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You don't even have to explain yourself; it happens. We've all been there, an hour before we're supposed to show up to our buddy's Halloween party, and we somehow don't have a costume. Not even a store-bought one. Not even the one you wore last year. But before you panic and call in sick, know that even the most prolific procrastinators have access to recognizable, clever costumes using stuff you probably have in your closet and on your desk.
Now, are these the best costumes in the world? Well, no — what did you expect? You waited until pre-game time to start thinking about it. But these will do in a pinch, especially if you're looking for something low-key, like an office costume contest or a night of party hopping where you might not want to be wearing a polyester jumpsuit the entire evening. Click through for 10 quickie costumes you can whip up even in a panic.
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Hot Spot
Flames + Wi-Fi symbol on a headband. Get it?
Illustrated by Paola Delucca.Clik here to view.
404 Error
Costume not found. GET IT?
Illustrated by Paola Delucca.Clik here to view.
Damian from Mean Girls
You'll need a pulled-up hoodie, sunglasses, and plenty of sass. Make sure you memorize some classic lines, which will come in handy as you're passing out candy. Remember, "None for Gretchen Wieners, bye!"
Illustrated by Paola Delucca.Clik here to view.
Nudist On Strike
Ahh, the classic. A picket sign with "Nudist on Strike" is all you need. (Well, that and to be wearing clothing.)
Illustrated by Paola Delucca.Clik here to view.
A Formal Apology
Bust out that bridesmaid dress or a suit, hang a "Sorry" sign in a pretty frame, and make sure you really, really regret that you forgot to bring extra ice to the party, like you were asked to.
Illustrated by Paola Delucca.Clik here to view.
Drake's Views Album
Print out a mini melancholy Drake from the Views album, and pin the sad man onto your shoulder or some other vantage point. Make sure you attempt to propose to whoever's dressed as Rihanna at some point during the evening.
Illustrated by Paola Delucca.Clik here to view.
Glossier Product
Put on your millennial pink outfit, slap a Glossier label on you, then smear Vaseline all over your face. So dewy!
Illustrated by Paola Delucca.Clik here to view.
Life
Wear a name tag that says "life," carry around some lemons. When someone asks who you are, hand 'em a ripe one and say, "Why don't you make some lemonade?"
Illustrated by Paola Delucca.Clik here to view.
All Ears
It gets funnier every time you say, "I'm all ears." Trust us.
Illustrated by Paola Delucca.Clik here to view.
Blessing In Disguise
A makeshift halo (headband + tinfoil) and a Groucho Marx disguise will get the point across. You'll get extra credit for donning full angel garb and topping it off with a trench coat.
Illustrated by Paola Delucca.Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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