Given the choice, I’ll make a costume before buying one. Sure I may purchase elements but a ready-made costume? Never! I don’t dress up often and have to admit, my costumes haven’t won contests. But I sure enjoy the creativity that flows around Halloween!

This year, I’m sporting the ‘œhectic tax preparer moving her office’ look. Needless to say I’ll be sans costume tonight. But I’m still in the Halloween spirit. My carved pumpkin is inspired by the latest New Yorker cover, Cheney on a pumpkin. I’ve carved a portrait of Mr. Burns (from The Simpsons) and have it glowing out the window.

I’ve been thinking back on Halloweens past and have been laughing at previous costumes. I remember such doozies as the Flashdance costume. A few cuts to an oversized black t-shirt and some lavender fabric paint. Instant Jennifer Beals. While I wasn’t out when I wore that one, it should have been a clue!

I got super creative and artsy one year. In fact, it was my first California Halloween. I took an old emerald green bridesmaid dress and converted it into a Dr. Seuss inspired ensemble. With elaborate glittery green make-up and flowing false eyelashes I became an unnamed character from one of Dr. Seuss’ paintings.

I’ve kept a list of costumes I’d like to try like dressing in drag or an elaborate pirate with huge gold earrings and tight corset. And I can’t forget the ever intriguing ensemble costumes, with 2 or 3 friends. I’ve got this idea to dress as Earth, Wind, and Fire, but that’ll take some planning–with the leisure suits and what not.

Last Halloween I spent at a costume contest with my sister’¦and her two little yorkies, Louie and Phoebe. She dressed them up as Peter Pan and Tinkerbell and took them to her neighborhood dog day care. It was quite a sight and I have to admit, I’ve humiliated my dog too. He’s been a very fitting devil with horns and a cape.

As Halloween eve approaches, which costume will you don? Have you seen an awesome costume that inspired you? Share your spooky Halloween ideas with Queercents readers below!