1. The Wedding Dress Aisle
Don't laugh. This section is a treasure trove of satin, tulle, and lace just waiting for a spooky or silly makeover. A wedding dress is the perfect base for a 'Bride of Frankenstein' or a 'Zombie Prom Queen'. Grab some fake blood and drag the hem through
the dirt for a genuinely ghoulish effect. Not into horror? A simple white dress can be paired with running shoes to become a 'Runaway Bride' or serve as the foundation for an ethereal ghost or angel costume. With a little imagination, these once-cherished gowns get a second life as show-stopping Halloween attire.
2. The Formalwear and Prom Section
Much like the wedding aisle, the formalwear section is packed with potential. Sequined gowns, outdated bridesmaid dresses, and forgotten tuxedos are costume gold. That puffy-sleeved '80s prom dress is an instant decade costume. A collection of bridesmaid dresses in the same unfortunate color is perfect for a hilarious group costume. A vintage suit jacket can be the start of a 'Ghostly Gentleman', a game show host, or even a 'Zombie Businessman' when appropriately distressed. These pieces offer better fabric and construction than any bagged costume, giving your look a more authentic feel.
3. The Lingerie and Sleepwear Department
Look past the everyday items and you'll find silky robes, vintage nightgowns, and corsets that are fantastic layering pieces. A long, flowy nightgown can be the base for a Victorian ghost or a fairytale character. A colorful silk robe could belong to a glamorous 1940s movie star or an eccentric billionaire. A corset, worn over a billowy white shirt, is essential for any good pirate or renaissance fair costume. These items add texture and a hint of drama that can elevate a simple costume into something special.
4. The Athletic and Sportswear Aisle
This section is an unexpected goldmine for character-building. An old-school tracksuit can turn you into a 90s hip-hop star or a cast member from 'The Sopranos'. A vintage-style bowling shirt is perfect for a 'Big Lebowski' look or a 1950s-era costume. Look for brightly colored leotards, leggings, and sweatbands for the perfect '80s aerobics instructor outfit. You can also find jerseys to become a famous athlete or create a group costume as your favorite sports team from a bygone era.
5. The Professional and Work Uniforms Rack
Scrubs, lab coats, and old work shirts are blank canvases. A set of medical scrubs is an obvious starting point for a doctor or surgeon, but add some zombie makeup and you're a character from 'The Walking Dead'. A simple white lab coat can make you Albert Einstein, a mad scientist, or a ghostbuster. A denim work shirt is the key to becoming Rosie the Riveter. These pieces are designed to be durable and provide an instant, recognizable silhouette for a wide range of professions, both real and imagined.
6. The Accessories and Jewelry Bins
This is where you bring your character to life. The key to a convincing costume is in the details, and thrift stores are overflowing with them. Scour the bins for gaudy costume jewelry, silk scarves, leather belts, vintage hats, and funky sunglasses. A wide leather belt can become a pirate's sash. A silk scarf tied just right can complete a 1920s flapper or a 70s hippie look. Don't forget to check for purses and bags—a vintage briefcase or a bedazzled clutch can be the one prop that pulls your entire costume together.
7. The Housewares and Linens Section
The most overlooked section is often the most creative. A plain white sheet is the non-negotiable starting point for a classic ghost costume. But look closer. Vintage floral curtains could become a 'Sound of Music' inspired outfit. An old tablecloth can be fashioned into a superhero cape. The toy aisle might hold the perfect prop, like a plastic sword or a tiara. Thinking outside the box in this section separates the good costumes from the great ones. Your only limit is your willingness to see a tablecloth as something more.
