A good costume makes you the hit of the party, but a stinker musters as much excitement as that stale popcorn ball stuck to the bottom of your trick-or-treat bag. This Halloween, skip the slipshod get-ups and go as a celebrity. We’ve got suggestions on who to dress as and where to go to get into character.
Angelina Jolie
Sure, Angelina’s fashions are borderline conservative these days (just call her Queen of the Pantsuit). But she once had a goth streak–before Zahara, before Brad, before Maddox. Who can forget that vial of blood? Ah, the good old days. Resurrect them as vintage Angie and get into the mood at Neo (2350 N. Clark St. 773-528-2622). A vamped-out crowd converges at the cavernlike club for industrial and new wave. Want to really live the Jolie life? First stop across the street at PAWS Cat Adoption Center and stroke a homeless kitten (she does have a humanitarian streak, you know).
Paris Hilton
You were shocked when the feisty socialite broke off her engagement to Greek shipping heir Paris Latsis. (She looked so ready to settle down!) During their courtship, Hilton spent lots of time in culturally rich Greece, where she could have blossomed into a wiser young woman. Before you dress in a Hilton get-up (purse-sized Chihuahua optional), check out the scene at sexy Greektown spot Nine Muses (315 S. Halsted St. 312-902-9922). Belly up to the bar for a snifter of Ouzo and dance into the wee hours on weekends. Now, that’s hot.
Marty Casey
Dressing as the “Rock Star: INXS” runner-up might be questionable (he’s not that famous), but it’s not hard. It helps if you have a reedlike figure, blond locks and a propensity to wave your arms around like a mad conductor. Schubas (3159 N. Southport Ave. 773-525-2508) is a great place to get into character; it’s where Marty tried out for the show. Chug a can of Hamm’s in the bar and, as we’re sure Marty would, amp up the evening by catching a live gig in the back room.
Kenny Chesney
Kenny might still be crying into his beer over Renee Zellweger filing for divorce (insert “fraud” joke here). But you can celebrate the country singer’s happier days by dressing as him. A plain ol’ tank top, worn jeans and cowboy hat will do just fine. Kick up your heels at Carol’s Pub (4659 N. Clark St. 773-334-2402), a honky-tonk joint where there’s country music on weekends. Don’t expect frills; the dance floor is hoedown-ready.
Dave Chappelle
The key to Comedy Central’s one-time golden boy lies not in the costume (jeans, sneaks and a jacket) but in the behavior. Sneak in and out of your Halloween party–heck, even leave the country–and don’t tell anyone where you are or when you’ll return. Seriously, Dave’s a funny guy; since stand-up is what he does best, check out a show at Zanies (1548 N. Wells St. 312-337-4027) and attempt to channel the quick wit of the performers.
