We all have that one industrious friend that begins prepping their Halloween costume in June. They’re usually the same person that has their holiday shopping wrapped up eight months in advance. But for the rest of us, it’s easy to feel backed into a corner when there’s a last-minute work function or Halloween party that requires a costume.
Sure, there are those Hollywood-caliber costume shops around town, but they usually require a substantial budget and some degree of planning. And that cheap plastic get-up from your local retailer just screams, “I phoned it in this year!" But no need to panic because there are plenty of low-profile places to piece together a Halloween costume that doesn’t look like it came out of a package.
1. Melrose & La Brea
While making the trek down to Hollywood isn’t the easiest task for some, the number of vintage finds on Melrose & La Brea might be worth your time. Here you can find vintage and consignment stores all within walking distance that specialize in clothing, jewelry and accessories to transform your costume from dud to best-in-show. Notables include Jetrag, American Rebel, Melrose Trading Post, and Wasteland.
2. Goodwill Atwater Village
Any seasoned Halloween vet knows that your local Goodwill can yield costume treasures if you have time and patience, but the Goodwill in Atwater Village stands out from the rest. The massive storefront that looks more like a Costco from the exterior, but there are many deals to be had on a costume that might actually get some mileage over the years.
3. The Surplus Store
Family owned and operated, this 7,000-square-foot army/navy supply store is the rare place that caters to survivalists and costume shoppers alike. The prices are reasonable, and their gear includes military wear (sailor, anyone?), police garb and medical outfits that are incredibly durable. A hidden Halloween gem, for sure.
4. ProWear Plus Scrubs & Chefwear
While catering to a niche market, you can’t get closer to what the professionals wear at the aptly-named ProWearPlus: Scrubs & Chefwear. Here you’ll fine chef’s toques, RN scrubs and lab coats that look the part and will be a solid standby costume for years to come. And you can even purchase your very own medical-grade stethoscope, naturally.
5. Ross
Just so you can finally utter those five magic words: “I got it at Ross."