Archive for the ‘Halloween Costumes’ category

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The Ninja Costume: They’ll Never See You Coming

March 12th, 2010
Adult Ninja Costume

Ninja Costume

When thinking about Halloween costume ideas, most people think of outfits that will garner attention from friends, family and strangers.  After all, half the fun is getting noticed.  Then isn’t it ironic that every year tens of thousands of people dress up in a costume that is not meant to be seen.

I’m taking about Shinobi for you gentlemen and Kunoichi for the ladies – a.k.a. – The Ninja.

For centuries these stealth soldiers and mercenaries have quietly taken the lives of thousands.  The funny thing is, you might already be dressed as a ninja.  If we were to go back several centuries, you would find that yesterday’s ninja dressed as priests, merchants and entertainers – how else did you expect them to infiltrate castles and accomplish their deadly missions?  There is no ninja union, no ninja business card.

Putting on a ninja costume is much cooler than dressing like  a spy or an assassin because you get to have a distinct look that is equal parts scary and cool.

Popular culture has taught us that a black sheet and some plastic ninja stars are all we need to play the part.  But if you want to rock an authentic ninja look you might want to consider a short sword (go for the dagger!) and a match (in lieu of karate, these guys were fans of arson!).  You also should probably make some friends.  Part of the ninja mystique is the ability to scale seemingly unreachable heights.  This was often accomplished by forming human platforms, much like the pyramids you’ve seen cheerleaders form.  Yes, I just compared ninjas to cheerleaders.  And yes, my life is now in jeopardy.  But I am proud of myself; I managed to refrain from a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle reference.  Well, almost.

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Catch the Buzz of Wonderland with your own Tea Party

February 19th, 2010

The odd but fabulous style of Tim Burton is sure to create an Alice in Wonderland film like never before.  Opening in theatres on March 5th and starring the sultry Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter, this is one for people of all ages to flock to.  “Watch Me” are the front and center instructions for this movie.

A classic story is brought to life again – but this time the animations are intertwined with vivacious real life actors and incredible sets.  It’s a stunning feast for the eye.  But the absolute best aspect of this film are the costumes – incredible and almost unbelievable, they turn a children’s story into a fantasy world for everyone.

The whole thing screams for a first class costume party.  How can you not want to indulge the adventurer deep within yourself by diving into Alice’s story?

Start with the invites – crisp, white paper with simple black letters.  “You’ve got a very important date” will entice the party goers and get them in the mood for the madness of an afternoon tea party with the Hatter, Dormouse and White Rabbit.  Don’t shy away from inviting the nastiest woman you know, just be sure she’s dressed as the Queen of Hearts and brings along sufficient henchmen to do her bidding.  Better yet, if the innocence of Alice is not your cup of tea go as the power hungry Queen yourself.

Set up the nibblies, including the fanciest of tea sets and plenty of sweeties.  No Unbirthday is complete without sugar, sugar and more sugar.  Feel free to sip something other than tea from your cups, but keep it authentic with saucers for every guest.

Everyone from the kids to the adults can get into this movie’s release.  Check out the costumes available now, print the invites and pull out the tea set.  Go down the rabbit-hole together and hold the party to remember for all time.

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AVATAR: Become a Na’vi with a Bit of Makeup Magic

February 18th, 2010

James Cameron’s newest epic is rocketing across the movie world and it’s only a matter of time before the Na’vi become more recognizable than Wookies.  Try on a little makeup for the next costume party and transform yourself into a character from the hot new movie.

Start with some plastic or rubber ears – look for something elfish (think Lord of the Rings but painted bright blue).  You’ll need appliance putty or spirit gum to stick them on your head.  Use acrylic paint in solid blue with lighter blue stripes to make the ears look authentic.  Wash your face and hair well before applying the disguise.

Look for contacts that will lend you a cat-eye look, perfect for the Na’vi.  Then cover the skin on your face and neck with a thin layer of blue cream-based makeup.  Get good coverage and recoat until you’re entirely happy with how it’s turned out.  Mix a little white into some blue for highlights, thin stripes or swirls around your temples and radiated across the rest of your face and body.

For the allusion of a cat-nose that all good Na’vi have, work with the lightened blue makeup and draw a defined line from the inside corners of your eyes to the outside points of your nose or nostril, widening the look of any nose.  Blend it in a little for a more natural effect.  Also run a line down the bridge of the nose and blend.  You can also add makeup to the seam between the ears and the face, but not too heavy.

Use more lightened blue to create stripes or swirls wherever appropriate and add the character’s hair with a wig or beads.  If you can get your hands on a blue lycra body suit your whole outfit will be sublime, but if not opt for something blue and tight fitting.

You’ve cornered the market on Avatar makeup with this get up and it’s sure to impress even the pickiest sci-fi fans.  Just watch out for greedy, military-type humans and moon-shattering battles.

Cameron has also just announced that he’ll be penning a new book – yes – AVATAR!  “There are things you can do in books that you can’t do with films,” Cameron explained.  “The producer also hinted that the story of Pandora and its blue-skinned people will also have a sequel – or sequels, plural.”

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Patrolling the No Phone Zone

February 10th, 2010

Captain America CostumeOprah has done it again.  She’s begun a revolution!  This time the media queen is attacking the dangerous world of…  America’s roads and highways.

