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Halloween Buffet- By dealhunter- Community GURU!

Costume Katie — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 20:58:00 GMT

Here is come expert Advice from a BuyCostumes Community Guru, dealhunter!

One of my favorite things to do to prepare for our Halloween party is planning and preparing a great Halloween buffet. I try to make everything on the table some kind of Halloween food. Everyone loves it and I think it really adds to the atmosphere.

Here are a few examples of some of the things we do...

Serpent Stromboli: Using pizza dough, stuff these snakes with sausage/cheese or pepperoni/cheese, make cuts in the top for the scales and eyes and use a pepperoni for the tongue. Bake according to pizza dough directions and have a "blood" pizza sauce on the side to dip the slices in. I had my guests cut off sections as they wanted. These go FAST...people love them.

Caramel Corn: Who doesn't love caramel corn?! I put some in a glass bowl and put the rest in clear lightweight gloves with white Jordan almonds for fingernails. I put some around the bowl at the table. Not only did they make the table look good... but guests got to take them home!

Spider no-bake cookies: These fun guys are easy to make using a chocolate no bake cookie recipe and chinese noodles for legs. I only put two legs on each side because more than that seemed crowded. I dotted royal icing for eyes.

Tombstone/coffin cookies: Use your favorite chocolate sugar cookie recipe or buy premade dough at the store. These can be doubled up with a marshmallow creme filling or just a single cookie. Bake and ice with icing that hardens and you've got yummy coffins or tombstone cookies.

Halloween glasses are a great thing to use for things like Black & Orange M&Ms or nuts and set them around for people to snack from. Halloween mugs are great for skinny bread sticks or pretzel rods with the ends dipped in chocolate and rolled in Halloween sprinkles.

You could even make little signs to put in front of each dish to tell people what's on the menu. Stickers for various sizes of drink bottles are a great addition.

Taking the time to be creative in how you serve the food will really make a difference and your Halloween buffet will be a huge success. Buycostumes.com has some great Halloween bowls and platters, cups and mugs... not to mention anything else you need for your table!

Creepy Crawlers

Costume Katie — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 15:44:00 GMT

By: Michy31476

Here is an easy Halloween decorating idea. Buy a few inexpensive blow mold skeletons, they are usually about 5 feet tall and are made from plastic. The only issue I have encountered with these skeletons is that the joints do not bend well; therefore, the legs and arms tend to pop out easily.

There are a few possible solutions to correct this problem. The first solution is that you can use a hot glue gun and fix your skeletons limbs into a permanent position. The drawback to this idea is that you will no longer be able to adjust the skeletons arms or legs, so make sure you get him set up how you want him the first time. The second solution is to use fishing line. With this method your skeleton will stay together, but it will be extremely flexible. The third solution is to use wire to connect the joints. Any type of thin wire, such as picture wire, will work fine. With this process you have the most beneficial effect. You can pose your skeleton in any position you like and it will stay in that position until you decide to bend the wire and change it.

All you need to do to accomplish connecting your skeletons joints, with either fishing line or wire, is to make a small hole with a drill in the two sections you wish to connect. For example you may want to make a hole in the foot and in the bottom of the leg. Thread the wire or fishing line through each hole and connect the two areas. Repeat this step for each jointed area, and you are done!

Now comes the fun part! It is time to be creative in the placement of your skeletons. Let your imagination run wild, in my opinion the odder the better!!!!

If you have a ladder handy, position your skeletons climbing up your house! This is a really great idea and when you add a simple strobe light in the evening it looks even spookier!!! Again, you can use your handy wire or fishing line to attach your creepy crawlers to your house.

Here is a great option from BuyCostumes.com:

Click here: Full Size Skeleton - Costumes

If you purchase this skeleton, you can skip the joint fixing section, and go directly to the fun part of positioning. Also, this skeleton is larger, 5' 6" tall, and looks extremely realistic.

Here are a few strobe light options that are available on BuyCostumes.com.

Tricks for your halloween treats

RachelK — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 18:34:00 GMT

Tricks for your halloween treats
By Erica Alayna

So you are planning a halloween party and don't know what to make, or where to start? Here are a couple recipe ideas to make your halloween treats more tricky.

Caramel apples.
10 large apples, washed.
100 caramels
4 tbsp of water
1 c. of peanuts (optional) (also optional 1 Skor bar, halloween colored sprinkles, crushed oreos)
popsicle sticks

1. Insert wooden popsicle sticks into stem end of each apple. Cover large plate with wax paper.
2. Place caramels in large saucepan. Add water; cook on medium-low heat until caramels are completely melted, stirring constantly.
3. Dip apples into melted caramel until evenly coated, spooning caramel over apples if necessary. Allow excess caramel to drip off. Then dip the apples into any of the toppings you want. Refrigerate at least 1 hour or until ready to serve. Remove from refrigerator and let stand at room temperature 15 min. before serving. Store leftover dipped apples in refrigerator.

Creepy Cupcakes
1 pkg of cake mix (any kind)
1 pkg of frosting (any kind)
1 tube of orange decorating gel
1 tube of black decorating gel
1 pkg of halloween themed rings (i used purple and black bats)
1 pkg of halloween themed cupcake holders

Make the cupcakes as directed on the cake box. Once the cupcakes are made and frosted, take the black gel and make spiders and witch hats on the frosted cupcakes. Take the orange gel and make pumpkins on the frosted cupcakes, or take the halloween themed rings and decorate the cupcakes. Decorate the table with creepy cloth (it's at the 99 cent store) and put a pumpkin (or a jack o' lantern) in the middle and little tombstones at either end. Take a black garbage bag and cut it vertically into little strips, then pull every other strip and stretch it out and it makes a spooky effect for a curtain effect on your table. Do the same thing for your doorways. If you have an outdoor light change the bulb to a blue bulb or a black light bulb and you are all set for your super scary party.

Dress up your Pets

RachelK — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 18:59:00 GMT

By: Epica

Dress up your PetsWhen Halloween nears and you begin looking for a costume for yourself or your kids, don't forget about your pet! After all, dressing up is what Halloween is all about, and why shouldn't your pet get to share in all the fun?

Dressing up your dog or cat in a pet costume is enjoyable for both you and your animal companion. You'll love browsing through all of the adorable, funny and sometimes weird costumes that are available for Rover or Miss Kitty. And when you finally get your pet dressed up to go trick-or-treating or attend a Halloween party, you might just find yourself taking more pictures of them than your kids or friends. That's because pet costumes are often very elaborate and end up looking incredibly cute on your dog or cat.

You might be surprised to discover how many different types of pet costumes are available, especially if you shop online. From comic book heroes to movie characters to classic archetypes, you won't have a problem finding a costume that reflects your pet's personality. Whether they are mischievous, courageous, playful or demure, there is a costume out there that will put their personality on display for everyone to see.

When you first put on your pet's costume, he or she might freeze in place or sit down. This is just because they are not used to the feeling of the clothing on their body. It can be especially true if the costume you have selected covers the dog or cat's legs and feet. But after a few minutes, your pet will realize that the costume does not actually restrict their movement and they will begin acting normally.

Your pet's costume will likely get dirty and a little tattered while they wear it, especially if you take them outside in it. This means you will probably need to buy a new costume for your pet each year. But don't worry -- pet costumes are very affordable to replace, usually ranging in price from $5 to $20.

Dressing up your pet for Halloween may seem silly, but once you do it for the first time, you will probably want to do it every year because the rewards are so great! Your friends and family will just be amazed at how cute your dog or cat looks and you will end up with lots of fantastic photos that will bring a smile to your face for years to come.

Makeup Tips and Tricks for Common Costume Ideas

RachelK — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:28:00 GMT

By: Alison O'Neill

When it comes to creating the perfect character costume, it’s all about the preparation and the subtle touches. Whether you’re looking to knock the socks of the competition, or to simply turn heads at the next costume gathering, you’ll need to master your make up and accessories! About a week or so before your big event gather up all your make up and accessories and have a trial run. This will allow you to practice and perfect your techniques; it will also give you an opportunity to pick up last minute additions, if you feel that your costume is missing something. Don’t wait too long, or you might find that everything you’re looking for is sold out!

