Harry Potter Halloween on a Budget?

Answer 1

Boys, girls and perhaps even adults, have been inspired by the story of �the boy who lived.� This Halloween, the magic of Harry Potter and the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry can be yours without taking out a second mortgage.

It�s easy to begin a quick search for Harry Potter costumes and turn away daunted by the cost of the complete ensemble. However, parents should remain encouraged. With a little elbow grease and planning, your child can brandish the proud robes of Gryffindor, Slytherin, or any of the Hogwarts Houses he chooses, at a fraction of the cost.

House robes are the most recognizable aspect of a Harry Potter costume. To go as the boy wizard himself, or one his trusty sidekicks Ron and Hermoine, a Gryffindor robe is a must. Search secondhand on eBay or Amazon, or purchase new from those retailers or websites like Wholesale Costume Club for low prices. Save on shipping by purchasing Harry Potter glasses from the same retailer or from websites like Anytime Costumes or Pure Costumes for free shipping.

Should you find yourself too short on money for the traditional Harry Potter robe, forgo it for a pair of black slacks, a black V-neck sweater and Gryffindor tie for the everyday, Hogwarts look. Both sweater and slacks can be found at an area secondhand store. Add the trademark round Harry Potter glasses, Gryffindor patch and a lightning bolt scar on the forehead for an unmistakable look. You�ll know the tie�s authentic by the presence of the house mascot on the front.

For the adult who proves handy with her hands but short on cash, a Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw robe can be made in short order. Howgarts House patches can be purchased for a few dollars and sewn onto a simple black robe, or, by way of a few short instructions found on About.com, a relatively simple Hogwarts robe can be sewn. Similarly, a yellow tie can become a Gryffindor tie by adding red lines with a fabric pen. No matter your budget, Harry Potter costumes are well within reach.