Think out of the box! DIY Halloween costumes

Bobbie Thomas TODAY Style Editor

Whether you’re planning to trick-or-treat or hoping to win first prize at a big bash, creative costumes are key to having a happy Halloween. But before you head out to the nearest store, consider creating your costume by hand instead. It’s likely to save you money AND score you points for standing out. Bobbie Thomas, TODAY style editor and author of the Buzz column for In Touch Weekly, highlights some fun costume ideas that are easy to make on your own.

Say boo with balloons!

• Bunch of grapes: Be the talk of the “grapevine” this Halloween by dressing up as a bunch of grapes! It will only cost a few bucks, and take you no more than 15 minutes to make. Blow up a number of purple balloons and affix them to a dress or unitard (AmericanApparel.net) with safety pins and you’re good to go. After all, purple is in fashion this season!
  
  
• Bag of jelly beans: It’s the holiday of candy, so why not be a belly full of jellies?! Start with a clear trash bag from the grocery store, and cut holes for your arms and legs. Next, print out or draw a jelly bean package label onto a piece of paper, and mount it to the inside of the trash bag, facing out so everyone can read what it says. Finally, fill the bag with an assortment of bright colored balloons, and loosely tie a ribbon into a bow around your neck at the top of your bag to “seal” the package.
  
  
• Bubble bath: For a tub to rub-a-dub-dub, cut out the bottom of a lightweight nylon/linen/cloth laundry hamper or plastic bin. Drape the handles over your shoulders, or use rope to create a suspenderlike style if the handles aren't long enough. Fill the top rim of your bathtub with white “bubble” balloons, then accessorize with a towel, rubber ducky and slippers for a night of clean fun!
  

Get creative with your closet

• ‘Gossip Girl’ couple: Take a cue from Blair Waldorf and Chuck Bass, the troublesome twosome from Manhattan’s Upper East Side on hit show “Gossip Girl.” Accessories are key to creating this uber-preppy private school look. Wanna “B’s” can start with a basic white button-down and ladylike skirt, but must remember to sport her signature headband, bow accents and tights to polish things off. Guys should go for bold color, plaid and pinstripes. Just be sure to bring your cell phone with you for any breaking news Gossip Girl might send while you’re out trick-or-treating!
  
  
• Geisha: Grab a silk robe and slippers from your closet (or a local Asian market such as PearlRiver.com), and toss your hair up with chopsticks from the kitchen drawer. Cinch your waist with a sash, then mix some cold cream and cornstarch together (with a little water) for a pale face. Powder with a little flour, add red lipstick, and finish with a fan.
  
  
• Miss Piggy: If you can still slip into your prom dress, this is the perfect excuse! Just go for glamour in anything, from a dreaded old bridesmaid dress to your favorite evening gown that is collecting dust! Find a fake pig nose and ears at your local party supply store, and add a blond wig if your locks aren’t already light. Pile on all of your fabulous jewels, and last but not least — cuddle a little Kermie!
  
  
• Where’s Waldo: It’s the 21st anniversary of these always-amusing puzzles! It’s not only fun, but easy to emulate this elusive character. Pull on your favorite pair of “true blue” jeans and slip on some brown shoes. Next, find a red-and-white striped turtleneck, black glasses and a hat. You may try quietly popping up in photos or challenging friends to spot you in a crowd!
  

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