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10 Top Halloween Costume Ideas for Students on a Budget

Halloween is just around the corner, and for students, this means spooky parties, themed nights out, and the excitement of dressing up in creative costumes. 

However, being a student often comes with the challenge of sticking to a tight budget. But fear not! You don’t have to break the bank to look fantastic this Halloween. With a little creativity and some DIY spirit, you can put together a standout costume that’s both affordable and unique. 

In this guide, we’ve rounded up 10 top Halloween costume ideas that won’t dent your wallet and will have you ready for any ghoulish celebration.

1. Zombie

Zombies are a timeless Halloween classic, and the best part is that you can create a creepy undead look using clothes and makeup you already have. 

Start with old clothes (the more worn out, the better), tear a few holes in them, and add some fake blood or red paint. 

To create a ghastly look, use pale face powder or white foundation, darken your eyes with black eyeliner or eyeshadow, and add “blood” around your mouth or hands. Zombies don’t need to be perfect, which makes this costume ideal for last-minute planning.

Pro tip: Use food colouring mixed with corn syrup/golden syrup to create homemade fake blood.

2. Ghost

Perhaps one of the simplest and most cost-effective costumes is the classic ghost. Grab an old white sheet, cut out eye holes, and voilà – you’ve got a ghost costume. 

For a more creative twist, you could use safety pins or fabric glue to fashion the sheet into a flowing cape or toga-style outfit. If you want to add an eerie touch, use face paint to darken the area around your eyes, giving you a more spectral appearance.

Pro tip: For a unique spin, consider a “fancy ghost” – add a top hat, monocle, or scarf to make your ghost costume one of a kind.

3. Mummy

A mummy costume is another fun, inexpensive option that you can put together using materials you already have at home. 

Take some old white or cream-coloured sheets or bandages and wrap them around your body. Don’t worry about being too neat – the messier, the better! To finish the look, apply white face paint or powder, darken your eyes with black makeup, and walk with an eerie, slow shuffle.

Pro tip: If you don’t have enough fabric, toilet paper or medical bandages can also work. Just be cautious in case of rain!

4. Cat

The cat costume is a quick and easy option that’s both classic and stylish. Most of us have a pair of black leggings or trousers, along with a black shirt. 

Use black eyeliner to draw whiskers and a small nose, and if you want to go the extra mile, pick up some cheap cat ears from a discount store or make your own from black cardboard and a headband.

Pro tip: If you want a fancier cat look, consider going as a black panther by adding some faux leather or metallic accessories.

5. Superhero in Disguise

No need for a full-on superhero costume – going as a superhero in disguise is both creative and budget-friendly. 

All you need is a shirt in the colour of your favourite superhero (think Superman or Wonder Woman) and an open jacket or blazer on top. This gives the effect of a superhero just about to reveal their identity. If you want to take it further, print out the logo of your chosen superhero and pin it to your shirt.

Pro tip: Use face paint or eyeliner to draw a small mask around your eyes to add some superhero mystique.

6. Vampire

Vampires have been a Halloween favourite for generations, and you can achieve this look with minimal effort and cost. 

Start by dressing in black – think a black shirt, trousers, or dress. Apply pale foundation, darken your eyes with eyeliner, and use red lipstick for a dramatic effect. To complete the look, use dark eyeshadow to create sunken cheeks and some fake blood around your lips.

Pro tip: Make your own vampire fangs using white press-on nails by trimming them to resemble sharp teeth and attaching them with dental adhesive.

7. Scarecrow

A scarecrow costume is an excellent option if you want something unique yet budget-friendly. 

Start with a flannel shirt, jeans, and a straw hat if you have one. Use face paint or eyeliner to create stitch marks across your face and add some hay or straw around your wrists, collar, and hat for authenticity. You can find inexpensive faux straw at craft stores or use yellow yarn as a substitute.

Pro tip: For an extra creepy look, darken your eyes with black or brown eyeshadow to create a hollow-eyed, spooky scarecrow.

8. 80s Workout Enthusiast

For a fun, colourful costume, why not go as an 80s workout enthusiast? Raid your wardrobe for anything neon, grab some leggings or tights, and throw on a brightly coloured tank top or crop top. 

Add some leg warmers (if you don’t have them, knee-high socks can work as a substitute) and a headband. Style your hair in a high ponytail or tease it to give that signature 80s volume.

Pro tip: If you don’t have neon items, use fabric markers or paint to create colourful designs on old clothes.

9. Mad Scientist

Transform into a mad scientist with items you already own. Wear a white shirt or, even better, a lab coat (or fashion one out of an oversized white shirt). 

Mess up your hair to create a wild, frazzled look and use eyeliner to create dark circles under your eyes. Carry a beaker or test tube (empty water bottles can do the trick), and you’ll instantly be recognisable as a quirky scientist.

Pro tip: Add some glowing green liquid to your “science equipment” by mixing water with a drop of food colouring and a glow stick for added flair.

10. DIY Mash-Up Costume

If you’re feeling extra creative, try mixing and matching different elements from several costumes to create something entirely new. 

For example, combine the vampire look with a superhero cape or mix zombie makeup with a 1920s flapper outfit. The possibilities are endless, and you’re guaranteed to have a one-of-a-kind costume that no one else will be wearing.

Pro tip: The key to a successful mash-up costume is creativity. Don’t be afraid to experiment with accessories and makeup to make the look come together.

Conclusion: Don’t Be Afraid to Get Creative!

Halloween costumes don’t have to be expensive or elaborate to be impressive. 

With a little creativity, some DIY spirit, and clever use of items you already own, you can create a standout look that’s both budget-friendly and unique. 

