Some people may favor Christmas presents, Thanksgiving turkey or Easter baskets over costumes and candy. But Halloween has always been my favorite holiday. When I was a little girl, I had a chest full of boas, gloves, tiaras and wigs. Whenever I had a play date, my friends and I would magically transform into princesses, angels and brides. I still have the dress-up box stored in my basement. This summer, I even tried on my second-grade French maid costume. Though it fit surprisingly well, it's probably a bit too short to wear next weekend.
Halloween is a time for me to return to my childhood fantasies. When else can I be comfortable in a pair of wings? For others, Halloween is a time to express sexuality. It is the annual opportunity for females to expose their bodies in miniskirts and cleavage-bearing tops without being labeled a "slut."
The holiday also allows for wit and lightened humor. I remember seeing a man wearing nothing but cereal boxes a few years ago. When I asked him what he was, he cleverly retorted, "a serial killer."
In this week's column, I have tried to supply options for every personality. All it takes is a little creativity when contemplating how to create the perfect Halloween costume.
Child's play
Heroic Haunting
Remember back in elementary school when you came to class as Spiderman, Catwoman or Superman? It gave you a feeling of power that unfortunately became "un-cool" in junior high. Now that you're at Tufts, cool has expanded its definition.
My freshman year, I saw a college student dress as Beerman for Halloween. He wore his underwear over his pants, tied a red cape around his neck and cleverly used a Miller Light carton as his hat. When asked what his special power was, he would whip out his plastic water gun and squirt beer in your face.
Following Beerman's example, you can make a personalized superhero outfit of your own using your favorite accessories, whether they're poker chips, credit cards or beer cans. Release your superpower this Halloween.
Princess of the Parade
If you miss your dress-up days as much as I do, Halloween is the perfect time to let your royal fantasies shine. Wish you had been homecoming queen? Have your parents ship you your old prom dress, buy a crown and subjects are bound to follow.
Royalty themes are ideal chances to make use of those dresses on which you spent a fortune but thought you would only wear once. The tiaras can come in handy later on as well. Paris Hilton has been known to sport a jeweled crown at her birthday bashes to ensure that she remains the belle of the ball.
Disney Days
Dressing up as Disney characters doesn't always have to be for children. When I was six, I went on a cruise with my family. There was a costume party and luckily I had packed my Alice in Wonderland costume - I used to be blonde and loved dressing up as Alice.
To continue with the theme, my mom borrowed large posters and markers from the arts and crafts deck. She then copied playing cards and became the Queen of Hearts while my father designated himself the King of Hearts. My grandparents even participated, wearing King and Queen of Spades cards. I then held a sign reading "Alice in Casinoland." Whatever your favorite character might be, modernize it with an adult twist and spend Halloween in the magical world of Disney.
Sexy
Ride 'em cowboy
Considering this year's fashion obsession with Western accessories, it's probable that many of you have cowboy boots or hats stored somewhere in your miniscule closet. Break out the accessories and go ? ¬a Daisy Duke with a pair of cutoff jean shorts, a tied button-down shirt and a belt with an oversized buckle.
Angelic Fantasy
Though this outfit might be too risqu?© ¦or a Tufts party, a simple costume idea is one emulating Gisele and Tyra. All you need to become a Victoria's Secret Angel is a pair of wings - I'm pretty sure you already own bras and panties. To tone it down a bit, add a silky robe to reduce exposure. This is the one day when you can show off all those laborious days at the gym.
Suited to Perfection
Being sexy does not necessarily mean showing an excessive amount of skin. There are many costumes you can devise with a suit you thought you'd only wear for interviews. Become a sexy gangster with suspenders, stilettos and a fedora. Or transform into a sexy secretary with a pair of reading glasses, legal pad and a red bra slightly showing under your white blouse.
Or simply mimic Angelina Jolie and wear your suit solo as the sexy star did at the Academy Awards last year. One advantage: as you watch other girls shivering in their lack of clothing, you will remain warm and confident. And confidence is the ultimate ingredient to sexy.
Last Minute
A little "Risky"
This look works for both genders. Wear an oversized button-down, a pair of aviators, tighty-whities and socks - voila! We're taken back to Tom Cruise's pre Katie-Holmes days.
Seeing Double
This costume involves you and a friend. Each person wears identical outfits. A piece of fabric is then wrapped around the adjoining legs of both parties. While preparation might be simple, be forewarned: bathroom breaks or a late night hookup can be uncomfortable.
Going Greek
Considering the frat scene this year, Delta Upsilon might not have its infamous toga party. Make Halloween Greek on your own with one simple ingredient: a sheet. You can go traditional with the classic Zeus wrap or get creative by cutting the sheet into a fun two-number piece. Add gold leaf or some glitter to make Aphrodite even prouder.
I hope these ideas inspire fabulous creations of your own. I can't wait to see you and your costume on the Hill!
