Sports Star Costumes to Steer Clear of

February 8th, 2010 by scavengeinc No comments »

Dressing as a Sports Star can be easy and popular. But you need to know where to draw the line.  Some jocks deserve to stay on their trading card and not grace the door of a costume party.

Still in the news today, you don’t want to arrive as Michael Phelps.  Never mind the fact that wearing a Speedo is cold and could be embarrassing, you don’t want people to have expectations.  Either you’ll crack out your bong or speed through the party in under 51 seconds.  What happened to modesty and small talk?

Forget about Tiger Woods.  Although some guys will want to disguise themselves as the newest Good Guy Turned Bad, it’s not going to be popular with the ladies.  Who can blame the girl for going after Tiger with a golf club?  Do you want to be the man that everyone is dropping like lead, from his wife to his sponsors?  Nah, even dinosaur Jack Nicholas or Happy Gilmore would be a better choice.

Choose another football hopeful besides Maurice Clarett.  This guy wasn’t just greedy and dishonest, pocketing more fringe benefits that a cheesy cowboy, but he didn’t make it onto the Broncos after all and then got himself arrested for robbery and assault.  How hard the mighty fall.

Hockey is full of personalities.  And the fighters are often the most popular, especially if they can score goals as well as punches.  Todd Bertuzzi, on the other hand, went way too far when he attacked Steve Moore on ice.  Although he’s finally come out of the wood work again, it’s better to leave Bertuzzi on the bench and pick another bruiser like Bob Probert.

Women should obviously stay away from Tonya Harding of knee-knocking fame.  Try for a calmer, more pixie look with Mary Lou Retton or the sexy and sweaty power of Serena Williams.  Otherwise all of the other women at the party will be watching their backs.

Unless you’re going for controversy and crave snarls and catcalls, leave these Sports Star costumes off of your list.  A little scandal brings publicity and media attention.  But these guys and gals are in a nasty class of their own.

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Skip Valentine’s Day and Head Straight for February 20 Love Your Pet Day

February 5th, 2010 by scavengeinc No comments »

Froggy Doggy CostumeMaybe your sweetheart wasn’t super creative last year.  Or maybe that sweetheart isn’t around at all anymore.  But good old Rover or your faithful Kitty is always there when you need them.  Pass over Valentine’s this year and set aside February 20 to have a date with your pet.  Celebrate the official “Love Your Pet Day.”

Plan a romantic (and possibly chilly) walk with your favorite pet.  Did you know you can even get coats and leashes for rabbits now?  Seriously.  Even Thumper can get in on the cardio action with a stroll (or hop) in the park.

Prepare a special meal.  If you normally stick to dry food, go exotic and buy the aromatic canned variety.  Some animals will go nuts for the stuff.  Feed your guinea pig a spinach salad and listen to him squeak in delight.  Give your dog a bone wrapped in a pretty ribbon and capture his loyalty forever (you know you already had it, but it’s kind of like a wedding band – in sickness and in health and all of that…)

Have a party.  Here’s where you can involve friends and family.  Send out invites to anybody who has a pet that can behave themselves.  (So you don’t want Auntie’s Persian coming over if your canary is hosting the show.)  Go wild and make it a costume party.  Then things can get really interesting.

Dress as a princess yourself and get a Frog Princess costume for your pup.  Then you’ll know it will end happily ever after.

Or disguise yourself as an elf and dress your cat or dog as the famous Santa Claus himself.  Hand out presents to all the pets at the party and they’re sure to come back next year.

Try transforming your home into an adventure with pirate and buccaneer costumes for both you and your pet.  Swing from the rafters, make party poopers walk the plank and just generally get rowdy and have fun.  Your pet will be the most popular in the neighborhood.

Have an exciting and even romantic February by celebrating with your most loyal companion on “Love Your Pet Day.”  There’s a friend who’ll never let you down.

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Top 10 Things You Should NOT Be Caught Doing in Costume

February 4th, 2010 by scavengeinc No comments »

There are certain situations that are destined to cause even the toughest person regret.  Stripping in front of your grandmother, for instance.  When you throw a costume in the mix, there are many other potentially embarrassing conundrums to stay out of.  Here’s the top ten.

