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🎃 Halloween Costumes from the Thrift Store: Easy, Cheap and Creative
Store-bought costumes are expensive and one-use. A thrift store costume is cheaper, more original and can be worn again. With a little imagination, a trip to a thrift store is all you need.
Easy ideas
- Decade costume. A 70s polyester shirt, bell-bottoms and a pair of sunglasses.
- Cowboy or cowgirl. Boots, a belt, a hat and a western shirt.
- Librarian or professor. A cardigan, glasses, a book and a skirt or slacks.
- Vintage movie star. A gown, gloves and costume jewelry.
- Scarecrow. Flannel, patched jeans and a straw hat.
- Mix-and-match. Pick a color and wear everything in it.
Where to find them
Charity thrift stores are great for basics, and many set out Halloween sections in October. For vintage clothing, try Collective Clothing and Poor Taste. Local Dive Retail on the North Shore is known for vintage clothing and oddities.
Shop early and plan ahead
The week before Halloween is busy. Start two weeks early so you can hunt for pieces and sew or alter anything.
Build it from basics
Look for one signature item, then fill in with ordinary clothes. A cape, hat or pair of boots anchors the costume, and plain pieces do the rest.
Quick answers
When should I shop?
In early October, before the best pieces are taken.
Can I donate my costume afterwards?
Yes, if it is clean and in good shape.
Thrift tip: Take photos of your outfits to match accessories as you shop.
After Halloween, donate your costume back. Open the Chattanooga thrift map to plan your route.
Plan a route through Chattanooga area thrift stores, vintage shops and antique malls, ordered around their hours.
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