Categories > Guides and Tips
Unveiling the 10 Top Fancy Dress Shops in Manchester Where Creativity Meets Costume!
Ah, fancy dress parties—the bane of my existence and the highlight of my social calendar, all rolled into one glorious, glittery headache.
Every time I hear those dreaded words, “costume required,” I know I’m about to embark on an epic quest through Manchester, hunting for that perfect outfit that’ll make me the life of the party—or at least keep me from being the only muppet in jeans and a t-shirt.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m no fashion icon (unless you count my extensive collection of novelty socks), but I’ve had more than my fair share of fancy dress fiascos and fabulous finds.
From superhero suits that made me look less ‘Marvel’ and more ‘help me’, to a pirate getup that was genuinely mistaken for high fashion, I’ve seen it all.
But fear not, fellow costume-seekers! I’ve put together a cheeky guide to the best fancy dress shops in Manchester. These are the places that save your bacon when you need to look like a zombie, a hero, or just a well-dressed version of your weird and wonderful self.
Hobbs
Media from hobbslondon
Website: Hobbs
Address: 1 New Cathedral St, Manchester M1 1AD, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 828 8856
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Sat 10AM-8PM
- Sun 11:30AM-5:30PM
If you’re after a fancy dress that’s got a bit of class, Hobbs on New Cathedral Street is where it’s at. It’s not just a shop; it’s like stepping into a wardrobe where every piece tells a story of elegance and craftsmanship.
Whether you’re looking for a vampire getup with a touch of aristocracy or a 1920s flapper dress that swings as you do the Charleston, Hobbs has your back. And let’s not forget about their leather shoes — sturdy enough for a pirate, sleek enough for a ball.
With their summer range out, you’ll find everything from breezy floral dresses to posh silk gowns that are just screaming to be shown off at a fancy dress do.
| Pro tip: Their seasonal pieces are not just fancy, they’re like collectors’ items. If something catches your eye, nab it quick before someone else does! |
Hidden Corner Fancy Dress
Media from hiddencornerfancydress
Website: Hidden Corner Fancy Dress
Address: 12 Church St, Manchester M4 1PN, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 834 9898
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Sat 9AM-6PM
- Sun 10AM-4PM
Right, Hidden Corner on Church Street, this is your spot for more than just a run-of-the-mill costume. These folks have been kitting out Mancunians for fifty years—imagine the stories those walls could tell!
Whether you need a superhero suit that doesn’t look like you’ve just wrapped a curtain round yourself, or you’re after the full Gothic vampire kit, they’ve got you sorted. It’s also the place for bespoke requests; if you’ve got a unique idea, they’re the ones to make it happen.
Plus, they’re pretty savvy with social media, always ready to show off their latest and greatest on Insta and Twitter.
| Pro tip: Their bespoke service is brilliant, especially if you’re after something no one else will have at the party. Give ‘em a shout; they’re dead good. |
Celebration
Media from hair_by_koji_ichikawa
Website: Celebration
Address: 798 Wilmslow Rd, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2DR, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 434 4578
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 9:30AM-5:30PM
- Sat 9AM-5:30PM
- Sun 11AM-3PM
Down in Didsbury, there’s a shop called Celebration that’s practically a fancy dress institution, especially when Halloween rolls around. This place becomes a costume cornucopia—you want it, they’ve probably got it.
From chilling zombie getups to fairy-tale princess dresses, they stock everything from the scary to the sweet. It’s a lifesaver for those last-minute party panics when you need something that looks like you haven’t just thrown it together.
And let’s not overlook the accessories—wigs, swords, you name it, they add the perfect touch to any outfit.
| Pro tip: Hit up their Halloween section in October; it’s like Aladdin’s cave, but for fancy dress. |
Luvyababes
Media from luvyababesnottingham
Website: Luvyababes
Address: 52 High St, Manchester M4 1ED, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 839 2117
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Sat 9AM-6PM
- Sun 11AM-5PM
Luvyababes isn’t just another fancy dress shop; it’s like a festival of costumes right in the heart of the Arndale. This place has saved my bacon more times than I can count when I’ve needed something spectacular at the eleventh hour.
You’ll find everything from flamboyant steampunk ensembles to sharp gangster outfits, and even the odd celebrity mask. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to throw something fun on and head out.
Plus, the range of creepy cosmetics could make anyone look like they’ve stepped off a movie set. It’s not just a shop; it’s your emergency costume department, especially handy for those last-minute dashes before a big night out.
| Pro tip: Even if you think you’ve got your costume sorted, take a gander through their accessories. I once upgraded a basic witch outfit with some wicked pieces from here, and it was a game-changer at the party! |
Afflecks
Media from afflecks_manchester
Website: Afflecks
Address: 52 Church St, Manchester M4 1PW, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 839 0718
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 10:30AM-6PM
- Sat 10AM-6PM
- Sun 11AM-5PM
Wandering into Afflecks is like stepping into a different world—one where every day’s a chance to dress up and every corner offers new possibilities. This iconic Northern Quarter landmark transforms into a haunted haven come Halloween, but it’s a hotspot for fancy dress year-round.
