By: Skyler Johnson
Looking for Halloween costumes can be difficult, especially when there are so many costumes and places to choose from! It’s hard to know where to look, especially since so many of the year’s most popular costumes require either a high knowledge of sewing or high a payment at a costume shop. Chances are you might be able to find a Bridgerton dress in your grandmother’s attic, but a Harley Quinn bat or a Cruella wig might be harder. So, I’ve examined a list of over twenty different online retailers to find the best places to buy from, considering price, quality, and selection. I’ve done my research and looked at all the biggest costumes for 2021, including Wanda Maximoff and Loki from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, to determine the best overall options. Here are the best outfits for…
Your Wallet
Overall, Amazon and Party City have the lowest costs. Because of Amazon’s wide selection, you’re likely to find inexpensive stuff and a wide variety if you just do some digging. You may spend more at Party City, but shipping is from a store location and not an individual seller, so shipping in this case can be cheaper. If you don’t want to support either of those large businesses, you may be out of luck. Shopping on smaller online shops like Candy Apple may provide you with cheaper goods, but you’ll have to do a bit of digging and might not get attire in the condition that you’re hoping for. Another solution is to consider thrifting your Halloween costume. While it is unlikely that you will find a brand new, full, cost-effective costume, thrifting can be a great way to find several pieces at a good price over time if you are planning on being a more modern character.
Your Specific Taste
Obsessed with dressing like a Squid Game character after your latest binge watch? Although the show just came out, there are already retailers who’ve designed the show’s iconic jumpsuits and mask for costumed purposes. Amazon again is the most reliable deliverer with its wide user base, having the full Squid Game outfit. But Walmart has a decent selection as well. Furthermore, I’ve found is the best place to buy black gloves for an Olivia Rodrigo “Good 4 u” inspired look. You can find some bizarre stuff on Etsy, including unique, well-made garments, jewelry, or period pieces. For sexy getups, check out Yandy. They have a hot and steamy selection for the holiday.
Your Need for the Best Quality
On every site, the caliber will differ, besides a few retail stores with online options (i.e. Party City, Spirit Halloween) where the worth will be consistent but not necessarily the best quality (particularly Party City). Again, Amazon takes the cake in terms of value just from the selection they have and the large number of reviews, proving them as a reliable option. Other stores can be a gamble as they tend to not have the best reviews, and pictures can only say so much.
Your Kids
One of my favorite stores for kids’ selection is Target, which offers different apparel for different age groups, making it easier for parents to know whether an outfit will fit their child. Target is a relatively cost-efficient option as well. For a bit pricier but higher quality option, the Disney store can also be a great fit for those wanting an Elsa dress/wig, or any other Disney or Marvel character for your little prince, princess, or hero!
Conclusion
Halloween is a wonderfully fun holiday and there are many great places to buy party garbs for spooky season. Amazon is probably still the most reliable and consistent due to their high volume of product movement, but there are many great places to check out for those who, understandably, don’t want to support Jeff Bezos. Happy shopping, and happy Halloween!
