Halloween costumes change through the ages

For some, Halloween is a chance to wear outrageous outfits, including very high heels. Increasingly skimpy costumes seem to have become socially acceptable overtime. (CU Independent/Aly Daughtry)

Halloween is just around the corner and that means it’s time to pick out a costume. For some girls that means break out the high heels, drastic makeup and skimpy outfits.

“Mean Girls” brought the issue to the forefront when Cady Heron said, “Halloween is the one night a year when girls can dress like a total slut and no other girls can say anything about it.”

That truth really becomes apparent when going to a costume store packed with costumes like “Vixen Pirate Wench,” “Saucy Snow White” and the “Corrupt Cop”, complete with handcuffs and fishnets.

But what is more important, looking cute or being creative? Women’s dress has altered drastically over the years. Junior Spanish major Joanna Baca says she thinks girls dress that way because it’s just the style.

“In Marilyn Monroe’s time everyone thought she was a prostitute, but things change as time go on, and Halloween is just an example of that,” Baca said.

Marilyn Monroe’s signature dress is still a popular costume choice, possibly as homage to the woman who pioneered the way for short skirts and busty tops.

Freshman ethnic studies major Yecenia Delgado said she recognizes the changes in social limitations of dress.

“It’s become accepted. People expect girls to dress like that; it’s a day where it’s okay,” Delgado said.

For those who aren’t comfortable with this sexy social trend there are other options. Think outside the box and be something out of the ordinary. Saving the naughty outfit for the bedroom and going for an eccentric costume on Halloween is always an acceptable alternative, according to some students.

Junior marketing major Jasmine McDaniels said she doesn’t understand the appeal of wearing barely-there costumes.

“You’d be cold as hell!” McDaniels said.

Male costumes do not generally follow the less-is-more trend that females have in recent years. Many costumes geared towards men have a humorous twist. (CU Independent/Aly Daughtry)

According to Weather Underground, 2008 was the first year since 2001 that the temperature was above 45 degrees. The traditionally cold temperature is often a deterrent for minimalist enthusiasts.

Men often don’t share the pressure of shedding clothing and putting their assets on display. Junior economics major Brandon Rochelle said he thinks male costumes are generally hilarious.

“Guys can be more clothed,” Rochelle said.

This can provide more opportunity for creativity.

“My friend was an iClicker last year; it was awesome,” Rochelle said.

Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Amanda Moutinho at [email protected].