by joanne spockley

Created on: June 03, 2008

To buy or not to buy is the question. It is a world famous question that we apply to any purchase we make. It is something we can ponder for hours, but not in the case of costume hire. Renting is the way forward.
When it comes to costumes the idea of wearing something somebody else already has might put you off, but don't let it!I am a firm believer in renting my costumes. The reasons why:

* Several costume parties - In my lifetime, I have attended several costume parties, all based around various themes. No two parties have ever had the same theme (themes can be totally acceptable or totally ridiculous). So you can imagine how packed my wardrobe would be of pointless costumes that will probably never see light of day again (and I have more than enough clothes stored anyway that I never wear). By renting my costumes, I have variety without the lack of wardrobe space.

* Badly picked themes - Have you seen Bridget Jones? The Tarts and vicars party? OK, the theme of a costume party is at the taste of the host. But, if we think back to that particularly theme. Would you want to have a vicars costume for the rest of your life? The tarts part i suppose, women could find a use for various parts of the costume, but on the whole again the likely-hood of you ever wearing it again is very slim. Other themes are current at the time, but within 12 months, no-body remembers that Johnny Deep played a fantastic Jack Sparrow. So, when considering the question to buy or not to buy, think long term, think practicality of that fantastic costume.

* Costume shops - If you visit a good costume shop, you will find that all of the costumes are cleaned upon there return. This removes the idea of wearing something that is dirty and not pleasant. The key here is to do your research, visit several shops and discuss it with friends or family.

* Damages - A key concern I had when renting my first costume was that I would do something daft and damage it. The shops I have rented from all have a insurance policy that covers this. Luckily, I haven't had any accidents yet, but if I had spent out 50-100 for a costume to buy and I ruined it on the first wearing, I would not be happy. How many times have you been out and actually ruined something you are wearing....I would suggest not very often.

As I have already stated, I believe that renting costumes is the way to go. You can have variety, no hassle about cleaning it and not have to worry too much about damaging the item.

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