I dressed up as a guy with a big fat beer belly for Halloween, a costume suggested by reader Claudia Williams. Thanks to the nearly 100 readers who suggested ideas for the costume contest. I was not able to convince my husband to cross dress as my girlfriend, unfortunately. I told him he would look really sexy, but he did not budge.
I created my entire costume from stuff around the house, though a better fitting cap would have helped. Still, I think my beer belly looks pretty real!
My 2011 Halloween costume!
PS. It was my hubby who suggested scattering the chips on my leg and stuffing my hand in my pants!
PPS. Send me your frugal costume (or your kids costume) and I’ll post them here.
Carrie writes: "I made this "top" for my daughter from a pillow sham...just cut the head and arms, stitched up the back, sewed on black shapes to look like "Pebbles" and done! good thing she was so tiny!! her boyfriend's mom made his from recycled items at their house too...sweats, and a ugly sweater cut down the front, and arms removed...his necklace and bone/club I picked up for next to nothing at a summer garage sale along with the pillow sham... from 2010"
Carrie writes "The "Romans" were just as easy too. I picked up a slinky night gown, cut off the sleeves, and hot glued the 'gold' accents around the neck and arms and picked up extra for her hair and to wrap her arm. The belt is like a snake of circles and I got that from a friend. HIS is even easier, just a SHEET! from 2009"
Welcome to Bargain Babe! I’m Mara, and I’m so glad you’re here. I am an obsessive bargain hunter and penny pincher, and I am determined to live a full life without EVER paying full price. 
You look fabulous!!!
@Diane Thanks so much!
How great! I love these ideas. Beautiful kids! Are they twins? I’m a triplet! Julia, can’t wait to see you next weekend!
I really liked these baby angel costumes which look fabulous…thanks for sharing with us…