BoOoOo!

It's a cool morning here and all of social media is buzzing about pumpkins, desserts, Halloween and boots for Fall and the upcoming Winter season.  My personal favorite is sweet potato cake and pumpkin muffins.  I also love Halloween too.  I love the dressing up, socializing with friends and all the free candy, or at least the candy that is dirt cheap the day after Halloween.  I know around this time a lot of stores are running ads for costumes and those Halloween Adventures are starting to pop up around towns across the US.  For the most part, this is a great resource for all the fake blood and guts you need to make your Halloween the most memorable.  The downside?  Their selection for anyone over a true size 14.

The last time I bought one of those prepackaged costumes, it was over priced (surprise) and fit okay but not great.  I would have liked it in a size larger but what are you going to do?  I have spent a lot of time searching out stores that have some extended sizes but they end up being incredibly expensive.  Why would I spend $50-$70 for something I'm wearing for only a few hours that will invariably end up with some food or drink stain on it?  Chances are I won't wear it again another year either.  If you are into spending that kind of money, Torrid would happily take your cash.  They have various Halloween styles that are $50+ and are sizes 12-28.

What about those who can't afford to spend that or simply don't want to?  Make your own costume.  You would be surprised at how easy this is and how inexpensive.  Unless you want to get into something more intricate with sewing great detail and so on, you can find most pieces you will need at a local thrift shop.  They always have various items that can be pieced together to create a unique costume that actually will fit and won't break the bank.
General suggestions:

• Pirate/Gypsy/Witch:  Look for ruffled blouses, corsets, long flowy skirts, scarves to wrap around your head and old costume jewlery to accent your outfit.  If the outfit doesn't look distressed enough, you can use an exacto knife or razor to shread some of the fabric in small areas then run it through the wash.  It will come out looking a bit worn and faded.
• Disney like characters:  I've seen more adults wanting to dress like Cinderella or Belle lately than little girls and that's great.  It is easy to find similar style gowns and the accessories on the cheap.
• Various Animals:  These are easy enough depending on what kind you want.   A little makeup, headband with ears or horns and you are good to go.
• Medical Staff:  Most thrift stores don't carry old scrubs but Walmart actually sells scrubs.  If you are a great seamstress or know someone who can sew, get an outfit, cut it up to how you want and boom - costume.
• Cop:  Same goes for being a Cop or a Sexy Cop of some kind.  Finding the various parts of the outfit is easy enough and fake handcuffs aren't expensive either.
• Various Book or Literature Characters:  It is very easy to find things to put together so you can look just like your favorite character.  Especially since a lot of book characters channel the fashion of years ago so finding the old plaid or worn clothes is an easy find.

For all the other special additives such as fishnets and tights, I have found that Burlington Coat Factory does sell it in plus sizes.  I know Walmart does sell it in plus sizes as well but I haven't tried them personally.  I may this Halloween season though.  I invite you to be creative this year and find something that you like and want to be.  Don't feel limited or intimidated by what is on the rack because it isn't your only option.

Good luck, stay safe and enjoy the sweets!

Everyone Is Irish on St. Patty's Day!

        This may not be an official holiday but it is something a lot of people celebrate with feats of Irish food and green beer.  I grew up celebrating with a pot of gold placed in the living room filled with gold wrapped candy, corn beef, mashed potatoes and soda bread.  As an adult, I like to throw in my own new traditions by adding green makeup and accessories to the mix and alcohol.   Of course, I want you to act responsibility when it comes to the makeup, accessories and booze but remember to have fun with it.  It is a day to let go of your everyday worries and socialize, make new friends or even find that special someone.  Themed parties are great places to meet new people and loved ones. 

                This is a great opportunity to throw a party with great decorations.  Do not feel as if you need to spend in excess to decorate.  Most dollar stores or store like them have great options that you can end up recycling or reusing the next year.  I love throwing a great party and bringing people together.  Plus, this is a great way to have a no-stress mixer for your single friends to mix and mingle.  The menu can be simple and healthy too.  You can incorporate green veggies and green goddess dressing instead of the usual onion dip.  Don’t forget about dark green leaves for a nice healthy salad.  Who says you have to have heavy, fattening meals to have a good party?   There are plenty of green options you can configure to be a part of this party.  If you want to use traditional Irish food, there are numerous ways to prepare the food in a more healthy way.  You can use red potatoes instead of regular white potatoes as an example.  It tastes just as great too!  The same rules apply to your drink menu.  Be creative in your selections and create your own concoction to go along with the theme of the party.  If you plan on going out, remember to set a budget not only for your wallet but for your health and wellness.  While it is very tempting to take advantage of the endless pitchers of green beer or whatever else you fancy, your body and wallet will pay the ultimate price.  Moderation is the key!  

Remember to have fun, smile, and put your best foot forward on this greenest of holidays!