How to thrift Halloween costumes sustainably

Every year, Halloween costumes arrive in bulk at fast-fashion retailers across the UK, with poorly constructed synthetic outfits often being discarded after one wear. With an estimated 2,000 tonnes of plastic waste being generated from throwaway Halloween clothing, it’s clear that this issue cannot persist.

Luckily, secondhand shopping offers a solution to this issue: thrifting your Halloween costumes will not only cut down on this wasteful practice but help you to find unique pieces that can be worn all year round. To help us get creative before heading to the charity shop, the experts at Tise the up-and-coming European buying/reselling platform, are here to lend inspiration to Halloween costumes and their key pieces that are sure to be your best thrifts yet.

Aside from offering an eco-friendly alternative to fast fashion, thrifting your Halloween costume brings so many benefits to your spooky experience. Shopping secondhand offers an element of creativity that is simply not available on the high street: you can find high-quality pieces from every decade, with secondhand stores acting as a time capsule from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond, so that you’re not limited when it comes to your costume options.

Additionally, not only is it fun to get into the spooky spirit with your creativity, but it also ensures that you’ll find unique pieces, with very little risk of twinning with any fellow goblins and ghouls. This means that, even if you want to go as a more simple or accessible character for Halloween like a cat, witch, or vampire, your own style will shine through and ensure your ‘fit is completely unique.

Lastly, thrifting saves money, too: compared to the average cost of costumes from Halloween party stores which average double if not triple digits, thrifting can literally save you hundreds of pounds each season. And, opting for secondhand takes the pressure off when it comes to getting costume-related Halloween stains off your clothes too. It might finally be the year to embrace your inner Carrie!

With a little creativity and upcycling, clothes at thrift stores can be easily flipped into a costume, and still be an essential, unique piece for your wardrobe. Themed makeup can level up your look, too—just be sure to opt for ethical products, especially biodegradable glitter and cruelty-free beauty products.

Here are a few items to keep an eye out for that can both be worn every day, and easily thrifted for costumes this Halloween:

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