We have a serious appreciation for all things creative, like these plus-size Halloween costumes, and we have a hunch you’ll love some of our newest finds, too. Afterward, if you still haven’t decided on which costume to wear this Halloween, gather your group of besties and get their opinion — or, better yet, pick out a group Halloween costume, and you can all dress up together! Here are 40 of the most curve-lovin’ (and seriously hot) plus-size Halloween costumes you’ll find out there this season.
Yandy
Cruella de Vil will always hold a special place among our most-feared villains, right alongside Voldemort and Ursula. After all, she’s going after puppies! But on Halloween, the celebration of the gruesome and morbid, this evilness equates to fabulousness, and we’ll more than forgive you for dressing up like her… just this once.
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Channel your deepest, darkest powers and channel your inner Maleficent this Halloween. “So you see, the story is not quite as you were told.”
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Wait, so we can look cute *and* be toasty-warm?! We’re sayin’ yes to this fuzzy zip-up.
Yandy
Get ready for liftoff in this flight attendant costume. If you’re a travel-lover, this is the perfect way to bring your passion into your costume.
Brit + Co
This has to be the ultimate curvy bombshell character to channel on Halloween. The dress, gloves, hair, and makeup are bold and will definitely put your bangin’ bod front and center. (via Brit + Co)
Amazon
Frisky attitude not included. This plus size Halloween costume might look simple, but it’s anything but basic.
Amazon
There’s nothing as fun — and a little dangerous — as the glitz and glamour of the ’20s. Throw on a long string of pearls or do your makeup to look like a ghostly flapper for that extra creative edge.
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We’ll always be a sucker for classic Disney costumes. And if you want to give Ursula that extra-special take, you can follow this relatively simple DIY for the costume contest win! (via Brit + Co)
Halloween Costumes
This is — hands down — one of the best mermaid costumes we’ve ever seen. From the form-fitting metallic mermaid “tail” to the bustier top, this is for sure a look to emulate if you want to flaunt your curves.
Yandy
Down the rabbit hole you go this Halloween. You never know what’s going to happen when you channel this fairytale classic!
Halloween Costumes
You had us at gold, sequins, and tulle. Oh, and we’re always down to rule the sea!
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We’ll always love our classic Disney princesses, especially this beauty.
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You don’t need a Mickey to look fly as heck in a retro-inspired Minnie Mouse getup.
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One of the best reasons to dress up as an ancient Egyptian is obviously the cat-eye makeup.
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Pay homage to one of your favorite fairy tales with a sexy twist. Plus, if you haven’t worn a cape before, you truly haven’t lived.
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It may be illegal to impersonate a police officer, but no one ever said a flirty cop was off-limits!
Halloween Costumes
We could all use a fairy godmother, albeit notthis scheming one from Shrek. Still, this is a hilarious costume, and we’re definitely eyeing that wand and wig combo.
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We’re impressed with the mismatched thigh-highs and color-coordinated armbands on this plus-size Halloween costume.
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The name of this costume says it all. If you’re in the mood to prioritize comfort, you’ll feel extra-snuggly in this cozy bat costume.
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If you loved the all-female Ghostbusters as much as we did, grab your friends and go as the whole crew. The best part? On Halloween, there will be plenty of monsters to bust, which makes a great conversation-starter!
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Everyone at this year's Halloween party will be buzzing about you in this flattering bee costume. You are the queen, after all!
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The beer maid costume is always a safe choice. It’s cute and classic, and you get to wear pigtails.
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If you’re going to wear this outfit out on the town, you’ll definitely have at least seven admirers following you wherever you go.
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Sail the open seas with this cute and comfy sailor costume. This retro getup is all about the accessories!
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Another way to celebrate Halloween is to celebrate the dead. Do it in style with this awesome costume.
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If you’re into traditional bones, this comfy number will surely scare the living dead out of you.
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This is the perfect Halloween costume for when you don’t really want to dress up. Flats? Check! Awesome jacket to keep you warm? Double check!
Walmart
No one is going to mess with you in this costume, and you just might feel faster than a speeding bullet.
Halloween Costumes
With plenty of sass and a whole lot of ruffles, this costume will have you dancing for joy.
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Be your own superhero with this sleek Elastigirl costume. You would look totally incredible in it.
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We wouldn’t drink the tea that this Alice serves. While we do love the original blue that Disney’s Alice wears, we are really digging this all-black dress too.
