As carved pumpkins smile from doorsteps and spiced lattes are served at your favorite cafe, autumn has clearly descended upon New England. More importantly for spooky-season fanatics, this transition means that Halloween has nearly arrived.
Whether you’ll be trick-or-treating or attending a festive party, chances are high that a costume is in order. If you haven’t pinned down any details yet, try out a new method this year by thrifting your Halloween ensemble.
Goodwill of Southern New England invited Hey Rhody to find a selection of costumes to give readers some inspiration. For some professional guidance, DIY influencer Made by Carli joined the pursuit to find the perfect costume for a perfect price.
Carli Alves has created a brand based on her passion for handcrafting everything from small builds to room makeovers. Her knack for creation was clear from the moment I met her in Goodwill–she had already curated a cart’s worth of Halloween costume ideas by the time I had walked in the door.
For a woman who loves nothing more than doing things herself, Carli decidedly loves Halloween. Years ago, her son CJ had told her he needed a costume for school–the night before, naturally. Carli sprang to action to create a packaging tape sheriff ensemble to the delight of CJ and his classmates.
Immediately, I knew that my Goodwill cart and I were in great hands.
Together, Carli and I were able to whip up five costumes for adults and children alike. Take a peek at the costumes we found amidst the Goodwill racks.
Who doesn’t love a good prop or two?
Pairing an adorable mid-length skirt with bright red pumps, we put together an ensemble that will have you feeling regal. This easily-found costume feels put together whether you’re taking the heart wand, card prop, or both with you on your Halloween journey.
Or maybe even beyond! Who doesn’t need a pair of red heels?
The Breakdown
Crown: $3.99
Shirt: $6.99
Skirt: $4.99
Shoes: $10
Card Prop: $3.99
Wand: $1.99
= $31.95
If you’re looking for a costume for your little one, throw together a brown flannel and hat for the most adorable Scarecrow you’ve ever seen. Match it with a little bit of facepaint to pull the look together, or even some straw if you want to take it a step beyond.
Goodwill’s headwear section will prompt all sorts of inspiration. As soon as Carli and I saw this hat, we knew immediately how it could be used. Thinking outside the box goes a long way in a store with as many possibilities as Goodwill.
The Breakdown
Hat: $4.99
Shirt: $4.99
Pants: $4.99
Shoes: $6
= $20.97
Nothing brings more southern charm to Halloween than a Sabrina Carpenter-esque cowgirl costume. White platform boots matched with a patterned belt and bandana bring together this look. And who can resist a denim vest?
Whether you opt for a longer red blouse rather than a cropped top, this costume can be anything you want to make it. Maybe you want to scratch the bandana and opt for a quintessential cowboy hat. Even substitute denim shorts for a pair of jeans if you get cold. Either way, bring a little bit of the south to Rhode Island this Halloween!
The Breakdown
Bandana: $1.99
Vest: $4.99
Shirt: $4.99
Shorts: $4.99
Shoes: $12
When Carli and I saw a Dickies getup hanging on a rack, we knew it had to be put to good use.
Simple yet coordinated, this Handyman costume looks great with a pair of work boots and a tool bag. Luckily, both can be easily found in the thrifting process. Throw a hammer in your suit’s pocket and call it a day.
This costume is almost too convincing. If someone asks you to do some handiwork around their house, don’t blame us.
The Breakdown
Worksuit: $6.99
Workbag: $7.99
Wrench: $1.99
Ruler: $1.99
Hammer: $1.99
Shoes: $20
= $40.95
For the finale of our costume round up, pay homage to Rhody beaches as a Sea Princess.
This easy-breezy costume features a stunning seashell crown and comfortable sandals. With the loose-fitting dress as the costume’s starring element, you’ll be feeling effortlessly beautiful.
The best part about this costume is the reusability of some of its pieces. The Birkenstocks can be used during the summertime as a cute addition to any casual outfit, and the ocean dress makes for a great beach coverup.
The Breakdown
Crown: $1.99
Dress: $6.99
Shoes: $25
= $33.98
With all of these great options and the opportunity to put your own spin on them, it’s hard to not be inspired by all of the options thrifting can grant you this Halloween. Find some comfortable shoes that double for your costume or throw a cowboy hat in your cart to find the fun in dressing up.
The best part about shopping at Goodwill for a costume is that almost everything can double as something for every day usage. The white boots we found for our cowgirl costume may be the perfect fall going-out shoe. Even the heart skirt can be pulled out of the closet again for Valentine’s Day. Your shopping trip is truly what you make of it.
Although I had some extra help from a talented DIY specialist, the staff at Goodwill is happy to help make your wildest costume ideas come true. No matter what you’re looking for, you’re in good hands with Goodwill this Halloween.
CJ Alves, Photo by Carli Alves
Carli Alves and Rachel Loper, Photographed by Cindy Carrasquilla
Costume photos photographed by Caitlyn Bailey
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