Hello ILS!

Now that the entire student body has finally returned to campus, it means that students can begin to celebrate holidays in a more traditional way. Of course, with a few COVID-safe modifications. But it’s better than nothing.

Last year, many probably didn’t do much for Halloween. Maybe, some stayed in and saw a movie with parents, pets, or siblings; or maybe a couple friends. Nothing was too extravagant or to “normal” during the pandemic.

But this year, most things are back on! Which means we’re all going to have to up our costume game. Even if you don’t plan to go out trick-or-treating, or to a (hopefully safe, sensible, and small) party, this year, everyone can do our the most to really enjoy Halloween.

Senior Amber Carpintero said that although she’s still undecided on her costume this year, she’s narrowed it down to Starfire from Teen Titans, or Cruella.

To get her ideas, she said “Pinterest is where I get most of my… inspiration for any outfits or costumes I’m trying to put together, and also TikTok.”

Both apps are wide forums where people can glean inspiration for just about anything. And cute, trendy clothes can easily be bought on sites like Depop, or even a local thrift store. Of course, Amazon is always an option.

Another senior, Raymon Martinez, was more sure of his costume for this year. On the SALTT field trip from last week, he dressed up as Portgas D. Ace, from the anime One Piece.

“I decided to be him because he’s one of my favorite characters, and I have similar features to him,” Martinez commented.

From zany ideas like Carpintero’s Cruella or Martinez’s Ace, who looks a bit like him, any Halloween costume can become fun to put together and express yourself. That’s why this year is so special, so ILS can dress up and show off!

Naturally, there’s some parts that people prefer over others.

“My favorite part of Halloween is seeing all the scary decorations around town and also everyone’s costumes,” said Carpintero.

Or, sometimes making your costume the best part of the process. To this end, Martinez added, “My favorite part is getting my costume together and dressing up.”

Finally, there’s those who just aren’t sure what to be this year. Junior Caro Juara admitted, “I have no idea yet what I want to be, but I’m definitely going to dress up!”

That’s ok Caro, the Halloween spirit doesn’t just lie in a costume! Sometimes, it lies in what you do. Juara added that the best part of Halloween for her is usually “hanging out with my friends, watching Halloween movies, and seeing everyone’s costumes.” A solid choice.

Whether you decide to go trick-or-treating (if you see that you’re at an age where it’s still socially acceptable to do so), watch movies with friends, drive around town, or just stay in, try to enjoy your holiday.

Happy Halloween, ILS!