How to Get a Costume

Halloween, Mardi Gras, Carnavale--whatever the holiday or masked affair you're attending, it's an opportunity to showcase your ingenuity and creativity while having a blast.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Search online or in the Yellow Pages under "Costumes" for rental shops in your area. Costs vary, but expect to pay in the neighborhood of $50 to $100 for a full outfit. Prop houses and theater costume departments are a great source if you want to achieve a movie-quality look, but run $100 and up for the basics, and more for accessories. Check Hollywood-Costumes.com, MardiGrasOutlet.com and CostumeUniverse.com.

2. Scour your local thrift store (see How to Purchase Vintage Clothing) for great accessories or even the perfect period outfit from the 1930s to the '80s.

3. Score on kids' costumes at huge discounts from used-clothing stores in the months following Halloween. Or visit online stores beforehand to find character costumes. An infant-size Tigger, Cat in the Hat, Superman or Dalmatian puppy runs around $15 to $20. Check out Disney.com for more options.

4. Fulfill your favorite fantasy. If you've always wanted to be a flamenco dancer, you'll find the right dress at a dance supply store--you can dress the part if not dance it.

Tips & Warnings

• Some rental boutiques won't ship during October for Halloween, so plan ahead. Even if you're buying, delivery can take two weeks to a month.