Memphis, a city steeped in history, music, and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of exciting experiences for visitors and locals alike. One of the most thrilling aspects of exploring Memphis is delving into its rich costume scene, whether you’re looking for a unique outfit for a themed party, a cosplay event, or just wanting to express your personal style. Memphis is home to a diverse array of costume stores, each offering its own brand of creativity and flair. Here’s a guide to 12+ Memphis costume stores you absolutely need to visit, categorized for your convenience:
Vintage Vibes
The Vintage Closet: For those seeking timeless elegance, The Vintage Closet is a must-visit. This store is a treasure trove of vintage clothing and accessories, perfect for creating a one-of-a-kind costume or simply adding a touch of the past to your everyday look.
Flashback: Step into Flashback and be transported through the decades. From the groovy 60s to the bold 80s, Flashback has the vintage pieces you need to create a costume that’s truly a blast from the past.
Cosplay and Fantasy
Cosmic Comics and Toys: While primarily a comic book store, Cosmic Comics and Toys also caters to the cosplay community with a variety of comics, toys, and collectibles that can inspire or complete your cosplay look.
The Fantasy Shop: This store is a haven for fans of fantasy and science fiction. With a wide range of costumes, accessories, and props, The Fantasy Shop can help you bring your favorite characters to life.
General Costume Stores
Party City: A popular chain with a location in Memphis, Party City offers a broad selection of costumes, decorations, and party supplies for all occasions, from Halloween to themed birthday parties.
Spirit Halloween: Another well-known seasonal store, Spirit Halloween pops up in various locations around Memphis during the Halloween season, offering a vast array of costumes, masks, and spooky decorations.
Disaster Dressing Rooms: This unique store specializes in costume rentals, making it an ideal destination for those looking for high-quality, one-of-a-kind costumes without the long-term commitment.
Memphis Costume: As a local institution, Memphis Costume provides an extensive range of costumes and accessories for rent or purchase, catering to both adults and children.
Specialty Stores
Theatre Memphis Costume Rentals: For those involved in stage productions or looking for exceptionally crafted costumes, Theatre Memphis offers a vast collection of costumes for rent, catering to a wide range of themes and periods.
Playhouse on the Square Costume Shop: Similar to Theatre Memphis, the Playhouse on the Square Costume Shop offers an extensive inventory of theatrical costumes, perfect for productions or for those seeking unique, professionally designed pieces.
Thrift and Second-Hand
Out of the Closet: This thrift store chain not only offers a eclectic mix of donated clothing and accessories perfect for piecing together a costume but also supports a great cause, with proceeds going towards the AIDS Healthcare Foundation.
Local Vintage Market: Though not exclusively a costume store, the Local Vintage Market is a fantastic resource for finding one-of-a-kind, vintage items that can be repurposed into stunning costumes or accessory pieces.
Additional Recommendations
- Eccentricity: A boutique offering bespoke and unique fashion items, Eccentricity can be a great place to find or inspire a costume that truly stands out.
- The Cake Shop: While primarily a bakery, The Cake Shop also hosts costume-themed events and might be a fun place to explore for those interested in combining food and fashion.
Tips for Visiting
- Call Ahead: Especially for specialty or vintage stores, it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm their costume selection and any specific rules they might have for trying on costumes.
- Budget: Consider setting a budget before you start your costume hunt, as the prices can vary significantly from one store to another.
- Creativity: Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Sometimes, the best costumes come from combining pieces found in unexpected places.
Memphis, with its vibrant cultural scene and rich history, is the perfect backdrop for exploring the world of costumes. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast, a cosplay aficionado, or just someone looking to express your creativity through fashion, the city’s diverse range of costume stores has something to offer everyone. So, embark on this adventure, and let the streets of Memphis be your runway.
What is the best time to visit costume stores in Memphis?
+The best time to visit costume stores in Memphis can depend on the occasion. For Halloween costumes, October is the peak season. However, for general browsing or finding unique pieces, visiting during the off-season might provide a more relaxed experience and potentially better deals.
Can I rent costumes in Memphis?
+Yes, several stores in Memphis offer costume rentals, including Theatre Memphis Costume Rentals and the Playhouse on the Square Costume Shop. These are ideal for one-time events or productions.
Are there any costume stores in Memphis that cater to plus sizes?
+Yes, several stores in Memphis cater to a wide range of sizes, including plus sizes. It's always a good idea to call ahead and confirm the size range available at each store.
With this guide, you’re all set to embark on a thrilling adventure through the world of costumes in Memphis. Remember, the key to a great costume is not just the pieces you find, but how you put them together to tell a story. Happy exploring!