So let’s get started: First and foremost, scan through the magazines, and search online. Unless you’re a makeup guru you will probably benefit from having useful points of reference for how you would like to look. Once you’re ready to begin you’ll need to tie your hair back. If it’s not long enough to tie into a pony tail, you can use bobby pins or a hair band to keep it off your forehead. This would be a good time to put on your wig cap, if you were planning on wearing a wig. Now that you have a fresh clean canvas, take a good long look in the mirror and study the contours of your face. If you have a few mirrors, even better; this way you can see both sides of your face at once. Be thoughtful, and methodical. Imagine the make up on your face, and compare yourself to the pictures that you have gathered. So here are some character specific ideas, but you can take them on yourself and evolve them to fit your own costume:

Marie Antoinette
Usually you would have a very pale (nearly white) face, but to look more "pretty" and less "costume-y" let’s get going. Start by mixing a white pigment makeup with translucent powder, and dusted this all over your face, neck and into your bust line. If you are unable to come up with a white pigment, you can use a foundation powder which is much lighter than your natural skin tone. Now to get your rosy pink cheek bones, use a bright warm pink blush, and apply it using a tight circular motion right on the apple of the cheek bone. Blend this out with a sponge, so that it keeps a rich rosy colour in the circle, but it doesn't look messy or clownish. For the eyes, use a pale pink for the eyelids, and highlight the brow bone with a copper colour, and blend well. You want your eyes to look lighter than your face, but warmer and romantic. You can always switch these colours up to match your own skin tone, but avoid cooler colours, because you want to look more neutral. Next apply jet black mascara. For extra va-va-va-voom you can use false lashes to really add to your doll like appearance. For the perfect pout, sweep on some red lipstick, and blot it out on a tissue. You want a nice red stained lips – for glassy lips, you can add some gloss on the pout of your bottom lip. Last but not least, you'll need to draw on a Beauty Mark. You can use the traditional small circle, or you can switch it up with a small star or heart. I most often use liquid eyeliner to draw this one, but even a small black sticker would work. Now slip on your wig, and you’re ready for a Masquerade Ball! Variation: Use smoky blacks, silvers and greys to be the Ghost of Marie Antoinette, or to attend an Evil Court. Add a laceration to your neck with a scar kit, so that it looks like your beauty has been decapitated.

Mermaid
Set your basic foundation as you normally would. If you’re not use to using foundation, focus on covering any dark circles and blemishes to give you a clean, fresh palate. To start out, mix some Aqua Blue pigment to crème foundation, and apply it along the entire hairline, temple to temple. Using a sponge, blend this out and sweep the colour over your forehead down and out from the hair line. You can have this blue colour as light or as dark as you wish. The subtler use of colours is usually more romantic, while the darker tends towards a more sci-fi look. On your eyelids use the Aqua Blue make up that you used on your forehead. Apply the makeup heavily all over the lid, and sweep it up to the eyebrow, and out to the temple. Now sweep some of the eye shadow under the eye to give a blue smoky feel. Apply a softer blue or silver overtop of the bottom sweep, and up into the corner of the eye, near the bridge of the nose. This will soften the look, so it doesn’t look like a blue mask. For a glittery eyelid: mix together aqua or silver glitter with eyelash glue, and paint it on the eye lid. The sparkles won’t stand out immediately, but as the glue sets the sparkles will shine and they’ll stay put! If you would like extra drama, be sure to line the bottom of your eye with a black eyeliner right at the base of the lash-line, and add a clean sweep of black liquid eyeliner across the lash-line of the top lid. For nice rosy cheeks, apply a soft pink blush to give yourself a sun kissed look. Not every mermaid stays underwater forever, remember! To give yourself the bejewelled look, use eyelash glue to apply sequins and small crystals along your temples – or really wherever you would like them. Some people prefer just a small star, while others like to shimmer and sparkle from every angle. You can get these gems from a craft or dollar store. Last but not least sweep a soft pink, shimmery translucent powder over your whole face to soften everything up. Your lips are up to you – whether you want a glassy pink pout, or if you’d like to sweep on something more dramatic – like blue - It’s your choice. Variation: Hold the sequins, use greens, and highlight your lips with a deep red colour for a Medusa-esque look.

Fairy Face
Do your foundation as usual. Start with a charcoal coloured shade stick, and sweep it over your entire eyelid (lashes to crease), and out to a point at the edge. Don’t go beyond the brow, just a nice tiny point (think cat eye, or old glam). Use this same shade stick to create a smoky line under the eye, along the bottom lash-line. You don’t want it too heavy, but it doesn’t have to be perfect. Now you can choose your own colours, to match your costume – but I’m a fan of blue, silver and purple, so those are the ones that I’d use. Once you have your eye shadow colours (shimmer is best) – choose one and sweep it all over the charcoal base you created, and right up into the brow. Now on the inside corners of your eyes, of your eye, choose another of your colours, and sweep it from the inside corner up into the crease. With your third colour, dab it along the bottom of the eye – you can either cover the charcoal line you created earlier, or run along tandem beside it. If you’d like you can also sweep a little of your third eye shadow colour into the crease at the outer edge of the eye. Using either your liquid eyeliner or a sharp pointed black eyeliner run a smooth line across the top eyelid, right along the lash-line and out like a little cat eye as far as your original point went. Apply your mascara now, to the top and bottom lashes. Now the creativity really takes off! Pick up where your little black point left off and create tiny swirls coming out – or maybe little vines or whatever you’d like – you can draw it here. I often like doing a few swirls, and edge it with stars. Do what you’d like with your lips – but I often like a bright pink pout, glassed with clear or sparkled lip gloss. If you’d like, at this time you can brush on a translucent pink powder over the whole face, to give yourself that soft sprite look. Variation: With and pale foundation and using grey, silver and black you can give yourself sexy Grim Reaper eyes – or maybe you’re the Fairy of Death – just trail your eyeliner spirals into tear drops. If you’re artistic enough, maybe you can even draw a small skull and cross bones.

Fighter’s Eye
For a nice Shiner, take creamed yellow face paint, and using your finger sweep it all over the eyelid and underside of the eye that got “punched”. Don’t be too heavy on the application; you want the skin to be transparent through the makeup. Using a roan colour (brown-red), smooth it on the inside crease of the eye, and along the side of the nose bridge. Wherever you’d like to highlight the swelling, add a bit more of this roan colour there … under the outside of the eye, and maybe above the eyebrow at the very edge. Blend – blend, blend! With a makeup sponge or your fingers smooth these colours together. Now with a dark brown, blend it along the eye lash line and into the crease. If you’d like some added depth, dap on some black along the lash-line and into the crease/hollow of the eye. Don’t use too much black – and be sure to blend it in. Using your ring finger, dab on some more red makeup to your “swollen areas” to finish up your injury. You can use this same technique to add bruises to other parts of your face. For a bloody nose, rim the inside of your nostril with red make-up; draw a drip of blood flowing out. If you have gel blood makeup – this would be the time to use it! Make sure your blood drop goes all the way to your lip, to make it look real! Remember that the best makeup plays on subtleties. For a deathly face use dark makeup to hollow out the cheek bones. Never rely on just one colour. Even if you’re going for a Frankenstein look, make sure to blend two or three shades of green, to give yourself more depth.

On your big day, start a few hours before you need to head out and take your time. Set all your materials and makeup out to make sure you have everything you'll need. Give yourself time to wash your face and start over, if you’re not perfectly pleased with the results. Also, decide if you should put your makeup on before or after getting in costume. If your costume is one that can be stepped into, or has a wide neck, then leave it till last. If it’s tight or difficult to wriggle into, put it on before you start your make up, and just use paper towels along the neckline to keep everything clean. Remember that a lot of powder make-ups can “dust” everywhere, so be aware of this especially if you’re wearing a velvety costume. Good luck, and be creative – I know you’ll look great this Halloween!

