By: Jenna Beresheim
News Editor

Everyone has that friend – the one who decorates for Halloween the first day of October and prepares to party on several separate occasions throughout the month. Out of those who enjoy Halloween, there are some who take our costuming a little more seriously.

As someone who falls into this category, and also cosplays on the side, I have compiled a few tips and tricks from my own personal trial and error through the years.

1. Testing, testing, 1, 2, 3
Always test your makeup and costuming accessories such as latex prosthetics before the night you intend to wear them. It would be best to know if you are going to have an allergic reaction beforehand rather than ruining your party plans. Also, most Halloween makeup rubs off easily onto clothes, furniture, and so forth, so plan accordingly.

2. You get what you pay for.
From the dollar store makeup to the thrift store wig – you get the quality of product that you pay for. The cheaper the makeups, the worse reactions your skin may have to them.

3. Know your comfort level.
In the end, it’s all about your enjoyment of the holiday. If you do not feel comfortable wearing certain items or showing skin, then don’t. Get creative with your costuming and be what you want to be, sexy version or more subtle.

4. Use your resources!
For those who wish to do their own makeup or costuming, there are hundreds of online resources, from Pinterest to Youtube. There are tutorials that will show you the most basic techniques for makeup, or completely transforming your look with latex and prosthetics.

5. Support small businesses.
There are many stores that stock higher quality products and know their stuff, rather than the major Halloween warehouses that open up seasonally. These stores are open year-round and are full of enthusiasts willing to help you figure out the best pieces for your costume.

6. Prepare for mishaps.
Uncomfortable shoes, straps breaking, seams bursting, makeup melting … the list goes on. Just be ready for them, and know your costume’s limits.

7. Better safe than sorry.
If you’re walking across town to get to your event, bring an extra jacket and a comfortable pair of shoes you can switch into for the journey.

8. Know your strengths.
Do you excel at styling hair but falter at false lashes? Focus on something that accentuates your skills, or pair up with a friend to use both your strengths!

9. Don’t be offensive.
We’re a culture, not a costume. This message has become even bolder in the past few years, focusing on how it is inappropriate to dress up as a culture for a costume.

10. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
Ultimately, it’s about having fun. Whether you’re going all out or taking the store bought route, don’t worry about what others think. That “Sharknado” costume is definitely a good idea.