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Trick-or-treat in the name of justice! Grab Superman and bring him along too, because you two are friends now, remember?
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Keep this Halloween totally tubular by donning this adorable retro dress with go-go boots and a fun '70s eye makeup look!
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If you’re team Jason, then you need to buy this sexy number. While we’re not sure who would ultimately win this fight, we’re sure this outfit is already winning our hearts.
Walmart
While Superman is cool and all, we are particularly fond of Wonder Woman. She’s a badass chick that we are ready to represent. Flying an invisible jet doesn’t hurt, either.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
There are so many items cluttering up our homes and lives, and if we're honest, sometimes asking for physical gifts feels like an unnecessary weight to add to the holiday season. All we really need this year is time with the people that our closest to us, and maybe the opportunity to experience something new.
If you're looking for out-of-the-ordinary gift ideas for your friends and family, look no further than these experience gifts. From one-of-a-kind adventures to super easy ideas that will fit into any budget, these experience gifts are sure to make anyone smile.
Brit + Co
Ice skating simply makes winter more magical. It also gives us a chance to live out our Ice Princess dreams – but that's beside the point. Even if you don't live somewhere that has an iconic rink like New York City's Rockefeller Center, you can still make it a whole evening with hot chocolate and cozy sweaters.
Take your best friend or S.O. to their favorite artist's concert for an unforgettable evening. Not only do you get to hear some awesome music, but concerts are always an excuse to get dressed up in a crazy outfit and dance like no one is watching.
Something about walking around and looking at animals under the sea makes us feel extra calm, and is great for anyone who wanted to be a mermaid as a kid. Our favorites? Otters, beluga whales, and turtles, but we love regular old fish tanks, too. This is a great way to get a taste of summer while it's dang cold outside!
If your giftee loves to learn, then they'll get a kick out of a subscription to our online classes. There's something for every stage of life, with classes like painting and freelancing to learning how to combat imposter syndrome.
This is one experience gift that is super easy and super affordable to pull off. You can hike in every state in the country (granted, your hikes might look different in the mountains than in a coastal town), plus you can pack a picnic of their favorite foods or grab takeout from their favorite local restaurant.
Speaking of picnics, they're on our list of favorite date ideas *and* an ideal way to spend any day. You can hire a picnic service (like this one for NY) to set up your table before you get there, but you can also go all-out yourself by packing a basket with their favorite foods, drinks, books, and flowers. If it's too cold (or it's pouring out!), set up your picnic indoors among some candles and a nostalgic movie.
Travel is an experience gift that will rarely disappoint, especially if you're going to a dream destination. There are so many locations all over the world — big cities like London, historical homes like Biltmore, and even filming locations from your favorite TV shows and movies — this is always a good idea. You can also book AirBnB experiences of all kinds for wherever you choose to stay.
With programs like Duolingo and Rosetta Stone, gaining access to other languages is easier than ever right now. It's never too late to pick up something new, whether or not you're living your Emily in Paris dreams. Bon voyage!
See the world from a totally new perspective by going up in a hot air balloon. You can take them at different times of day depending on the view that your giftee loves the most (we're always up for a sunrise adventure), and you can even book one that comes with wine.
This experience gift idea is totally up to interpretation. Whether your best friend or S.O. wants to be a model for a day with fun props and outfits, or your mom has been asking for a family photoshoot for the last few years, this is the perfect opportunity to gift a photoshoot! You can also turn this experience gift idea on its head and gift your family and friends a photography classthey can do from their home.
If your sibling, best friend, or S.O. loves books, take them to their favorite bookstore, buy them a coffee, and let them peruse the shelves for one (or more!) books that they want to get their hands on. This is a super simple idea that will certainly make them smile.
If you've never taken a cooking or baking class before, then it's definitely time to add that to your list. Not only is it a fun activity that also rewards you with food, but it makes for a great experience gift, especially for recipients who love spending time in the kitchen.
Rent your own sailing cruise for the evening to get a dining experience that's unlike any other. Eat dinner at sunset or wait until mid-morning for an extra-fun brunch. In addition to a gift idea, this also makes a great date idea. That's a win-win in our book.
Take your giftee to their favorite museum, and spend an entire day looking at their favorite paintings and sculptures, or reading up on scientific discoveries. This is one gift idea that's great for all ages, and since there are so many different museums across the country, you can have a different experience every time.
