Costumes

Ultimate Guide to Costumes in the UK: Best Stores, Standout Picks & Smart Tips

Why investing in the right costume transforms your event

Choosing the right costume is like picking the perfect seasoning for a recipe — a small difference can turn a forgettable night into an unforgettable story. Whether you’re dressing a toddler as Peter Rabbit, slipping into a replica Freddy Krueger mask, or styling a plush Goomba head for a quirky photo, the costume you pick sets the mood, signals your creativity, and keeps you comfortable through the party or parade. In the UK market, you’ll find everything from high-quality children’s dress-up to novelty adult pieces and collector replicas, so it pays to know where to look and what to expect.

Top UK retailers for costumes and accessories — an overview

There’s a broad spread of options when shopping for costumes in the UK: specialist toy and family-focused stores, novelty and gadget shops, large online marketplaces, and independent fancy-dress outlets. Each has its sweet spot — some excel in children’s plush and dress-up sets, while others stand out for replica masks, collectible helmets, and cinematic pieces. I’ll walk you through several stores you’ll want to bookmark, explain the kinds of items they specialize in, and give practical tips for matching the right product to the right occasion.

Ebebek — kids’ characters, soft toys, and dress-up staples

Ebebek is a go-to if your priority is character-led items and child-friendly dress-up gear. Think classic nursery figures like Peter Rabbit and In The Night Garden characters, alongside themed dress-up sets such as Bigjigs Toys Builder Dress Up and Bigjigs Toys Firefighter Dress Up. These items are aimed at imaginative play: durable, cuddly, and sized for little bodies. You’ll also find deluxe soft toys like Peter Rabbit Flopsy and signature friends such as Mr Todd that double as comfort companions and costume props, perfect for toddlers who love to role-play.

Menkind — novelty, replicas and grown-up fancy dress

Menkind leans into the playful and collectible side of costumes, offering everything from horror replicas like Nightmare On Elm Street Deluxe Replica Glove and Freddy Kruger masks to pop-culture gowns like the Harry Potter Slytherin Replica Adult Gown. If you’re after oversized plush heads — Nintendo Goomba Head Mega Plush or whimsical items like the Dungeons & Dragons Giant Space Hamster Plush — this is the kind of store that excels. Menkind also stocks event-ready pieces such as the F1 Lando Norris McLaren 2024 Silverstone 1:5 Scale Helmet, which suits collectors and cosplay enthusiasts who want something eye-catching and photo-ready.

Specialist costume shops (Rubie's, The Fancy Dress Shop and friends)

Rubie’s and dedicated fancy-dress retailers are classic destinations for everything from historical outfits to licensed superhero suits. These stores usually carry an extensive size range for adults and children, allow filtering by theme, and stock licensed accessories that keep your look authentic. If you need matching masks, gloves, and props — or want a last-minute costume for a fancy dress night — checking a specialist shop is almost always a smart move.

High-street & online marketplaces (Argos, Amazon UK, eBay, Party Pieces)

Big retailers and marketplaces offer convenience, competitive pricing, and quick availability. Argos and Amazon UK are excellent for standard costumes, generic accessories, and value buys, while eBay can be great for hard-to-find vintage pieces or second-hand gems. Party Pieces and similar event stores focus on themed party bundles, so if you need matching decorations and outfits for a birthday or themed bash, they can save you time and often money.

Kids’ costume picks and what to consider

For little ones, comfort and safety should outrank everything else. Look for breathable fabrics, minimal loose bits that could be a tripping hazard, and soft toys that double as props — for instance, the Peter Rabbit My First Peter Rabbit or Ty Beanie Boos are both snug choices that pair well with a simple outfit. Play-focused dress-up sets like Bigjigs Toys Princess Dress Up or Bigjigs Toys Builder Dress Up are designed for frequent use; they’re sturdy and kid-friendly. Also consider ease of change: toddlers prefer costumes that come on and off quickly, and parents appreciate pieces that tolerate stains and spills.

Adult costumes and collector pieces — making a statement

Adults often want a costume that tells a story — whether that’s a screen-accurate replica or a bold novelty item. Menkind’s range highlights this: from horror collectibles like the Nightmare On Elm Street Deluxe Replica Glove to unique statement pieces like the Nintendo Goomba Head Mega Plush. If you’re into cosplay, look for replica gowns, helmets, and masks that are built for display and photo ops, such as the F1 Lando Norris McLaren helmet replica. These tend to be pricier, but they’re investments if you attend conventions, themed events, or simply want to add to a collection.

