IF you believe that Halloween is just for children who want to hoard all the candy they can, think again. Halloween is that one time of the year when teens (or 20-somethings) can unwind and wear outrageous costumes without looking like they’re stuck in a time warp or on the way to a cosplay convention. If you wanted to wear a princess costume as a 6-year-old kid and never really got around to doing so, then there’s no better time than to relive your childhood fantasies than Halloween.

But while there are a lot of great costumes, there are lots of lame ones, too. However, getting together a good costume doesn’t mean that you have to shell out thousands of pesos on an outfit that you’re going to wear only for one day (save that for your wedding). If you’re going to go trick-or-treating with your friends or just want to show off at a costume party, keep in mind 2bU’s guide for getting a great Halloween costume without blowing your budget.

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.