Where to Get Affordable Last-Minute Halloween Costumes
There is really only one time of year that everyone seemingly goes out to purchase Halloween costumes, which means that the closer we get to October 31, the better the deals are going to be. If you are still in the market for a Halloween costume for either yourself or a little one, here are some options you might want to check out (and don't be surprised if you spot some fabulous deals while you're at it):
Savers:
Savers is a thrift store that does not yet exist all over the country, but if you do have one nearby, it can be an excellent place to pick up a brand new Halloween costume for a fraction of the price of what you would pay at some stores.
Savers goes all out for Halloween! I went into a store last year around this time and there were nearly three full aisles devoted solely to Halloween, making it one of the largest Halloween shops I found. In addition to a huge assortment of costumes they also carry wigs, makeup, and really anything you will need to complete your Halloween ensemble. Of course, being a thrift store, it is also a great place to shop if you are looking for individual pieces to affordably put together your own costume!
Target:
Target is probably a go-to store for many that are searching for affordable Halloween costumes, but it is worth a mention. My local Target is usually fairly picked over, but I have had great luck shopping their online selection of costumes. Just make sure you keep your eyes on the Halloween display and don't walk out with $50 worth of unplanned purchases!
One collection I highly recommend checking out is the Chris March Big Fun Wig & Accessory Collection, which is available both online and in-stores. Chris March is a costume designer and previous Project Runway contestant and his designs are both over-the-top and fun.
Etsy:
While I would not normally think of Etsy as a go-to destination for Halloween costumes, I was browsing the site yesterday and found some really adorable (and affordable) costumes for babies! Etsy is a great option if you are looking for something that is not mainstream and that others likely will not be wearing. For instance, sushi lovers may enjoy dressing their little one up as a piece of sushi with an adorable handmade sushi onesie, and I also spotted a costume depicting the caterpillar from The Hungry Caterpillar that would be wonderful for newborns.
Of course, on Etsy you will find handmade and vintage costumes for the entire family, as well as thousands of options for Halloween decorations, face paint, candy bags and more.
Costume Supercenter (CostumeSupercenter.com):
I love browsing the selection of costumes at Costume Supercenter because each season they add so many new options. This year alone they have added more than 800 new costumes to the rotation. Regardless of what kind of costume you are looking for, this store is sure to have it.
Costume Supercenter carries costumes for the entire family, including pets. Costumes range from the traditional to the truly ornate, with prices to match. What makes Costume Supercenter worth browsing, however, is that they offer frequent sales and they almost have coupons available, which means that there is no reason to pay full price.
Pinterest:
While you cannot shop on Pinterest, browsing can provide plenty of inspiration. There are thousands of costume photos listed on the site, including many DIY tutorials that can perhaps be made with items you already have at home. Regardless of how basic or ornate you want to go with your Halloween costume, Pinterest can help you pull off the look you want. This is also the place to browse if you are looking for couple, family or group costume ideas.
While Halloween is just over two weeks away at this point, it is not yet too late to pull together or purchase a creative costume and have it ready in time for October 31. While there are tons of stores that cater to the Halloween market, checking the locations listed above will help you pull together something that is both fun and affordable.
Lisa Koivu is the founder of ShopGirlDaily.com, a budget fashion and shopping blog for women who want to have the best for less.
