I want to make antlers for a costume, what materials should I use? I want them to be very realistic and about the height of my head. My biggest concern is weight, I’m unsure as to what materials to use. I also want the way they are attached to be very discreet and look very natural. I need it to take carving well and be strong enough for my clumsy self not to break by accident. Possibly, and likely going to be hollow in order for minimal weight. Also what paints should I use?
I don't know how "handy" you are but I would suggest Papier-mâché over a simple wire armature. It would be lightweight, fast and inexpensive to make, require minimal tools and be very forgiving of mistakes. For a bit more durability and added texture, add a final layer of simple cheesecloth after the form has been built up. Then paint or stain for the desired effect. Any paints would do – inexpensive watercolors, etc. 

As for the form and how to wear them – depends on how large you want the antlers to be (e.g. moose antlers can be huge. Deer antlers smaller, etc.). Perhaps sacrifice a "baseball" type hat to build off of and add a "chin strap" to keep it from slipping off of you head.