Good(will) Witches Thrift Their Halloween Costumes

September 25, 2025by Emily Martinez

By Felicia Czochanski Bisaro

Are you a good witch or a bad witch? I know I’m a Goodwill® witch, every time. This Halloween comes just ahead of Wicked: For Good’s release, meaning all things Wicked-themed are going to be pop-u-lar! Whether you’re team Elphaba or team Galinda, there is so much costume inspiration within the story — enough for the whole family.

Thrifting Halloween costumes is the best way to be a good environmental steward too. Whether I’m shopping for myself or my family, especially when I’m looking for something I know I will only wear once, my first stop is always to my local Goodwill store. At Goodwill, I’ve found some of the most beautiful pieces of clothing in my closet. I’ve also found some of the most unique statement items that I’ve transformed into something that fits what I was looking for perfectly. If a DIY costume is involved, you better believe I’ve got a Goodwill trip on the agenda.

Pink Dress 2
Pink Dress 1

Not only does it present so many possibilities for creative clothing ideas, but shopping at Goodwill for a costume that can be repurposed in real life or donated right back to Goodwill after Halloween prevents that same costume from ending up in a landfill and supports the nonprofit career support that Goodwill provides to those in need. For anyone looking for costumes for their little ones, that they’ll not only wear once but grow out of, think about adopting a thrift-first mindset – you never know what you might come across.

Not only is it more eco-friendly to shop at Goodwill, but it’s also more affordable. The retail prices for costumes these days blow my mind. Not only is the quality lacking, but it’s a huge hit to your wallet for something that you’ll see multiple other people wearing. If you’re not crafty enough to sew your own fully DIY costume, Goodwill has other options that can easily be repurposed into the perfect look. And sometimes, you just don’t know what you’ll find until you stop by the store and browse.