Halloween is the perfect time to transform into someone—or something—completely different, and dressing as a beggar can be surprisingly fun if you lean into the details. Start with the clothes: raid your closet for the most worn-out items you own. Frayed edges, patches, and stains are your friends here. A mismatched, oversized sweater with holes, paired with torn pants or a skirt, sets the foundation. Don’t forget to rub a bit of dirt or charcoal on the fabric for that lived-in look. Footwear should be scuffed and barely holding together—old sneakers with the soles peeling off are ideal.
Accessories sell the character. A battered hat or a knapsack tied with a rope adds authenticity. Smudge your face lightly with dirt or fake grime, and consider a bit of messy, unkempt hair—tease it or use a little gel to make it look greasy. Carry a prop like a tin cup or a cardboard sign with a humorous plea ('Need $$$ for dragon hoard' always gets laughs). The key is to exaggerate the dishevelment while keeping it playful—after all, Halloween is about having fun with the absurd.