Start with the basics – the feet. Except for the 70s, we don't have much footwear for hire, but whatever you're doing – standing around socialising, dancing or getting out on the Trick or Treat trail, wearing something comfortable/practical is the key. In most cases, depending on your ensemble, of course, people aren't looking at your feet anyway! If you're actually intending to use the event to show off new boots or shoes, then work your costume around them, but don't say we didn't warn you, especially if heels with attitude are involved.

 

Plan for the environmental conditions: If your event is indoors, this might be less important - the venue temperature might rise as guests gather, but you can plan for versatility with potentially expendable layers over the main outfit. Outdoors (or with a mix of environments), weather factors may come into play, so it's best to check the forecast and allow for contingencies with, for example, capes or cloaks. Also take account of what you're wearing on your legs – decorated leggings might work better (and warmer) than thin tights, stockings or bare legs.

 

And another thing... If possible, check out how comfortable add-ons such as prosthetics and wigs are going to be over a period of time. Halloween obviously offers plenty of opportunity to use these enhancements, but a wig that looks and feels great for the short time you put it on initially can become hot and itchy for some in the long term. If you've decided to use 'effect' contact lenses (which we don't deal with anyway), check out using them beforehand. Similarly with prosthetic additions such as horns and facial features – on the one hand a trial in advance allows you to test the process of application (which may not be a simple as promoted on the pack), and also the test may flag up potential issues. These may include

 

Can you actually speak, eat and drink easily? - all of which may be important to your enjoyment? Goes without saying that a full overhead mask doesn't usually allow for any of that anyway, but even with the design of a half-face mask which leaves the mouth free, you may find it difficult to tip up a glass (or whatever) in order to drink. You can , of course, use a straw, but received wisdom is that the aeration can increase the alcoholic effect. Just saying. Even if it isn't a mask, mouth prosthetics and even fangs fitted on teeth can impede normal eating and drinking – perhaps something to check out before you go to the event. Good to make the mistake before it matters.