Does a DIY Gel Manicure Work as Well as the Real Thing? We Investigate.

I have a kind of love/hate relationship with manicures. I love nice, painted nails, but my frustration knows no end when it chips the day after I spent 30 minutes making it look perfect. Same goes for getting them done at the salon. Throw down $15 for something that’ll probably get messed up tomorrow? Nah, I’ll just buy an overpriced cocktail instead.

Sure, it’s cute, but it’s also a gel manicure you can essentially put in your pocket, and a major money saver. I waited for their Kickstarter to get funded (because, duh) and then twiddled my unpainted thumbs to get my hands on one. Then I did and it was magical. Here’s how it all went down…

The topside of the macaron is actually an LED light (which is what cures the gel polish). The top also twists around so that you can use it on your toes as well. I painted one nail with a layer of polish, stuck my finger in and pressed the button up top to activate the light and timer. After 30 seconds the light goes off and you move on. Then I repeated that process for all ten fingers and did a second coat. It was super easy, and although drying the nails one at a time is somewhat tedious, it goes by pretty quick (30 seconds x 20 = 10 minutes… math is sometimes useful, people).

When you’re ready to try another color, the pack also comes with remover wipes that you wrap around your fingers and let soak to take the polish off (normal remover does not work with gel).The only bummer for me was that I wasn’t crazy about the colors I got (which were a nude, red and salmon. However, I’m assuming you could easily grab a different gel polish of your liking and use the gadget to cure it. Overall, I was super impressed with this. It’s cute but also ultra functional. Did I mention that it also comes with a USB cord that you can plug into your laptop?! Which means that you can totally whip your nails into shape right before you meet up with that Tinder dude for happy hour.

A kit will set you back $35 (which is actually around the price of one salon gel manicure) and there are currently two color options. However, they are actually in the midst of a second Kickstarter campaign where you can choose from three new colors: peach, cherry red and wine. Head there ASAP and you can score a kit for $25 as part of their early-bird special. Seriously guys, go do that now. Your productivity levels and wallet will thank you.

P.S. Pro tip: Trying this for the first time using red polish on your white duvet cover is probably NOT the best idea.

Have you tried at-home gel manicures before? How did it go down for you? Share with us in the comments below.

(Photos via Le Mini Macaron)

Though often overlooked, one of life’s little luxuries is a dang good body wash. In the same way I shop for face cleansers that don’t strip my skin of its natural moisture (but still leaves it feelin’ fresh and clean), I’ve found the best body wash is one that’s undeniably moisturizing. Body washes with moisturizing and hydrating properties are great fits for any and all skin types – hydration is essential for preventing dryness, supplementing the skin’s elasticity, and strengthening the skin barrier – essentially giving your skin the best line of defense against accelerated signs of aging, environmental damage, and breakouts.

These are the best moisturizing body washes to banish dryness:

What body wash should I use for dry skin?

Amazon

Any hydrating body wash with a creamy or oily consistency can be beneficial for dry skin, helping deposit more moisture during the cleansing process without disturbing your skin’s barrier. We recommend Naturium’s The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Hydrating Body Wash, which boasts a nourishing oil-to-lather formula. If you have dry, flaky skin, it also may be best to avoid body washes that have fragrances as they can dry you out even more. Gentle, fragrance-free body washes like Aveeno’s Triple Oat Skin Relief Body Wash are typically a safe, soothing choice.

Target

Dove Deep Moisture Body Wash

I personally used this body wash from Dove all throughout my high school years, where every single skincare concern I had on my face suddenly migrated to my body. I'm talkin' cystic acne, blackheads, and flaky patches. It was notenjoyable. While this body wash wasn't an immediate fix for what my extremely hormonal teenage skin was going through, it certainly helped soothe the intense dryness and didn't aggravate the other various issues at all. I can attest that it's definitely friendly for sensitive skin-havers! Plus, at $10 for around 30 fluid ounces of product, it's also easy on the wallet.

Target

Method Simply Nourish Body Wash

I was on a good Method body wash stint for a while and probably kept this $8 bottle on rotation for about a years worth of showers. I'd be lying if I said I loved it for its moisturizing qualities only – this body wash also smells like pure heaven, which really adds to the experience of using it. It boasts a nice balance of coconut, rice milk, and shea butter, which work for your skin, not against it. Just a warning though: the fragrance may be a bit harsh for those with especially sensitive skin.