Halloween Hair

RachelK — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:16:00 GMT

By: Alison O'Neill

My favourite part of Halloween is the preparation. For the past few years, I have made every effort to use my own hair for unique and authentic hairstyles to complement my costumes. Here are a few of my techniques to get perfect Halloween Hair:

Amy Winehouse:

Most easily done with straight hair, that falls past the shoulders. Star by creating a “Rat” - this is the piece that gives Amy all the height, while keeping her hair light and functional. Take an old, inexpensive wig or ponytail piece of hair that is close to your colour and tease it out into a big messy ball. Put this into an inexpensive hair net, and tie up the opening to give you a light ball of volume. Now comb your hair straight out, and use your comb to section a part horizontally across the head, from ear to ear and clip these sections separate. At the top of your head use your comb to create a triangle section with the point facing down towards the nape of your neck, and the bottom of the triangle is the part that we just created (the sides of the triangle should be equal and no more than 2 inches each. Put this section of hair into a pony tail, and pin it with bobby pins into a small bun. This will be your anchor. Now pin the Rat to this anchor – look in the mirror and make sure that it sits in the center of your head, and you’re comfortable with its size and shape. Take sections of your hair, tease them slightly and pull them over your rat. Don’t pin right away – you’ll want to make sure that you’ve combed and teased in a way that covers your rat completely, and leaves you some bangs at the front (if you have bangs) and some length at the back. Once you’re happy with your teasing and placing – use bobby pins and hairspray to secure the sections of hair to the rat. Be sure to place your pins randomly so that the hair stays put, but you don’t create a well at the top of your beehive puff. Now that your rat is covered, use a flat iron to soften out your bangs, and use a curling iron on the length you left at the back. This will give you nice long tendrils, a tall beehive and flirty bangs. And you’re done! Just go heavy on the liquid eyeliner, and you’re Amy Winehouse!

Marie Antoinette:

Do everything that you did for the “Amy Hair”, but leave your bangs un-ironed. Pin up your long tendrils, so that you have a complete updo, with the spiral tendrils seeming to fall from the back of your beehive. Tease your bangs, and spray and pin them back to ensure that all of your hair is up and off your face. If you’d like you can always leave a few strands of spiral hair down to flirt with your collar bone – but for the wow-factor, I definitely prefer my hair all the way up. Now Marie was the Queen of decadence. So use jewelled pins, feathers, barrettes, even a small fake bird, to spice up your hair. The more excitement the better! A nice touch is a spray of sparkles…. Who doesn’t love sparkles?

Bride of Frankenstein:

Do everything that you did for the “Amy Hair”, but leave your bangs and the length in the back of your head un-ironed/un-curled. Continue teasing, spraying and pinning until all of your hair is up in your wild and volumous updo, without any of the hair falling in your face. Now spray-spray-spray!! We can’t have any of your hair falling out, it’s got to be rock solid. Once you’re comfortable with the style. Use black, Halloween aerosol hair spray, and spray your hair to give you a lovely black beehive. Be sure to enlist a friend, so that you can get the back, and your colour is even. Now take an inexpensive white hair extension, and pin it behind the ear, so that the length of the hair is pointed up towards your beehive… Now pin it up, and spray it in place, and repeat on the other side. Tada! You’ve got hair fit for a Monster’s Bride! (Note: Be sure to test the black hair spray on a small section of your hair if you have very pale hair or highlights. You don’t want to create a problem with your hair colour for the next day. )

Mermaid:

The longer your hair, the better this style will work. For mermaid hair, you’ll need a crimper, small curler and flat iron. Comb your hair out, and use the comb to section your hair so that a row of length is left at the back of your head, ear to ear, and the rest is free to pin up into a pony tail. Take sections about an inch in width, and crimp, curl and straighten the hair in turn so that you have a rotation of three different textures next to each other. Continue from the bottom up to the top of your hair, sectioning your hair, and rotating through these three textures. Be sure to use lots of hairspray, because it’s better to have hard curls, than frizzy confusion. Once you’ve done your whole head, spray your mane with sparkles. If you feel like you need a bit of authenticity, you can add a strip or two of green organza material pinned in to mimic seaweed.

When it comes to Halloween Hair, practice makes perfect. Relax, and give yourself a chance to excel at this unique art, don’t expect to be able to come up with a perfect style on your first go around. Try your hair out the weekend before, and be sure that you’ve got an extra set of hands if you’re having trouble seeing or pinning the back. When it comes to length and colour, don’t feel confined to what you’ve got on your head. You can always pin hair pieces and add length or spray on some colour from an aerosol can. In the end – just have fun, and be inventive. The best styles are the ones you’ve created on your own. Happy Halloween, and see you at the party!

Top 20 Halloween Party Ideas

RachelK — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 20:07:00 GMT

By: Erin Brock

20 themes for your Halloween party!

1. Alice in Terrorland- A goth take on a classic. have a black rabbit instead of a white one. Have heads all over throughout the house since the queen always says "OFF WITH THEIR HEADS!"

2. Famous Couples- You can do real and fictional couples.

3. Old Hollywood- Glamour is back and better than ever.

4. Disney- This one works good if there are going to be children at your party.

5. Renaissance- This can be really fun.Try and use as much of the language as you can.

6. A Decade- Try the 50's,60's,70's or 80's

7. Favorite Movie or T.V. character- The possibilities are endless on this one.

8. Old West- Think Cowboys and Indians and Saloon Girls

9. Super Hero's- See how many different super hero's you and your guests can come up with

10. A night at the Playboy mansion- Sure there will be lots of bunny's and Hef's. See how many different spins your guests can put on a classic idea.

11. Area 51- How many scary and strange aliens will be at your party?

12. A Masquerade Ball- Have everyone wear a mask and don't let them take them off until midnight!

13. Camelot- See if your prince shows up on his white horse in shining armor

14. Villains- Everyone loves the hero's but see how fun the bad guys can be too

15. Favorite Fictional Character- Santa Clause, The tooth fairy,Easter Bunny...

16. A Graveyard- This will work with just about any costume you can think of as long as they are dead.

17. Ghosts of a Prison- Prisoners,Guards,Wardens grounds keepers anything that would have to do with a prison.

18. Marie Antoinette- There are lots of different takes on this idea which ones will your guests choose.

19. Mobsters- This is a popular costume this year see who will end up the head of the family at your party.

20. A night in Vegas- This can be allot of fun. set up a craps table and roulette wheel. You can gamble for money or candy.

How to prepare for costumes and cold weather

RachelK — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 20:52:00 GMT

By: Erin Brock

Costumes and cold weather! Unfortunately the weather is not always nice on Halloween epically in certain parts of the country. As any of you who live in these areas know most Halloween costumes are not exactly made with warmth in mind. Below are a few helpful ideas to help keep you warm as you enjoy your Halloween to the fullest!

Costumes for Children
- Order your child's costume a size or two bigger than what they would normally wear. This way you can put a pair of sweats underneath without changing the way the costume looks! -Look for costumes that have long skirts or pants. This will help keep their little legs warmer.
-Costumes that you can wear with snow boots. Many costumes show slip on shoes in the picture but some would also look good with boots. You can always get a cover for the boots so that they match the costume. This is a great idea if you live some where that snow is not uncommon on Halloween.
-Any costume that has a hood on it. These are great because you can wear a hat under the hood and no one can see it.
-And of course if at all possible get a costume that is insulated. There are many of these for little ones. They are usually very cute. My daughter has been a ladybug and grumpy bear. Not really because it was the best costume that I could find but the warmest.

Costumes for Pre-Teens and Teens
-Once again ordering the costume a little big so that pants and long sleeved shirts can be worn under is always a good idea.
-If the costume has a short skirt or is thin leggings can be worn underneath for extra warmth. -For any costumes that leave your shoulders and arms bare. A turtleneck sweater in the same color as the costume will cover these areas without taking away from the costumes look. Also a long sleeve insulated shirt will work well for this. They can be found in most stores in the intimates section.
-For costumes that require high heeled shoes. Try the rubber grips that go on the bottom of the shoe for extra traction. Once again if a boot or any other shoe with a rubber sole can be worn with the costume that is always the best idea.
-For boys find a mask instead of painting your face. The mask helps keep your face warm.

Adults Costumes
-For women's costumes with short skirts a pair of shorts or leggings will help. Also just plain old pantyhose will help keep your legs warm. Also adding a longer petticoat to the costume will help keep you warm.
-Knee high or thigh high boots epically ones made of vinyl are great to keep your legs warm.
-Anything that has a cape. You can order a real wool cape in the same color instead of using the thin one that comes with the costume.
-Wearing any type of spandex or lycra bodysuit under your costume will keep you warm without adding bulk to the look.
-for men thermal or insulated long johns will keep you very warm. Just make sure not to over do it. Try and select the lightweight kinds of you will be too hot.

