Halloween is my favorite holiday of the year -- I started decorating in September. What I don't like about Halloween is that it kicks off a season of overconsumption. I'm not trying to be a Halloween Scrooge, but as a personal finance writer, I can't stand the pressure of buying a trendy prepackaged costume you'll only wear once.
Half the fun of Halloween is putting your creativity to the test. You can bring your favorite characters to life through do-it-yourself and other thrifty means . It's a tradition that should be affordable.
Social media is jumping on the "anti-spend" bandwagon this Halloween, with influencers like Krystalynn Gier (@krystslynngier) sharing tips about how she plans not to spend a dime. There's no shame in buying a costume from the store. But if you're trying to cut back and save some money this Halloween like I am, try shopping your closet first.
Tips for a no-spend Halloween A costume swap is a great way to pass along Halloween outfits, wigs and decorations you've outgrown or have no use for. This is not only cost-effective but also a green alternative to purchasing something new. Plan a night for your friends to get together so you can repurpose costumes and supplies from previous years.
If you're looking for a specific item or need inspiration for a costume, check out a local thrift or secondhand store. I have the best luck finding basics this way. Thrift stores also typically feature trendy items for the season, so you might find items specific to H.