Amazon

SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Body Wash

First, I fell in love with SheaMoisture's Smoothie Curl Enhancing Cream. Then, their body wash came along – it's only made my love for the brand grow, especially because it's given me undeniably nourished skin every time I hop out of the shower. According to SheaMoisture, this $12 pick is formulated to leave melanin-rich skin "visibly moisturized." I don't have melanin-rich skin by any means, but I still feel super moisturized after using this body wash, likely from the rich blend of shea butter, frankincense, myrrh, and ceramides in its formula.

Amazon

Naturium The Glow Getter Multi-Oil Hydrating Body Wash

This $15 oil-to-cream body wash is the epitome of treat yourself. I really like that the bottle design can instantly upgrade to your shower set up, making every self-care night that much more luxurious. Not only does it look beautiful, it feels beautiful, too. This moisturizing body wash is made with glycerin, squalene, and a variety of rich oils that help replenish your skin's natural moisture and add even more nourishment with each use.

Sephora

Soft Services Comfort Cleanse Ultra-Soothing + Moisturizing Body Wash

This $32 water-oil body wash formula lathers up just enough to lift and wash away impurities on your skin without being super harsh or amplifying dry skin woes. In fact, 100% of users in a product study agreed it was non-irritating for skin, and 91% of them said their skin felt more moisturized and comfortable over time – and I agree! To combat the noticeably-dry skin on my legs this fall, I've been using it routinely alongside Soft Services' Green Banana Buffing Bar and love how soft and supple my skin feels post-shower.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Looking for the perfect group Halloween costume idea or a theme for your Halloween gathering this year? Since Halloween is our jam, we went ahead and did all the idea hunting for you. Scroll on for our ultimate guide to easy Halloween costumes. The best part? You can DIY any of these 80 unique group Halloween costume ideas.

Perfect for the family Halloween party, or a girls' night out, these group halloween costumes will make you stand out from the crowd in the best way possible. You can incorporate your BFF, partner, and even your dogs! Sounds like this is going to be the best Halloween ever — especially when you have a spooky Halloween cocktail in hand.

Disney Princesses Costumes

Brit + Co

We couldn't leave this obvious group costume idea out of the mix. Whether you go sexy or sweet, it's always a good fallback. You'll love to twirl your skirts and sing your songs! (via Brit + Co)

Nevermore Students From 'Wednesday'

Netflix

Get all your friends together and dress as Wednesday, Enid, and the gang from Nevermore! You don't have to dye your hair rainbow colors, but we also would totally respect you if you did.

Top Gun Group Halloween Costume

Brit + Co

Whether you're dressing up with your family or your friend group, this 80s Halloween costume is so easy (not to mention it's very comfortable). Don't forget your mustaches! (via Brit + Co)

Daisy Jones & The Six

Lacey Terrell/Prime Video

Rock out with a costume inspired by one of the best new TV shows this year. There's a very good chance you can find crochet, leather, and suede pieces in your local thrift store — or you can just ask your parents. 👀

Minions

Brit + Co

The base of this costume is really simple — jean shorteralls, a long-sleeve yellow shirt, tall yellow socks, a yellow beanie, black gloves, and preferably black sneakers. (via Brit + Co)

Fanta Girl Costumes

Brit + Co

Have white go-go boots, will costume partayyy! (via Brit + Co)

Deadpool Group Halloween Costume

Brit + Co

After you rewatch Deadpool & Wolverine (again), kick some butt with a Deadpool group Halloween costume. Unfortunately, Ryan Reynolds is not included. (via Brit + Co)

La Croix Halloween Costume

Brit + Co

Do you love this sparkly bev to death? Grab your girls (and boy) and create the ultimate cast with your fave flaves. Start your DIY with this hamper. (via Brit + Co)

Fruit Salad Costumes

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Pick your fruit and get your DIY on with this easy and customizable group costume. (via Brit + Co)

Grease Group Costume Idea

Brit + Co

Rydell High never looked so good. (via Brit + Co)

