For me, Halloween costumes are always a pain in the rear and I usually don’t think about it until the day before so I cobble something together, mostly with things I have in my closet. I’m pretty frugal that way, and I’m also just a lazy mom. For example, last year I was FLOTUS – the day she wore a FLOTUS hat, blue button-up shirt, and black jeans. The year before, half-a$$ed Superwoman (using my son’s pajama shirt).

I clearly need to up my game. This year, since I finally don’t have three boys whose costumes I’m responsible for and endless school-based “parties” to prepare for, I thought I’d really get into the spirit and mock some liberals (especially Alyssa Milano, my favorite) and do a sexy Handmaid’s Tale costume. So imagine my joy when a costume company came out with one!

Like all good things, it didn’t last. As our Brad Slager covered (in the appropriately-titled Handmaid’s Fail), Yandy came under fire from feministas and pulled the costume. The irony is likely lost on every single one of them.

Not to worry. If, like some unnamed RedState contributors, you’ve promised your significant other a sexy handmaid costume, or you really wanted that costume, I’ve scoured the internet for you and will share how you can be empowered! and create your own costume.

Now, when it comes to costumes there are two schools of thought. One is to just purchase everything as cheaply as possible and know you’ll probably only use it once. The other is to get items you can use throughout the year, so you stretch your clothing budget. I’ll cover both, and attempt to stay under the $64.95 plus shipping/handling Yandy would have charged (shoes and hose – but who wears those? – not included).

Items needed: Red mini dress (or skirt/t-shirt combo), red robe/cape, bonnet, and black heels.

Dress:

If you’re going with the frugal version, these dresses from Forever 21, or Charlotte Russe (strapless or bodycon) fit the bill – they’re all under $20.

These dresses, from Kohl’s and Nordstrom, were a little more expensive, but probably are worth it:

Robe & Bonnet:

Easy – buy the “officially licensed” Handmaid’s Tale robe and bonnet from Spirit Halloween. They don’t provide anything to wear underneath, anyway. You can also get a red devil cape from your local Party City and buy a pilgrim bonnet.

Shoes:

These, from DSW, are slightly different than the ones the Yandy model wears, but will be useful throughout the winter.

There you have it! Don’t be like me – order your costume pieces early!