We're big fans of escape rooms, and we're convinced they're fun for anyone who wants to be a spy for an afternoon. It's great for a couple of people or for a whole group of friends, so you can get all your favorite people in on it. Plus not only is it fun, but having a time limit to solve a problem teach you about your communication styles very quickly.
Take the wine lovers in your life to a nearby vineyard to experience the wine up close and personal with a wine tour. This is a great way to try multiple wines so you can figure out which one is your favorite.
Great for adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers, this experience gift idea takes you right up into the air. Learn to fly a plane or a helicopter over landscapes that you don't usually get to see from the air.
Let us know which experience gifts you'll be giving this year on Twitter and check out our email newsletter for more ideas.
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
Halloween is supposed to be full of spooky surprises, freaky frights, and twisted thrills – but even though we really do love ALL the scary Halloween costumes, we also enjoy killing the disguise game in hilariously original, pun-filled get-ups. This year, consider swapping out that “pretty” look for some much-needed humor to any and every spooky gathering. Scroll on for 85 of the most hysterically ridiculous Halloween costume ideas — guaranteed to help you bring the funny and keep the Halloween party laughing all night long.
Brit + Co
Get joined at the hip like these iconic Dr. Seuss characters in simple blue wigs and red maxis. “Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting!” (via Brit + Co.)
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That’s right; we turned Brit’s belly into Miley’s wrecking ball. Miley's signature face and tongue are optional.(via Brit + Co.)
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We give all our "yesses" to Broad City and the two kweens that are comedy geniuses – Abbi and Ilana. If you haven’t seen this episode intro yet, you HAVE to. (via Brit + Co.)
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It’s officially time to put on your red shoes and dance the blues, baby. (via Brit + Co.)
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Be sure to hit up your local Goodwill store for all the inspo. (via Brit + Co.)
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ICYMI, the SNL skitfeatures Kristen Wiig in one of our all-time favorite roles. First, do your homework (AKA watch the clip) and then have a field day with this kooky character. (via Brit + Co.)
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This movie is so intense we think it’s worth recreating for years to come. And whether you’re Leo or the ferocious bear, you’re sure to have an epic Halloween holiday. (via Brit + Co.)
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We still can’t get over the fact that these two once had a show where they entered the blue-collar world and worked among the rest of us. Recreate this throwback costume and make sure to bring the ‘tude. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
This punny costume is fun because of the whole “egg” thing but also because it takes a matter of minutes to put together! Just add felt! (via Brit + Co.)
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Our favorite — but at the same time our least favorite — type of man. (via Brit + Co.)
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We know you want to. (via Brit + Co.)
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From season three’s “Game Over” episode where Abbi competes in the Soulstice Games and Ilana loses her job at Deals! Deals! Deals!, this costume pairing just might be two of the show’s most iconic looks. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
You’ll never believe it, but the secret behind this funny Halloween costume is Tupperware containers! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
This goofy couple’s costume is really cute, even sans bump. It’s time to win an ace on that contest – match point, y’all. (via Brit + Co.)
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Channeling your inner Gary Sinise and Tom Hanks for the duo to end all duos. Run, Forrest, run! (via Brit + Co.)
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We love this witchy twist! “I put a spell on you, and now you’re mine.” (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
If you’re totally buggin’ over what costume to wear, why not bring out your inner Cher from this classic ’90s film? Or, whatever. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Pikachu and Ash are always a popular duo during Halloween, so be as creative as possible when dressing up your pets. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Watch and learn in this SNL skit starring Kristen Wiig, who deserves a Halloween character every single year. Hot chicken! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
This is the ultimate couple’s costume that will have all your friends saying 'yassss.' Netflix and chill probably win for hilarious yet kinda sexy slang, and this outfit is so easy to DIY, too. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
These Snapchat filters are easy to DIY with some face paint and perseverance. Learn how to do a puppy, bee, or flower crown filter for the Halloween makeup tutorial win. (via Brit + Co.)
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The key here is getting that wig just right. It’s like backcombing on steroids. The other key? You’ve gotta completely own this look. Like we said, it’s a bold move for anyone to wear what is basically a nude suit, so make sure you have fun with it.(via Brit + Co.)
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Pay homage to the ultimate Mean Girls movie by dressing up as the clique. (via Brit + Co.)
