1. Use clothes that you already have at home. If you must buy, then purchase something that you can wear again by mixing with other wearable items. For instance, if you want to go as Catwoman, look for a black miniskirt or pair of shorts and wear it with a tank top and high-heeled boots. Don’t have boots? Borrow from a fashion-savvy friend instead of buying. You can also unearth your prom gown and go as a Disney princess.

2. Play around with makeup and wigs. Nothing changes your look more than a drastic change of hair and makeup. Go all out by painting your face green ala Maleficent from “Sleeping Beauty,” or try on a blond wig and go as Marilyn Monroe. Host a makeup party at home before you go out with your friends—you can help each other transform into a fearsome villain or bashful princess.

3. Go as a recognizable character. It isn’t a costume if you go as say, Gossip Girl’s Blair Waldorf-five years from now, you’ll wish that you did something more outrageous instead of planting a satin bow on your head. Not only will you catch everyone’s attention, you’ll also have a blast acting out your character the entire night.

4. Bring props. It’s easier to identify your chosen character if you bring props when you go to parties. Try to make them as close to the original as possible—especially if the character has an iconic prop, like Snow White’s apple.

5. If you’re going in a group, try to follow a theme. It makes for more hilarious planning sessions with your friends, and you’ll have great photos to boot. If you’re into couple costumes (it takes guts and the ability to withstand copious amounts of teasing), try going as a devil and angel.