Max and The Wild Things Costumes

Brit + Co

Rumpus Rumpus Rumpus is how you get the party started. (via Brit + Co)

Finding Dory

Brit + Co

Dress the whole fam in your fave marine creature cast! Dory, Hank, and Nemo FTW! (via Brit + Co)

Gilmore Girls ​Group Costumes

Brit + Co

Who’s the Lorelai to your Rory? Choose carefully and then pick your main men too. (via Brit + Co)

The Breakfast Club Costumes

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Feel all the feels of the OG emotionally tormented high schoolers. (via Brit + Co)

Sushi Costumes

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Wasabi you waiting for?! (via Brit + Co)

Game of Thrones Costumes

Brit + Co

Watch your head if you and your friends decide to dress up as this crazy cast of characters. You're gonna need a foam sword and faux fur to pull these looks off. (via Brit + Co)

Hocus Pocus Costumes

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What's better than a wicked AF sisterhood?! Don't forget the brooms. (via Brit + Co)

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Costumes

Brit + Co

Cowabunga! Throw together green tights, turtleneck leotards, and spray-painted shells with a pair of gladiator sandals. Then celebrate this awesome costume's success with plenty of pizza after a night of trick or treating. (via Brit + Co)

Asteroid City

Universal Pictures

Wes Anderson's latest tale revolves around something the whole world is talking about: aliens. Whether you decide to go as an extraterrestrial or go all-out with teal and orange outfits, this is one group Halloween costume that is instantly recognizable.

Royal Wedding

Brit + Co

Put your best fascinator forward and do your best impression of the royal fam. (via Brit + Co)

Gangnam Style Costumes

Brit + Co

Grab your sexy ladies and get ready to op-op-op-op-oppa Gangnam style. Make sure you all perfect your gallop shimmy before hitting the dance floor. (via Brit + Co)

Spice Girl Costumes

Brit + Co

How punny is this costume? Pick your favorite spice, grab a cheap white tee, and get ready to DIY a perfect ’90s throwback look. (via Brit + Co)

Spice Girls (For Real)

Columbia Pictures/Universal Pictures

These 2000s costumes are so easy to replicate — you probably already have a lot of the items in your closet already! Grab your closest girlfriends to be every Spice Girl or go stag with our awesome Ginger Spice redhead Halloween costume. (via Brit + Co)

Miley Cyrus and Crew Costumes

Brit + Co

This is one of our favorite throwback ideas for incorporating some pop culture into your Halloween. And it gets bonus points for being a perfect choice for soon-to-be moms who still want to dress up with their gals. (via Brit + Co)

Pokemon Costumes

Brit + Co

The gang's all here — let's catch 'em all. (via Brit + Co)

Stranger Things Group Halloween Costume​​​

Brit + Co

Dress your whole posse as this amazing cast just in time to celebrate Halloween — and Stranger Things 5. (via Brit + Co)

Vanderpump Rules SUR Staff

Bravo

Bring the drama this Halloween by wearing some pretty iconic uniforms. Boots or ballet flats will definitely be the most comfortable, but feel free to go all-out with heels if you're feeling it!

Wonder Woman and the Amazons Costumes

Brit + Co

Because, girl power, obvi. (via Brit + Co)

Brunch Costumes

Brit + Co

Babes who brunch together, stay together — on Sundays and Halloween days! (via Brit + Co)

The Hills Costumes

Brit + Co

Remember MTV? We sure do. Take it back to simpler times with this easy-to-throw-together and conveniently co-ed costume. (via Brit + Co)

Ghostbusters Costumes

Brit + Co

After the girl-power and Gen-Z remakes of Ghostbusters, we knew this DIY costume tutorial was a must. Grab your besties and spend a night in DIYing your group Halloween costume. You’ll never believe it, but the secret behind this look is Tupperware containers. (via Brit + Co)

“Bad Blood” Costumes

Brit + Co

Get ready for some bad blood with all those envious people attending the Halloween party that aren’t involved in this warrior women getup. (via Brit + Co)

Inside Out Costumes

Walt Disney Pictures/Brit + Co

After sobbing our way through Inside Out 2, we're feeling all kinds of emotions about this Pixar film-inspired group look. (via Brit + Co)