Whether you’re going for a classic ghost, a stylish superhero, or a quirky mash-up, the most important thing is to have fun with it. So dive into your wardrobe, get creative, and get ready to turn heads this Halloween!

How to Get Your Student Accommodation Ready for Autumn and Halloween

Autumn has arrived, bringing with it crisp air, vibrant leaves, and the excitement of Halloween just around the corner. 

If you’re a student living away from home, now is the perfect time to transform your accommodation into a cosy autumn haven without stretching your budget. 

Whether you want to embrace the warmth of the season or get into the spooky Halloween spirit, this guide will help you decorate your space, plan fun activities with your housemates, and whip up seasonal treats that are both affordable and delightful.

Creating an Autumn Vibe on a Budget

Creating an autumn-inspired atmosphere in your student accommodation doesn’t need to be expensive. With a bit of creativity and a few inexpensive items, you can easily achieve a warm and welcoming vibe. 

One of the simplest and most effective ways to do this is by focusing on lighting. Instead of relying on harsh overhead lights, opt for softer alternatives like fairy lights or battery-powered LED candles. 

These small, twinkling lights add instant cosiness and are affordable enough to fit a student budget. Scatter them around your room or drape them across shelves to create a gentle, comforting glow.

If you’re feeling crafty, a DIY autumn wreath is a fun way to bring nature indoors. Take a stroll through your local park and collect twigs, fallen leaves, pine cones, and berries. With a little bit of string or glue, you can fashion these natural elements into a wreath that can be hung on your door or above your bed. 

This project is not only inexpensive but also adds a personal touch to your autumn decor. Additionally, bringing in seasonal colours like burnt orange, mustard yellow, and deep reds through throws and cushions can instantly warm up your space. 

What’s more, charity shops or second-hand platforms like Depop are great places to find budget-friendly options if you want to switch things up without buying new items.

No autumn look is complete without pumpkins. While they are traditionally associated with Halloween, pumpkins can be a decorative staple throughout the season. Mini pumpkins can be placed on windowsills, shelves, or tables, bringing that unmistakable autumn charm into your room. 

If you want to go a step further, why not paint your pumpkins? This allows you to add a personalised, artistic touch without spending extra money.

Autumnal Activities with Your Housemates

Of course, decorating your space is only part of the autumn experience. The season also brings plenty of opportunities to spend quality time with your housemates and get into the festive spirit. 

One popular activity is hosting a pumpkin carving party. Grab some pumpkins from your local market and challenge your friends to a carving competition. Whether you aim for the funniest face, the spookiest design, or the most creative carving, it’s a fun way to bond, and you can even roast the leftover seeds as a tasty snack afterward.

For those looking to keep the Halloween theme going, why not organise a movie night? Set up your living room with blankets and cushions, dim the lights, and put on a mix of classic horror films and fun Halloween-themed comedies. 

It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day of studying, and you can add to the experience by making your own snacks – more on that later.

If horror movies aren’t your thing, don’t worry. Sometimes, the simplest autumn activities are the most satisfying. Take a break from your coursework and head outside for a refreshing autumn walk. Whether you live near a park or a more urban area, the cool, crisp air and changing leaves offer a welcome change of pace. 

Afterward, gather back in your accommodation with your housemates for a mug of hot chocolate or spiced tea. This little tradition can become a weekly ritual, helping everyone relax and appreciate the season.

Halloween is also the perfect excuse to get creative with costumes, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to dress up. Challenge your housemates to come up with the best DIY costumes using items you already have at home. 

Thrifted clothes, old bedsheets, or even repurposed festival outfits can easily be transformed into spooky costumes. It’s a great way to save money while still having fun, and you’ll avoid spending on overpriced store-bought outfits.

Seasonal Meals and Drinks to Warm You Up

No autumn celebration is complete without some comforting, seasonal meals and drinks. After carving pumpkins, don’t let the leftover pumpkin flesh go to waste – turn it into a hearty pumpkin soup. 

With just a few simple ingredients like onions, garlic, vegetable stock, and a sprinkle of autumn spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, you can create a filling, warming dish perfect for those chilly evenings. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly.

When it comes to dessert, nothing beats a classic apple crumble. Apples are often on offer at supermarkets during the autumn months, making this a cost-effective treat. Toss your apples in a bit of sugar and cinnamon, top them with a simple crumble mixture of flour, butter, and sugar, and bake until golden. The sweet, spiced aroma will fill your kitchen, and serving it with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or custard will make it an instant crowd-pleaser among your housemates.

For those chilly evenings when you just want to curl up with a warm drink, try making hot spiced cider. All you need is some apple cider (or apple juice for a non-alcoholic version), along with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a few slices of orange. 

Warm it up on the stove, and your whole accommodation will smell like autumn. This drink is perfect for a cosy evening in, whether you’re watching a movie, reading a book, or chatting with friends.

Lastly, if you’re hosting a movie night or simply want to snack while studying, consider putting together an autumn-themed snack board. Seasonal favourites like caramel apples, roasted pumpkin seeds, and cinnamon-spiced popcorn are easy to make and perfect for sharing. 

Add some dark chocolate or biscuits, and you’ve got a spread that’s delicious, festive, and student-budget-friendly.

Embrace the Cosy Spirit of Autumn

In the end, embracing autumn is all about creating an environment that feels warm, inviting, and cosy. 

Whether it’s through decorating your space with pumpkins and fairy lights, spending quality time with your housemates, or enjoying a bowl of homemade soup, the season offers plenty of opportunities to feel connected and relaxed.

So go ahead – light those candles, carve those pumpkins, and embrace the spirit of autumn in your student accommodation. This is your time to make memories, and with a little creativity, you can do it all without breaking the bank. Happy autumn!