The pumpkins have been carved, the candy eaten, and the ghost stories told. Halloween 2010 may be over but it’s never too soon to start planning for next year. For the dedicated, non-procrastinators among you, here is a simple, fool-proof 3-stop guide to pulling together a prize worthy and ultra-fashionable costume for next year’s Halloween… or next week’s costume party!
First stop, Melrose Avenue between Fairfax and La Brea. Home to dozens of boutiques, vintage shops, and funky specialty shops, finding a costume on Melrose is a piece of cake. To avoid getting sidetracked, target three places. American Vintage (actually split up into two locations a couple blocks from each other: 7377 Melrose Ave and 7575 Melrose Ave) is a treasure chest of costumes. From traditional vintage wear (think Mad Men-esque 60s frocks, bell bottom jeans, and flapper dresses) to gently used pieces (marching band jackets and tutus), American Vintage is a Halloween costume shopper’s heaven. Items pictured below like the Cha Cha dancer dress guarantee that your Halloween look will be one-of-a-kind.
Also on Melrose, be sure to stop by the SLOW (7474 Melrose Ave), a vintage spot with all your sequin-dress and cowboy boot needs. And to stock up on any neon headbands or v-neck Ts, there is an American Apparel conveniently located just down the street (7726 Melrose Ave).
Next stop, the Goodwill on Beverly (7919 Beverly Blvd). Unlike some Goodwills, this one is huge, clean, and organized. They even have fitting rooms with mirrors! Sift through their stuffed racks to find 80s jackets with shoulder pads, prom dresses, tennis outfits, and more. The price points are beyond affordable and you are supporting a good cause. Swing by the accessories on your way out – their belt selection is prime.
Last stop on this whirl wind tour is the Beverly Center, specifically For Love 21, Forever 21’s accessories only store on the 7th floor (8500 Beverly Blvd). Separate from the massive Forever 21 apparel store, For Love 21 is stocked with sickeningly affordable shoes, bags, jewelry, hats, and tights. This is the perfect place to fully accessorize the costume you picked up on Melrose or at Goodwill. Add some statement rings, pearls, fishnets, or headbands to make those finishing touches.
In three quick shopping stops, a costume can be created in preparation for next year’s trick-or-treating, parties and visiting haunted attractions. Take note of these store locations – all these shops can be visited regularly when shopping for vintage items, everyday affordable accessories, and unique trends.
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