In New Orleans, you often have to be ready to be decked to the nines in a moment’s notice. Parades, second lines, or a pop-up festival– anything could happen.
Luckily, we’re also right on the fringes of some of the greatest costume shops in the world. Stop in any one of these locally owned gems and find something truly special.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or just need the perfect finishing touch, these costume shops will help you find your next amazing outfit! Mardi Gras or not, here’s a list of our favorite costume shops in the Crescent City:
Maskarade
Maskarade boasts itself as the largest selection of handmade, one of a kind masks anywhere. They feature over 50 different artists’ work, both locally and internationally sourced. Located just steps off of Jackson Square, you can ogle at the traditional Venetian-style, Italian creations.
Or get a custom made piece. They offer multiple pieces at multiple price points, so there’s something for every occasion.
Roadkill
This eclectic costume boutique started as a stall at the iconic French Market 17 years ago. Not too long after, they were able to open their brick and mortar location on lower Decatur Street. Their signature steam-punk style features high-quality corsets, Victorian-style footwear, and retro-inspired pieces. This makes finding the perfect mix-matched costume a breeze.
Stop by and ask for the salesman who used to tour with Johnny Cash and be prepared for a great time.
Miss Claudia’s Vintage Clothing & Costumes
One of the most notable costume shops on Magazine Street, walking into Miss Claudia’s is like stepping back in time. They have a great selection for a rather small location.
The specialty shop has tons of costume odds and ends as well as fun vintage items. Bigger pieces can run a little pricey, but sometimes you just find that one perfect item that you can’t live without. We don’t blame you.
Broadway Bound Costumes
This one is a bit of a hidden gem in Mid City. Right off of Canal Street, Broadway Bound is your one-stop costume building shop.
They have walls of fabric, multicolored sequins, feathers and any other costume making tools you might need. The staff is super friendly and wants to help you make the best costume possible. Check them out if you’d like to try your hand at crafting rather than getting a pre-made costume.
Buffalo Exchange
Also on Magazine Street, Buffalo Exchange is a popular chain of consignment stores. It might be a chain, but the New Orleans location isn’t sparse on awesome costume selections.
Secondhand items mean they’re decently priced, and you’re more likely to find something totally unique. From single pieces and full costumes to wigs, jewelry or shoes, the Buffalo Exchange always has everything you’ll ever need.
Boutique Du Vampyre
With an enthralling store history that dates back to the 1700s in Germany and Transylvania, Boutique Du Vampyre is a classic name is the voodoo section of the city.
It was previously run as an immortal centric shop open only from midnight until sunrise. The story says Martia Crandle and Anne Guthrie met in New York City in the late 1800s, where they ran the shop among the booming nightlife and vampire scenes. A twist of fate brought the two of them to New Orleans in 1942, and the rest is history.
The store has recently switched to daytime hours of operation: 10 AM to 9 PM.
Happy costume hunting! Did we miss any of your favorite NOLA costume shops? Let us know in the comments!
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