Originally published on November 15, 2017. Updated October 6, 2022.

I'm at Vintage Costumers.

I'm surrounded by racks and rows of suit coats, formal gowns, fedoras, saddle shoes and necklaces. There's also a large, wearable replica of a Donald Duck head.

If I wanted to I could throw down some cash and walk out right now in a mint-condition 1960s James Bond tuxedo. Or I could leave as the Easter bunny, a Roman Centurion, the Dread Pirate Roberts, or a bellhop.

Vintage Costumers rent out formal wear dating from every decade between the late 1800s and the 1980s. The collection has been pieced together over the course of 40 years from estate sales, thrift stores, and online purchases.

They have a lot of options to choose from. 

They specialize in historical reproductions—Greek togas, Roman armor, Viking garb, and Renaissance frocks—sewn from scratch with occasional modern amenities like zippers for comfort. 

It's a cool deal wether you're planning a formal wedding, a photoshoot, or a themed costume party. Choose your own fancy getup and accessories and rent them for two nights at a reasonable price.

Only one question remains as I leave Vintage Costumers. For my next party—should I go in a clawhammer coat or a seersucker suit?

Tough call.

VINTAGE COSTUMERS
2101 Colby Avenue
(425) 512-0280

Richard Porter is a writer for Live in Everett.