I remember finding my perfect zombie pirate outfit here, tucked away in American Graffiti on the second floor—a treasure trove of wigs and wild accessories. Then there’s Attic Fancy Dress up on the third, where the real magic happens.
You think it, they’ve got it—from stage makeup to the most elaborate latex masks. The staff are absolute gems, always up for a chat about your wildest costume ideas and how to make them a reality.
| Pro tip: Make Afflecks a destination during October; it’s not just shopping, it’s an experience. The atmosphere is electric, the decorations are a spectacle, and you’re bound to leave with something uniquely you. |
Party Delights
Media from partydelightsuk
Website: Party Delights
Address: Unit 4, 40 Spring Gardens, Manchester M2 1EN, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 776 1133
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Sat 9AM-5:30PM
- Sun 11AM-4PM
Party Delights is a bit like that one mate who always knows how to throw a bash. Walking in, you’re hit with a kaleidoscope of costumes from the downright hilarious to the beautifully bizarre.
It’s the kind of place where you go in for a pirate hat and come out with a full mermaid costume, because why not? Last year, I ended up going to a do as a disco ball — all thanks to the glittery getup I found here that caught my eye.
They have a knack for stocking just the right mix of fun, fright, and fantasy, making it a top pick for party-goers looking to make a splash.
| Pro tip: Their online shop is just as good as the store. Check it out for exclusive online deals before you visit — you might snag something brilliant! |
Boogie Knights
Media from boogie_knights__
Website: Boogie Knights
Address: 500 Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9WG, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 273 4293
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 10AM-6PM
- Sat 10AM-4PM
Boogie Knights isn’t your standard fancy dress shop; it’s a time machine back to the era of flares and funk. Specialising in 70s and 80s costumes, this place is a goldmine for anyone looking to channel their inner disco diva or rock star.
The walls are lined with everything from bell bottoms to sequin jumpsuits that sparkle under the disco lights. It’s owned by a couple of old-school DJs who love a good yarn about the glory days of Manchester’s music scene.
Last time I was there, I picked up a pair of platform boots that were just the ticket for a themed New Year’s Eve bash.
| Pro tip: Ask the owners for their music recommendations — not only will you leave with a great outfit, but you’ll also have the perfect playlist to match! |
Oxfam Originals
Media from oxfamoriginals
Website: Oxfam Originals
Address: 51 Oldham St, Manchester M1 1JR, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 839 3160
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Sat 10AM-6PM
- Sun 11AM-5PM
Nestled in the trendy Northern Quarter, Oxfam Originals is where ethical shopping meets vintage charm. This isn’t just any Oxfam; it’s a hotspot for vintage enthusiasts looking for unique pieces that tell a story.
You can find everything from 60s mod dresses to classic Victorian accessories that have been lovingly donated. It’s perfect for creating a fancy dress with authenticity and a touch of history.
The best part? Every purchase supports Oxfam’s charitable work, so you can look good and feel good about where your money’s going.
| Pro tip: Dive into the back of the shop — there’s often a rack of hidden gems that can be the centrepiece of your next costume party outfit. |
Duty Free
Media from dutyfreemanchester
Website: Duty Free
Address: 27 King Street, Manchester M2 6AF, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 834 4567
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Sat 9AM-7PM
- Sun 10AM-5PM
Duty Free isn’t your typical fancy dress shop—it’s an adventure into the world of high-quality, imported costumes that you might not find anywhere else in Manchester. Think of this place as the go-to for when you want to really impress or need something a bit exotic.
They specialise in more luxurious, authentic costumes from around the world. I remember walking in last year and finding this incredible Venetian masquerade ball gown that was just out of this world. It’s a bit pricier, but you’re paying for quality and uniqueness.
It’s perfect for those upscale Halloween parties or any fancy dress event where you want to stand out.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss their annual clearance event—great for picking up high-end costumes at a fraction of the price! |
Big Toes
Media credit: dailisha_weddingdress
Website: Big Toes
Address: 118 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2FJ, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 222 3456
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 10AM-6PM
- Sat 10AM-5PM
Big Toes is a bit of a legend in the local fancy dress scene, especially known for its massive range of oversized costumes and shoes that can turn any party into a riot of laughs. This place is all about fun and not taking yourself too seriously.
Whether you need a giant chicken suit or a pair of clown shoes that are as big as your ego, they’ve got you covered. It’s a favourite for stag dos and hen parties because you can bet whatever you pick will get everyone talking.
I once decked out my mate here as a massive taco, and he was the hit of the night!
| Pro tip: They’re known for their group discounts, so if you and your mates are planning a big night out, bring the whole crew here and you’ll save a few quid while you’re at it. |