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This SNL character wears all kinds of outfits, so find the craziest dress at a thrift store to channel your best Dooneese. The key piece is, of course, the tiny hands! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
So you’ve already tried Cher and Dionne and Thelma and Louise. Next on the list with your BFF: these two sassy women are from our fave Netflix hit, Grace and Frankie. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Grab a glass of rosé, a Grey Goose with lots and lots of lemons, or even a bottle of skinny margarita mix and work it on Halloween night as a quotable, fearless star of Bravo’s iconic series. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
You pretty much have to dress like a cast member of this show at least once in your life. Halloween is nothing if not an excuse to enjoy all of our favorite throwback styles. (via Brit + Co.)
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Remember how this video went crazy viral?! We sure do. And TBH, it doesn’t really ever get old. (via Brit + Co.)
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Eyeballs and serious DIY mask-making skills are required for this monster version of the couple stuck in the attic in one of our favorite spooky flicks. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
If you’ve yet to see this SNL‘s skit that this costume is based on, then TBH, you haven’t really lived. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
You can never go wrong with classic picture book characters like these two. But can you pick them out of the party crowd? (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Fellow peasants, thou princes have arrived to rule the land and look dang good, too. (via Brit + Co.)
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Let’s be real — the showBananas in Pyjamasis pretty bizarre. But since we love eating bananas and we love wearing comfy pajamas, it kind of works, right?! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Quickly transform you and your bae or bestie into prehistoric creatures with this simple felt DIY, and you’ll be getting your roar on in no time. Be sure to practice that perfect dinosaur walk. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
We think Marilyn said it best: “Give a girl the right pair of shoes and she’ll conquer the world.” And she’ll conquer the costume contest, while she’s at it. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Bringing this classic board game to life delivers comfort for the both of you, a hint of sexy, and without a doubt a buzzing nostalgia. (via Brit + Co.)
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These two next-level musicians will always hold a dear place in our hearts. (via Brit + Co.)
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All we have to say is: “You’re standing on my neck.” These two teens were never very impressed, but that somehow made us love and laugh with them even more. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
From two different Broad City episodes – but perfect for pairing – this simple and non-basic costume will keep you feeling silly and shouting “yasss queen” to each other all night long. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Is it just us, or is James Corden’s Carpool Karaoke series one of the greatest gems of the internet? Try it out and pick your funny Halloween costume from any of our favorite guests — like the always groovin’ Justin Timberlake. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
This fail-safe costume always comes through when you’re in a bind. You might want to bring your Good Grammar Is Sexy tote for carrying all the candy you’re going to score.(via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Now you can dress as everyone’s favorite bottle with a green cap! But also, feel free to think outside the box. Use your imagination to be a “hot mama” if you’re expecting, “hot and bothered” with your BFF, a “hot ticket” if you’re on the prowl or (for your pooch perhaps?) a “hot dog.”(via Brit + Co.)
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Yum! Why not grab a few friends and dress up as your favorite roll? Sushi roll, that is. (via Brit + Co.)
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We turned these two rival transportation companies into a very driven couple. (via Brit + Co.)
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This is SUCH a classic. Whether you’re partners, friends, or actual stepbrothers, it’s sheer comedic genius every time. (via Brit + Co.)
Studio DIY
If you’re not familiar with this type of French wedding cake, it’s made from dozens of tiny cream puffs. So cute *and* delish! (via Studio DIY)
Brit + Co
“So I guess we are who we are for a lot of reasons. And maybe we’ll never know most of them.” (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Let’s journey back to 1988 when the world accepted the idea that Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito could be… twins? Wait, what? (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Next, we have everyone’s favorite pregnant teen, Juno! Channel a little bit of attitude and apathy, grab an empty Slurpee cup, and you are well on your way. (via Brit + Co.)
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Let’s turn the clocks back to an imaginary New Year’s Eve party in the ’50s! (via Brit + Co.)
Studio DIY
If you’re looking for something big and dramatic for Halloween photo time, these googly-eye balloons would make for some great party decor and a costume photo prop. (via Studio DIY)
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“Oh look, frost!” (via Brit + Co.)
Studio DIY
Since pool floats are in — and pool noodles are out — why not turn ’em into a bowl of Fruit Loops? Re-purposing props are the green goddess’ way of keeping things fresh every Halloween. (via Studio DIY)
Brit + Co
Since we’re talking emoji here, here’s another adorable emoji couple costume that is sure to go viral. Plus, it’s really easy, considering you can make this costume using what’s already in your closet. (via Brit + Co.)
