Halloween is approaching, but that doesn’t mean you need to buy a new costume. By using makeup and clothes you already own, you can create a sustainable costume that saves money and reduces waste. Here are some makeup-focused costume ideas using items from your closet.
- Skeleton
A classic look that can be achieved using basic makeup. Black and white face paint or eyeliner can be used to outline the bones of your face, focusing on hollowed eyes, cheekbones, and teeth. For an extra touch, you can add biodegradable glitter to your cheekbones or around your eyes to create a sparkling skull effect. Pair this with black clothes for a simple yet striking costume.
- Mermaid
A mermaid look is easy to create with shimmery, iridescent makeup. Use blue, green, and purple tones on your eyes and cheeks, adding highlighter for a glowing effect. Fish-scale patterns can be made by pressing a net or mesh material against your skin and applying eyeshadow over it. Add biodegradable glitter to your eyelids and cheeks for a shimmering, oceanic vibe. Complete the look with sea-inspired accessories or a flowy dress in ocean colors.
- Vampire
Vampire makeup focuses on pale skin, dark eyes, and red lips. Use eyeshadow and eyeliner to create a sunken, dramatic look. Red lipstick can be used to create a blood effect. For a glamorous twist, add biodegradable glitter around your eyes or lips to create a sparkling vampire effect. Pair this with dark clothes already in your wardrobe.
- Fairy
For a fairy costume, use soft pastel makeup with lots of shimmer and highlighter. Add biodegradable glitter to your eyelids, cheeks, and even around your temples to enhance the magical, ethereal look. You can draw delicate patterns, like vines or stars, around your eyes with eyeliner. Pair this look with a flowy dress or anything light and ethereal from your wardrobe.
- Clown
A clown costume is easy to achieve with bold makeup. Use bright colors, exaggerated features, and sharp shapes around the eyes. A red nose can be drawn on or made with makeup. To enhance the clown look, use biodegradable glitter to highlight the shapes under your eyes and on your cheekbones for a playful and sparkling effect. Mismatched clothes from your wardrobe will finish the chaotic, clown-like outfit.
- '70s Disco Look
Go for a '70s disco-inspired costume with bold, glittery eye makeup. Use metallic eyeshadow and apply biodegradable glitter to your eyelids for a glamorous, disco vibe that’s both eco-friendly and dazzling. Pair this with flared pants, a jumpsuit, or anything shiny or bright from your closet. Big hair or a slick hairstyle will complete the retro look.
- Animal Face
Create an animal look with a few makeup essentials. For a cat, fox, or deer, use eyeliner to draw whiskers, a nose, or other defining features. Wear neutral or earthy tones from your closet to complement the makeup.
- Cat: Draw whiskers, a black nose, and cat-eye eyeliner. Pair with black clothes.
- Deer: Use brown tones and white dots across your face. Any brown or beige outfit works well.
These costume ideas rely on simple makeup techniques and items you already own, making them a sustainable way to celebrate Halloween without buying anything new. By using biodegradable glitter, you can add a fun touch to your look while prioritizing eco-friendliness. This Halloween, take the opportunity to be resourceful and creative, all while minimising waste.