The best Halloween costumes aren’t the ones that come in a plastic bag — they’re the ones you piece together yourself. And there’s no better costume workshop on the Central Coast than Goodwill, where the racks change every day and a handful of thrifted finds can become almost anything. Why be basic when you can be boo-tifully original — for a fraction of the price?
Not sure where to start? Pop into a Goodwill Central Coast store, raid your imagination, and try one of these crowd-pleasing DIY looks — every one built from pieces you can score secondhand:
• Classic scarecrow — flannel shirt, denim overalls, a straw hat and a few fabric patches. Tuck in some raffia and you’re field-ready.
• Sleek black cat — head-to-toe black clothing plus a pair of ears and eyeliner whiskers. Simple, cheap, iconic.
• ’80s workout star or disco diva — bright leggings, a headband and a windbreaker, or a sequined top and flared pants. The louder the better.
• Hardboiled detective — trench coat, button-down, a fedora and a little notepad. Add sunglasses for extra mystery.
• Corporate zombie — a thrifted blazer and tie, roughed up with a little makeup. Business in the front, spooky everywhere.
• Retro rockstar — a vintage band tee, leather jacket and ripped denim. Instant cool.
• Day of the Dead elegance — a flowing dress or crisp white shirt, layered with bold accessories and classic sugar-skull makeup.
• Last-minute ghost, upgraded — a soft secondhand sheet plus a thrifted brooch or hat turns the oldest trick in the book into a look.
Everything you need to finish the look
Once you’ve built your base from our one-of-a-kind clothing, complete the costume with brand-new accessories — masks, wigs, tails, wings, hats and makeup — that we stock right alongside the donated finds. Coordinating a family theme or a group costume with friends? We’ve got pieces for the whole crew, plus spooky décor, place settings and craft supplies to bring your whole party to life. And our team members love Halloween as much as you do, so don’t be shy about asking for ideas.
Cheaper, greener, and a whole lot of good
Here’s why a DIY Goodwill costume beats the store-bought kind every time. It costs less — often half the price of a new costume. It gives you total creative freedom to build something no one else will have. It cuts waste, keeping clothing and materials out of the landfill. And it supports your community, because proceeds fund job training, career services and employment programs across Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo counties. When the season’s over, donate your costume right back so the fun — and the good — can happen all over again next year.
Grab your besties, bring your imagination, and make Goodwill your first stop. Thrift your fit, flex your one-of-a-kind style, and do some good while you’re at it. Halloween comes alive at Goodwill — find your nearest store at www.ccgoodwill.org.