Accessories that make a costume sing

Accessories are your secret weapon. A mask, prop glove, or hat can transform a casual outfit into something instantly recognisable. For example, pairing a simple black robe with a Slytherin replica gown and a wand creates a full effect with minimal fuss. Smaller details — a quality wig, temporary tattoos, or a pair of theatrical contacts for dramatic effect — can elevate a look from decent to memorable. Look out for safety-rated items for kids (no small detachable parts), and choose lightweight props for long wear so you don’t end the night with sore shoulders.

How to choose the right size and fit

Fit matters more than flash. A costume that’s a few inches too tight or a skirt that drags will kill the vibe fast. Always check sizing guides and measure chest, waist, and height in inches before you buy — adults commonly look at chest measurement in inches to pick the correct size. If you’re buying for a child, remember that most kids’ costumes assume room for layer underneath, so it can be wise to size up if they’ll be wearing a sweater on a cool evening. For headpieces and masks, look at head circumference in inches — many sites provide hat-size equivalents.

Budget-friendly tips: how to save without skimping on style

Costumes don’t have to break the bank. Consider buying off-season — retailers often discount stock after seasonal peaks — or mixing a purchased piece with DIY elements. Rental options exist for high-end outfits if you only need something for a night. You can also repurpose items from your wardrobe: a plain black dress, a waistcoat, and a few accessories can become a convincing era look or villain outfit with minimal expense. Buying a few quality accessories and rotating them across different costumes often gives better value than buying many cheap single-use outfits.

Cleaning, storage and keeping costumes usable season after season

Take care of your costumes and they’ll keep returning to the spotlight. Many fabric costumes are best spot-washed; soft toys and plush heads often have specific cleaning methods, so follow care labels. Store costumes flat or on wide padded hangers to avoid creases and stress on seams. Use breathable storage boxes about 12 to 24 inches deep for folded pieces and keep them in a cool dry place to prevent mildew. Small repairs — a few stitches or a dab of fabric glue — can extend the life of an outfit for many years.

Safety considerations: what to watch for

Safety is easy to overlook when you’re excited about a look, but it’s essential. Avoid long trailing hems that catch underfoot, choose non-flammable fabrics where possible, and ensure masks don’t restrict breathing or vision. For night events, add reflective tape or carry a small LED to stay visible in the dark. Small accessories should be avoided for children under a certain age because of choking risk; always check manufacturer age guidance and make adjustments as needed.

When to choose ready-made vs DIY costumes

Ready-made costumes save time and give predictable results, which is perfect if you need a polished look fast. DIY costumes, on the other hand, let you tune every detail and often cost less, plus they give you a unique look. If you’re short on time or sewing skills, consider a hybrid approach: buy a base garment from a store like Ebebek or Argos and add bespoke embellishments, props, or makeup to personalise the outfit.

Events and occasions where great costumes shine

Costumes have a life beyond Halloween: think themed birthday parties, cosplay conventions, fancy dress nights, theatrical productions, charity runs, and seasonal village fairs. Each event has different needs — a long walk-friendly outfit for outdoor charity events, a display-friendly replica for a convention, or a soft plush toy for a baby’s first costume photo. Picking the right store depends on that need: soft toys and toddler sets from family-focused retailers, or striking replicas and masks from novelty and collector stores.

Final checklist for costume shopping in the UK

Before you hit buy, check this quick list: measure in inches, verify safety labels, read reviews for durability, make sure accessories are age-appropriate, and consider care instructions. Think about the event, the expected weather, and whether you’ll need extra mobility for dancing or running about. Follow these few steps and you’ll avoid the common pitfalls: oversized masks, short-lived fabrics, and missing accents that break the illusion.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect costume in the UK is about matching purpose, fit, and style to the occasion. Stores like Ebebek shine for character-led kids’ pieces and soft toys, while Menkind offers novelty, replica items, and statement adult wear. Combine smart shopping — sizing in inches, attention to safety, and clever accessorising — with a dash of creativity and you’ll create looks that delight, surprise, and last beyond a single night. Whether you’re dressing a toddler as Peter Rabbit or wearing a replica helmet for a convention, a well-chosen costume tells a story and gives you memories to match.