Any of these tips can really be used for any aged person. But the best idea for staying warm on Halloween is to find an indoor party or haunted house. If there are none in your area consider having your own. Or talking to a city official about the city hosting a community event for all ages. For you that are set on going out trick-or-treating try and start early. For little ones its fine to start even before the sun goes down. Also find someone to drive you around that way you can get in the car and warm up between houses and cover more area also! In any case try and make the best of it Halloween is about having lots of fun. So be creative with your costumes you never know what great warm idea you may come up with.

Top 45 Pop Culture Hits

RachelK — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 20:37:00 GMT

By: Alison O'Neill

When you’re truly looking to create a stir with your costume, you’ve got to reach beyond the average and pluck your idea right out of the headlines. With these costumes, they can be more fun than others because the authenticity is in the details. Here are my Top 45 Pop Culture costume suggestions:

1. 80s Madonna and Michael Jackson – Before the lawsuits, Kabbalah and many failed marriages, we had the untainted King and Queen of Pop.

2. Abbot and Costello – Who’s on first!? One of my favourite ways to warm up to the Halloween season it to watch the classic “Abbott and Costello meet Frankenstein”. I couldn’t list Halloween duos without these two.

3. Archie – So you’re looking to be one of the wholesome Riverdale gang, but now it’s time to answer the age old questions: Betty or Veronica?

4. Austin Powers and Felicity Shagwell – Oh so groovy baby! That perfect mix of humour and sex appeal, you’ll have a blast with this pair.

5. Barbie and GI Joe – Our childhood definition of femininity and masculinity. You can of course pair Barbie and Ken, but I was always convinced she’d be better matched with Joe!

6. Barney and Betty Rubble – Where else but in Bedrock can a short guy get such a babe for a wife? Ok, ok – Barney and Tom Cruise!

7. Beetlejuice and Lydia – I love seeing these two together at the end of the movie, when she’s in the red wedding gown. Everyone gets what they want, your gentleman can be creepy and funny, and you get to be cute and sweet.

8. Borat and Pamela Anderson – They may not have ended up together, but they’ll always be in love (in his mind at least).

9. Danny and Sandy from Grease – These two kids from Rydell high captured our hearts in 1978, and they’ve been keeping us singing ever since.

10. Dexter and Rita – He may be a serial killer, but that doesn’t mean he’s not a good date!

11. Doctor Evil and Mini Me – It’s time for you two to hatch your next scheme to take over the world!

12. Dog the Bounty Hunter and Beth – Pile on the leather, and become one with the mullet; it’s your turn to be the Bounty Hunters.

13. Drew Carey and Mimi Johnson – They may have gone off the air, but their legacy as the antagonistic comic duo will go on for years.

14. Dumb and Dumber – Who can forget those matching tuxedos? Powder blue and dayglo orange has never seemed so chic!

15. Fred and Wilma Flintstone – Yabba-Dabba-Doo! These two have been movers and shakers since the pre-history! If you’re looking for a change, you can always pair Pebbles with Bamm-Bamm or Barney and Betty.

16. Ghostbuster and Slimer – Suit up, slip on your proton pack, and hangout with your best friend, Slimer!

17. Gilligan and Mary Ann – If you’re going to set out on a 3 hour tour, make sure you’ve got a good first mate; but if you’re going to get marooned, make sure you’ve got a good girl at your side!

18. Gomez and Morticia Addams – If she speaks French be sure to kiss her from her hand up to her cheek! This unique pair has captured our hearts for over 40 years now.

19. Han Solo and Princess Leia – He’s a loner, and she’s not the type to need saving. Fiercely independent, these two need each other more than they’re willing to admit.

20. Harry Potter and Hermione – Slip on your Hogwarts uniform, and let the magic begin.

21. Hercules and Xena – Pick up your sword, and prepare to battle the cranky Gods, this Halloween!

22. Herman and Lilly Munster – Coming into popularity in the mid 60s, this lovable and macabre duo are still warm our hearts.

23. Homer and Marge Simpson – D’Oh! Why wouldn’t you choose our favourite yellow friends?

24. Hugh Hefner and Playboy Bunny – As a snapshot of today, you could go as Hef’s main girl – Holly Madison. But there are thousands of other bunnies you can choose from!

25. Jack Skellington and Sally – The Nightmare before Christmas will fall on October 31st this year!

26. Jack Sparrow and Elizabeth Swan – So he’s completely untrustworthy? That doesn’t mean you wouldn’t go to the ends of the earth for him!

27. Jason Voorhees and Victim – The memories from Camp Crystal Lake have brought chills for decades now. Remember though, that in the first film the killer was actually Mrs. Voorhees – so don’t count out a lady as the lead of your killing duo.

28. King Kong and Ann Darrow – He may have been a monster, but he has a soft heart for this leading lady.

29. Lone Ranger and Tonto – Hi-yo, Silver! Away! It’s the Lone Ranger, and his trusted friend, Tonto!

30. Lucky Charms Leprechaun & Count Chocula– Definitely not your typical duo, but these two can be a lot of fun. For a switch – why not go as Tony the Tiger?

31. Lucy and Ricky Ricardo – “Lucy, you got some 'splainin' to do!!”

32. MAC and PC – Popularized by the commercials for MAC, this casually feuding pair has entertained the world over.

33. Marilyn Monroe and John F Kennedy – Whether she wears her signature white gown, or slips into something a little more elegant she will be sure to turn heads. For a change, you can always pair her Joe DiMaggio.

34. Mario and Princess Peach – The fun might have started back in the 80s, but he’s been saving her from certain doom ever since. Need a trio? I’m sure that Luigi would love to come to the party!

35. Mickey and Minnie Mouse – Fun and classic, Mickey has been a pop culture icon since 1928!.

36. Neo and Trinity – Step into the Matrix!

37. Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne – A rockin’ power-couple!

38. Peter and Lois Griffin – Now you can be Quahog’s favourite pair.

39. Popeye and Olive Oyl – Bring some spinach to the party, and watch his forearms grow!

40. Roger and Jessica Rabbit – He’s a rabbit, and she’s a fox – what a match!

41. Shrek and Fiona – One of my favourite duos, these two have found love despite being fearsome ogres.

42. Sonny and Cher – I’ve got you babe! Celebrate the height of their love with these two song birds.

43. Spartan King and Queen – They’ll give you 300 reasons why they won’t ever give up.

44. Starsky & Hutch – It’s time to team up again! Be sure to encourage a friend to dress up as Huggy Bear.

45. Sweeney Todd and Mrs Lovett – As long as you don’t eat their meat pies, they’re a sweet couple. I’m sure as you read down the list you’ve been struck with a pair that I should have mentioned! I couldn’t list them all, but please do update me on your suggestions for Pop Culture pairs! Have fun this Halloween, and be sure to win the prize for Best Couple!

Thank you BuyCostumes.com

RachelK — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 19:23:00 GMT

This is a true submission written by one of our community members! I thought I would share with you what other customers think about our products.

Thanks~ Rachel Kuebbing, BuyCostumes.com

Thank You BuyCostumes.Com

The moment I became hooked on Halloween I was about eight years old. I went Trick or Treating at this white and black mansion with huge pillars. The house itself loomed over everyone. When I made it to the steps A man dressed as vampire popped out of A very realistic coffin and scared me, then this ghostly lady came over and handed me candy. I felt just like I was in A horror movie. From then on couldn't wait to celebrate Halloween!

I started throwing Halloween parties in my basement when I turned 12. We would carve pumpkins and my parents would supply A few festive decorations and music. In High School years I began searching variety stores for Halloween decor. I had quite A collection of items, however the decor was not with standing much time. I began searching the internet for some props and costumes that would be sure to win A contest. Everything was so expensive, then I found Buy Costumes.

I couldn't believe what I'd found, all the decor and props I could imagine all at reasonable prices. No more worrying about receiving items that looked totally different in the picture, no more 500.00 dollars for a small animatronic prop, no more ordering A costume of poor quality that I can't return. At Buy Costumes I can view all items up close, even view the animated props in action, read product reviews from actual customers and decide of the product is going to fit my needs. Honestly, I have never had to return one item I've ordered. I also have enjoyed rating the items I have purchased for myself, and have found it enjoyable to join in the community section of Buy Costumes. I can chat with other party planners, receive party suggestions, and just enjoy new friends while earning points to spend in the store.

