(Image: The Alnwick Garden)
Those preparing for Halloween are being encouraged to support independent businesses across the North East.
Local costume shops offer a range of items, from fancy dress outfits to accessories, makeup, and party supplies.
Whether you're dressing up for Halloween, a themed party, or just for fun, these stores offer a wide selection of outfits, accessories, and expert advice to help you stand out.
Dr Funkenstein
Dr Funkenstein, located on Derwent Street in Sunderland, has been a go-to destination for fancy dress hire and sales since 1997.
The shop is known for its extensive selection of outfits and accessories, catering to all ages and occasions.
One customer said: "Great selection of costumes and accessories.
"Prices are great with superb service, especially at a busy time such as Halloween."
Another reviewer praised the shop's inclusivity, writing: "Great little find. Needed something for a fancy dress and they had loads of choice, even for a larger person like me.
"Ended up buying a once worn costume, for less than most charge for hire. And there's an instore seamstress too. What's not to love?"
Crazy Fantazy
Just a short distance away, Crazy Fantazy in Sunderland offers costumes, body jewellery, and ear-piercing services from its unit in Jacky White’s Market.
Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 4.30pm, the shop is regularly praised for its customer service and affordability.
One visitor said: "Nice selection, the lady was lovely and helpful, worth a visit."
Party Animals, inside Morrisons at Morton Park in Darlington, sells costumes, wigs, accessories and party supplies.
It opens Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4.30pm.
A satisfied customer said: "Was able to get a pirate hat, highwayman eye mask and white face paint at great prices.
Much better and quicker than going online. They had a very wide variety of fancy dress accessories as well as decorative bunting for every occasion."
Cloth
Cloth in Durham, hidden off Silver Street beneath Rudy's Pizza, is a staple of Durham's vintage clothing scene. The store also sells a range of fancy-dress outfits, ranging from ordinary Halloween costumes to niche oddities, with some costumes priced below £10.
Party Forever
In Coxhoe, Durham, Party Forever has grown from a home-based business into a full-fledged shop offering thousands of products in-store and online.
The shop is open six days a week and provides a click-and-collect service for added convenience.
One parent shared their positive experience: "Awesome shop! My son wasn't liking what he was seeing on Amazon for Halloween masks, and supermarkets or town were too busy for him with his learning disabilities."
A Google review said: "Party Forever..great shop! Staff were really helpful and so much to choose from."
The Horror Store
The Horror Store is returning to Eldon Square in Newcastle, with locals excited to sink their teeth into the spooky accessories and decor on offer.
The store is located directly opposite Ryman and Card Factory and stocks a wide range of costumes, makeup, and accessories for all ages and tastes.
PhotoBooth Props
For those further west, PhotoBooth Props in Blaydon specialises in fun accessories including wigs, inflatables, glasses, and masquerade masks. During the Halloween season, the prop company branches out to provide fancy dress costumes and scary masks.
It also sells guestbooks and promises quality products and service.
With so many independent costume shops across the North East, finding the perfect outfit for your next event has never been easier.
They offer unusual choices, personal service and advice to help with every celebration.
Whether you are planning a themed party, getting ready for Halloween or adding fun to a gathering, these shops can help.