30 DIY Halloween Costumes For Empowered Ladies
By Emily Scott
Abbi and Ilana from Broad City, Screencap via Comedy Central
Ilana and Abbi – Broad City
Why They’re Awesome: The ladies of Broad City went from total unknown web series creators to some of the foremost stars in comedy when Amy Poehler discovered their work. Now they are taking the world by storm with their Comedy Central series. In the show, Abbi and Ilana play hyper-exaggerated versions of themselves, which makes them both hilariously kooky and deeply relatable. From Ilana’s stonerish excitement to Abbi’s intense awkwardness, we can all see ourselves in them. Additionally, the show’s frank discussion of female sexuality, including Ilana’s well-documented queerness, has been groundbreaking for the traditionally male comedy landscape. Both the real and fictional versions of this duo exude empowerment!
Abbi as Val, her alter-ego, on Broad City, Screencap via Comedy Centrall versions of these women exude empowerment!
What You’ll Need: First of all, a friend! Abbi and Ilana are pretty much a package deal, so it’s best to best to do doubles on this one. For Ilana, you’ll want to think confident and provocative. Try a visible bra – an Ilana staple – under a mesh or lace top, along with some colorful patterned leggings! Some very bold makeup would not be remiss – remember her green lipstick in the air conditioner episode? Abbi is definitely more casual and laid back – go with a simple jeans/t-shirt/flannel/beanie situation, if you want a simple costume. If you’d rather do something more recognizable, use white duct tape or masking tape to spell out the word “cleaner” on a black shirt. Then pair it with sneakers and black yoga pants for Abbi’s gym janitor uniform!
Next Level Move: “Val” and the “white power suit”! Use this as an opportunity to embody some of the ladies’ most memorable fashion moments. Channel Ilana’s inner boss lady by replicating her unfortunately named “white power suit” – a white pantsuit, or white pants/blazer combo. Throw on a visible red bra underneath and grab a martini! For Abbi’s lounge-singer alter-ego Val, combine a long men’s suit jacket with black short shorts. Throw on a white blouse underneath and accessorize with translucent black tights, black ankle boots, and a black fedora. Naturally. Channel the ‘40s with your jewelry choices and swipe on your favorite red lipstick. Now you’re both living Abbi and Ilana’s best lives!