Costume Ideas for a Play on Words

Go as a "T" bag for Halloween.

When you have to choose a costume for a party or event, it can be difficult to find options beyond the traditional Halloween characters or pop culture icons. Find a costume option that will make people stop and think by using a play on words to create a clever, comical outfit.

Cereal Killer

Make people laugh---or groan---by dressing as a cereal killer. If you want to make a big statement, turn a large cardboard box into a cereal box and stick knives and various weapons into the surface. For a less high-profile costume, glue miniature cereal boxes to a plain T-shirt and stick small plastic knives into each box. You can also put blood or cereal trails coming down from each knife wound to further the impression of "killing" cereal.

One Night Stand

If you have time to spend making a costume, go as a one night stand. Make a night stand out of a cardboard box, painting details of the drawers and handles onto the sides and cutting out holes for your head and arms. Glue some basic items onto the cardboard night stand, like a fake alarm clock, a pair of earrings or an open book. Wear plain black or brown clothes and wear a lampshade on your head. Hit on other people using cheesy lines, hinting that you only want to get together for one night.

Freudian Slip

Find an old full slip from a thrift store that covers everything you need to cover; layer a thin dress underneath if the slip is too sheer. Choose a slip that is obviously lingerie, to make the costume easier to identify. Using fabric paint or a black marker, print words and phrases associated with Sigmund Freud on the slip. You might use "id," "ego," "alter ego" and "super ego," for example, along with "oedipal complex" and "psychoanalysis." If you'd rather not ruin the slip, print the phrases on paper and pin them on.

Tea Bag

For a cheap, quick costume, find a large bag, like a garbage bag or an old shopping bag; paint it with bright colors and patterns to make it look less like a tea bag, to throw people off of the trail. Use paint or duct tape to make a giant "T" on the front and back of the bag. Underneath, wear black leggings and a black shirt. This is an effective costume when you are attending an outdoor event because you can layer clothing underneath without harming the overall look of the outfit.

References

• Sparklife: Six Play-on-Words Halloween Costumes
• Make Five: Freudian Slip