3 Things You Should Know Before You Buy a Halloween Costume

Keep it simple. Vampires are everywhere, so Temime tells Twilight fans to aim for a modern, austere look (no fake teeth!). Pair worn-out clothes (a battered jacket, scuffed boots, torn leggings) with impeccable hair and makeup: white face powder and a tight, glossy ponytail. "And create smoky eyes with a brown pencil—you've had a lot of long nights out."

Slash and burn. If you have a black long-sleeved dress that shows some cleavage, you can be Bellatrix Lestrange (left). Tear along the arm seams and (carefully!) singe the hem and cuffs with a match (keep a wet rag handy to snuff the flame as soon as it catches). Add a wide black belt, knee-high black boots, bold lipstick, dramatic brows, and a long black wig. Done!

Think British. "Costumes should be a laugh," Temime says. "The English have a beautiful ability to make fun of themselves. If you arrive at a Halloween party and everyone laughs at your costume, congratulations—you've broken the ice."

Next: Get a brief history of Halloween