So you’re on board with Oprah’s pledge.  You’ve agreed to stop texting and using your cell phone while driving.  Easy, right?  Well, it’s smart in any case.  But did you read the rest of the pledge on Oprah’s website?

“I will ask other drivers I know to do the same.  I pledge to make a difference.”

Now here’s the thing – to really make a difference you will need to do more than just ask other drivers.  You will need to take action, work hard at it and go above and beyond.  You can turn yourself into a highway super hero!  Or maybe an enforcer is more to your personality.  Get some gear and get out there, making the roads safer for all.

Imagine yourself now.  A flowing cape, maybe a mask to keep up your disguise (wouldn’t want anybody at the office asking you for an autograph or anything) and a creative source of intimidating power.  Is there some type of zapper that you could use against those pesky cell phones that won’t leave their owner’s ears or thumbs?  Evil machines, for sure.  Well, except for when you’re talking on them outside of your vehicle.  Look out drivers, here comes “Anti-Cellular!” – the hero of the roadways, eliminating wireless distractions one zap at a time.

Or if you are more of the enforcer type, you could gear up with a “No Phone Police” uniform.  Take a traditional police officer’s costume and add a few gadgets.  Instead of a radar gun, you could have a cell phone gun (that’s probably the only type of gun safe for you to carry).  Get a bright orange vest to catch the attention of drivers as you step onto the roadway to pull them over.  And above all, make sure to pick up some of those ultra cool mirrored sunglasses.  Classic cop look.

With either of those two get ups you are truly ready to “make a difference.”  Now get out there and recruit hundreds of your neighbors and coworkers to sign the No Phone Zone pledge.  Oprah herself may thank you for it.

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Ten Commandments of Costumes

February 9th, 2010

What if Moses had come down from the mountain wearing a feather boa?  Maybe he was headed to a costume party, ready to deliver the ten commandments of costumes to all party goers.  They could be a little something like this –

French Maid Costumes

  1. Thou shalt never think that costumes only come out at Halloween.  Live it up and wear one whenever the mood strikes.
  2. Thou shalt always use a mirror when applying make up – unless thou is dressed as an old woman.  Then lipstick in odd places and sloppy eye makeup is entirely appropriate.
  3. Thou shalt wear undergarments at all times under a toga costume.  The same law does not apply to men when wearing a kilt – always go authentically Scottish.
  4. Thou shalt not dress in a scary costume and terrify the guests as they arrive – unless thou is chaperoning at a pre-teen party and wants to see cocky boys wet their pants.
  5. Thou shalt always shave thy legs when dressing in anything with garters and lace – unless thou chose a French maid costume, then hairy legs can be considered European.
  6. Thou shalt never dress in a tux and introduce thyself as “Bond.  James Bond” unless thou wants to Sexy Men's Costumesbe shaken and not stirred.
  7. Thou shalt always expect to get rubbed when thou wears a genie outfit.
  8. Thou shalt not wear a pimp costume – ever.
  9. Thou shalt never wear a costume that is too small for you – especially if that costume is spandex and thou does not have Superman or Cat Woman’s body.  Also never wear full body, painted-on costumes, even if you have the body of Superman or Cat Woman.
  10. Thou shalt not wear anything edible on your costume – especially if there is any chance there will be a dog at the party.

Follow these cardinal rules and have a heavenly time at every costume party.  Or face certain judgement.

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Top 10 Things You Should NOT Be Caught Doing in Costume

February 4th, 2010

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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How to Throw the Best Mardi Gras Party Ever

February 2nd, 2010

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

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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Sometimes a Costume Really Gives You Superpowers

January 29th, 2010

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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Unexpected Costumes for the Kid in You

January 20th, 2010

Who wants to blend in with the crowd?  Be sure that you’ll get noticed at the next costume party you crash with an unexpected costume that pays tribute to your inner child.

Think of the crowd at the party.  What are some common, instantly recognizable childhood memories?  Try some famous TV character costumes – the Beaver is cute and easy, as is retro Batman or Robin (think Adam West, not George Clooney).

If the attendees are more like 30-something, take your pick of the original Beverly Hills 90210 cast.  Dylan’s hair is still sexy, although his scowl may be hard to keep up all night.  Try dressing as Brenda with a Dylan sidekick, or Kelly with a squeaky clean Brandon nipping at your heels.

Younger party goers than that?  How about Pokemon characters or the classic (and still popular) Sponge Bob?  Look for less mainstream members of a famous cast, like Groundskeeper Willie from the Simpsons.  Or bypass Harry Potter and opt for Nymphadora Tonks, bright hair at the ready.

Go a little further (and get a lot more technical) by dressing as a child’s toy.  Pulling off a Rubik’s Cube should be easy, but are you up for creating a Slinky costume?  Now that’s a challenge.  How about the Easy Bake Oven (complete with hollow sounding “ping!” and cupcakes that taste like cardboard) or Strawberry Shortcake?  Think pogo sticks, Yo-yos and sock monkeys.  Which toy was your favorite?

Back from the depths of history are the Smurfs and both guys and girls can get in on the blue act.  Want to have the pick of any smurf, er man?  Find a Smurfette costume, flip your hair and watch them all fall at your white-booted feet (Papa Smurf included).

Surprise the guests with memories and retro flash backs.  You’ll stand out, be excused for any immaturity and might even bring an old fad back in style.  Bet my costume will be better than yours – nah, nah, nah, nah, naaaa, nah!

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