  1. Don’t get caught by your pastor wearing a not-so-modest nun or clergy costume.  Not only will the priest be embarrassed by your fall from grace, but you may be fueling temptation.
  2. Ditto for any conservative, elderly relatives or clergy of any sort.  Sister Sarah or Auntie Fanny will likely never forgive you.
  3. There are plenty of costumes and situations that your children should never see you in.  Won’t the little ones be afraid of the beach if they find daddy giving mommy mouth to mouth dressed in their matching beach beauty costumes?
  4. Or you can contribute to kiddy nightmares if your Dracula gets caught sucking blood from an unsuspecting victim.  Lock the doors or get a babysitter – it’s just safer that way.
  5. Consider the reputation of others. It may be a bad plan to be dressed as a fireman when a blaze breaks out.  Imagine what kind of a name the local crew will get as you run screaming from the flames, knocking over any in your way.
  6. Same goes for a police costume if a robbery occurs.  Make sure no one thinks it’s a real gun.
  7. You might want to meet up with an ex when you’re dressed to kill in any sort of sexy costume.  But consider the burn if you choose to be a decrepit witch or aged, old woman and you run into that same ex.  Even worse if he has a new fling on his arm.
  8. Same goes for the men – nice to see an old flame when you’re looking buff as a star athlete, not so nice when disguised as a hobo.  Avoid eye contact or hide in the corner if necessary.
  9. Don’t meet your new girlfriend or boyfriend’s parents dressed as a jailbird.  Bad plan.  Especially if that parent owns a shot gun.

Costumes can allow us to become someone or something else for a time.  But remember that reality beckons and don’t be caught dead in the wrong spot wearing the wrong costume.

Oh, and for number 10) Never strip while your grandmother is anywhere in the vicinity.

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Best Bug Costumes to Create Buzz

February 3rd, 2010 by scavengeinc No comments »

You know how insects can get in through the tiniest little hole and just infest the place?  That’s buzz.  And in some cases it’s a good thing.  When you’re generating interest and catching attention, buzz is a fabulous thing!  At the next opportunity, try on these bug costumes to create an unforgettable buzz.

Who doesn’t like ladybugs?  After all, they’re pretty and don’t bite.  And with a lady bug costume you can go anywhere from subtle to sexy, all designed to create buzz.  The more modest ladybug is decked out in red and black flash with fluttering wings – sure to catch the admiration of all present.  Other ladybugs are more risqué, with lacy lingerie and leg-hugging accents.  Those wings will fly you right into the mind and heart of any number of bug lovers out there.  Be sure not to get squished.

What could be sweeter than honey?  Whether you’re trying to attract the bears or just those with a sweet tooth, choosing a bee costume will do the trick.  Bold in yellow and black stripes, a bee costume will stand out from the crowd.  Express your dominance as the Queen Bee – but be prepared for a hive full of workers bees vying for your attention.  Or make the rounds yourself as a Busy Bee.  That way you can taste the array of flowers out there until you find something that keeps bringing you back.

Don’t be mistaken as a hornet and be sure not to sting.  Bees can get pretty unpopular when they attack people around them.

Create a good kind of buzz at the next party with these bug costumes.  Let your wings carry you around the room and settle yourself where your beauty is appreciated.  That kind of infestation will be welcome for sure.

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Posted in Adult Costumes, Bee Costumes, Lady Bug Costumes

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How to Throw the Best Mardi Gras Party Ever

February 2nd, 2010 by scavengeinc No comments »

Arguably the most outrageous holiday out there, Mardi Gras should not go by without a party.  Take the reins and throw the bash yourself, following these tips and tricks to make it the best ever.

  1. Think purple, gold and green.  Lots of them.  You cannot decorate TOO much for a Mardi Gras party, so don’t hold back.
  2. You’re going to need beads – and lots of them.  Meet your guests at the door with beads, drape them from every spot you can, wear them, toss them and create general mayhem with tons of beads.
  3. Award prizes for the wildest masks, hats and costumes.  How about the tallest party goer (watch for stilts) or tangent costumes (more than one person in a costume together)?  Be outrageous with your rewards and reward the outrageous.  It makes for a real Mardi Gras feel.
  4. Don’t forget the food.  Cajun food should abound – spicy, seafood and saucy.  For the sweet finale, try a bananas foster and king cake.  Have more food than you’ll need as Mardi Gras parties tend to swell beyond expectations.
  5. Be sure to plan a costume parade.  Plenty of music, dancing and a long, circuitous route will need to be a part of the party.  Don’t be afraid to go outside and gather people as you travel.  The atmosphere is contagious.
  6. Keep the Carnival Season going with non-stop music.  Horns should be blasting and toes should be tapping at all times.
  7. Find some jester dolls and hand them out or dress as a Court Jester yourself.  Encourage the notion of silliness and laughter with this classic Mardi Gras symbol.
  8. Plan for a blast!  You won’t be disappointed with a well planned Mardi Gras party, so let you hair down and let loose New Orleans style.  Feather masks, beads all around and Cajun food and drink will ensure a time to remember.

