Inexpensive Pirate Halloween Costume Ideas

Creating a pirate costume doesn't have to be expensive.

Pirate costumes have remained popular choices for Halloween over the years. If anything, the popularity has surged in recent times thanks to the "Pirates of the Caribbean" films. Creating a pirate costume doesn't have to be expensive. With some creativity and ingenuity, a pirate costume can be assembled on the cheap. It's important to remember that unlike a naval officer, pirates didn't wear uniforms, making the task of creating a pirate look easier.

Closet Items

Many items required for a pirate costume are likely to be in your closet. Black pants work best, although even shorts could be used. A button-down shirt in a solid color fits the costume, but a plain colored T-shirt can be worn underneath. A vest adds a lot to the costume. A piece of rope will work as a belt, but so would a sash from a robe. A bandanna should be worn on the head.

Thrift and Bargain Stores

If the closet lacks any of the clothing materials, thrift stores are likely to have what is needed at low cost. Dollar stores and other bargain stores are likely to have many of the more specific items, like toy swords and pirate hats. In fact, those items are usually found year-round at dollar stores with the toys. For an adult costume, the toy sizes might be too small, but larger swords and hats can be purchased at Halloween stores.

Footwear

Black boots should be worn, but brown can also work. At the very least, pants should be tucked into the boots. However, another option involves extenders. Take the boots to a costume shop and look for extenders to lengthen the top of the boots to knee height. Extenders fasten beneath the foot with elastic and stick out the top of the boots.

Accessories

Adding gaudy gold jewelry -- chains and hoop earrings -- will enhance the pirate look. A pocket watch also makes a nice touch. Purchase an eye patch from a Halloween store or make one with black fabric and elastic. For the final touches, a fake gold tooth and a plastic parrot on the shoulder are perfect.

References

• Coolest Homemade Costumes: Pirate Costume