Where to shop locally for Halloween costumes
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Inside Lost Eras. Photo: Moyo Adeolu/Axios
Halloween offers the chance to find spooky and creative ways to get into character.
The big picture: While national retailers like Spirit Halloween and Party City may be popular, Chicago costume stores are hidden gems.
Here are a few we checked out:
Chicago Costume Company (1120 W. Fullerton Ave. and 4727 W. Montrose)
This family-owned business has been open since 1976. Its two locations are a good choice for traditional costumes, vintage finds and theatrical wardrobe pieces.
What they're saying: Marketing and events manager Ken Seli told Axios that because many of their employees have expertise that include makeup and theater, they take pride in creating an environment that helps customers find the perfect costume.
- "When people come here, we just want to go ahead and divine the truth of what they want to do. Everybody who comes in here wants to be something else for a while, even if it's just for Halloween. Escape the regular life and have fun," Seli said.
Fantasy Costumes (4065 N. Milwaukee Ave.)
This is another family-owned store that will celebrate 60 years in May. Within its five rooms shoppers can find masks, kids costumes, animatronics and wigs that can by styled by a store stylist once purchased.
Moyo's thought bubble: This was a one-stop shop and had something for everyone. Everything was organized and it was quite accessible to get around.
Lost Eras (1511 W. Howard St.)
This vintage, antique, prop and theatrical costume store located in Rogers Park has been around since 1968. You can find traditional costumes from mascot heads, to Gastby-inspired dresses, many of which have come from estate sales.
What they're saying: "They will call us before the (estate) sale even happens, and we'll go in and we'll buy everything out … and then whatever is good enough for the store, we keep in here, we price it. Other stuff, we'll donate," Lost Eras costumer Brandon Martin, told Axios.
Fun fact: Lost Eras has supplied costumes for films and TV productions like "Public Enemies" and "Power."
Pro tip: Have an idea in mind before stopping. If you still can't decide, ask the staff for help. If you're looking to go all out, each of these stores offer higher-end costumes for rent.
Go deeper: 🎥 Watch Moyo tour these local stores.