London’s best fancy dress shops

While you can just pop into Costume Boutique to browse through their vast range of costumes – which span everything from recreations of famous characters to swashbuckling pirate outfits – you're best off booking an appointment to find your perfect alter-ego. These are not only free, but there’s no obligation to hire anything during your 45-minute fitting. Just enough time to ensure that you’re dressed to the nines (or like you’re in the 1890s).

Best for: personal service that'll make you feel like a million dollars

Expect a strong selection of off-the-rack costumes and accessories, from fierce fangs to angelic wings, at this west London store. It initially appears small, but its two floors are rammed to the rafters with fancy dress delights and fun party gear.

Best for: amazing animal costumes, both sexy and scary

The sleek white interiors of this Covent Garden shop are a must-visit for anyone looking to create a rainbow of looks. Kryolan is a well-respected German make-up brand, and its London outpost is the place professionals in the film and theatre industries come for make-up, wigs, latex and lashes. 1-2-1 make-up workshops are also on offer for men and women, covering glamour, editorial and avant-garde looks.

Best for: make-up in every shade

This one stop party shop in Bermondsey sells a massive range of affordable costumes, accessories and wigs, with plenty of options inspired by movies and superhero franchises. There are also cards, partyware and balloons for your next bash.

Best for: super-helpful staff who'll get you kitted out in no time

This vast dungeon (well, it's in a basement) of a fancy dress store offers a stellar personal service. Staff will help you navigate some 35,000 costumes, from a sleek ant to a fuzzy Orvill duck, and then assist in piecing together a unique outfit for sale or hire. They also stock balloons and costume accessories, such as wigs, swords and more.

Best for: no need for cheap knock-offs - this shop sells licensed costumes for everything from Star Wars to Where's Wally?

This small-but-mighty Holloway spot in a one-stop-shop for all your costume needs. Inside you’ll find costumes for kids and adults as well as a treasure trove of accessories to give an added je ne sais quoi to your outfit.  

Best for: last-minute shoppers will welcome its same-day click and collect service

Behind a quiet shop frontage is a costumier where magic is made. For between £130-£200 you can rent an entire costume with personal styling: it's pricier than some, but these lavish outfits are covered with ruffles, sequins, and authentic details that'll mean you can live your wildest costume fantasies. They even offer a fantastical dressing up box for hire for that special party or alternative wedding you’re planning. The showroom is open on an appointment-only basis, so make sure to book in advance.

Best for: feeling like you've stepped out of a fairytale

There's an esoteric, countercultural feel to this densely-packed shop, which caters to anyone looking to take their look for a walk on the wild side. Pick up Venetian masks, ornate silver jewellery, hippie shirts or elaborate gowns in this remnant of an older, wilder Soho.

Best for: bohemian gear for party animals 

You’ll find no fake moustaches or pre-packaged Mr Blobby costumes here. This is an excellent, high-quality costume emporium with a rather impressive catalogue. Expertly made pieces, accessories, shoes and wigs are what you’ll find, with charges depending on exactly what your costume is for. They also offer a bespoke costuming service, too, and provide costumes for film, TV and music videos, as well as for that special event you’re planning.

Best for: beautifully authentic costumes that'll make you feel like a movie star