The Scariest Part Of Halloween: Pricey Costumes

CELEBRATIONS | by KAVITA VARMA-WHITE

HAVE YOU NOTICED HOW FRIGHTENINGLY EXPENSIVE HALLOWEEN COSTUMES are for children?

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A weekend perusal found a range from $20 for a Snow White costume to $35 for a kid’s army soldier and $25 for the Michael Jackson accessory kit — sunglasses, white sequined glove, wig and hat. Another stop found that it costs $30 to be Elvis and $50 to be Martha Washington. (Seriously? Martha Washington?)

Such prices can be tough to swallow in these economic times. Especially for a one-hit wonder. After all, next year Michael Jackson will be but a moon-walking memory and your child will have grown a size.

The most obvious reason for high costume prices? Supply and demand. Manufacturers know that most consumers are too busy to make costumes. They know you’ll cave to your nagging Anakin Skywalker-wannabe, even if it costs the same as your cable bill. And they know you only have about a month to shop. (Even if you wanted to buy in March, your little one is sure to change his mind by October!)

Aside from the usual costume shop stops consider these affordable options:

• Hit consignment and thrift shops. This is the best bet for commercially-themed costumes, such as a Disney character or super hero. eBay also has a good selection of discounted costumes.
• Go (sort-of) homemade. We aren’t suggesting you get out the sewing machine and stitch an entire ensemble. Instead, shop your closets for enhancements. Your little-black-dress from seasons ago will make a great basis for a witch costume. Repurpose a bed sheet ― ghost or mummy, anyone?
• Organize a costume swap. Parents tend to save costumes from years past (great for siblings or for playing dress-up). Plan a gathering where everyone brings used outfits and the kids get to try on and “shop” for themselves. Throw in some apple cider and you’ve started a Halloween holiday tradition.