You can make 11 costumes from 12 identical items

As you know, I am the queen of Halloween costumes. Not only are my friends terrible at dressing up, but Halloween tends to last for several nights. I'm super excited that the holiday falls on a Friday this year, but also shopping for Halloween costumes on Wednesday and Thursday (and possibly Saturday)? no thanks. Since my credit card bills are definitely more tricks than treats at the start of the holidays, I've learned to get creative.

The first place I go for inspiration? My wardrobe. Nowadays, it's very cool to wear clothes deconstructed for everyday use. So why not put your favorite pieces of clothing to use? Most of us have a few things in our closets, and these staples are usually the best place to start. Plus, they're great because you can buy them even if you don't own them yet without feeling like you'll never wear them again. For example, a black skirt is the key to many modern looks, while the options for a white button-down shirt are endless—and I'll prove it to you. Here are 10 (yes, 10) different costumes you can make using 12 costumes you probably already own along with a few extra details.

Fragments:

1. High-risk business

White button shirt + white vest + black spandex shorts + ribbed white socks

Get ready to dance like Tom Cruise in this classic movie-inspired costume. If you're feeling really adventurous, you can wear straight-leg white tights instead of black spandex shorts—but a word of wisdom: your outfit could be mistaken for "next morning." (No, this has never happened to me! *cough, cough*)

2.Anna Wintour

Colorful high heels + oversized sunglasses + statement necklace + shift dress

Or, Miranda Priestley. Take your pick. Either way, this is the ultimate strong woman costume. Carry an issue of Vogue magazine with you to add definition, then pin your hair underneath to create a makeshift bob. Whatever you do, don't take off your sunglasses.

3. “Hit Me Baby One More Time” Britney

White buttoned shirt + colorful sports bra + black circle skirt + black knee-high socks + gray cardigan

“Hit Baby One More Time” Britney is my personal favorite Britney. But even so, I definitely think there's some plaid in this schoolgirl-inspired music video. Apparently, I was wrong. Braid your hair into two braids and secure with a bright pink ribbon to complete the look.

4. Dark Angel

Black short top + black round skirt + black knee-high socks + black angel wings

Y'all, Dark Angel costumes sell for up to $180 at Halloween costume stores. Um what? Keep it simple and just buy black wings to match your favorite black outfit.

5. Mindy Lahiri

White button-down shirt + black circle skirt + statement necklace + colorful high heels + doctor's lab coat

This is the year to dress up as everyone's favorite TV doctor. Bonus points if your heels are bright pink.

6. Modern Masquerade

Black crop top + black round skirt + colorful high heels + masquerade mask

The best thing about this costume? When you're done using the mask, you can repurpose it as a beautiful decoration. I have a black and gold book on my bookshelf.

7.Ariana Grande

Black crop top + black hoop skirt + cat ears + berry lip color

Ariana Grande is definitely this fall's It Girl, which means she'll probably be one of the It costumes this Halloween (and there are plenty of ways to channel her style.) With her hair slicked back into Ariana's signature half-updo, it's A must-have—clip-on extensions add extra volume.

8. Flashdance

Color sports bra + black spandex shorts + color high heels + black leg warmers + gray sweatshirt

It’s so strenuous ! Alex from Flashdance is the ultimate 80s costume and remains popular. If you're brave enough, you can cut off the neckline of your sweatshirt to make it an off-the-shoulder top. Sweatbands and large hair are optional (but recommended).

9. Off-duty model

Black leather jacket + white vest + oversized sunglasses + motorcycle boots + black jeans

Looking at you, Cara Delevingne. I try to pull off the "model after get off work" look every day, but I'm really not cool enough... except for Halloween. Wear Calvin Klein underwear and reveal the iconic waistband for a collision of rebellion and classic.

10. Sports Spice

Black crop top + black spandex shorts + colorful sports bra + classic sneakers + hair tie

I'll tell you what I want, what I really want! Deciding which hottie to be can be quite difficult. Luxury, horror, baby, ginger...so many options. Here's the good news, though: You probably already have everything you need to be the badassest, Sporty Spice, in your closet. A colorful sports bra peeked out from the crop top, and her hair was secured with scrunchies in a true '90s style. If you don't already own those classic adidas, you now have the perfect excuse to splurge.

11. And of course a cat

Black leather jacket + black cropped top + black round skirt + colorful high heels + cat ears

What would a Halloween costume roundup be without this go-to animal suit? Not all cat costumes are #basic – a leather jacket gives it a little edge, and dainty cat ears add a touch of glamor.

Image credit: Alexa Tucker; courtesy of manufacturer; tumblr.com