HALLOWEEN: Our top costume-shop destinations
We've rounded up four local shops that should suit your costuming needs to a tee.
You've probably had your Halloween ensemble planned for months, but now you need to buy it. Whether you go the sexy kitten route or dress as a freaky-eyed Michele Bachmann, we've rounded up four local one-stop-shops that should suit your costuming needs to a tee.
Pierre's 211 N. Third St., 215-925-7121, costumers.com ➤ If you don't have a costume in mind yet, a browse through Pierre's Costumes should do the trick. One of Philly's oldest shops of its kind, there's an overwhelming amount of costumes, make-up, and accessories to choose from. If the packaged costumes (which can be rented or custom-made) aren't enough, trying on an assortment of different shoes and wigs alone can inspire the makings of an unforgettable outfit. Fun fact: ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX get their "On-Air" costumes from Pierre's. If you can't make it to the store before Halloween, check out their website for amazing offers.
Past & Present, 7224 Germantown Ave., 215-242-2908 ➤ The Halloween season is no stranger to Past & Present, a funky Mt. Airy vintage shop loaded with upscale, costume-store goodies. For some laughs, there are colonial garb magician's capes and even an Elvis costume. For some classier attires, travel back in time with handmade vintage 1920s flapper dresses, crinolines and tuxedos. Want to top off your creativity with a little extra oomph? There's color hair spray, crazy wigs, masks and face paint, too. So, why aren't you on your way yet?
Masquerade Costume Superstore 1100 S. Columbus Blvd., 215-952-0980, masqueradeadventure.com ➤ While Halloween typically represents candy, haunted houses and costume parties, Masquerade Costume Superstore hasn't forgotten our favorite reason: an excuse for girls to dress like sluts. The warehouse-sized building is split between two sections: over 18 and under 18, where you will be carded to enter. Beyond that forbidden line lies sexy, jaw-dropping costumes, accompanied with holiday favorites; whips, stripper heels, handcuffs, you name it. However prepare yourself before shopping at Masquerade; the place becomes a madhouse before Halloween. You're best bet: Go on a weekday. A weekday really, really soon.
Buffalo Exchange 1713 Chestnut St., 215-557-9850, buffaloexchange.com ➤ Buffalo Exchange has been noted in Elle and Seventeen Magazine as the go-to place for getting new and recycled fashion at a fair price. And Halloween duds are no exception. The store's buyers begin hunting as early as August for items on their list of 'must-have' Halloween costumes: from Glee characters and Victorian-Era clothing to vampire and western-styled outfits. This is also a great stop if you're looking to perfect an incomplete look with flashy accessories collection.