Vamps and vixens

Fancy dress is all the rage these days for Hallowe’en parties — and celebrity efforts have taught us the do’s and don’ts.

HALLOWE’EN has become big business in Ireland with sales of sweets, costumes and devilish decorations overtaking those of arch rival, Valentine’s Day. Unlike the 2 x 2 formation of Feb 14, Hallowe’en has an all-inclusive policy, provided you come dressed for the occasion. No longer is it enough to rock a pair of devil’s ears and a cape fashioned from a refuse sack.

The burgeoning celebrity trend of costume one-upmanship has driven the style stakes right through the heart of mere mortals. If the thought of being the only pumpkin at the party fills you with dread, then it’s time to follow the new rules of fancy dress.