Saved by the Bell Costumes

Brit + Co

Channel your inner Slater, Kelly, Zach, and Jessie with some sweet threads straight out of the late '80s. Just don't forget the old-school cell phone with an antenna bigger than your head. (via Brit + Co)

Barbies And Kens

Brit + Co

Come on Barbie, let's go party! Grab your closest pals to dress up as 2023's most iconic toys-turned-humans. Take a hint from the viral set pictures or use the Barbie movie character posters as inspiration. (via Brit + Co)

Mean Girls Costumes

Brit + Co

Get nostalgic with this early era Lohan-inspired squad costume. Unleash your inner mean girl if you dare! (via Brit + Co)

The Pogues

Netflix

This is a great costume because it uses up pieces that you will definitely wear again! (It's also great for anyone who lives somewhere that's always warm). The key to a recognizable Outer Banks costume? John B's backwards hat-and-bandana combo, the girls' layered necklaces, and lots of bracelets.

Fab 5 Gymnasts Costumes

Brit + Co

This get-up is bound to take the costume contest gold. This Olympics group costume also a much-needed excuse to wear sweatpants to all of your outdoor Halloween parties. Swap a few details and you can be 2024's Team USA, the Golden Girls, too! (via Brit + Co)

Barbara, Adam, Lydia, and Beetlejuice Costumes

Brit + Co

This is a totally family-friendly theme as well, but you can make it what you want as long as you have someone willing to wear a large red crinoline dress. (via Brit + Co)

Baywatch Costumes

Brit + Co

Or is it Bae watch? Love the sexy swimsuit. (via Brit + Co)

Taylor Swift and Her Group Girl Halloween Costumes

Brit + Co

Taylor Swift and Her Group Girl Halloween Costume. This costume is sure to turn heads. (via Brit + Co)

DC vs. Marvel Costumes

Brit + Co

Unite the gang with a superhero theme. Instead of sticking to either DC or Marvel, have them pick their fave heroes and go from there. (via Brit + Co)

Grand Budapest Hotel Costumes

Brit + Co

You and your friends can relive all the adventures of M. Gustave and Zero… well, maybe not all of them if you don’t have access to a train, but still. (via Brit + Co)

Landmark Cities Costumes

Brit + Co

You see London, you see France, you see Lady Liberty’s underpants. (via Brit + Co)

Handmaids Tale Costumes

Brit + Co

Not digging the lingerie costumes? Wear a giant red cape and dress modestly with a bonnet for this Handmaid's Tale look. (via Brit + Co)

Riverdale Group Halloween Costume

Brit + Co

We might have said goodbye to Riverdale, but the show's iconic looks will always make great Halloween costumes. (via Brit + Co)

Wet Hot American Summer Costumes

Brit + Co

What do you want to bet you and your friends own everything you need to pull this one off together?(via Brit + Co)

Taylor Swift's "I Can See You" Music Video

Republic Records/Taylor Swift/YouTube

You can't go wrong with a good Taylor Swift halloween costume and "I Can See You" is a super fun pick for anyone who loves spies — and Speak Now (Taylor's Version), of course.

David S. PumpkinsCostumes

Brit + Co

You’re going to be dancing it up anyways, might as well have a schtick going while you do. (via Brit + Co)

The Simple Life Costumes

Brit + Co

Have you ever wanted to do an early 2000s costume so badly?! The real question is, who will dress as Tink? (via Brit + Co)

GLOW Costumes

Brit + Co

These ladies are kicking ass and taking names. Not unlike your gang of fearless babes trying to get into the club before cover charges are in effect. (via Brit + Co)

Guardians of the Galaxy Costumes

Brit + Co

Consider this Guardians of the Galaxy the perfect getup for the whole crew — kids included. (via Brit + Co)

Labyrinth Costumes

Brit + Co

If you’re not living your ’80s movie fantasies, are you even living? (via Brit + Co)

Millennial Pink Costumes

Brit + Co

You don't actually need a character-based theme to go as a group. Pick any color and roll with it. (via Brit + Co)

Taylor Swift’s Boyfriends Costumes

Brit + Co

No one really needs to dress up for this; you just need access to a printer and some popsicle sticks. (via Brit + Co)