Thanks to Buy Costumes I now have A collection of Halloween items that has with stood the test of time. I store my items in plastic boxes each sorted out by room. In August I start thinking of A theme for my party. Then I shop on Buy Costumes to fill in with past decor to create the years new theme. It's my one stop prop and costume shop. Then I decide my menu for the night. Halloween has never been so unique, simple, and successful.

-Erin Yakima, WA.

Makeup vs. Masks for Halloween Safety

RachelK — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 18:49:00 GMT

As you plan for your children’s costumes for Halloween. BuyCostumes.com and Graftobian Makeup Co. would like for you to remember a few very important safety tips when considering masks vs. makeup.

1. Masks can often greatly restrict vision. Since much trick-or-treating is done in the dark or near darkness, vision is already reduced, add a bulky mask with eye holes far from the eyes and the potential for injury from tripping, etc. is greatly increased.
2. Makeup can decorate the entire face while allowing full, normal visibility for your little ghoul or goblin.
3. Makeup can be worn by those who wear glasses without the risk of fogging which further inhibits sight.
4. Have your child carry a light of some kind, be it a flashlight, a glow stick, a flashing reflector, etc.

BuyCostumes.com offers a complete range of our world famous DISGUISE STIX ® Face Paint, ideal for Halloween use so that your children can makeup safely and truly enjoy their Halloween experience. Below we demonstrate its ease of use of Disguise Stix® on both the skin and the hair! When you’re night is over, simply shower off the makeup and put on the pajamas.

With Disguise Stix® Face Paint, one way you can use it, is the easiest way. Simply dip the stix in water and apply directly to the face or hair. (Caution: Always keep makeup out of eyes. Flush eyes with water if needed.) For applying to large areas or to apply through a stencil, all you need to do is dip the stick in water and transfer the coloring from the stick to a sponge. Be very certain that you use a Wet Stick and a Dry Sponge! That way you will get a nice concentrated coloring on your sponge which will coat your skin beautifully with a patting or stippling motion. A wiping motion will yield what will appear as fur, see kitty below.

For detail lines, such as the whiskers of the kitty, or for the spots of the leopard, simply load a brush such as a #4 flat or #4 Round brush with coloring by wetting either the stick or the brush and picking up the color from the stick to the brush as you would with a dish of makeup.

Disguise Stix® are used year around for face painting for team colors, birthday parties, church picnics, children’s festivals, pretty much any time children are gathered for an event.

Graftobian Makeup Co. has been spreading smiles on children’s faces for more than 30 years with this US Made product, Disguise Stix®.You are only bounded by your imagination. Each of the designs above was created with a selection of our 28 colors of Disguise Stix® Face Painting Makeup, using a sponge, brush or directly from the stick. Buy Costumes is proud to present this Midwestern Gem of company and its products and hope that you and your children will become friends of Graftobian for many years to come.

The Great Halloween Escape

RachelK — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 20:04:00 GMT

Cheryl Kerzner, VP Design & Marketing, Disguise

Everyone loves to be in Disguise! Halloween provides us the brief, but welcome opportunity to escape our “real lives” and become part of the world of fantasy and adventure. It’s the chance to become something different, something exciting, scary, sexy, beautiful, or powerful. We have a free pass one night a year to be anybody or anything we choose. With everything going on in the world, I’m excited for a night that allows us to shift our everyday attire and escape into the wonderful world of Halloween. Halloween is never complete without a great Disguise!

2008 is a great year to become one of our nation’s political finalists Obama or McCain with our hand sculpted masks. Showing up as either candidate is a sure way to add excitement and conversation to any Halloween party! With the addition of a woman to the political ticket this year, our WorldScape costumes are a perfect costume choice – depicting traditionally male characters like a matador or samurai all dressed up as powerful, beautiful women. 2008 is the year of the strong woman!

While we are all feeling national pride, and with a pending election, it occurs to me that arriving in our Marvel Captain America costume complete with shield can earn big points at any Halloween event. Save the world while arriving as a quintessential American hero, and escape to the vast world of Marvel Heroes and Heroines.

Our kids love to escape their world of homework and chores too, and morph into their favorite cartoon and comic book heroes, or fulfill their childhood fantasy of being able to fly.

They can conquer evil in our Power Rangers and Ninja costumes, live the fantasy of being a toy that comes to life with Woody or Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story, or Abby Cadabby, the newest member of the Sesame Street cast of characters. As a little girl, I loved escaping into the world dressing up in a costume provides. (Well, actually, I still do!)

Our Barbie, Tinker bell and Disney Princess costumes & accessories let little girls escape into the world of their favorite characters from movies and DVD’s they have watched hundreds of times. Over the last 2 years, we have seen millions of girls aspire to be the singing sensation Hannah Montana and dress up in her cool costumes and accessories. With high gas prices, hurricanes, global warming, and 100 other things we worry about each day, I’m happy to escape this Halloween into the world of fantasy and adventure that a great costume provides.

There’s No Time To Waist

RachelK — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 19:34:00 GMT

By DreamGirls

From the runways of Paris and New York right into your living room, the team of Dreamgirl designers, Janet, Julie, Donna, Amanda, and Sara, bring you Halloween chic for the 2008 Dreamgirl Costume Collection now featured on BuyCostumes.com. Ever-inspired by the trends in the fashion realm, the Dreamgirl designers have keyed in on one of the hottest trends to don the streets season after season: The Belt. Belts have forever been a great accessory to a fabulous outfit, but in recent years the belt phenomenon has developed into more than just an accessory—it’s become a necessity.

Be it a cinching removable waist corset or a cute sailor belt, BuyCostumes.com has you covered with contemporary belted Dreamgirl costumes for the season. Let’s have a peek:

Couple a cinching belt with some pin-up flair and you’ll be the hottest fashionista at the party! “Cruise Cutie” pairs the two in a nautical-inspired look that features a stretch knit dress with pleated hem and stretch striped waist belt with patent leather anchor buckle detail. With her set of included accessories and a great pair of red mary jane platforms from BuyCostumes, she is set to sail the seas in style searching for the next big adventure…just like our favorite “Treasure Hunter.” She’s a fashionable treasure seeker in her stretch bengaline dress and faux leather removable boned waist corset with hat, bag and whip. When you’ve got your finger on the pulse of the latest trends and quests, hunting becomes a “cinch”!

From foreign adventures to glitz and legends, Dreamgirl brings you “Vegas King,” an Elvis-inspired caped stretch velvet dress with stand up collar, fringe sleeves, sunglasses and faux microphone to rock out with. But, wait, there’s more! The standout feature of this dress is the beautiful waist cinching belt with hand sewn rhinestone details. Feeling inspired yet? You should be! Halloween is about fun through the art of transformation. With one of Dreamgirl’s many versatile costumes, you can switch up your sassy look with none other than a waist cinching removable corset. “Officer Pat U. Down” is a great mix of versatility with its feminine pink color complemented by vinyl accents…and not to mention its removable boned vinyl waist corset, which can be removed or kept on depending on your range of modesty throughout the evening! Add some thigh high fishnets and tall black boots to the mix and you may need to use the baton and handcuffs on any unruly fans.

The fun doesn’t stop there! You can find other great costumes with belts and waist cinching removable corsets on BuyCostumes.com. Some great styles to try are: “4 Star Pin Up,” “You’re Busted!” policewoman, “Rehab Nurse,” “Firehouse Flirt,” “Twice as Fun” a reversible Holiday costume, “Karate Cutie” and more! With so many belted options, it’s easy to find a great style that helps you transform into a great character, while keeping you up with your fashionista ways. Live large!

Top 35 Couples Costume Ideas

RachelK — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 19:25:00 GMT

Top 35 Funny Couples Costumes

By: Alison O'Neill

Couples costumes are central to Halloween partying. No matter how you define your couple: Husband & Wife, Boyfriend & Girlfriend, Best Friends or even you and your pet, you’re sure to win everyone’s hearts with these light hearted pairs. Here are my Top 35 suggestions for Funny Couples Costumes:

1. Adam and Eve – Play it conservative with a full body suit, or go for the shock of a more literal interpretation, you’ll have everyone wanting to join you in Eden.

2. Bacon and Eggs – Just like it sounds, you can dress as the perfect breakfast.

3. Ball and Chain – For the newly weds, or old hands at marriage – the ball and chain will bring knowing smiles and nods from everyone.

