Austin's weirdness level soars to new heights every year at Halloween. What you wear says a lot about you, particularly if you're dressed up as a despised political figure. Costumes representing abstract concepts seem to be increasingly popular, but many revelers prefer to stick to the more traditional approach: scary or skimpy costumes. Here are some of the best Halloween costumes stores around Austin.
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Lucy in Disguise With Diamonds
Claustrophobes, beware: This South Congress institution gets extremely crowded right before Halloween. And even when it's not crowded, your personal space will be invaded by tightly packed costume racks and feather boa displays. Need a giant, furry cat head? Check. A full-body Chewbacca costume? No problem. The fun-loving salespeople often dress up themselves, and they're experts at guiding people through the costume assembly process, even if you're starting with only a nebulous concept.
1506 South Congress Avenue
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 444-2002 -
Thrift Town
Compared to other Austin thrift stores, Thrift Town earns extra points for cleanliness and organization. If you're planning to put together a costume piecemeal, this cavernous store is an excellent place to find inspiration. And with the store's low prices, you might even be able to afford a backup costume. Many Halloween shoppers show up looking for a costume and walk away with that plus a new outfit or two for everyday wear.
5726 Manchaca Road
Austin, TX 78745
(512) 442-7200 -
Party City
If you're in a hurry and looking for a standard pirate or witch costume, Party City is the place for you. But come on, man, get creative. It's actually an extremely well-organized multi purpose store that sells all sorts of party supplies, from piñatas to ice buckets, but the costume department is huge and well stocked.
5601 Brodie Lane
Austin, TX 78745
(512) 892-2721 -
Costume World
Costume World caters to Austin's theater and film communities, so you can expect plenty of historically accurate period costumes. But the store also has a wide variety of fun outfits to rent, ranging from superheroes to snowmen. Plus, the shop does alterations.
8207 Burnet Road
Austin, TX 78757
(512) 323-5949Continue to 5 of 11 below. -
Goodwill
Located in affluent west Austin, the Lake Austin Goodwill often has vintage clothing in stock that's a cut above most thrift stores. For last-minute shoppers, the shop also sells inexpensive prepackaged costumes.
701 Newman Drive
Austin, TX 78703
(512) 478-6711 -
The Bazaar
Selling everything from Ozzy Osbourne wigs to sexy corsets, The Bazaar is a prime destination for do-it-yourself costume creators. The shop also offers an extensive selection of wigs, costume jewelry and makeup for creating realistic-looking wounds.
1605 East Riverside Drive
Austin, TX 78741
(512) 448-0736 -
Secret Oktober
If you're naturally pale and choose to accentuate that quality for Halloween, proceed directly to Secret Oktober, Austin's goth headquarters. You know this store is edgy because they spell October with a "k." Consider visiting Secret Oktober if your costume plan involves fishnet stockings, studded accessories or vinyl.
2101 S. 1st Street
Austin, TX 78704
(512) 445-9919 -
Blue Velvet
Planning to dress up as a murdered 1980s prom queen? Blue Velvet can set you up with the gown and all necessary accoutrements. The shop also maintains a bountiful supply of brightly colored knee-high boots and vintage sunglasses.
217 W. North Loop Boulevard
Austin, TX 78751
(512) 452-2583Continue to 9 of 11 below. -
Coco Coquette
Outrageous wigs, sparkly hair ornaments, and giant fake eyelashes are Coco Coquette's specialties. If you want to go glam this Halloween, check out one of the store's frequent makeup and wig parties to get some expert advice.
2109 E. Cesar Chavez Street
Austin, TX 78702
(512) 344-9173 -
NightmareFactory.com
This online-only store, based in Dripping Springs, can bring out the hideous monster in anyone. Throughout the year, the family-owned business supplies costumes and props for locally produced horror films. If you need a bag full of bloody body parts or an inflatable pirate ship for your Halloween party, NightmareFactory.com has you covered. Be sure to check out the huge selection of alien masks and zombie costumes.
(512) 858-5063
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Le Rouge Boutique
If you’re in the market for the sexiest possible costume this year, start your search at Le Rouge Boutique. It’s primarily a lingerie and sex toy store, but the shop also has costumes aligned with that theme. If you want to dress as a burlesque or cabaret dancer, Le Rouge can provide the clothing, shoes and even a few naughty accessories.
3405 North Interstate 35
Austin, TX 78722
(512) 469-099