Celebrating their 15th anniversary at the well-worn East Village location, Halloween Adventure retains bragging rights as the largest collection of costumes, wigs, masks, props, and décor in the city. In addition to three permanent locations, (two others in PA) pop-up versions of the favorite costume outlet have been appearing in the northeast for over twenty years. Now that’s a reputation you can count on! We believe you can always judge a company by its website, and Halloween Adventure passes the test. An up-to-date hours of operation schedule allows you to be sure they are open at your convenience. Like to plan before your shopping trip? The online inventory gives you an idea of what’s available in-store so there are no surprises. It’s no wonder an impressive roster of celebrities, from Chevy Chase to the Olson twins, frequent the location.
104 4th Avenue (between 11th and 12th Streets); 212-673-4546
The One Stop Shop: Abracadabra Superstore
Located conveniently in the heart of the Flatiron District, Abracadabra Superstore has everything you need to pull off the dashing disguise of your choice. Costumes, accessories, hair and makeup goods, masks, hats, and novelty gags can all be found at the superstore. There are even magic tricks and an associate to teach you how to perform them. Choose from a selection of close to 1,000 costumes ranging from the traditional witch costume to the more original Barbie doll in a box. An endless assortment of accessories (shoes, glasses, jewelry) and props (swords, bats, severed body parts) are also available to finish off your look. Take advantage of Abracadabra’s online inventory to make your picks and identify item numbers to ensure a quick visit to the store. Make sure you know your measurements, the ‘no try-on’ and no return policy mean you have to commit to your purchase, but also preserve cleanliness and ensure your costume has not been previously worn.
19 West 21st Street (between 5th and 6th Avenues); 212-627-5194
The Authentic Rental Shop: Creative Costume
Friendly staff and a great selection have earned Creative Costume a loyal customer following. From Cleopatra to all the Wizard of Oz characters, this is your go-to place for authentic, stage worthy costumes that will impress. Creative Costumes also has a vast selection of couple’s outfits; Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio, Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI, Jeannie the Genie and Tony the Astronaut are a few of the classic duos available in-store. The full list can be viewed on the website. Rental fees range from $50-$350 for 48 hours so you’re sure to find something in your price range. Expect a $200 refundable rental deposit as well. Creative Costume is known for their costumer service - they offer alterations on all of their rental costumes in an effort to provide the perfect fit for every customer. The rental costume outlet doesn’t just stop at Halloween, they are ready and willing to outfit you any time of the year.
242 West 36th Street #800 (between 7th and 8th Avenues); 212-564-5552
The Custom Couturier: Frankie Steinz
Created by designer Frankie Stein, the store’s ‘humble’ beginnings started in Aspen with celebrity clientele such as Dolly Parton and Jack Nicholson. The store was a hit and she had great support from the community. However, she closed her Aspen store in 1990 after eight years of business, moved to New York and set up shop. Frankie Steinz will design and create anything from your wildest imaginations. You can visit her website, (which is worth checking out just for the fun of it,) fill out an interactive form with your specifications, and receive a quote for your project. It’s best to plan as far ahead as possible, but rush orders are available for an extra fee. With a great sense of humor and appreciation for peoples’ need to just be themselves, Frankie advises, “Save a costly trip to your analyst. Try Frankie Stein.”
24 Harrison Street (at Greenwich Street); 212-925-1373
