shorts and a t-shirt from your favorite destination. Add a camera around the neck, sunglasses, and a fanny pack to complete the look.

Baby
This is a fun one for older kids that may have a younger sibling. A white towel can be used to fashion a diaper (a plus if you have diaper pins) over white tights and a white t-shirt. A bib or a pacifier tied around the neck with a ribbon is a fun accessory. Add rosy cheeks with blush and top with a stocking cap.

Fisherman
The fisherman look starts with jeans and a flannel shirt. Top it off with a fishing vest or life preserver and a floppy hat adorned with a jig or other tackle. If you don’t have a fishing pole, you can easily make one using string and a dowel. A bucket labeled “bait” can hold his treats.

Old Lady or Man
This is one that can be completely assembled thanks to your local thrift store. Shopping for the costume can be just as much fun as wearing it! Look for a polyester pant suit, a housecoat type dress, and complete the look with orthopedic shoes and a big purse. For the male version, look for accessories like pocket protectors, glasses (pop the lenses out), suspenders. Comb baby powder through your hair to make it look gray.

Sports Hero
If your child is active in a sport you probably have more than enough gear for this costume. Football, baseball, basketball and hockey players are popular with boys. Your little girl may choose to be a gymnast or ballerina.

Angel
If you don’t want to use your old white sheet as a ghost costume, consider being an angel. Cut a hole large enough to put your head through and tie with string around the waist. Wings can be made out of a wire clothes hanger and some aluminum foil. Make a halo out of aluminum foil.

About the Author: Kimberly Danger is the owner/publisher of Mommysavers.com, and online resource for parents interested in saving time and money. She is the author of 1000 Best Baby Bargains. Ms. Danger lives in Southern Minnesota with her husband and two kids.