Ring in the Lenten season the right way by throwing your own Mardi Gras party.  But don’t be surprised when all of your friends look forward to it again next year.

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Spice Up your Valentine’s Day with a Hot and Private Costume Party

February 1st, 2010 by scavengeinc No comments »

Forget the flowers and chocolate this year.  Indulge your Valentine with a ticket for adventure by presenting them with an invitation to a costume party – for just the two of you.

Does your love have a passion for the wild west?  Indulge his fantasies with a cowgirl outfit or add a little danger and turn native with a sexy Indian costume.  Then light a fire for two or let him chase you across the plains.

How about an office romance?  Turn up the heat in the boardroom or catch a private moment by the copier with an Office Tramp costume.  Guys can play this game too and tease the stuffiness out of their working woman – be creative and coax her to let her hair down.

For a naughty surprise, clothe yourself as the raging red devil.  Tell him that this year nothing is off limits, but be sure you can live up to your promises!  You may be surprised what he comes up with.

Or lay down the law and come disguised as a tough cop.  Your girl may relish the off-duty policeman routine, enjoying a dominant male figure in uniform.  Be sure to let her know who is boss.  Girls can get in the act as well either as a partner or as the officer herself.  Handcuffs optional.

Make your man feel like a god by dressing as a Greek goddess.  Set up a table of grapes and wine, lounge together and bask in the glory of Mount Olympus.

A ho-hum Valentine’s Day can be completely transformed and spiced up with a little creativity and a costume or two.  Build anticipation and hint at the event a few days before.  Play on your chosen theme and let your lover know that this holiday will be unforgettable.  Enjoy a private party this year – no reservations!

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Posted in Adult Costumes, Halloween Costumes, Valentine's Day

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Sometimes a Costume Really Gives You Superpowers

January 29th, 2010 by scavengeinc No comments »

Clean cut, marketing exec Paul Longmire was only out for an evening with friends in Lancashire, UK.  But with the power of a borrowed costume, the man became a real hero and even saved Lois Lane.  Granted, her name is Elizabeth, she’s married and they aren’t planning on hooking up, but he saved her all the same.

Elizabeth had a few drinks while out with her sister and unknowingly, she drank a little something spiked with Rohypnol or GHB.  Within a few minutes she was spotted stumbling around and ended up flat on the floor.

Enter Superman.  So he didn’t come out the phone booth, but he was there in the blink of an eye.  Even held in his arms, the 26-year-old woman still couldn’t stand up and the hero swept her off of feet and carried her outside to a waiting ambulance (did he have a hotline to the hospital or something?).  Superman sacrificed his cape in the name of bravery and after wrapping her in it, melted away from the scene.

She awoke hours later in the hospital where the doctors informed her she had been drugged.  Her thoughts turned to what she was saved from… and the dramatic music in the hospital room reached a crescendo.

Determined to thank the hero, Elisabeth put out an ad in the local paper.  And Superman, contrary to all the unwritten laws of superhero etiquette, answered the ad.  Now they’re friends on Facebook and this guy must have dates lined up a mile deep.  Wouldn’t you go after the most powerful man on earth?  Those tights really accentuate his legs.

Do you think Paul would have had it in him without the superhero costume?  Would he have left the rescue to someone else or did the suit embolden him to go above and beyond?  Perhaps we’ll never know and probably Elizabeth doesn’t care.  He was there when she needed him.

The next logical step is to write a new Superman movie and make Clark Kent leave reporting and head to marketing.  And move from Metropolis to Greater Manchester, UK.

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Everybody Loves a Clown – How to Apply Your Makeup Right

January 28th, 2010 by scavengeinc No comments »

Clowns are classic.  You can hang out at a kid’s birthday, a grand opening, a masquerade or anywhere that seems like a circus.  (Well, maybe not the shopping mall on Black Friday, it may be a circus but a clown will get some strange looks.)

First choose your clown’s personality.  Are you looking for the traditional Whiteface clown?  An exaggerated mouth and eyes and big, red nose are the usual suspects of this type.  Or you can go European and dress as an Auguste clown with no white base, but accentuated (or extra large) eyes and mouth.  Sometimes a sad clown is in order and for that you’ll need to go with a Tramp – a dark face and sappy, melancholy eyes.  What’s your mood?

Putting clown makeup of any style on your face can be tricky.  Choose your facial features that are the most amusing.  Can’t think of which ones?  Ask an honest friend and then you’ll find out that you have really unusual nose or lopsided eyes.  Don’t take it personally; that’s what makes a good clown (and plan to squirt them with your daisy pin later).

