New Orleans is one of the most colorful and mask-wearing cities in the Southern region, so it comes as no surprise that it also has some of the best costume shops. It does not matter if it is for Halloween, Mardi Gras, or a random party, you never have to look far for a good costume in NOLA. Most people in other states only use costumes for big holidays, but there always seems to be a reason to get dressed up in the Big Easy.
Year-round, citizens look high and low for the perfect ensembles, but the costume shops listed below have created a well-known reputation and gained honorable mentions within NOLA.
10 Most Creative Costume Stores in NOLA
1. Nikki's French Quarter Halloween Store
107 Chartres St. B, (504) 302-2095
facebook.com/NikkisFrenchQuarterHalloweenStore
Whether you're looking for makeup, seasonal costumes, wigs, hats, or even pet costumes, Nikki's French Quarter Halloween Store has what you need. Hosting the largest selection of costume items in New Orleans, there's very little this store doesn't have.
This store is open year-round and has more than just Halloween costumes. With a selection of Mardi Gras items and even Christmas items, Nikki's French Quarter Halloween Store will not let you down.
2. Uptown Costume & Dancewear
4326 Magazine St., (504) 895-7969
uptowncostumes.com
Since 1988, Uptown Costume & Dancewear has been supplying New Orleans with unique costumes for dancing events, Mardi Gras, Halloween, and any occasion in between. With corsets, sparkly leotards, feather bras, and walls of wigs, you'll be well stocked if you're walking with a krewe or just wanting to get all dressed up.
Their tagline is "where it's usual to find the unusual" and that rings true when looking at their inventory. Gloves in every shade and length, faux submarine helmets, dragon wings, pirate hats, and steampunk goggles are just some of the things you'll find in this store.
3. Miss Claudia's Vintage Clothing & Costumes
4204 Magazine St., (504) 897-6310
facebook.com/missclaudiasvintage
If you're a fan of vintage clothes, Miss Claudia's is the place to shop. You could be the proud owner of dance costumes from the '40s, a wedding dress from the '70s, a romper from the '80s, or nightgowns from the '60s when you go to Miss Claudia's.
Along with vintage clothes, Miss Claudia's also sells one-of-a-kind accessories such as purses, sunglasses, and scarves. If you want to look like Twiggy, Cyndi Lauper, or have a look that is completely your own, Miss Claudia's has something for you.
4. Humbug Costumes
2707 Williams Blvd., Kenner, (504) 469-3339
humbugcostumes.com
Founded in 1972, Humbug Costumes goes beyond your average bagged mass-made costume. Humbug Costumes carries unique pieces in sizes small through 4XL and aims to find the perfect piece for you.
Humbug Costumes also sells dance costumes, makeup, and accessories that you may need to perfect your look. Incredible service and a specialized stock make this store hard to beat.
5. Broadway Bound Costumes Inc.
2737 Canal St., (504) 821-1000
broadwayboundcostumes.com
Since Helen Koenig opened it in the 1950s, Broadway Bound Costumes Inc. has continuously served the city for over 60 years. This business has dressed everyone from Carnival krewes to Mardi Gras Indians and has everything that anyone may need for any colorful occasion. Their extensive range of fabrics, glitter, and feathers isn't even half of their options.
Different shapes and circles to stitch, beads, and tails can come in any size and any color with this fun-filled fabric store. Broadway Bound Costumes Inc. also has a knack for helping dress others for less. So next time you are on Canal Street, stop by this costume shop and you might find inspiration for the next Carnival or party.
6. Maskarade on Royal
805 Royal St., (504) 766-8319
themaskstore.com
Selling both local and national creations, Maskarade is considered one of the best mask stores in New Orleans. Ranging from character masks, animal masks, leather masks, and even Italian masks made in the old traditional Venetian style, this store has something for every kind of mask wearer.
Maskarade also has a custom mask service where customers can discuss their ideal design and materials with the resident mask makers. The staff at Maskarade are eager to provide masks for your next party and offer accommodations for bulk orders.
7. She Comes in Peace
2025 St. Claude Ave., (504) 766-7841
shecomesinpeace.com
She Comes in Peace is for all the costume wearers unafraid to present an out-of-this-world look. We may not know if aliens exist, but this costume shop is closest to solid proof in the New Orleans area. She Comes in Peace has a modern-day spin on bright-colored items that may remind you of the '80s but with more glow and glitter.
The store also offers something that many costume shops lack: their one-stop-shop experience. Customers can book with them to get a touch of neon color on nails, hair, and makeup to go along with their outfit. Whether you plan on being an alien, a fairy, or a vampire for any event, stop by She Comes in Peace for an outer worldly experience.
8. Crescent City Mask Company
332 Chartres St., (504) 913-6646
instagram.com/crescentcitymaskco
If you're on the hunt for the perfect mask to complete your costume or display in your home, Crescent City Mask Company is the place to find it. Craftsman Mohammad Anvari has been hand making feathered masks for 20 years and his expertise shows. Every mask from the simpler mask on a stick to large feather-covered pieces are beautifully made.
Interested buyers can shop in person or get their masks shipped to them. Anyone with a taste for the handmade should not skip this store.
9. Big Star Vintage & Costume
5302 Freret St., (504) 377-5441
instagram.com/bigstar.vtg
The Big Star Vintage is exactly what one would think but bolder. Their '50s-inspired designs are filled with zebra patterns, retro pin-ups, and more. This vendor offers a classic selection that will remind you your pumps aren't red enough and are an inch too short. One unique but signature creation Big Star Vintage offers is the iconic old-school button-down shirt with one side as a groovy pattern. This set of shirts offers versatility to be worn at a barbecue or dress-up event.
From the polka dot skater-style dresses to the rockabilly-inspired tops, you can find all your colorful clothing needs with Big Star Vintage. All interested customers can reach out to the owner through email from Facebook.
10. Funky Monkey
3127 Magazine St., (504) 899-5587
funkymonkeynola.com
Selling a mix of used, new, and vintage, Funky Monkey is a store that could provide you with your next costume or your new favorite everyday staple. Locally owned and operated since 1997, the stock at Funky Monkey is carefully curated to give their customers the best of the best.
Merging contemporary trends and second-hand items, Funky Monkey is the perfect fusion for fashion lovers who want pieces that last. If you find comfort in the pre-loved or like bringing new life to old clothes, Funky Monkey is your kind of place.
Top Places to Costume Shop in NOLA
Glitter, feathers, vintage, oh my! Each business on this list can be a unique way to show your New Orleans spirit, whether for Carnival, Halloween, or a party. You will be the talk of the town, and everyone will be raiding your closet for these exceptional outfits.
