Ever get that party invite, and your stomach drops faster than a zombie in a horror flick? Not because you’re dreading the questionable punch, but because the dress code screams “COSTUME!” 

Suddenly, you become panic-stricken, searching for a wearable costume that doesn’t belong in the trash. 

We’ve had our fair share of shops where ‘costumes’ were ‘slightly ripped polyester and a questionable wig.’ From these depths of costume despair—we, the TopReviews writing team, looked for the holy grail of costume shops in New Plymouth. 

Here are the places that sell costumes you won’t be ashamed of wearing. 

1. Spotlight New Plymouth

Spotlight, primarily known as a fabric and home goods store, has a costume section offering a practical solution for anyone seeking dress-up attire.

In-store, we observed a limited immediate costume selection, catering mainly to popular themes and standard sizes. They have playful adult inflatable T-Rex costumes that are always a hit at parties and Marvel and Star Wars costumes for kids and adults.

Shopping in-store is a good choice for those needing a quick, off-the-rack option. 

However, their website shows the actual depth of Spotlight’s costume offerings. 

We were particularly intrigued by more unique online finds, such as the painted Renaissance lady costume.

Many of the customers we talked to also appreciated the convenience of ordering online and having costumes delivered directly, especially for families juggling busy schedules. 

We also heard that the delivery service was reliable for most, with costumes arriving within the expected timeframe.

Regarding the costumes, several people commented that the fabric quality was adequate for the price point. They’re typically designed for single-event use or occasional dress-up days, so don’t expect those that can last for years.

Wide variety of quality but reasonably priced items

“Love this place, such a wide variety of quality but fairly priced items, I could spend all day in here. Staff are very knowledgeable and always willing to answer questions & assist with your shop.”

• Hayley Sharlock, Google Reviews

Generally helpful and knowledgeable

“Staff are generally helpful and knowledgeable. Great variety of products”

• Lynette Bates, Google Reviews

2. The Warehouse New Plymouth

The Warehouse stands out for its accessibility and budget-friendly approach to almost everything; costumes are no exception. 

We found their website easy to browse and understand what they offer from the comfort of our homes. Plus, it showcases a decent array of kids’ costumes, which is a definite plus for parents. 

Adult options are available, too, though not as extensive.

They certainly deliver basic, no-fuss costumes. You’ll find numerous generic options—think foam hot dogs, various animal outfits, and the perennial Grim Reaper.  

While these styles are readily available and recognizable, those seeking unique or trendsetting costumes might find the selection somewhat limited.

Aside from that, their costume isles felt somewhat disorganized in-store. Costumes were not always in their designated spots, making the browsing process a bit more time-consuming than it needed to be.

Regardless, one undeniable advantage we appreciated is their frequent clearance sales on costumes. For bargain hunters, this is a major draw. 

Invaluable staff and very friendly 

“Very helpful staff and very friendly I highly recommend this place if you are looking for a particular product and don’t wanna pay through the nose for it”

• Max West, Google Reviews

Lovely warehouse team

“The warehouse team are lovely! A massive thank-you to Michael for his really good customer service (:”

• Ashley Bonnie, Google Reviews

3. Look Sharp New Plymouth

For anyone looking for the perfect costume, Look Sharp Store has an extensive online catalog and in-person stock that caters to all ages.

We like how their costumes are logically categorized on their website, making pinpointing your desired theme straightforward. The options are abundant whether you’re after superheroes or a throwback to bygone eras.

On top of that, they shine for their delivery speed when it comes to receiving your costume. Numerous individuals raved about the promptness—often the very next day. We think their efficiency is a significant plus, particularly for last-minute costume needs. 

The range remains impressive in-store, mirroring the variety online. They stock costumes for diverse age groups, ensuring no one is left out of the dressing-up fun. 

However, many customers voiced concerns about the durability. Many told us the fabric was thin, and some of the seams on their costumes started falling after one wear.

Very large and varied selection, good quality

“Halloween weekend (28th) my partner and I were needing to do last minute costume shopping, went here to see if we could find anything after two other places we hit were busts and we weren’t disappointed. Out of the six large columns, 3 were Halloween themed! Very large and varied selection, good quality. One downside (but understandable) was there were so many people in those 3 Isles, we became very claustrophobic quickly. Everyone like ourselves were last minute shopping though so we just chose what we needed and left knowing that every holiday, we are going here for great selection!”

• Bree Halverson, Google Reviews

Great prices, huge selection 

“I LOVE this shop. I could happily spend hours and hundreds of dollars in here buying craft supplies. Great prices, huge selection of craft and art supplies and costumes as well as everything you might need for gift making and wrapping.”

• Mel, Google Reviews

4. Operatic Costume Hire

Operatic Costume Hire is for anyone seeking something beyond the usual packaged costumes. When trying to get a sense of their costume range, we had to call and request a costume list via email. 

While the emailed list was helpful, updating their website to showcase the variety of their costumes visually would make browsing their collection far more convenient.  

Regardless, we love that they have it covered whether you’re gearing up for a themed work function or even a festive Christmas party. Their variety is even more impressive—hats and wigs galore, sharp dinner suits, and various kids’ costumes.  

Customers were impressed with the detail in their uniform costumes, saying it felt far superior and authentic to typical hire costumes.  

Additionally, several people we talked to loved that their staff understands that finding the right costume is often more than just picking something off the rack. 

Good range of costumes

“Good range of costumes great  prices helpful lady.”

• Glenda Krutz Google Review  

A lot of collections at affordable price 

“Great customer service, a lot of collections at an affordable price ✌️”

• Arvin K V, Google Reviews

5. Persona Costumes Hire and Sewing Alterations

Persona Costumes’ emphasis on costume quality and customer experience sets them apart.  

We like how their costumes aren’t your typical flimsy, worn-out outfits. Many customers also love the impressive condition of their costumes, saying that they look and feel authentic.  

Their selection covers a wide range from classic superheroes like Superman and Supergirl to popular themes such as Top Gun and various princesses. 

Beyond the costumes, we like how Persona Costumes offers a growing range of accessories for sale. It’s a convenient way to complete and elevate any outfit. 

On top of that, we love their personal assistance. Many told us the staff were genuinely helpful and offered advice to ensure a great fit and look.  

Others appreciate how every costume is laundered and steam-pressed, guaranteeing a fresh and ready-to-wear rental.  

We’re just not big fans of Persona Costumes’ “no refunds or exchanges on hires” policy.  This can be a problem for customers who genuinely picked up the wrong costume or got the wrong size.

Additionally, a $10 cancellation fee per costume applies to all canceled bookings.

A collection of around 800 costumes

“Glenys is great! With a collection of around 800 costumes, she’s got you sorted!”

• Violet Foster, Google Reviews

A great place to find a costume for a fun event

“A great place to find a costume for a fun event or party. Very helpful with a variety of costumes for heaps of different themes! Very Recommend.”

• Christine Goble, Google Reviews

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