Reviewed by: Caleb Turrentine
Boo on a budget: A thrifted Halloween costume guide across Alabama
Reading time: 7 minutes
With Halloween just around the corner, it’s time to think about last-minute costumes.
Instead of rushing to buy something online that you’ll wear only once, visit a local thrift store in Alabama for a creative and affordable option. You’ll save money, get inspired, and leave with something personal and unique — like thrifted halloween costumes.
The best part? Thrifted costume pieces often serve as everyday staples. Items like denim jackets, oversized blazers, or unique accessories can be useful long after Halloween is over.
Whether you’re in Birmingham, Auburn, or along the coast, here’s a few ideas for thrifted halloween costumes and where to thrift the items you need to create the perfect last-minute costume on a budget.
Thriftable Costume Ideas
Thrifted halloween costumes not only help you save money, but they also allow for endless creativity in your costume choices.
For those looking for a fun and budget-friendly option, thrifted halloween costumes can be easily assembled with just a little creativity.
Need some last-minute inspiration? Here are a few easy looks you can pull together from almost any Alabama thrift store.
- Pirate: Grab a flowy white shirt, dark pants, and a bandana. Add a statement belt or vest for that rugged, ship-ready vibe.
- 80s Icon: Think neon, denim, and oversized everything. A bold jacket and chunky jewelry will take your look straight back in time.
- Cowgirl: Denim on denim, boots, and a button-up. Top it off with a hat and you’re rodeo-ready in no time.
- Space Explorer: Channel Huntsville’s Space Camp energy with a thrifted blue jumpsuit or windbreaker, sneakers, and a few DIY NASA patches.
- Vampire: Keep it classic with dark layers, dramatic makeup, and maybe a thrifted cape if you find one. Instant mystery.
- Athlete: Sporty and simple, this look is always a win. Find a vintage jersey, tennis skirt, or workout set, and pair it with sneakers for a costume that’s both comfy and cool.
- Friends Cast: If you’re looking for a fun group costume, Friends is a perfect one to thrift. Each character has their own simple, ‘90s-inspired style. Plus, it’s a subtle nod to Alabama native Courteney Cox, who played Monica on the show.
Once you start thrifting, you’ll realize how easy it is to create your own version of any look like Barbie, Harry Potter, or even Wednesday Addams. The options truly are endless.
Where to shop Around Alabama
No matter where you are in Alabama, there’s a thrift store nearby waiting to inspire your next costume. Here are a few across the state to check out!
Birmingham
Birmingham is no stranger to a good thrift store. Whether you’re searching for something spooky or stylish, these two local spots are perfect for pulling together a last-minute costume.
Sozo Trading Co.
- What you’ll find: A curated mix of thrift, vintage, and Fair Trade items that make costume shopping both stylish and meaningful.
- Address: 4 41st St S, Birmingham, AL 35222
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 AM–6 PM | Closed Sunday
- More Info: Sozo Trading Co.
Love Lady Thrift Store
- What you’ll find: A wide range of affordable clothing, shoes, and accessories perfect for creative costume hunting or everyday wear.
- Address: 7720 Ludington Ln, Irondale, AL 35210
- Hours: Monday–Saturday 9 AM–7 PM
- More Info: Love Lady Center
Auburn
Auburn has plenty of thrift spots that make last-minute costume shopping easy and affordable.
Lifesavers Mission Thrift Auburn
- What you’ll find: Racks of clothing, shoes, and accessories that make pulling together a costume effortless. With constantly refreshed inventory, you never know what hidden gems you’ll come across.
- Address: 2051 E University Dr, Auburn, AL 36830
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 10 AM–5 PM | Closed Sunday- Monday
- More Info: Lifesavers Mission Thrift Auburn
America’s Thrift Stores Auburn
- What you’ll find: Rows of gently used clothing, accessories, and shoes perfect for building a full costume or just finding that one standout piece.
- Address: 1640 Parker Way, Opelika, AL 36801
- Hours: Monday–Thursday 8 AM–9 PM | Friday–Saturday 8 AM–10 PM | Sunday 10 AM–8 PM
- More Info: America’s Thrift Stores Auburn
Huntsville
Huntsville has plenty of great thrift spots for finding your next costume. Whether you’re looking for a vintage-inspired piece or something you can turn into a DIY moment, these two local favorites have you covered.
Thrift Mart Huntsville
- What you’ll find: A large selection of clothing and accessories at great prices. With new inventory arriving daily, you’re sure to find something fun for your Halloween costume or everyday wear.
- Address: 4710 University Dr NW Unit M, Huntsville, AL 35816
- Hours: Monday–Thursday 9 AM–8 PM | Friday–Saturday 9 AM–8 PM | Sunday 11 AM–6 PM
- More Info: Thrift Mart Huntsville
Downtown Rescue Mission Thrift Store
- What you’ll find: Racks of gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories, all at great prices. Proceeds support local outreach programs, so every purchase helps make a difference.
- Address: 1946 Winchester Rd NE, Huntsville, AL 35811
- Hours: Monday–Saturday 9 AM–7 PM | Closed Sunday
- More Info: Downtown Rescue Mission Thrift
Mobile
Down on the Gulf Coast, Mobile has a mix of classic thrift stores and boutique-style resale shops that make it easy to piece together a creative Halloween look.
Penelope’s Closet
- What you’ll find: Curated secondhand fashion, upscale clothing, and accessories that add a refined touch to any costume. Proceeds benefit the Penelope House, a local shelter supporting victims of domestic violence.
- Address: 2907 Old Shell Rd, Mobile, AL 36607
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 10 AM–4 PM | Closed Sunday–Monday
- More Info: Penelope’s Closet
Waterfront Rescue Mission Thrift Store
- What you’ll find: Affordable clothing, accessories, and home goods, with proceeds helping fund local programs that support individuals and families in need. A great stop for budget-friendly costume finds that give back to the community.
- Address: 3985 Cottage Hill Rd, Mobile, AL 36609
- Hours: Monday–Saturday 9 AM–6 PM | Closed Sunday
- More Info: Waterfront Rescue Mission Thrift Store
Fairhope
Fairhope’s thrift stores bring a mix of charm and creativity to Halloween shopping. From upscale consignment finds to simple staples.
Revolution Resale
- What you’ll find: An upscale consignment shop offering gently used apparel, shoes, and accessories. You’ll find high-quality pieces that can elevate your costume and your everyday wardrobe.
- Address: 9 N Church St, Fairhope, AL 36532
- Hours: Monday–Saturday 10 AM–5 PM | Closed Sunday
- More Info: Revolution Resale
Goodwill Gulf Coast – Fairhope
- What you’ll find: Rows of affordable clothing, shoes, and accessories perfect for DIY costumes or last-minute looks. You never know what hidden gems you’ll find.
- Address: 138 Baldwin Square, Fairhope, AL 36532
- Hours: Monday–Saturday 9 AM–8 PM | Sunday 9 AM–6 PM
- More Info: Goodwill Gulf Coast
Still need more thrift stores to secure that last-minute Halloween costume? Check these out:
- Alabama is one of the thriftiest states—6 stores to visit
- 10 unique thrift stores + antique malls across Alabama that are worth a weekend trip
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