When it comes to Halloween, many of us “grown-ups” have given up the ghost. The days of throwing together a meager costume should be behind us. Many people, if they still try to dress up for an event (or even just to answer the door in a festive style) buy the prepackaged “everybody has it” off-the-rack costumes. These costumes, though not cheap, are cheaply made. They are, at $20 to $40, meant to be worn for the one night and then what? Do you want to wear it next year… really? If you are inspired, you can make a costume of better quality, but not everyone can accomplish that… and then you are even less inclined to get rid of the darn thing someday.

If you want to get a bigger bang for your buck, and not have the pieces of thin polyester hanging around for a few years before you finally give them to the local thrift store, try renting a super costume instead. It will cost more than the “cheapy” costume, rentals can run anywhere from $40 - $130 dollars, but you will look FABULOUS. The fabric, the fit and the detail will lend a wow-factor to your holiday or event. If you were to buy or make a costume of the same quality, it would certainly cost more than a one day rental. And, best of all, you have a place to take it the next day so you are not required to wear it for the next 10 years!

Costume rental shops that operate year round are the best places to go, don’t go to one of those places that pop up just for the season (unless it is associated with a local theatre). A good rental shop will have racks and racks of costumes in a variety of era’s, themes and in all sizes, plus sizes too. They have men’s, women’s and children’s costumes. Your family can go with a common theme (western, pirates, 20’s gangster/flapper, renaissance, etc.) or everyone can pick their favorite. They should have pictures of the costumes so that you can look at them to get ideas before heading to the dressing room.

Things to think about if you decide to rent are:

• You will need to go in ahead of time to try on and reserve a costume
• Remember to ask about any props they might have that go with the rental (canes, boa’s, fans, sword, wigs, headpieces, etc.)
• Rentals are usually 24 hours, so after you reserve your costume a week or two ahead of the event, you need to plan pick-up and drop off times to avoid late fees
• There may be pieces of the costume that you will need to buy (like fish net stockings for a Can-Can girl outfit)
• Many rentals require advance payment and deposits against damage
• Speaking of damage, be sure to inspect the costume before taking it home

Renting a costume is a great way to put the festive back into your Halloween. When you put on a real costume, it can change how you walk and talk. You will look great, feel sassy, and delight everyone who sees you!