My Perfect Halloween Costume

Halloween has changed through the years. It used to be focused almost completely on children and trick or treat. Sometime in the 1980s, if memory serves me correctly, Halloween started to change into a more adult-themed holiday. The Halloween events became parties, chances for adults to cut loose and get crazy. 

I was in college as this change started, so the appeal of a party was enough to interest me. The children’s costumes were too juvenile, and everyone started putting a lot of time and energy into selecting their costumes. I spent some time debating what costume I should buy/rent/create to attend the parties. 

Most people settled for an adult version of the old standbys, such as vampires and mummies. I wanted something different to set myself apart, and to have a good time. I knew some creative people who made their own costumes, and they looked awesome. One friend dressed as Elvira, and she looked gorgeous. Two other friends were dressed as Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy. Another person created a spacesuit to wear. 

Time was running short, and I still hadn’t figured out what I wanted to dress up like for the party. I hated the thought of looking like everyone else, but I hated the idea of missing the party even more. Then, inspiration struck two days before the party. 

I was watching a Marx Brothers movie on TV. I already knew someone who was going to be at the party dressed as Groucho Marx. I thought that was a great choice, but there was no need for two Grouchos at the same place. Then, the idea hit me. I decided to dress as Harpo Marx instead. It was a scramble to find what I needed. The old oversized trench coat came from a consignment shop. I found a polka dot shirt and baggy pants there as well. Then I went to the costume shop for a wig and top hat. Finally, I found an old squeeze horn at an antique shop. Throw on some old shoes, and I was all set. 

When I showed up the party, I stayed totally in character and never said a word. I mimed and used the horn, which everyone found hilarious. I got away with murder that night. I could do almost anything by staying in character as Harpo Marx. 

I wish I still had some of the pictures from that night, but through the years, things vanish. I still have the memories, and to this day I always recommend that people create a Harpo Marx costume to wear for their next Halloween party.