4. Beer Keg and Refreshment Girl – A pair that no one’s seen before, but everyone can agree to. This is a guaranteed hit at any party!

5. Brick Layer – He might be the best lay in town, but who shall he pair with? Maybe the brick house with her secret door for kitty? Or will he be captured by the StudFinder? Careful he doesn’t spend too much time with the HomeWrecker, or he’ll have a lot more work on his hands, than he expected!

6. Bull and Matador – Adorable, sweet and sexy. This one is sure to win Costume of the Year!

7. Bun in the Oven and Baker – Whether you’re pregnant, or just like to put people on, this one’s a guaranteed laugh.

8. Canadian Mountie and Horse – Who knew Canadians were so hot? Thankfully she’s found someone who’s Hung Like a Horse.

9. Chess King and Chess Queen – A very regal pair.

10. Corpse and Widow – So many options! Should your corpse be dripping in blood or should he already be in a body bag? Your Widow – did you want her still holding the weapon, or should she be more composed?

11. Fireman and Dalmatian – Cute and sweet any way your pair it. These two would be lost without each other.

12. Football Player and Trophy Wife – Just as it sounds, and twice as funny in person.

13. Football Playerette and Cheerleader – Why do boys always want to be the Football player? Turn everyone on their head with this inverted pair.

14. Fork and Spoon – Certain to get a laugh, just warn Bacon and Eggs if you’ll be attending. They might want to clear out!

15. Grim Reaper and Recently Deceased – Lady Death and her victim, or should you pair Death himself and a Macabre Mistress?

16. Hunter and Deer – Don’t shoot! To be the talk of the party, this is the pair to wear.

17. Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake – With her dress malfunction, and his gift to us on Saturday Night Live, this pair will guarantee laughter.

18. Knife Thrower and Target – As the night progresses, his aim gets worse and the laughter gets louder!

19. Lady Luck and High Roller – Let luck be a Lady tonight!

20. Lion and Safari Hunter – Beauty and the beast take a new twist with this pair!

21. Mail Lady and First Class Male – She couldn’t deliver a better package!

22. Mexican and Boarder Patrol Guard – Careful who you let slip across the boarder when you’re not looking!

23. Nut and Bolt – Who wouldn’t go nuts for this twosome?

24. Pimp and Ho – Bring your bling with this happening’ twosome! For an entertaining twist, switch rolls! A Lady of the Evening definitely needs his Pimpette to protect him!

25. Pirate and his Booty – What pirate wouldn’t love party once he’s captured his booty? Just make sure you dress in gold, and adorn yourself with pearls, gems and jewels so that people know exactly who you are.

26. Pirate and Parrot – Arrrg! Careful what your bird repeats, or you’ll both have to walk the plank!

27. Plug and Socket – Careful where you stick that or you’ll get a nasty shock!

28. Priest and Naughty Nun – Sinful and sweet, these two make a praiseworthy pair.

29. Queen of Hearts and King of Hearts – Love is in the cards! 30. Siamese Twins – You can’t get any closer, than sharing a liver!

31. Snake Charmer and Belly Dancer – The more she shakes and shimmies the wilder his snake gets!

32. Spartan Cheerleaders – Roll Call! Arianna and Craig may only get to cheer at the more unusual sporting events such as Chess and Synchronized Swimming – but that doesn’t prevent them from performing the Perfect Cheer!

33. Ventriloquist and Dummy – Always a little creepy, and more than odd – this duo is sure to draw a crowd.

34. Washer and Dryer – Drop off a load, and then tumble dry!

35. Wine Wench and Grapes – For any great wine, you’ve got to stomp on a few grapes. Or maybe she’s the type to prefer a box of wine? No doubt these ideas will get your own creative juices flowing! Be sure to put your own spin on the costume, and make it your own. Have fun, and Happy Halloweening!

Get the Most out of your Sexy Costume

RachelK — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 21:36:00 GMT

By: Alison O'Neill

I’ll admit it – when it comes to Halloween, I’ve always been the type to celebrate my sexy side. As a woman with curves, I need to be careful about the types of costumes that I wear. Year after year, I have found myself reading the reviews of others, searching for costumes which are complimentary to an hourglass frame. After scanning thousands of reviews, I have a few suggestions to help you get the most out of your Sexy Costume – whatever your body shape.

Don’t be crushed if your costumed arrives wrinkled! Almost all costumes will need a good steaming after travel. If you don’t have access to your own steamer, just hang your costume up in the bathroom and take a nice long hot shower. This should smooth all the creases.

Don’t be “Sizest”. I, like many of you, have been guilty over the years of turning down a fabulous outfit, because I didn’t agree with the size on the tag. When buying a costume, measure yourself and compare your measurements to the charts. If you feel that you’re between sizes trust your gut, but the safe bet is to choose the size larger. Brands and companies vary, and depending on the country where the costume was made, your concept of “medium” might be smaller or larger than what they create.

Highlight your assets! As we all know, if you’re tall and slender – you can pull off anything. But for the rest of us, take a good long look in the mirror and decide what will be your Sexy Feature this season. If you love your legs, consider something short and sassy. If you have a fantastic butt, slip into the costumes that feature short-shorts or tight leggings. Got great abs? Well you can always be a belly dancer! We’re all sexy in our own way, just be sure to bring attention to the asset which you love the most.

It’s what’s underneath that counts! Whether you’re looking to lift, tuck, smooth or hide you need to rely on the magic of undergarments to help you on your way. Although I usually suggest a thong to avoid the dreaded VPL (visible panty line) – I must insist that we all consider full bottom, or even boy shorts to provide the dignity under these short and sassy frocks. You might want to also consider wearing panty hose to ensure the look of long perfect legs; I find that panty hose can also help to keep up those sometimes slippery thigh highs.

Don’t be afraid to make adjustments. We are all built differently, and as such slight alterations can greatly improve the look of a costume. Whether you’re petite and need to hem it a bit shorter, or you need to add a few stitches to fix where the fabric mysteriously bulges – there is no harm in making it your own.

Last but not least – buy your costume early enough that you can use all the weapons in your sexy arsenal! All the fantastic corsets in the world can’t help your costume, if you didn’t have time to shop for them before your big day! Remember to have fun! Tonight’s your night to shine! So embrace your curves, love your petite frame, and own your majestic height!

See you at the party!

Top 20 Group Costume Ideas

RachelK — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 19:50:00 GMT

Top 20 Group Costumes

By: Alison O"Neill

As with many people, my group of friends are Halloween Crazy! One our favourite things to do before the big bash, is to gather together and come up with a fun and unique group costume theme. I love that group costumes bond us together as friends, while still allowing each of our personalities to shine. Here are my top 20 Suggestions for Talk-of-the-Party, Unforgettable Groups Costumes:

1. 3 Musketeers: You can’t go wrong with an old classic. Perfect for the gentlemen looking to sweep the ladies off their feet. If you want a truly memorable trio – you must go full tilt and don the tights.

2. 4 Seasons: Ladies, this one’s for you! Gather your four best friends together and personify Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Slip on some wings, and you can be the Fairies of the Seasons.

3. 7 Sins: Never before have the seven carnal sins been so fun! Gather your friends together to personify Lust, Greed, Gluttony, Envy, Sloth, Wrath and Pride.

4. 80s Toys: Our favourite toys are back, and they’re just as much fun as you remember. Rainbow Bright, Strawberry Shortcake, Care-Bears, GI Joe and the Transformers will put a smile on everyone’s face.

5. Adams Family: Gomez, Morticia, Wednesday, Pugsley, Uncle Fester, Lurch and Cousin Itt. They are the perfect family to attend any Halloween Gathering.

6. Circus: Looking for something a little more freakish? Maybe you’ll invite the circus into town. Everyone will line up to see the Ring Master, Bearded Lady, Strong Man, Fortune Teller and Snake Charmer. If your group is a little larger you could include a Lion and Lion tamer!

7. DC’s Justice League: Gather your favourite SuperFriends together: Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Green Lantern, Hawkgirl are all a part of the mighty Justice League of America.

8. Ghostbusters: Peter, Ray, Egon and Winston may have been the originals; but don’t think that your group has to be a boys club. In 2008, Ghostbusters can be girls too!

9. Harry Potter: Harry, Ron and Hermione wouldn’t have any adventures at Hogwarts if it wasn’t for Voldemort, and his band of Death Eaters and Dementors.

