So Halloween is around the corner and you know there’s going to be a bunch of parties and bars that will be celebrating the event. You can either go to the store and drop at least $50 on whatever polyester mess is left standing, or you can pull together a simple, yet fun, getup with what you already own-or can get with just a few dollars. Grab a date or a group of friends and pull together some of these tried and true ideas that can be thrown together — even as you’re heading out the door.

Danny Zuko
What’s easier to pull together than an all-black outfit? Just pull out your old black jeans from the 90s (you know you still have them) or substitute with black dress pants. Your little brother’s tight black tee-or your own, some slicked hair, a cigarette and a lot of attitude pull that look together in a matter of minutes.

Sandy
Almost all of us own black leggings. If you don’t, I guarantee you know someone who does. If you have an off-the-shoulder top, rock it. If not, go for a tank and some killer heels. Lots of hairspray for your ‘do, a cigarette and some red lipstick will scream “sexy Sandy” from the end of the classic movie.

(A leather jacket with either of these costumes is a plus)

Athlete
Whether it’s your favorite A-Rod jersey or your boyfriend’s old letterman jacket, you can sport it with shorts and cleats and work your inner jock. If you’re going for baseball, grab a bat that’s lying around. A football, basketball, hockey stick — with the right props, your favorite player’s jersey and even some grease smeared across your cheeks, you’ll have the hardcore look of a team player.

Superman
Ok, so not everyone is man enough to walk around in blue tights and red undies, so why not go for Superman’s subtler, yet mysterious alter ego: Clark Kent. With this look you can go from cradling your coffee at your staff meeting to cradling a beer at your favorite pub-no phone-booth quick change required. Just wear your trusty Superman tee (or pick one up for $13 at a store like Kohls) under your button-up. You can sport your new parted ‘do at the office or slick it over right before you leave. Open the top few buttons of your shirt so you can see the tee underneath, and slip on your classy $3 party story glasses. (Try Party City at 38 W. 14th Street).

Lois Lane
This works just like the Clark Kent concept. Wear your work duds (preferably a pencil skirt and button-up) and don’t dare be seen without pencil and paper in hand-you never know when a story will break! You can even paste your photo on an index card and mark out your own Daily Planet Press Pass.

Prom Queen/King
I for one, loved my prom dress and wish I had any excuse to wear it again.  Luckily, I just found one. Girls, dig that dress out of your closet. Boys, dust off your tuxedos. It’s time to bring prom back — and finally get use out of the $200 you spent on your one-time-only outfit. If you were prom queen or king, re-live the night! If you weren’t, here’s your chance. Party stores sell crowns for around $5 and if you can’t find a sash to announce your regal status. You can get a yard of white, satin fabric from the craft store for as little as $2. Cut it into a strip long enough to go from the front of your torso, wrap around the back and meet up again. Use some glitter pens to designate yourself “Prom Queen” or “Prom King” and pin it on!

80s Rockstar
Let’s face it, 80s fashion has slowly been making its way back into the mainstream. So whether you’re keeping up with the trends or dug out your ripped, bleach-stained jeans that you’ve been secretly hoarding in remembrance of the age of crazy hair and even crazier getups, then you’ve got yourself a match made in costume heaven. Ripped jeans, studded belts, bandanas, legwarmers, your perfectly worn-in leather jacket, your KISS t-shirt with the hole in the armpit — be creative. Fellas, tonight’s the night it’s ok to shamelessly walk around with your guitar. Don’t have one? Come on, we know you eat and breathe Guitar Hero — it’s only for effect after all. And ladies go ahead, tease your hair and pull out the blue eye shadow. You know you want to.

Celebrity
Whether we’d like to admit it or not, celebrities fascinate us. The money, the fame, the parties…the idiotic behavior. Channel your inner Lindsay Lohan with some smudged eyeliner and lipstick — remember you’re going for the whole “I’ve been partying for 3 days straight look.” Don’t forget a skimpy dress (or something flashy if you don’t want to show too much skin), oversized sunglasses (yes, even at night) and the two essentials: cigarette in one hand, beer in another.

Feeling gutsy? Then there’s always Britney! And no, I’m not talking about her cute, and innocent (?) school girl days but her more recent, and amusing, Cheeto-snacking, beer-guzzling days. For the sake of your hair we’re not suggesting you buzz it off, but pick up a bald cap from Party City for $13. You can walk around with buzzer in hand or an umbrella — we’re sure you remember that display of sanity. Oh, and don’t forget, PJ’s are a must. Cheetos are optional.

A Significant Other/Friend/Co-worker
If you’re going to a party where everyone will know who you’ll be imitating, all you need is a trip to their closet for some of their duds. Steal their hairstyle and don’t forget to mimic their mannerisms and the way they talk all night. If you really want to get a kick out of it, have them dress up as you at the same party.

7 Deadly Sins
This is a fun idea when you’re going out as a group, but you can still be just as sinful on your own. Just like for the Prom Queen costume, you can each wear a sash to designate what sin you’re representing. Here’s what to wear:

Lust - For this deadly sin, sex appeal is your biggest asset. Spice things up with those sexy boots you love, a slinky dress, fishnets, some red lipstick and yes, even a feather boa if you’d like.

Gluttony - I would recommend a T-shirt you wouldn’t mind getting rid of (preferably a white one) and some slouchy sweats. Stain your T-shirt with anything you can out of the fridge-ketchup, mustard, soy sauce, whatever. (You can use paint or markers if you’re not into the possible stink-factor). Then, tape on food wrappers (or actual food if you think you’ll get hungry) from candy bars to lollipops to chips to that McDonald’s wrapper that’s been on the floor of your car for the past week. Don’t forget to walk around eating (or at least pretending to) throughout the night.

Greed - It’s all about the money! Get decked in your most expensive-looking business attire, tape some fake bills onto your clothes and always keep a stack in hand. You can find fake bills at the dollar or party store. If you’re desperate, there’s always your trusty Monopoly money!

Sloth - This costume is as easy to put together as rolling out of bed — literally. PJs, slippers and you’re best “I just woke up and I’m still tired” look are all you need. This may just be the comfiest costume yet.

Wrath - Anything red would be perfect for this sin-it screams anger. Make your hair look wild and untamed and don’t forget a scowl that’ll make blood run cold.

Pride - Think beauty queen for this deadly sin a la Prom Queen. Pull out that dress and tiara and work on your pageant wave.

Envy - We’re talking about green. Not Hulk green, but green with envy. Green dress, green shirt, green makeup-whatever. If you’re felling super gutsy then you can even paint your face green. Try Ricky’s Green Base makeup for $3. And don’t forget to look envious.

Related posts:

1. Shop Your Closet This Halloween: 10 Costumes That’ll Cost Less Than Your Buzz