Tips and tricks (or treats) for the right Halloween look

There’s nothing scarier than running into someone wearing the same Halloween costume as you. Avoid the nightmare by planning a one-of-a-kind Halloween look, and then show it off at one of Vegas’ many holiday parties.

Jason Egan, creator and owner of Las Vegas’ popular Fright Dome, believes scary television characters will be a big inspiration this year.

“A fun and exciting trend that’s going on right now is that some of the most popular shows on TV -- ‘The Walking Dead,’ ‘American Horror Story’ -- are frightening,” he said. “Girls are also going a lot scarier with their costumes. There’s still some sexiness going on, but they’re bringing the horror back into Halloween.”

Since “American Horror Story” focused on witches this past season, Egan expects to see plenty of hags lurking around the Strip. Zombies will roam Halloween parties. And there will be fewer pre-packaged costumes as more people get creative.

When creating your own look, it’s best to have a plan. “If you’re going to be a witch, how are you going to do your hair?” Egan asked. “Will you wear it up ‘Hocus Pocus’-style like Bette Midler or down like a character from ‘American Horror Story’? And if you’re going to be a zombie, what kind of zombie are you? Remember, everyone’s been killed off: cops, construction workers, even military guys.”

Makeup is a critical factor. “It’s important not to skimp on makeup jobs,” Egan said, “as it can make or break a costume.”

Several salons in Las Vegas offer special makeup packages for Halloween, including Michael Boychuck’s Color. Its Spooktacular Beauty Package, available from Oct. 27 to 31, includes a hairstyle and makeup that’s custom fit to your attire. Platinum Entourage also does special FX makeup, with glamour makeup, monster makeup and body paint options.

Egan also suggested Star Costume & Theatrical Supply, with its “amazing selection of makeup” as well as an extensive inventory of costumes for sale. The location also features a rental department with mix-and-match pieces to get the right look.

Thrift stores are an excellent option for putting together costumes. Egan noted that savvy shoppers could save money and create a more authentic appearance with the wide variety of used items available.

Uniform shops can be a goldmine, as actual work garments are sometimes a better deal than their costume equivalents. For popular looks, it might be easier to find a specific size or fit during the busy pre-Halloween rush.

Once you have your costume, it’s only natural you’ll want to show it off. Several Vegas nightclubs have Halloween costume contests, like Body English, The Bank and Light. Fright Dome will also be hosting a costume contest during its first Day of the Dead party, an adults-only affair on Nov. 1. Cash prizes will be awarded in various categories, including Most Original and Scariest.

Egan warns that whatever your plans are, allow yourself plenty of time because, as he knows well, “Halloween comes quick.”

-Heather Turk, Brand Publishing Writer