Finding the perfect costume can be a time consuming and expensive process. So why spend full price on a costume you are only going to wear once? From the right wig to the perfect fancy dress, costume hire or costume rental might be the right choice for you.

The easiest way to find your local costume rental store is by checking online or though the yellow pages.

When looking to rent a costume, here are the basic steps that most costume for hire and costume rental stores follow.

Step 1 - Select your costume:

This is normally the most enjoyable step out of the list. Costume shops will either have catalogs, or hanging ranks with costumes. When you have chosen your theme or costume itself, speak with the shop attendant. They may ask for your measurements so be prepared to give them. If you do not know, the shop attendant may be able to take your measurements for you, helping move the process along quickly.

Step 2 - Reserve it:

This will ensure that your costume will be waiting for you on your special day.

Step 3 - Rental agreement:

This is a contract between you and the rental company stating that you will return their products to them in the same condition they loaned it to you, on the date agreed up. Normally including information about damage fees.

Step 4 - Pay for it:

Like rental cars, most rental companies will have you use credit only. This will ensure that you bring the costume back to them, and so they can charge you for any damage done to the costume when you’ve returned it.

Step 5 - Care for it:

Wear antiperspirant and deodorant, avoid heavy perfumes, and take extra caution around cigarettes and wine.

Step 6 - Wear it!:

Have fun and enjoy the night!

Step 7 - Return it:

Many stores have different return policies. Check with your rental store to see what they require of you. Some will ask you dry clean it, while others will take the costume as is.

Costume rental is the affordable way to enjoy any masquerade or costume party. Have fun and happy hunting.