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Halloween is just around the corner, and the search is on for that perfect Halloween Costume. Whether you're entertaining, attending a party or just trick-or-treating in the neighborhood, the perfect costume is paramount for a successful Halloween. We've scoured our resources and developed this list of tips on designing a Halloween look sure to sway the judges of any respectable Costume Contest in your favor.

Tip #1 - Start with 3 or more costume ideas.
Challenging yourself to thinking of at least 3 possible costumes will result in greater creativity. The first costume idea may have some drawbacks in the final analysis. For example, a sword looks great for a Saimiri warrior, but don't count on being able to get into your local nightclub with it; and if you aren't already a belly-dancer, there's hardly time at this point to take belly-dancing lessons. Expand the original ideas with accessories, makeup and other ways you'll truly be able to stay in character.

Tip #2 - Stay away from "stock" costumes to create your own unique look.
A costume shop or variety store is a great place to get ideas, or even create a base for your final costume, but you won't win any contests by being the 100th replica of Cat Woman. The costumes available at party stores also tend to be on the flimsy side, which could result in a “wardrobe malfunction” moment. Instead, try to couple the ideas from the store with your own twists (and perhaps a layer of real clothing) to be truly unique.

Tip #3 - Avoid the obscure.
Try to keep your costume mainstream enough that most people will "get it" and understand who you're trying to be. Either stay with what's popular now, or what has proven to be timeless, Dracula, for example. Avoid characters so little known you'll have to spend the night explaining yourself.

Tip #4 - Use popular culture to your advantage, if you dare.
Tried and true Halloween rules are that funnier the costume, the easier it is to win the contest; and nothing is funnier than a joke at someone else's expense. If you're going to use a popular culture jab as your costume base, just be sure that the news is relatively current so everyone gets the joke. For example, a pee soaked David Hasselhoff is current; but the Hoff accompanied by Kit is outdated (at least until the new series picks up). Also be ready to take the bad with the good, some people may appreciate your humor more than others.

Tip #5 - Play up your best points by picking a costume that fits your personality and your body.
Let's face it, not everyone can pull off a stripper or a Charlie Chaplin. Pick a costume that accents your strong points. Do you have great legs? Are you funny? Has anyone ever told you that you look exactly like a celebrity? Can you make little kids cry with your evil laugh? Stay away from anything that makes you feel uncomfortable when you're in character; to win a contest you'll have to act continuously like whoever (or whatever) inspired you.

Tip #6 - Couples only.
This tip is for couples attending a function together: being his-and-hers and original is almost impossible. Romeo and Juliet, Cinderella and Prince Charming, Two Peas in a Pod, zzzz. It's easier to be creative by coming up with your own unique ideas and leave the contest judges to figuring out who you came with.

Tip #7 - More is more - dress from head to foot and accessorize.
No winning costume is complete without the extra touches. Make sure every inch of your costume is in character from your shoes to your hat, and accessorize with props and makeup. Maximize your look by keeping in character with your speech and mannerisms; act as if you're on a stage the entire time you're wearing that costume (unless you're scaring small children, then it's okay to become human for a moment).

Tip #8 - Last but not least
Run your final costume by at least 5 trusted friends before the big night. We all love our mothers, but they may not be impartial enough to give great costume advice. When you think you're ready, show your costume to five trusted friends who will give you their real opinions. If you have to explain what you are to any one of them, start over at Tip #1.

Happy Haunting from your friends at Good Time Entertainment, & The Karaoke King trusted with Halloween parties and other special occasions since 1991.