10. Marvel’s Mighty Avengers: With a movie already in the works, be sure get ahead of the game and gather your Avenging Friends before everyone else gets the idea: Hulk, IronMan, Captain America, SpiderMan, Thor and Wolverine are a good start.

11. The Mystery Gang: Scooby Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Velma and Daphne are sure to unmask the ghost and catch the real crook!

12. Riverdale Gang: Who’s more wholesome than our Riverdale Gang? Betty, Veronica, Archie, Jughead, Reggie are sure to be the smash hit of the party.

13. Saturday Night Live: Roll call! It’s the Spartan Cheerleaders! And when she gets nervous Mary Katherine Gallagher puts her fingers in her armpits, and smells them like this! Don’t answer the door – it might be the Land Shark looking to attack! And most recently Justin Timberlake had a special present for us. Always a classic – SNL costumes are a hit with young and Old

. 14. StarWars: Whether you want to take it old school and enjoy Luke, Leia, Hans Solo, Chewbaca and Yoda – or celebrate the newest story line with Amidala and Anakin – the choice is yours.

15. Storybook Babes: Gather a few of your favourite girls together, and put a sexy spin on the old storybook heroines. Be it Red Riding Hood, Snow White, Cinderella, Alice from Wonderland, or Goldilocks – I’m sure you’ll find a few gentlemen with a renewed interest in these classics.

16. The Flintstones: Our favourite family from Bedrock: Fred, Wilma and Pebbles Flintstone.

17. The Jetsons: They’re out of this world; they’re the Jetsons! George, Jane, Judy and Elroy are an adorable quartet.

18. The Rubbles: Who else but our favourite prehistoric neighbours? Barney, Betty and Bamm-Bamm Rubble will always bring smiles. For a larger group – mix and match with the Flintstones.

19. Under the Sea: The King and Queen of Atlantis, King Neptune, a Mermaid, a Seahorse, and whomever else you can find under the sea would be a welcome addition to this fishy group!

20. Wizard of Oz: From The Wizard himself right down to the Munchkins and their Mayor, your group from Oz can be as big or as small as you’d like. For the perfect quartet, stick with Dorothy, Tin Man, Scarecrow and Lion. Remember – don’t invite the Flying Monkeys without Glinda the Good Witch to protect you. These are just a few suggests – I invite you to make them your own. The best part of Halloween is expressing your own creativity. Good luck and Have fun !

In with the New...2008 Dreamgirl Costumes

RachelK — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:16:00 GMT

Article written by costume vendor: DreamGirls

As the age old adage goes, “Out with the Old, In with the New!” And what better way to welcome the new season of Dreamgirl costumes than with a completely new generation of costume: The Reversible Costume! Just imagine… two costumes for the price of one.

Have your ears perked yet? Donna Lackmeyer, creator of Dreamgirl’s Reversible Costumes, said that she loved the idea of walking into a costume party as one character only to leave dressed in another. “Our costume, ‘Miss Hellen Back,’ for example, allows our customer to walk in as a sweet and sexy angel in pure white and leave as a naughty devil in fiery red! If cute is what you are looking for, then there’s nothing cuter than ‘Buggin’ Out’, our reversible Ladybug/Bumble Bee costume. With the flip of a dress, you can transform yourself from a ladybug to a bumble bee – two timeless concepts. It’s a great costume for all age groups from teens to adults.”

hese Fully Reversible Costumes “Miss Hellen Back” in S, M, L, 1X/2X and 3X/4X along with “Buggin’ Out” in S, M, L are currently featured on BuyCostumes.com and come with a set of great accessories to complete the costume, such as wings, wands, headbands, tails, gloves, and name badges. At the launch of these new costumes at our annual January Fashion Show, we received rave reviews that assured us that these Reversible Costumes were not only set to be our bestsellers for the season, but also set to take on the industry by storm with its inherent originality!

Are you “in with the new”?

Essential and Easy Lighting For Halloween Decorating

RachelK — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:55:00 GMT

By: Larry McKenzie

Proper lighting is a commonly overlooked method of easily adding a spooky effect to your Halloween display. Setting the proper lighting may be easier than you think. Once you purchase some props and they arrive, add lighting to help complete your display.

COLORED BULBS:
It is amazing what affect a colored bulb can have in an area or room. It can be as easy as replacing a standard white bulb with a red, green or blue bulb. It is recommended to experiment with each of these colors in order to find the perfect look for your display. Always keep in mind that if a decoration is the exact color of the bulb, the decoration will appear white. - Red bulbs are the most popular method. When visitors see a prop an area can remain fairly bright while creating a somber area. - Green bulbs have become much more popular over the last few years. You can easily create an atmosphere to go with an alien, pirate or other eerie scene. - Blue bulbs are a good alternative to black lighting when brightness is required for safety or other issues. You can achieve a great look without having to add as many safety lights to an area. Always experiment, as some blue bulbs are darker than others.

BLACK LIGHTS:
An creepy effect can easily be achieved with the use of black lights. While we can’t see much of the light coming from the black light itself, certain colors and pigments such as bright white will absorb the invisible light then discharge it, causing a glowing effect. Since black lights are not very bright, it is important that you make sure that pathways are well lit for safety.

FLICKER BULBS:
Flicker bulbs look like a flickering candle. While flicker bulbs should never be used for primary lighting, they will add an amazing look to your display. Some of these types of lights can be purchased ready to go as a Halloween prop. Most hardware stores carry flicker bulbs that have a standard base. If you have any extra lamps around your display that are utilized, install a flicker bulb and you will be delighted. These work especially well with lamps and lights with glass covers.

STROBE LIGHTS:
A strobe light is a device used to produce regular flashes of light. Using strobe lights with your display can cause an illusion of movement. In displays with life-like props, this can be very unnerving for many of your visitors. Strobe lights have become very affordable over the past few years. Strobe lights should be used with caution as they have the potential to trigger seizures in those with photosensitive epilepsy. Always experiment with the lighting on your display until you find the perfect look. Make sure that all pathways are well lit and that all safety issues are addressed.

Have fun and be safe!

Designers. How do we come up with ideas and concepts for our great costumes?

RachelK — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:48:00 GMT

In 2007, BuyCostumes.com started producing our own line of specialty, exclusive costumes. For this task we recruited one of the best children’s costume designers around. Every year I see the new costumes appear on the site and think, “Wow, that’s cool! How did she come up with the idea for that?” Then my mind wonders to what goes on behind the scenes that we as consumers, and even co-workers, don’t know about. Lori Joory, the BuyCostumes.com Head Designer, has so graciously agreed to provide us with some insight!

Designers. How do we come up with ideas and concepts for our great costumes? Before you put the pen to the blank page, a great deal of thought has gone into the process of creating a costume. The business portion is thought through first. Is there a need for this item? What is it replacing? What are the projected sales figures, and is the return on investment worth the effort? What sizes has it historically sold in? Is there demand to warrant the development? As you can see, many of the choices are purely analytical and not in the least bit creative. While it’s nice to idealize that we just sit and draw and be creative geniuses, it couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, the only time that we get to be truly creative, thinking outside of the box ideas, is when we are brainstorming, reading magazines, or shopping and dreaming of what we would really love to be doing if we could do what our creative juices tell us to do!

Lets say that we’re all on the same page: there is a need for this costume. This is when the true fun starts! All the business decisions are in place….and I start to design….a lot of people are involved. When I start to design, I’ll put on my creative cap, plug in my I-Pod, listen to Linkin Park (LOUD) and start sketching. I have stacks of magazines, photos, fabric swatches, style.com on my computer and WWD pulled up on my computer for ideas. Fabric swatches start to fly, things get paired, this idea goes with that…no, wait, it’s better with this! I find that my first thoughts are the purest and most creative; if I start to second guess myself I do not trust my gut instinct. That gut gets developed over time and what we “feel” will be great. I look at history books, look at children’s books for fun ideas for kids, look at color direction, look at hot websites….such as the Oscars for inspiration for great gown ideas, etc. It then all gets disseminated through my brain and onto paper….then it gets drawn digitally. Once I’ve sketched out the designs, our buying team has a look-see and they give their input and what they would like to change. From there, the design is reworked, presented again to the design team, and then finalized. It then goes to our factories and a sample is made, fit and then analyzed. Once we’re good to go….it goes into production!