Studio DIY
This costume is hilarious and, not to mention, it’s a DIY. The fries can be made using upholstery foam. (via Studio DIY)
Brit + Co
This costume is definitely a potential rock-directly-from-your-closet look. Since this one is a little more understated, it will require you to play the part with your partner throughout the night. Don’t forget to brown bag it! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
This debate was one that divided families, ended friendships, and made you question your relationship. And now, the optical illusion is a totally wearable and nostalgic Halloween costume. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
They say that breakfast is indeed the most important meal of the day. Grab your sidekick and rep this very special meal in full stack and sticky syrup form. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
A t-shirt that doubles as a costume? This is every procrastinator’s dream! (via Brit + Co.)
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When in doubt, you can always turn to animated movies for a little funny Halloween costume inspo. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making an adorable homemade Minion costume. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
No idea why this is hilarious? It’s definitely a deep cut, straight from Jimmy Fallon’s archive on The Tonight Show. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Channel your inner rockstar(s) by becoming these two legends this Halloween. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
If you haven’t seen the SNL skitfeaturing Kristen Wiig, you’re overdue. “Her name is Gilly and she’s at it again, causing lots of ruckus like a barnyard hen. She’s always making trouble, her hair is like a bubble. Knock, knock, who’s there? It’s Gilly.” (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
In true Wes Anderson fashion, this movie castis all kinds of quirky-strange, perfect for a funny Halloween costume. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
This is officially the easiest DIY costume ever, but it’s original enough that it still works. The Brawny Man is all kinds of handsome, so prepare to have a little arm candy by your side all night. (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Halloween just might be the only day of the year when wearing this dress would be remotely appropriate. Or, take the opportunity to channel Lady Gaga’s epic meat gown. (via Brit + Co.)
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Thanks to the regular SNL skit, our two favorite songwriters are welcome to crash any of our holiday parties! (via Brit + Co.)
Studio DIY
David, Josh, Leo, George… the gang’s all here! Pick your fave studs and follow along with the instructions for one hunky rainstorm we’d all like to weather. (via Studio DIY)
Brit + Co
You’re destined to have a *knockout* Halloween when you dress up as this dynamic GLOW duo. We’re always in it to win it! (via Brit + Co.)
Brit + Co
Horseheads are a thing, and we happen to have two. So, if you really have no idea what to be this Halloween, just Amazon Prime a pair and get ready to get creepy all night long. (via Brit + Co.)
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We’ve all had those bad umbrella days… (via Brit + Co.)
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Though we’re all about bringing back Sporty, Scary, Baby, Posh, and Ginger, go the unexpected route and simply dress up as your favorite spices. (via Brit + Co.)
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How ’bout a nice Hawaiian punch? This punny couples costume is part Hula Girl, part Rocky Balboa. (via Brit + Co.)
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Maternity costumes FTW! Dress your bump up as an actual bun in the oven. (via Brit + Co.)
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Yep. We went there. You really do make our dreams come true. (via Brit + Co.)
With these funny Halloween costumes, we've got your next idea waiting.
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
Did you know how common eczema really is? According to the National Eczema Association, "more than 31 million people" are living with this condition — including everyone in my household. If you've been dealing with flare-ups since childhood, you know how irksome it can be to find products that avoid flagging down our body's internal inflammation guide. Anything from extreme temperatures to itchy fabric can make our bodies say, "Attack the part of the body that's in contact with the intruder!" It can be something super small that turns into a fiasco, but we're not condemned to suffer forever.
I've been using the best body wash for eczema all year — Dove's Soothing Relief Body Wash — and I can't wait to dish about it! But, I thought it would be helpful to learn more about the condition and why certain things make it go haywire. Board-certified dermatologists Dr. Heather Woolery-Lloyd and Dr. Kristina Collins were kind enough to share informative answers about eczema, including what they think you should be using if you're tired of not knowing what to use!
Target
This fragrance-free body wash stays in my shower not only because it's doesn't have pesky (and irritating) perfumes, but it's also super soothing. I feel like I'm at a spa each time I use it, and I've definitely noticed my skin isn't dry when I get out of the shower. It has a 5% nourishing serum in it along with colloidal oatmeal and was co-created by dermatologists who get it. The best part is that it not only does my skin look better, but I haven't experienced much body acne with it either. Plus, Amazon's customers less likely to return it!
Prior to using this, I was an avid Bath & Body Works body wash user. Before you throw tomatoes at me, I didn't know how much they were affecting my skin until I started doing more research in college. Once I learned better, I stopped using them and haven't looked back.
