As the autumn chill sets in, a different kind of hunt is underway in households across the UK: the search for the perfect, and more importantly, affordable Halloween costume for the little ones. With budgets tighter than ever, parents are seeking out spooktacular savings to avoid a financial fright this October 31st.
New research has conjured up a list of the top five most-asked-for kids' Halloween costumes, based on search data. Knowing what's hot is half the battle; the other is knowing where to find it without haunting your bank account.
The Top 5 Most Popular Kids' Halloween Costumes
From superheroes to supernatural creatures, this year's trends are a mix of the classic and the contemporary. Here’s what the nation’s children are desperately hoping to find in their trick-or-treat bags:
- Spider-Man: The friendly neighbourhood web-slinger continues to swing into the top spot, a perennial favourite for his heroic appeal.
- Witch: A timeless classic that never goes out of style. This year, it seems the magical allure of pointy hats and broomsticks is as strong as ever.
- Stranger Things: The cultural phenomenon from Netflix inspires yet another year of costumes, with characters like Eleven and Demogorgon proving hugely popular.
- Ghostface: The iconic mask from the Scream franchise is making a serious comeback, sending shivers down parents' spines.
- Princess: Royalty remains a reigning champion in the fancy dress world, offering a dazzling array of options for a magical night out.
How to Bag a Bargain Costume
Fearing the price tag? Don't scream just yet. Savvy shoppers can avoid spending a phantom fortune with a few clever tips:
- Shop Second-Hand: Check local charity shops, Facebook Marketplace, and Vinted. Last year's barely-worn costume is this year's bargain.
- DIY Magic: Often, the most memorable costumes are homemade. Raid the craft cupboard and unleash your creativity for a unique and cost-effective solution.
- Supermarket Sweep: Don't underestimate the power of your local supermarket. Giants like Asda, Tesco, and Sainsbury's often offer surprisingly good quality costumes at a fraction of the price of fancy dress specialists.
- Plan for Next Year: The real savings are found in the November 1st sales. Stock up for next Halloween when costumes are slashed to clearance prices.
By planning ahead and thinking outside the (trick-or-treat) box, you can ensure your little monster, hero, or princess has a Halloween to remember, without the nightmare of overspending.
