Costumes are fun, but budgets are real. Building a head-turning Halloween look for you or your kids doesn't have to break the bank when you thrift those looks at Goodwill. Using thrifted staples plus new finishing touches will help you avoid the costume-in-a-bag vibe.
Once you've finalized that costume idea, your local Goodwill can be your one-stop shop for the ingredients. Everything you need is already on the rack in sizes from baby to adult: denim, khaki, flannel, black basics and fun one-offs. Don't forget the seasonal items like wigs, wig caps, face paint and other finishers to pull it all together without any sticker shock.
Find your local Goodwill.
Once you've pulled your look together, don't forget to show it off! Enter Goodwill's Halloween Costume Contest by posting a photo of your outfit with the hashtag #FindYourSpooky and tagging @goodwillvalleys for your chance to be featured. Learn more about the Goodwill Costume Contest.
Step 1: Pick a vibe (not a character)
Choosing a vibe gives you freedom to improvise and makes thrifting easier. Save a couple of reference photos on your phone, then match colors and shapes as you shop.
Big kid trends for 2025 include K-Pop demon-hunter energy (idol polish with an edge), Emerald City witchcore (sleek black with green accents or surreal all-pink) and dino-adventure (utilitarian layers with explorer flair). Throwback moods provide evergreen favorites when you aren't sure what to do. Think '80s neon aerobics, '90s grunge or Y2K pop. Once you've named your lane, the pieces practically find you.
Step 2: Build a base for less
Start with one anchor piece that carries the look: a boxy blazer, leather-look moto jacket, oversized denim, a utility vest or cargo bottoms. Add a layer or two for cool weather options, like a tee under a flannel or a turtleneck under a blazer. Shoes seal the mood, with options like white sneakers that lean vintage casual, chunky boots that can read as grunge or explorer, and loafers that sharpen a witchy silhouette. If something feels too modern, try going one size up to shift the shape.
Step 3: Dial in the details
Details make or break the outfit at any age. A chain belt or fingerless gloves instantly signal "idol on a mission." A bandana, bucket hat or field notebook tips your look into expedition mode. Tiny sunglasses or layered chokers say Y2K without a single logo. Before you commit, ask if a friend could guess the theme from across the room. If yes, you're there.
Step 4: Find your magic and finish with new
Now hit Goodwill's Halloween aisle for the finishers. Wigs help your kiddo instantly grow long princess curls or transform long locks into an adventure mullet. Add a little emerald face paint, graphic liner or quick bruise/scratch effects, then round things out with nails or stick-on gems. These are all small upgrades that create a big payoff. Don't forget those glow sticks for trick or treating!
Find your local Goodwill.
Quick builds with zero guesswork and minimal spend
Need a little costume inspiration? Goodwill has got you covered with these trendy and old-school favorites. And once your look is complete, snap a pic and join Goodwill's Costume Contest by sharing it online with #FindYourSpooky and tagging @goodwillvalleys.
Idol Hunter: Tailored slacks or a black mini paired with a fitted blazer and mesh top peeking through are your base, then add a statement belt or gloves. Finish the look with a sleek bob wig, sharp eyeliner and metallic nails.
Emerald City Witch: A black dress or suit plus a dramatic coat will get you started, and then you can thread in green through a scarf, gloves or jewelry. A little face paint makes sure that your Elphaba can defy gravity while searching for those full size candy bars.
Jurassic Explorer: Khaki or olive shirt, cargo bottoms, and a utility vest provide the foundation for this dinosaur-loving fit. A bandana or bucket hat provides a perfect topper while a toy dino or beat-up field notebook seals the deal. Don't hesitate to add a few smudges for been-in-the-brush credibility.
Neon Aerobics ('80s): You can't go wrong with a bright, punchy top, leggings and a windbreaker tied at the waist. The nostalgia fully comes back when you add a scrunchie on the wrist, a high-pony wig and unapologetically bold blush. Cue up Cyndi Lauper, Tina Turner or Rick Astley as you rock to your Halloween spot.
Garage-Band Grunge ('90s): Get that cozy flannel to layer over a band tee with ripped jeans, beanie and boots. A few temporary tattoos will finish the look.
Y2K Pop: Shop the denim rack to find low-rise jeans or a miniskirt that you can pair with a metallic top. Add on platform sneakers, frosted makeup and butterfly clips to bring the full outfit together.
The afterlife of your costume
You've got your kid's favorite costume, but what do you do with it after trick-or-treating and Halloween parties are complete? Keep the keepers and, when you're done with the rest, donate them back to Goodwill. Someone else's perfect costume might start with your finds, and every donation fuels job-seeker services in your community.
Ready to Find Your Look? Find your local Goodwill.
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