Elmhurst's Adults Among Top for Halloween Costume Spending

When it comes to Halloween costumes, Elmhurst residents apparently take the holiday pretty seriously. The city ranks near the top among DuPage County communities for spending on adult Halloween costumes.

What used to be a holiday for kids has become playtime for adults, with adults across the United States pending $512.1 million on costumes in 2011, according to a story in Crain’s Chicago Business. Spending on kids' costumes was about $100 million less, according to the publication.

Elmhurst residents spent $123,000 on adult Halloween costumes in 2011, according to Crain’s. That was more than residents in Lombard, but just slightly less than adults in Naperville, who spent $137,000 to $160,000, depending on the ZIP Code.

Buying a new costume at a store can be costly, depending on the costume chosen, but costumes don’t need to be expensive.

Consider stopping in at local resale shops such as Elm Classic Consignment for clothing or accessory items. Or, repurpose items in your closet.

Here are a few costume ideas. Have one of your own? Share it in comments.

Audrey Hepburn: You'll be a vision of Holly Golightly with a little black dress, some big black sunglasses, a large statement necklace and a tiara. If possible add in some long gloves.

Zombie: Creep everyone out. Grab a black dress, ripped tights, a messy wig, fake blood, zombie make up and don't forget the dazed look. 

Jack Sparrow: Grab some black pants, boots, an eye patch, a long wig, rings on every finger, and a white flowy shirt paired with some rotten teeth and you’ll be ready to sail the high seas.

Katie Perry: Find a pin-up style swimsuit or tank top, tuck it into a pair of cutoff jean shorts, add a wig, (pick any colors she’s known to wear) jewelry, heels and a flower behind the ear and you’re ready to act like the Cali-for-nia girl.

Dark Shadows-Style Vampire: Give your own spin to the vampire trend. Men can pair a dark vintage suit with a puffy shirt with long sleeves and flouncy cuffs (from the women’s department) add in an ascot, gothic-style medallion, pale makeup, fake nails and if possible, rock it with a cane.

Bridesmaids: Find a second hand bridesmaid dress, add some silk flowers for a bouquet and if you have more friends the merrier on this one make it a whole wedding party, with one friend dressed as the bride.

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