Fancy dress panic doesn't need to mean expensive shopping. If you've been invited to a party at short notice, you likely already own everything needed for several great costumes. With a bit of creativity, your everyday wardrobe is a costume goldmine.

The Detective. Combine a smart blazer with dark jeans, add a striped tie or scarf, and you're instantly a film noir detective. Borrow someone's magnifying glass as a prop, slick back your hair, and you're done. This works particularly well if you have a trench coat.

The Biker. Black jeans, a leather or denim jacket, white t-shirt, and boots create an instant rebellious aesthetic. Add a bandana, chain wallet, or sunglasses for extra detail. Gel your hair back and you've got a convincing rock-and-roll look.

Zombie or Vampire. Dark clothes you already own become the base. Add pale makeup (flour mixed with water works), darken under your eyes, and mess up your hair. Fake blood from the kitchen—use corn syrup mixed with food colouring—looks surprisingly realistic on clothing.

The Hippie. Raid your wardrobe for anything tie-dye or brightly patterned. Layer loose clothing, add a headband, and find some beads or long necklaces. Flared trousers or bell-bottoms are perfect, but regular jeans work fine too.

Old-School Hollywood Star. A simple black dress or suit becomes instantly glamorous with the right attitude. Add dramatic makeup, borrowed jewellery, and slicked-back hair. Carry a clutch bag and you're a classic film star.

Tourist. This brilliantly simple costume uses everyday clothes styled in a deliberately unfashionable way. Wear mismatched patterns, add a fanny pack, cargo shorts, white socks with sandals, and carry a camera. It's funny and requires zero special shopping.

Athlete or Sports Star. Tracksuit bottoms, a sports top, and trainers instantly read as athletic. Add a sweatband, carry a water bottle, and you're a gym enthusiast or marathon runner. If you have a football shirt, that works perfectly too.

The Key to Success. Last-minute costumes work best when you commit to them. Add makeup, styling, and confidence. Accessories matter enormously—a borrowed hat, scarf, or piece of jewellery can transform a basic outfit into a recognisable costume.

Think about your existing wardrobe's colours and styles. Dark clothes suggest sinister characters; bright clothes suggest fun, playful costumes. Layering creates visual interest and helps define a character. Most importantly, have fun with it—the best costumes are those where people clearly enjoyed putting them together.