Simple Steps for Zero-Waste Costumes‍

Halloween costumes are often manufactured to last for just a few wears. To keep prices low, fabrics are made from unrecyclable plastic, and end up in landfills. The single-use designs, low-quality synthetic materials, fast fashion production, excessive packaging, and short lifecycles make Halloween a high-waste holiday. 

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Plus unethical labor practices, synthetic dyes, and limited usability compound the issue. Trend-driven consumer demands, lack of awareness, and overconsumption contribute to the environmental impact, as many costumes end up as waste after minimal use.

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Whether you decide to do a DIY Halloween costume, or recreate a look from thrift store finds, try these ideas for a more sustainable Halloween costume: 

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Secondhand Resources

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• Upcycling: Use old clothing or materials you already have to create a unique costume. For example, turn old clothes into a zombie costume or a scarecrow outfit.
• Thrift Stores: Shop at thrift stores or secondhand shops for costume components. You can find various items that suit your costume idea without contributing to new production.
• Reusable Accessories: Use accessories that you already own or can repurpose for your costume, reducing the need for new items.‍
• Connect with community: Reach out to your local Buy Nothing Group for the materials, clothes, or props you need. ‍
• Swap with Friends: Organize a costume swap with friends or family members to exchange costumes from previous years.‍
• Reuse Yearly: Create timeless costumes that you can reuse year after year with minor modifications.

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DIY with Sustainable Materials and Accessories

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• DIY Crafts: Get creative and make accessories or costume elements using recycled materials, like cardboard, paper, or fabric scraps.
• Biodegradable Glitter: If your costume requires glitter, opt for biodegradable glitter, which is eco-friendly and doesn't harm the environment.‍
• Biodegradable Makeup: Opt for eco-friendly makeup brands that use natural and biodegradable ingredients.‍
• Natural Fabrics: Choose costumes made from natural and sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo instead of synthetic materials.‍
• Minimal Packaging: Avoid costumes that come with excessive packaging. Choose items with minimal packaging or buy second-hand costumes.‍
• Natural Dyes: If your costume requires coloring, consider using natural dyes instead of synthetic ones. Beet juice, turmeric, and other kitchen items can create vibrant colors.‍

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More Mindful Practices

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• Avoid Fast Fashion: Steer clear of cheap, disposable costumes produced by fast fashion brands that contribute to environmental issues.
• Local Artisans: If you can't make the costume yourself, support local artisans who create sustainable and handmade costumes.
• Energy-Efficient Decorations: If you're decorating your home, opt for energy-efficient LED lights and use decorations you can reuse next year.‍
• Donate or Recycle: After Halloween, consider donating your costume to thrift stores or community centers or recycle it responsibly.

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By mixing and matching these ideas, you can put together a unique and environmentally-conscious Halloween costume that aligns with your values.