Wash your face completely and pat dry.  Wrap your shoulders and chest with a towel, bib or smock.  Place yourself in a bright area in front of a large mirror (all the better to see that huge nose in).

Starting with the base or bottom layer, apply your makeup.  Usually this is white or skin tone.  Use your fingers to cover the entire face with a thin layer.

Move to the outlines and exaggeration of your eyes and mouth.  Once you’ve put that on, lightly cover it with baby powder to set it.  Here’s a little trick.  Close your eyes and look up.  Tap your bottle of baby powder to create a cloud in the air above your face.  It will settle on your makeup, just don’t open your eyes until it does.

Add lipstick, cheeks, nose and any other colors you like.  Use whatever works for your fingers and the type of makeup – brush, stick or swab.

Voila!  Now your masterpiece is complete and you have officially turned yourself into a fool.  Well, someone who clowns around anyway.

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Get Down to Business on January 28 – Officially “Fun at Work Day”

January 27th, 2010 by scavengeinc No comments »

So you’re feeling a little blah at the office.  The days drag into one another and your co-workers and customers are grating your nerves like stinky parmesan cheese.

Shake off the January cold spell in your office by celebrating an official National Holiday.  OK, not necessarily official, but a holiday nonetheless.  This is NOT one where you get off work – this is one where you run to work.  How’s that for exciting?

Let your creativity explode for “Fun at Work Day” in 2010!

Start with decorations.  Balloons, cakes, streamers and noise makers are all fun.  But how about taking it one step farther and dressing up?  Get a theme going.  Something a little beyond your usual business attire… but tie it in with the company and you may just get brownie points for a brilliant marketing plan.

Work in a call center?  How about dressing up as a Flying Pig – that way when potential customers give you that age old excuse you can clear your throat gently and reply, “Actually sir, I have a pig flying in my office right now.  So how many can I order for you?”  It’s not manipulative, it’s simple persuasion.

Or what if you have a consulting firm with stiff suits and a formal atmosphere?  Go with a classic guerilla suit for anonymity and dance around grunting and stealing bananas.  Or try a Leprechaun costume (available for men and women) and show your colleagues that relaxing the Irish way always brings good luck.

Involve a few others if you’re worried about fall out.  Dress as a sports team to boost morale.  Or a famous rock band to pump up your media image (we know everybody loves celebrities).  If the boss rakes you over the coals, explain to him or her that having fun at work is not a crime and it is bound to get PR and enliven even the drabbest employees into better production.

Keep ringing in the New Year until the end of January with “Fun at Work Day.”  You may be destined to start a company tradition.

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Batman’s Identity Revealed – And He’s Not a Mysterious Millionaire

January 25th, 2010 by scavengeinc No comments »

Police officers in Panama City Beach made a startling discovery last week.  They blew open the cover story of the world’s creepiest good guy, none other than Batman himself.

Deputy Williams cornered the superhero sitting in his truck (where was the Batmobile?) outside of a home empty of its owners.  He had a trunk full of all the usual tools – screwdrivers, hacksaws, binoculars and a pry bar.  There was no sign of a grappling hook or even his mask.

But Danny Zane Tatum wasted no time spilling the beans.  He confessed to being the masked vigilante almost right away, even directing the authorities to his bat cave – a motel down the road.  Hardly the stuff of blockbuster movies.

So here’s the question.  If this guy is the real deal (or even if he just thinks he is), where is the costume?  Where is the muscle-bound suit with tricks galore and a sweeping cape?  If you’re going to claim an identity, especially one so well known, you had better have the gear to back it up.

Imagine if Tatum had headed to the local costume shop and bought or even rented the famous get up.  Then those cops would have been impressed, likely they would have even asked for his autograph.  Once they left him alone, he would have been free to survey (or empty) all of the houses in the neighborhood.  Come on Danny, use a little forethought.

There was apparently a girl in his motel room.  Well, not actually his motel room since he didn’t rent it, but climbed through the window to have a shower and entertain guests.  She too missed a chance to collaborate the man’s story.  What if she had presented herself in a tight-fitting Catwoman suit, purring and pawing at the sheriff?  That may have saved her friend from the questioning and arrest he was subsequently caught up in.  These two have no sense of drama.

The moral of the story is this – if you claim to be a superhero, at least have the look to go with it.  Never claim to be the Hulk if you can’t produce green skin and don’t say that you’re Wonder Woman unless you can use a whip.  Get the gear and then go fight the crime.  Or commit it, whatever works for you.

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