Halloween inspiration from the genius who designs Heidi Klum’s showstoppers

Each week, we cut through the noise to bring you smart, practical recommendations on how to live better – from what is worth buying to the tools, habits and ideas that actually last. From binge-watching 90s slasher films to consuming far too many pumpkin-spiced products, I start celebrating Halloween when most people are still in the throes of summer. That includes one crucial task: planning out my Halloween costume. This year, I’ve decided to haunt the streets of New York City as Casey Becker, Drew Barrymore’s iconic character from Scream. But if you haven’t been methodically plotting your costume for three months, it’s not too late to get some inspiration from editor Danielle Renwick’s interview with makeup and costume experts, including one of the masterminds behind The Substance and the genius who does Heidi Klum’s annual showstoppers. Their tips include last-minute DIY options and couples’ ensembles that are sure to leave an impression. Interviewing Halloween royalty brought Renwick back to some of her childhood costume memories, like the year her mother dressed her as a birthday present. “I had a birthday hat, and then I was wearing a big box that she cut out a head and arm holes, and she wrapped it in balloon wrapping paper. It was just simple, but very cute,” Renwick said. Now, Renwick has a daughter of her own, who plans to trick-or-treat dressed as MerCat from Gabby’s Dollhouse. Lauren GouldEditorial coordinator, the Filter US Trick-or-treat: the Filter’s favorite candy • Editor, Nick Mokey: Butterfinger • Deputy production editor, Ashley Chervinski: Reese’s pumpkins • Copy editor, Tammy Tarng: dark chocolate KitKats and Li Hing sour lychee gummies • Production editor, Caitlin Curran: anything from YumEarth (great for allergies) • Senior editor, US partnerships, Danielle Renwick: Reese’s Pieces • Copy editor, Jessica Ferguson: Reese’s Take 5, Nerds Gummy Clusters • Editorial coordinator, Lauren Gould: Halloween Reese’s Take it to the grave: an umbrella worth the splurge New England resident and long-time product reviewer Jon Chan is all too familiar with erratic weather. And while pricey, the Davek Solo umbrella has changed the game in helping him survive the region’s unpredictable climate, including a classic nor’easter. Read the full story here: Embrace the rain with a go-anywhere umbrella built to last Lauren’s picks: A few small upgrades I’m enjoying right now: ***In the kitchen: This stainless steel pot is perfect for cooking up cozy soups and chilis (or for making potions). $26.99 at Target ***At (my hopefully not haunted) home: Watching a horror movie isn’t complete without a cozy blanket to hide underneath during the scary bits. Not only is this throw ultra-soft, it’s also beloved by both humans and pets (my toy poodle will hog this blanket from me at any chance he gets). $98 at Anthropologie ***On my broomstick (on the go): I haven’t quite mustered up the confidence to bike around New York City. Instead I walk – a lot. These shoes get me through scenic runs in Central Park and last-minute trips to the grocery store (sans foot pain). $155 at Hoka Put to the test: shower filters Knife-wielding psychos aren’t the only things to fear behind your shower curtain: the chlorine lurking in your tap water can do a number on your skin and hair. That’s why journalist Stephen Treffinger set out to test shower filters in pursuit of the best. After showering multiple times per day in the name of science, Treffinger found a favorite for tackling chlorine, and even one that can handle hard water, if you’re willing to maintain it. Read the full story here: The eight best showerhead filters in the US for every budget and bathroom Get involved Calling all protein-bar enthusiasts: We’re conducting a taste test, and we need your help! We want to know: What do you look for in a protein bar? Whether you prefer a certain texture or are on the hunt for a bar without that dreaded chalky aftertaste, we want to hear from you! Send your suggestions to thefilter.us@theguardian.com with the subject line “Protein Bar Taste Test”.