Another alternative to this is something Dr. Woolery-Lloyd suggests using — Dove's Sensitive Skin Body Wash. I used to use it prior to falling in love with Soothing Relief formula because it's hypoallergenic and equally moisturizing. It's just a little creamier!
Target
Some of the top reviews on Amazon for this body wash are:
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Dr. Woolery-Lloyd and Dr. Collins both recommend this body wash for those who have eczema: "It's free of dyes, fragrance, lanolin, and other common irritants.This product helps maintain moisture and reduce irritation, making it suitable for regular use," says Dr. Collins.
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Dr. Collins loves Aveeno's Skin Relief Body Wash because it "contains colloidal oatmeal, which is soothing and helps relieve itching."
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"It's soap-free, fragrance-free, and designed for sensitive skin," says Dr. Collins.
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This body wash has more of an oil consistency because of the Omega Oils found in it. They help to add moisture back to dry skin while Niacinamide helps soothe it if you've been experiencing irritation.
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This hydrating body wash may start off as an oil, but it quickly forms into a rich, moisturizing lather that we love. Although it's not specifically designed for eczema-prone skin, but the good news is that it works for everyone. It has over 50% glycerin and phyto lipids in to help "maintain healthy skin barrier and acid mantle" so you'll enjoy something luxurious for only $16!
Amazon
This hydrating body wash has moisturizing coconut water and sea kelp in it, making it the vegan option you'll be glad you tried. It also has aloe vera juice in it which helps maintain the skin's collagen.
Eczema isn't necessarily a secret, but not everyone knows how it's actually defined or characterized. Both Dr. Woolery-Lloyd and Dr. Collins agree that eczema is also referred to as atopic dermatitis. Dr. Collins says, "It's a chronic skin condition characterized by inflamed, itchy, and often red or discolored patches on the skin. It can affect people of all ages but is commonly seen in children." The Asthma & Allergy Network reports "15-20% of children globally" have it which seems to coincide with the CDC discovering "nearly 1 in 5 children have a seasonal allergy." Dr. Woolery-Lloyd adds, "It tends to run in families." This makes sense because my mom had eczema, passed it on to me, and now my son has it!
She also says, "People with mild eczema may experience persistent dryness and itchiness, while more severe cases can lead to painful, cracked, and even bleeding skin." While it's not central to one location, Dr. Woolery-Lloyd says eczema commonly shows up "inside of the elbows, behind the knees, and the face."
Some cases of eczema differs from others, but it can become severe. The reason it exists in the body is because of "a dysfunction in the skin barrier" that leads to "an increased loss of moisture and heightened sensitivity to external irritants, allergens, and microbes," Dr. Collins expounds.
I briefly mentioned some things that can trigger eczema flare-ups, but they're not all encompassing. Dr. Collins says, "Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by several factors, including environmental irritants (like certain fabrics, soaps, and fragrances), allergens (such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen), stress, dry or cold weather, and even certain foods in some individuals."
If your dermatologist suspects you may be allergic to something you're eating, they may want you to take an allergy test. This is how I found out I was allergic to a ton of environmental factors, cats, and dogs! But why does this happen, you ask? "The skin’s barrier function is compromised in eczema-prone individuals, making it more reactive to these external and internal triggers," says Dr. Collins. So, it's rarely your fault when your skin gets triggered!
Dr. Woolery-Lloyd also says "emotional stress can exacerbate eczema symptoms" as well! This is usually my first sign that I'm super stressed or heading towards burnout!
My son has been seeing a dermatologist for the past couple of months, and she's made it clear that he needs to not only avoid certain factors (fragrances, itchy fabrics, etc), but she also let us know his skin actually requires we add other elements to his routine, too. Both Dr. Collins and Dr. Woolery-Lloyd want you to stay as moisturized as possible.
Dr. Collins says, "During cooler months, it’s essential to focus on hydrating and protecting the skin barrier." Her tips are to"
Over the years, I've learned that anything that has artificial fragrances in them tends to trigger itchy and splotchy hives. Sometimes they're tiny clusters, but they can look like welts if my skin is super irritated. Dr. Collins says, "Individuals with eczema should avoid products with harsh fragrances, alcohol, sulfates, and synthetic dyes, as these can irritate the skin further." Also, sodium lauryl suflate (SLS) is also good to avoid because it "can strip the skin of its natural oils, exacerbating dryness," explains Dr. Collins. Sadly, she feels you shouldn't use popular "exfoliating ingredients" like salicylic acid or retinoids because they "can be too harsh for sensitive, eczema-prone skin."
