When it comes to Halloween, why buy your costume if you could make it (or better yet, pull it out of your own closet!)?? All week long I’ll share my ideas for inexpensive, homemade Halloween costumes. Enjoy!

Something about Dorothy Gale always appealed to me as a little girl.  Maybe it was my own grandma named Dorothy, who lived through a devastating tornado in Kansas, or maybe it was those sparkly ruby slippers.  Either way, I’ve wanted to try my hand at a Dorothy costume and now seemed like a better time than ever.

Key Elements:

• Blue toned gingham dress
• Ruby Slippers (or any red shoe)
• Ankle Socks
• Picnic Basket
• Braids

It’s really all about the ruby slippers for this costume.  I made mine from a thrifted pair of low, brown pumps ($10) plus a can of spray adhesive ($6) and a jar of red glitter ($4).  These are definitely going to leave a trail, so if you’re worried about little red sparkles behind you, chose a different method to make your slippers.  

Start by stuffing your shoes with newspaper or tissue paper, so the adhesive doesn’t touch the interior of your shoe.  After that, set up shop outside (the glitter will get everywhere) and work in small sections by spraying and then dumping red glitter on top.  Continue until the entire shoe is covered and repeat with the opposite foot.  Once complete, give yourself 24 hours to dry.  Pair with white or pale blue socks and you’re off to see the wizard!

Bonus: Small Toto-like animal (Gizmo will do here)

Cost: $20
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Time Commitment: 1 hour or less (24 hours before event)

inspiration photos: source, source, source, source

Photography by Suzie Reecer.

Homemade Halloween: Dorothy Gale