Where to buy dressing up costumes

The history of dressing up in costumes dates back several centuries. Some believe that the first instance of wearing costumes was for a celebration of the dead, where others believe that it dates back to the Greek plays with its elaborate masks. Regardless of the history surrounding them, costumes changed with the periods and continued to be worn in plays, movies and for special events like masked balls. Buying dress up costumes can be fun and there is more than one way to do it.

Stores

You might be able to find costume hats, party masks, nurse dresses and more at regular stores, though you may find that the selection is not very broad. The costumes themselves may not be very well-made as well, and will not tolerate long-term, year after year use. Another place to look would be at costume websites were the selection would be broader as well as the quality. There, you will be able to find costumes broken down by type, style, or even historical era. Make sure you follow the directions for getting the right measurements if the costume is fitted. Getting a costume that's so small that you can't move around in it comfortably won't be fun at all.

Costume shops

Costume shops connected with theatres or movie companies can be another place to find costumes for dress-up wear. Occasionally, these shops will thin out their collection to make way for new costumes. You may find that some of the costumes are not in great condition - likewise, you may find some real gems, In any case, it will be well worth the effort to sort through the costumes to find something that you fancy. If you are handy with a needle, then a slightly damaged costume or one that requires some repair won't be a stumbling block for you. After the repair, you will have a wonderful costume you will be able to wear for a while.

Make your own

If you like to sew, then make your own costumes. You can go online to buy period patterns at sites like Folkwear, Past Patterns and more; or you can buy books like Janet Arnold's "Patterns of Fashion" books which details the construction of most women's clothing from the 1600s to the 1940s. With these patterns, you will be able to make your own costumes for dressing up which will be made just for you.