So, how does one get started? First. You have to be creative and you also have to have a business mind. Do the two come in one package…..yes and no? The business side is a learned skill. Can you teach someone to have style or design ability? Well, an honest answer is you have it or you don’t. For example, I’m horrible at math. I can stare at an algebra problem and it turns into a print or pattern design. I have not a clue how to work it out or even care to! However, some people are brilliant at mathematics and I draw pictures of costumes. (Or save animals. Again, another blog entry)

If there are any of you out there who want to ask me specific questions, shoot me an email. I can be reached at lorij@buyseasons.com. I used to teach fashion design at my alma mater FIDM in Los Angeles. I’d be happy to help those young creative minds! Take care, and remember spooks rule, Lori Joory

Planning the Perfect Bachelorette Party

RachelK — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 17:58:00 GMT

By: Sorority Kitten A Bachelorette party (or Hen Party if you’re from across the pond) requires the perfect balance of Sass and Class. So let’s start planning 1 – Your Bride. What type of girl is she? Is she Sugar or Spice? Make sure to tailor your event to the bride. The events that get the best reviews are the ones where everyone had fun. 2 – Guest List. Keep your event on the smaller side. Look to include all of the bridesmaids, and her best friends. Only include her co...(read more)

How to Decorate Your Office Without Alienating Co-Workers

RachelK — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 14:27:00 GMT

By SaucyScribe.

So, I take holidays a little too far. I call my Thanksgiving meal a feast; others call it an unsightly horror of gluttony. During Christmas, I put up four trees . . . and the Christmas cactus (don’t ask). How else will all my decorations get the face time they deserve?

I have, however, learned to navigate around the delicate sensibilities of fellow office revelers during the aforementioned holidays. But Halloween . . . well, that’s where things get tricky. What I find delightful in an artfully designed trail of faux blood is my co-worker’s cue to sprinkle holy water at my office doorway. But smiley pumpkins and cutesy scarecrows aren’t my idea of Halloween.

In 2007, I started at a new company and learned a few tricks to make sure my Halloween decorations inspired spirit instead dismay, and possessed just the right amount of the macabre:

1) Prepare the Masses.
I hinted early on that I was a holiday nut to the entire office. A good way to start the conversation is to inquire as to the decorating policy. At my company, there was no set policy. If there is one, respect it—sometimes the best decorating ideas are borne of a need to work around a restriction. This also gave co-workers ample time to digest that there would be cobwebs in their future. You might be surprised at how many will enthusiastically cheer you on as a refreshing morale booster.

2) Walk Down Memory Lane
I casually asked a few co-workers if anyone had decorated before, what props were used, and how it faired with the office. This is a good time to find out what attracted admiration, what turned stomachs (in a good way), and what actually led to throwing up (a bad sign, and will most likely come to a sordid conclusion in the HR office). Nix ideas that were badly received. Learn from fallen heroes before you!

3) Note Phobias and Managerial Preferences
One co-worker shared she had a deep fear of snakes. I resigned myself to leaving the fake python at home. Another had clown fear. Respected! Whether this information comes to you as a direct result of Halloween talk or over lunch in April, take mental note. By the time fall rolled around, I pinpointed two agreeable decorating themes: cemeteries and spiders.

4) Even When They Insist, Don’t!
Plenty of people insisted I could decorate during work hours. It’s hard, but try to refrain. Use lunch hour or stay late or come early. Don’t give anyone ammunition why you can’t decorate next year (shudder). In the end, people loved my decorated office, and not a single person was offended, despite creepy scene setters bought at BuyCostumes.com. They even loved my skeletal heads. It just takes a little time to learn what you can get away with this Halloween at the office!

Ellie’s Halloween line is proud to supply “The perfect shoes for the perfect costumes.”

RachelK — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 18:23:00 GMT

Normal life can be dull. Dress codes at work, rigorous routines, and countless obligations bore us into a hum drum life and make us snug in our sweatpants on days off. Perhaps this is a reason why people have embraced the mystery, intrigue, and ultimately, sexiness, of Halloween. Pumpkins and ghosts aside, Halloween is all about taking a vacation from the routine of everyday and embracing fantasy. It is the one time of year when it is universally accepted (and now almost expected) for you to look like someone else, an edgier, sexier someone else.

The sexier costumes have become, with corsets, petticoats, and hosiery, the shoes are the final detail to make the look hot from head to toe. And why do we love shoes? Because like jewelry and handbags, they unify an outfit and keep the vibe of a style you’re looking for consistent. Which is why sexy and costume specific shoes have become so vital in the Halloween market. Simply put: It’s style protocol. You don’t wear boots on the beach, tennis shoes to a wedding, or pumps on the volleyball court. So likewise, costumers and party-goers feel like their “transformation” isn’t complete without a shoe that reflects their costume and makes them feel as super-sexy as their super-hero costume.

Check out Ellie’s Gangster shoes (Gangster, Flapper, Mafia) for the mobster in training, ruffled sandals for the French Maid (Garter), Nurse shoes (Betty) or Gogo boots! There are also several styles of shoes that are sexy but also practical and can be worn outside of 10/31. The simple Maryjane (Eden), for instance, is sexy from heel to toe, goes with 2/3 of all sexy costumes, and can also be worn again as streetwear or work attire. Other popular and versatile styles include a clear mule sandal (Vanity), chunky heel sandal (Lea), or a knee high boot (Easy). Halloween is about parties for adults just as much as it is about candy for kids. With a Friday night Halloween this year, parties will be poppin’ full of pirates, cops, ghosts, and witches. Don’t forget your party shoes!

Using Your Box of Old Halloween Decorations

Jalem — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 16:49:00 GMT

By Chris Kullstroem

We all have one in the back of our closet, down in the basement or underneath a pile of dust in the attic: a box of old Halloween decorations that we just don’t know what to do with. Not wanting to throw it out (I mean it is Halloween stuff), but also at a loss as to how it could all be used. But never fear! You can turn all kinds of old and new decorations into the perfect additions to your Halloween inside and outside décor.

Halloween tea-light holders: Use these in your outdoor haunted graveyard or jack-o-lantern light show. Buy a big bag of tea lights for just a few dollars and have a lit attraction each night when the sun goes down. You can also use the candle holders indoors.

Scatter them throughout your Halloween village collection to make it come alive at night; line the staircase with sugar pumpkins and these small candles; put the candle holders in the windows next to your Halloween window decorations or jack-o-lantern.

Small Halloween knick-knacks and figurines: Boy these can sure add up throughout the years. But they are perfect for adding to your Halloween village collection on a bookshelf or end table, or for creating a village on their own. Halloween knick-knacks can also be used if you’re throwing a Halloween party or dinner party, to be placed by each person’s napkin, place card, or set by the taper candles and put within the centerpieces.

Need some Halloween atmosphere at work? Bring some of the figurines to the office and place them on your monitor. Old Costumes: They still look great, but they don’t fit and no one needs to borrow them for a party. No problem. Create dummies to wear the costumes on the front porch, guarding the candy bowl at your trick-or-treat station. Or use the costumes on the characters for your own haunted attraction or haunted walk-through. Old Trick-or-Treat Bags and Window Decorations: Plastic or paper treat bags and window decorations are great for making Halloween cards and invitations. Cut out the pictures and paste onto a blank card for inviting friends to your haunted attraction or Halloween party.

You can also make refrigerator magnets out of the cut-outs, or use as place cards or prizes in a grab bag at your Halloween party. Autumn-themed cloth napkins and placemats: If these have started piling up with each Halloween, use them as a base for your centerpieces of candles, pumpkins and Halloween figurines on your dining room table and end tables.

They can also be draped across the top of the television or bookshelf, and put on the front porch as a base for your jack-o-lanterns and candy bowls. Halloween ribbons: Orange, black and other Halloween-themed ribbons can serve many purposes. Tie them around rolled up Halloween invitations that you’ve made on your computer to give to friends and family. Wrap them around pumpkins you’ve placed both inside and outside the house. Drape them in flower arrangements for your Halloween party. Tie them to the fence around your jack-o-lantern light show or to the trees surrounding your scarecrow show.

So don’t leave that box of old Halloween decorations in the closet, basement or attic anymore… dig it out and put some finishing touches on all your Halloween arrangements, props and haunted attractions you’ll be putting on this season.