A liberal application if tulle should work, yes. You'd get the best cupcake-like poof with tiers but that can be a goddamn pain in the ass :/ (I made my last petti in about 5 hours but ugh it's one of my least favourite things to do ever) Several layers gathered or pleated to a waistband would likely be sufficient.

Have money at a con? Le gasp!! Lol. Sometimes it's a pain being a responsible adult too XD