Sure, you could show up to the Halloween party or costume contest dressed in a generic mass-produced number for a party store but will you be the talk of the night? Will you win? Doubtful.

These five stores in Vancouver are treasure troves for people who have the gumption, the gall, and the creativity to put together an original costume idea. Go in with something specific in mind and ask the staff for direction or even better, walk in with a blank slate and embrace the bizarre, it’s what the season is all about after all.

Here are the best places to shop for costumes in Vancouver that aren’t basic. 

Burcu’s Angels Vintage Boutique

The main street store is chock full of colour and texture. Burcu’s Angels Vintage Boutique carries everything from yellow checked stilt walkers’ pants to pink 70s leisure suits. The combination of random and oddly specific retro clothing makes this a great place to check out for any and all costume ideas. It’s also a place to find inspiration. And we’re pretty sure that a fair amount of Nardwuar’s closet comes from here so maybe go as him for Halloween?

Pandora Prop & Costume

For people looking to borrow a persona and give it back after, Pandora Prop & Costume is a rental store that services the local community theatre and film scene which means they have a wide range of elaborate costumes and props that are great for parties and events without being as expensive as buying them or as…