If you’re pulling together a last minute costume and want to keep cost low, using items from your wardrobe is the way to go! For this DIY I chose to feature Dorothy Dandridge as Carmen Jones. Dandridge is a classic icon who captivated me with her acting, beauty and sensuality as a woman.

Carmen Jones costume — Photo: Krystle DeSantos

To complete the look you’ll need what’s listed below. I linked to similar items you can also buy on Amazon prime. You can always reuse these things after!

Red skirt
Black off the shoulder top (Got mine from H&M. I pinched and pinned the front to form the V-shape neckline)
Fake rose (Check your dollar store or nearest craft store)
Gold drop hoop earrings (Got mine from H&M. Regular gold hoops work as well)
Retro-inspired short wig
Black heels
Red gloss lipstick (Try Revlon True Red from your drugstore)

Carmen Jones costume — Photo: Krystle DeSantos

Carmen Jones costume — Photo: Krystle DeSantos

Carmen Jones costume — Photo: Krystle DeSantos

Carmen Jones costume — Photo: Krystle DeSantos

Carmen Jones costume comparison — Photo: Krystle DeSantos (original Carmen Jones image from Movie Poster Shop)

Let’s hear it for Carmen!

What last-minute costumes are you putting together for Halloween? Let us know in the comments below!

Budget costume

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