With Halloween creeping upon us, every young person is in pursuit of the most niche costume. In a generation reliant on social media for inspiration, is it still possible to be original?
As students, everyone knows we love to fully commit to a costume on a Wednesday night social, but we’ve unintentionally created an unspoken expectation to out-do ourselves and each other on October 31. Social media has cursed us to believe a costume must be simultaneously unique, sexy, creative, thoughtful and elaborate, taking away from the childish fun we are supposed to have.
... people want to be noticed; we like the validation... this makes us feel recognised...
This student concurs that the months of planning and multiple shopping trips are worth the compliments received while out, but is that really what makes the night special?
A general consensus reveals that students are also concerned with the financial burden of Halloween.
...there’s so much pressure to spend lots of money on costumes ... I started thinking about it in September...
In search to be different, people unknowingly use financial leverage to create intricate and unattainable costumes, often being inspired by influencers or high-profile celebrities with an unlimited budget for disposable fashion. In attempt to medicate this dilemma, I’ve conducted a list of creative yet easily accessible costumes for those who can’t handle the costume crisis this Halloween.
With this being said, I’m impressed with our generation’s commitment and effort when it comes to dressing up for Halloween, even if it sparks ethical debate. Get to planning next year’s costume!