Specialties
Founded in 1956, Arlene's Costumes offers costumes for children and adults as well as theatrical makeup, accessories and novelties to meet its theatrical, business, school and Halloween needs. Located in Rochester, NY, we offer various costumes under categories, including baby/toddler, boys, girls, teen, men's, women's and plus size.
Additionally, we provide a variety of costume accessories, including ears, tails, wings, eyelashes, glasses, fishnet stockings, legwear, make up kits, masks, shoes, boots, wigs and facial hair.
We also do airbrush face painting and temporary tattoo services for birthday parties, school events, holiday parties, corporate events, weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs and other special events all over Upstate NY!
History
Established in 1956.
Arlene's was founded in 1956 when Arlene Stephens and her mother Mildred "Molly" Stephens ran Arlene's out of a small store on East Main Street in Rochester. Arlene and Molly saw children in the neighborhood wearing garbage bags on Halloween and decided to start making costumes for kids. That was just the beginning.
In 1975, Arlene's Costumes moved to its long-time home at 1156 Culver Road. Rentals such as overhead parade outfits and vintage period costumes were the main attraction at that time. As business grew, retail became more and more popular. In 1982, Arlene's opened a new one-of-a-kind 500 sq. ft retail store front in addition to its already impressive rental space.
Over the years, Arlene's outgrew that space opening seasonal locations in Western New York area shopping malls and plazas. Bursting at the seams, Arlene's moved to its current 10,000 sq.ft showroom on Portland Avenue in Rochester, NY in 2003.
Now we are celebrating our 70th Anniversary Year!
Meet the Business Owner: Arlene S.
An Invitation from Arlene...
Arlene's Costume Shop is a must see. It is not your typical mall costume shop. With over 350 vendors to draw from, the array of theatrical and Halloween merchandise is incredible. Unique gifts, hats, wigs, beards, gloves, leg wear and lingerie, makeup, retail and rental costumes including mascots, Santa, Easter, Halloween and more fill the showcases and line the walls.
Fun is our business. Fun is our brand. Fun is the instant thought that pops into your mind when you hear about us. No matter if you are looking for something specific or just have a little slack in your day, come in to Arlene's and play, play, play!
We look forward to seeing you and helping you find the perfect items to add fun to your next event!