photo by Julie Levy
Do the Man of the Hour—Circa 1981
Don’t show up to your neighbor’s party just wearing a Barack mask and blue, presidential-looking suit. Because it will be so awkward when Bill from next door arrives in the same costume. Try Young Barack for a twist. All it takes is a good with a mask, ’fro wig, bomber leather jacket and college text book (see our inspiration at tinyurl.com/53ucv8). Or try dressing as a Jimmy Hendrix/Young Barack combo, pulling off the “Are You Experienced” costume.
Get it Done: Afro Wig ($15) from Area Rent Alls in Westminster, leather jacket from Rockin Robins ($30) in Niwot, and Barack Obama mask ($30) available at most costume shops.
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October 2008
photo by Julie Levy
Modern—Not the Obvious One
Sacha Baron Cohen is a comedic genius. His recent accolades surround his Borat character. But to see his true talent, you have to check out some of the older YouTube clips of Ali G, the ghetto fabulous news reporter that managed to interview some of the smartest and most well known people on the planet. Borat costumes have been hot since last year’s release of the movie of the same name—show some of that “I knew about him before that” pop culture knowledge. Another helpful hint: Grow your goatee ahead of time so you don’t have to draw it on.
Pull it Off: Wrist bands, sweat suits, stylish sport glasses and cap can all be purchased at your local sporting good store.
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October 2008
photo by Julie Levy
Pop Culture Icon—Old School
Yeah, you could be Britney Spears, but that’s so 2007. There are plenty of other pop culture icons that can be the hit of the party. For example, when was the last time you saw someone dressed as country singer Dolly Parton during a Halloween shindig? Or try these old-time icon ideas: Madonna is making her first ever tour stop in Colorado next month; it may be just the time to break out the cone-shaped bra hiding in the back of your closet; and Steve Martin from “The Jerk” is a great character to play at a party, and the disguise is pretty darn easy to put together.
Pull it Off: Polka dotted dress ($18) from Rockin Robin’s in Niwot, curly Marilynn Monroe wig ($15) from Area Rent Alls in Westminster and a sweet wooden guitar from one of our staff member’s basements.
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October 2008
photo by Julie Levy
Clueless—Trust the Vintage Shop
Stumped? Have no worry. Just walk into the nearest vintage shop with an open mind. It turns out the shop owners know their stock inside (sizes and styles) and out and are generally really creative. This is where acting helps out immensely. A used car salesman is nothing new. But take it to a level beyond the hideous plaid by turning up the cheese thicker than molasses. We were lucky enough to borrow that sweet ride from Gunbarrel Imports in Niwot—if your friends don’t own a car dealership, try bringing some props like balloons or for sale signs.
Get it Done: Buddy Holly glasses ($8), blazer ($15), shirt ($15) and tie ($3) from Rockin Robin’s in Niwot.
Special thanks to Gunbarrel Imports for letting us borrow that sweet Mercedes convertible.
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October 2008
photos by Julie Levy
There are three types of people: Those who spend months creating a Halloween costume, those who refuse to dress up, and those of us who wish we had the time to be clever, but instead just throw together something at the last minute. (more…)
October 2008
