Generally, a costume is a distinctive form of clothing whose purpose is to emphasize social position, to enhance attractiveness or to portray an alternate character. In the world of today it is usually associated with vampires, scary ghosts or famous personalities. Rarely does one get a chance to don a costume in day-to-day life. Such an opportunity presents itself perhaps only on Halloween. Halloween uniquely stands out because its unique mix of secular and religious elements permit all and sundry to temporarily violate otherwise solid social codes. Less powerful people can break the rules, reverse the order of expected actions, flaunt otherwise unacceptable ways of dress or behavior or overturn the usual roles of parent-child, boss-worker, male-female. Halloween is all about frightening costumes, ghost stories, pranks, elaborate costumes and bizarre games. On Halloween, we all revel in being scared and outlandish and ghoulish costumes greatly help in achieving this.

Is Halloween rapidly being overtaken by adults?

The custom of Halloween was brought to America in the 1840's by Irish immigrants fleeing their country's potato famine. Over a period of time as belief in spirit possession waned, the practice of dressing up in costumes like hobgoblins, ghosts, and witches took on a more ceremonial role. However today, Halloween is perceived as a marketers dream with an increasing plethora of adult Halloween costumes to whet the appetites of those who regard the holiday as one also for adults. Adult Halloween-goers can be seen in costume at parties, costume contests, masquerade balls, themed nightclubs, and yes, even Trick or Treating. This year you can take your pick from the Queen of Halloween herself to Elvira, Traditional Ghosts, Skeletons Classic Monsters, characters from Harry Potter, Robin Hood, Justice League and Power Rangers. There are so many costumes to choose from; simply decide who you want to be… and go for it.

About the author:

Mike Yeager
Publisher
http://www.my-costume-4me.com/