The Circus Costumes

Brit + Co

Come one, come all! Step on up to the circus! (via Brit + Co)

Harry Potter and the Squad Costumes

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How hard can it be to add a Ron into the mix? (via Brit + Co)

Jellyfish Group Halloween Costumes

Brit + Co

While others are going as mermaids (and are likely freezing while waiting in line at the club), you should go as a pod of voluminous squishies! (via Brit + Co)

Herd of Unicorns Costumes

Brit + Co

Amazon Prime was meant for this. Order as many beige onesies as you can, and start making beautiful tails and manes. (via Brit + Co)

Sriracha and Tacos Funny Halloween Group Costume

Brit + Co

Try lining up a bottle of Corona, a lime wedge, and an avocado. (via Brit + Co)

Family of Frappes Costumes

Brit + Co

Not only do you get to live your dream as a frappucino, but you also have a great place to hide your phone and purse. (via Brit + Co)

Princess Peach, Toad et all Costumes

Brit + Co

The question is, where will you find a raccoon tail for the Super Mario costume? (via Brit + Co)

Rainbow and Ray of Sun Costumes

Brit + Co

All you need are multiple rays of sunshine, maybe a bird, or a tree, and suddenly you’re a sunny afternoon. (via Brit + Co)

Snack Time Costumes

Brit + Co

Going as “sexy anything” is so 2005. Keep it fresh with your fave treats. (via Brit + Co)

Toy Story Costumes

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There’s a flask in your boot?! Well played. (via Brit + Co)

Trolls Costumes

Brit + Co

No, you don’t all have to wear beige bodycon dresses. A wig with your gemstone belly button is all you need. (via Brit + Co)

The Lion King Costumes

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All you need is Timon, Pumba, and Nala, and you’re in business. (via Brit + Co)

Pool Floats Costumes

Studio DIY

This look will be back by popular demand this year, so make sure you get your supplies lined-up ASAP. (via Studio DIY)

Matryoshka Dolls Costumes

The House That Lars Built

Your love of peasant tops has finally paid off. Make sure you line-up from tallest to shortest for group shots. (via The House That Lars Built)

Pinocchio and the Gang Costumes

A Beautiful Mess

Lying is not a necessary part of this group outfit, but if you fib about your connection to the bartender to get into a party — does it really matter? (via A Beautiful Mess)

Ocean's 8 Group Halloween Costume

Brit + Co

Is Ocean's 8 one of our all-time favorite movies? Yes. Does it make for the most badass Halloween costume? Also yes. You're gonna want to bookmark this one! (via Brit + Co)

Group of Hippies Costumes

The House That Lars Built

Dig deep into your closet (or your mom’s) and pull together a look worth of Woodstock groupies. (via The House That Lars Built)

Peter Pan and the Lost Boys Funny Group Halloween Costume

A Beautiful Mess

You can essentially wear your PJs out and about. What’s not to love? (via A Beautiful Mess)

Lisa Frank CharacterCostumes

Studio DIY

Live 👏 your 👏 best 👏 life 👏 with 👏 Lisa and the gang. (via Studio DIY)

The Golden Girls Costumes

A Beautiful Mess

Let’s give credit where it’s due: Blanche, Rose, Dorothy, and Sophia were the originators of #squadgoals. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Hot Dog + Condiments Costumes

Studio DIY

Why not go as everyone’s fave ballpark treat? (via Studio DIY)

Tina + Jimmy Jr. Costumes

Aww Sam

A character from Bob’s Burgers will never not be a perfect choice. Who wants to wear the pink bunny ears hat? (via Aww Sam)

Artwork Costumes

The House That Lars Built

Still struggling with how you can bring several people together for a cohesive scene? Recreate your fave tableau. Only true art fans may “get it,” though. (via The House That Lars Built)

Pantone Chips Costumes

Sugar & Cloth

Tell everyone to come dressed head to toe in one color, and for true commitment, use a marker for the “PANTONE” part. (via Sugar & Cloth)

Citrus Slices Costumes

Studio DIY

This only really works with a few key colors, but hey — flaunt it if you’ve got it. (via Studio DIY)

Goldilocks and the Three Bears Costumes

A Beautiful Mess

Why yes! Your overly hairy friends can totally partake in a group look. (via A Beautiful Mess)

Happy Halloween! Have fun and stay safe this year. Share your versions of these stories by tagging us on IG!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This story was updated from an earlier post.

