RELATIONSHIPS
Whether you choose to be a “Downton Abbey” look-alike, a sexy bar maid, or an M&M, expect a laughter-filled Halloween. It’s a great night for singles and couples alike. You might decide on a costume influenced by today’s movies such as “Batman,” “The Lone Ranger” or “Gravity.”
Or perhaps you will choose a look from Ruth Edna Kelley’s “The Book of Hallowe’en,” published in 1919 and updated in 2011 with full illustrations and postcards. She might inspire a ghost or goblin in the form of a spirit which supposedly roamed the earth on All Hallow’s Eve.
What makes Halloween such a fanciful time? There is none of the anxiety that surrounds “Hearts and Flowers Day,” with women wondering if they will receive an expensive box of calories. On Halloween there is enough candy to go around for weeks — all the treats for the asking. The only requirement is a mask and a plan with your best female or male friends or the love in your life.
Keep in mind that unlike New Year’s Eve, no dates are necessary. Just give yourself a night off to revel in the holiday.
If you don’t wish to costume shop, think of sheets, wigs, and household items that can turn you into “The Chef.” Here is a chance to be creative and make a statement. Try a white cotton T-shirt with his and hers hashtags that can be as simple or daring as you wish. For couples dating too long, she might want to write #outofpatience while he sports #outofexcuses.
In the world of costumes, Hollywood trends for women continue to be sassy and for men, heroes all. This season, despite the disgust so many expressed about Miley Cyrus at the MTV Video Music Awards, you can expect to see Ms. Miley and Robin Thicke costumes.
For a Miley, I’d encourage shirts with some pink felt teddy bear designs instead of those pasties of hers. And then you can mimic her hair — if you dare. Robin Thicke’s outfit was a throwback to the 1988 “Beetlejuice” movie, and apparently the black and white striped suits are dancing off the racks.
Making Halloween a treat is up to you. And if you are with a serious love who thinks Halloween is just for children, bring out the kid in him. Fill the house with jack-o’-lanterns while reminding him that the tradition was meant to keep ghosts at bay. Place orange candles in the bedroom. Then offer some tricks and treats.
Buy daring lingerie or a large feather boa fan. Hang a magic fairy puppet over the bed. Or dress up as a genie — blink twice — and let your wildest relationship wishes come true.
Rita Watson is an All About You relationships columnist.
Copyright 2013 Rita Watson/ All Rights Reserved
Providence Journal (Oct 20, 2013, All About You, p. H5)