In the costume frenzy leadup to October 31st, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all of the Halloween marketing and settle for a cheap costume that by the end of the night you’ll have tossed in the bin. Today we’ll give you some pointers on a few sustainable options that won’t break the bank.

1. SHOP YOUR CLOSET

It’s always a good idea to check your closet first before you go out to search for new items. Dig through drawers and check in the back of your closet and you might surprise yourself with what you can find.

2. THRIFT/VINTAGE

This is a great way to gather unique items that will often use higher quality materials than your standard store-bought costume (read: no more scratchy collars). Even a simple thrifted item, like a unique blazer, or jacket can easily be turned into a costume.

3. SWAP A COSTUME

This is another easy and free option to creating a Halloween costume. Grab some friends, some costumes, and swap away. Check out our guide on how to host a costume swap.

4. BUY COSTUME PARTS

If you decide to buy a few bits and pieces for your costume this year, try to make sure it’ll be something you can wear outside of a Halloween bash. The black turtleneck for your Andy Warhol costume can easily be worn in your day-to-day life as well.

5. RENT A COSTUME

Your local community center, library, or costume shop may have a costume rental program. This is a great option for those of you who don’t want an easy premade costume that won’t clutter your wardrobe for the rest of the year.

Now that you know the basics to put together a sustainable Halloween costume, here are some suggestions that can be easily made with a quick trip to your closet or the thrift store.

1. BEDSHEET GHOST OR GOD/GODDESS

So simple that you might have forgotten this classic option. Grab an old white bedsheet, cut some holes for the eyes (and arms if you’re feeling crafty) and you’ve got yourself a last minute costume that’s certainly sustainable if not the trendiest. Another option is to twist and drape the sheets over one arm, wrapping the majority around your body. Finish off with a belt, et voila, you have a god/goddess.

2. MEDIEVAL PRINCE/PRINCESS

For a prince browse your local thrift store racks for an earthy-colored tunic or jacket with a pair of tall boots and a belt at the waist and you’re good to go. A princess can look for a long embellished dress and accessorize with any jewelry laying around, top it off with a braid in your hair.

3. 90S GRUNGE INSPIRED

Grab some denim and flannel at the thrift store and pull out some heavy combat boots to channel your best 90s character (ie anyone from the movie Singles). The best part about this costume is that it’s lowkey enough to wear the whole ensemble again on a normal day.

4. VAMPIRE

All any good vampire costume needs are a few edgy dark pieces and a red or dark purple/black lip. Don’t worry about buying fake teeth or blood, these are usually pretty uncomfortable and get thrown out before the end of the night. Besides, what good is a vampire that can’t hide its fangs?

5. 1960S/70S INSPIRED

To find a perfect period piece it’s likely you’ll need to stop by the thrift store to pick up some colorful items unless your wardrobe contains some vintage pieces. It shouldn’t be difficult to hit your local thrift or vintage shop and craft the perfect character costume from this era (ie. Janis Jopin, Audrey Hepbern from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, one of the Beatles, etc)