A list of other things Dr. Woolery-Lloyd wants you to avoid are:
She encourages you to "read product labels carefully."
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Knowing this, both Dr. Collins and Dr. Woolery-Lloyd want you to use a body wash that's going to cleanse your skin instead of hurting it. "For eczema-prone skin, it’s best to choose gentle, fragrance-free body washes that are formulated to support the skin barrier," says Dr. Collins.
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With the holidays now approaching almost eerily quickly, you might already be feeling slightly uneasy about the family stresses that are bound to be on your plate (along with delicious Christmas cookies, of course). Spending a lot of time face-to-face with family can dig up old arguments or squabbles that everyone may have forgotten during the rest of the year.
You’re not the only one dealing with the drama, though, and while your own family issues might feel somewhat out of your control, there might be more you can do to take the edge off the stress that your friends are feeling in anticipation of holiday gatherings. Keep scrolling for eight expert tips for how to best offer support to your most stress-ridden BFFs.
Being a good listener is one of the most basic — and yet most important — things you can do as a friend 365 days of the year, but when tensions run high near the holidays, those listening skills become all the more crucial. You might even consider resisting the urge to speak, like, at all. “Be a good listener and don’t give advice,” licensed marriage and family therapist Katie Ziskind says. “Supporting someone doesn’t mean that you have to fix their problem. Instead, truly being supportive means giving a hug when someone is crying and being a caring friend.”
Rather than reassuring your friend that things at family celebrations may not be as bad as they fear, trust what they know about the situation and help them wrap their head around what’s to come. This should minimize the stress for them in the long run. “If you expect it and it happens, situation normal,” certified life coach Susan Golicic tells us. “If you expect it and it doesn’t, well, then, a bonus!”
Going into any situation with a plan almost always feels better than going in unprepared. Per writer, speaker, and healing expert Alisa Zipursky, a helpful plan might include specific check-in times, a code word that indicates your friend needs extra support, and ideas for creating healthy boundaries with family members who make them feel especially triggered. “The idea is to make asking for help as easy as possible,” Zipursky says. “Making sure a proactive plan is in place well before someone enters the stressful situation can help relieve some of the anticipatory anxiety.”
Licensed counselor Maria Inoa recommends that you prioritize regular touch-base texts over the course of whatever event is causing your friend the most stress. It’s not about solving the conflicts or taking away their pain. Instead, you can focus on offering gentle reminders that you are thinking of them and are available if they need you.
If your friend’s family holiday celebrations don’t exactly inspire positive feelings about the occasion, why not help them establish some better associations? Licensed clinical professional counselor Anna Poss suggests planning a “low-stress, fun way to celebrate with each other before or after the actual holiday.” Get a seasonal movie night or cookie swap on the calendar before everyone leaves town to hang with family. Those cozy vibes may help dull the negative, anxious feelings.
Grab some pretty stationery and put your love and support on paper for your BFF. “In the note, remind her how strong, courageous, and capable she is,” licensed psychotherapist and life coach Diane Petrella says. “Let her know how much you love and admire her and how grateful you are for her friendship. Write whatever you think your friend needs to hear to feel supported, grounded, and loved.” Remind her to hide the note in her pocket or bag so she can read it whenever she needs a little extra TLC over the course of the holidays. You can even go one step further and send them home with a care package, per therapistShannon Thomas.
If things have gotten so bad with your bestie’s family that she wants to steer clear of their celebrations entirely, you may want to invite her to join you and your crew instead. Even if she opts to decline your invitation, it will mean a lot to her to know that she has choices. If your friend does take you up on the offer, Mountainside Treatment Center‘s family wellness manager Tina Muller recommends that you try to incorporate some of her favorite traditions into your holiday schedule.
“Before an event with possible family issues even happens, schedule a time not long after to see the friend,” marriage and family therapist Sarah Epstein suggests. “Now you’ve become the light at the end of the tunnel for them.” Be prepared to be a listening ear over dinner or a workout session so your pal can vent about everything that’s gone on and (hopefully) be ready to move on from there.
How do you and your pals support each other through the not-so-fun parts of the holidays? Tweet us @BritandCo.
(Photo via Getty)