We've been giving lots of love to the ladies and kiddos for this year's Halloween costume prep. But now, it's *all* about the dudes. These creative DIY costumes will up your spooky game and leave you feeling super creative. Into video games? Check. Throwbacks? We've got you covered. How about pop culture faves? Yup, those are on here too. Scroll on and take your pick from these 22 creative costumes that anyone can DIY for Halloween.

Brit + Co

Anger

Got a hot head? Let off some steam as Anger from Disney's Inside Out.

Michael/Flickr Creative Commons

Bill Nye the Science Guy

Who doesn't love this trip down memory lane? Good ol' Bill has saved one too many of us from boring science classes. Not to mention his show won 18 Emmys during its five-year run.

Brit + Co

Emoji Costume

To get this look party-ready, you'll want to attach the blue construction paper triangles to a headband.

Brit + Co

Fear

Channel fright night with Inside Out's Fear costume. Purple pants and face paint required.

Orange Juice Etc.

Francis Whitman

Francis, the eldest of the three brothers in Wes Anderson's The Darjeeling Limited, struggles with a tendency to take control. So if you're the type who orders for your friends or dates, Francis is your best bet.

Imgur

The Fresh Prince and Carlton

No one's got moves like you, Carlton. Grab your best man to go as this iconic duo. Be sure to check your local thrift store for those sweaters.

Wii Noob

Nintendo

Gamers everywhere, rejoice! This costume throws it back to the good ol' days, and just requires a bit of cardboard and some imagination.

Imgur

Gru

Giant shoulder pads, some eyebrow work and a mini minion is all you'll need to achieve this costume.

Brit + Co

Gustave

If you've ever been called out for your charm or culture (or want to be), you'll fit right in as The Grand Budapest Hotel's very own Gustave.

Block Guys

LEGO Man

Couldn't get enough of LEGOs when you were a kid? Go as your favorite childhood toy.

Costume Works

Mad Hatter

We're all mad here… for the mad hatter, that is.

Imgur

Minecraft

If you're familiar with the video game Minecraft, you'll probably know who this guy is and why you should definitely go as him.

Imgur

Not Sure Fry Meme

You've probably seen this meme floating around on the Internet, and here it is brought to life. Fry here's not sure if that guy is in a costume or just doing his job. #NailedIt

Imgur

Pop Art

Define that jawline with a cutting-edge face paint job. Don't forget to pick up some super bright contacts too.

Nathan Rupert/Flickr Creative Commons

Robert Baratheon

Surrounded by food and wine is how Robert would have looked if he hadn't died in Game of Thrones. The dead boar is also a nice touch. (If you didn't know, he was killed by a boar.)

Chris Carrillo's Blog

The Son of Man

Here's an artsy one for you. We'll leave it up to you to interpret what René Magritte may have meant.

Orange Juice Etc.

Steve Zissou

Whether it's loyalty or stupidity, Zissou proves he's got guts in The Life Aquatic. Harness that energy this year with a blue polo and a red cap, and a whole lotta one-liners.

Reddit

Tetris

Here's a super fun and DIYable group costume for you and your buddies. Pick up some cardboard and tape to become this epic game IRL.

@DTJAAAAM

R.J. MacReady

There's no knowing who or what The Thing could be. MacReady proves it doesn't hurt to come prepared.

Imgur

Louis Tully (Vinz Clortho)

Ghostbusters fans, listen up. Remember when Louis gets inhabited by the demon Vinz (AKA the Keymaster) and goes around Central Park harassing people and talking to horses? Yup. This one's for you.

Reddit

Yukon Cornelious

This fearless prospector from the animated movie Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer proves he's the one you'll want to stick with when venturing through the Arctic.

Brit + Co

Zero

This bellboy's pretty much the MVP of the Grand Budapest Hotel characters. Check out how we made this easy look with our tutorial. Pair it with Agatha for an adorable couple's costume.

Which of these looks will you be rocking? Any awesome ones we missed? Tweet us at @BritandCo and let us know!

This post has been updated.