Halloween is the single biggest event in the fancy dress calendar, generating more sales than any other season. For retailers, buying the right wholesale Halloween costumes at the right time can make or break your year. Here's everything you need to know.
When Should Retailers Start Buying Halloween Stock?
The most successful retailers follow this timeline:
- June-July: Review last year's sales data, identify trends, place initial bulk orders
- August: Receive and prepare stock, set up displays (online and in-store)
- September: Full marketing push, replenish fast-moving lines
- October: Peak sales period — ensure popular sizes stay in stock through to the 31st
Ordering wholesale Halloween costumes early gives you the best selection and avoids the rush when popular items sell out at wholesalers.
What Halloween Costumes Sell Best?
Based on years of wholesale data, these categories consistently top the charts:
Classic Horror
Vampires, zombies, witches, skeletons, and ghosts — the traditional Halloween characters never go out of fashion. These are safe bets for any retailer and typically have the broadest appeal across age groups.
Pop Culture & Film Characters
Each year, new films and TV shows drive costume demand. Keep an eye on upcoming horror film releases and trending shows to predict what your customers will want.
Scary Clowns & Masks
The scary clown trend shows no signs of slowing. Full-face masks, prosthetics, and SFX makeup kits are popular add-ons to costume purchases.
Children's Costumes
Don't overlook the children's market — parents spend generously on Halloween costumes for kids. Cute versions of classic characters (friendly witches, baby pumpkins) sell extremely well for younger children.
Couples & Group Costumes
Themed couple and group costumes are increasingly popular for Halloween parties. Stock matching or complementary costumes that work together.
Pricing Strategy for Halloween Costumes
When buying wholesale Halloween costumes, aim for a markup of 2.5x to 4x depending on the product type:
- Budget costumes: Higher markup (3-4x) on low-cost items
- Premium costumes: Lower markup (2-2.5x) but higher absolute profit
- Accessories: Highest margins — wigs, makeup, props can carry 4-5x markup
Don't Forget Accessories
Halloween accessories often generate more profit per square foot than costumes. Stock up on:
- Wigs and hairpieces
- Face paint and SFX makeup
- Props (weapons, wands, staffs)
- Decorations and party supplies
- Contact lenses
- Fake blood and gore effects
Browse Our Halloween Wholesale Range
Wicked Nights stocks hundreds of wholesale Halloween costumes for adults and children, plus a huge range of accessories, decorations, and makeup. Order at trade prices with same-day dispatch on orders before 2pm.
Looking for wigs and hairpieces? We carry a massive range of Halloween wigs perfect for completing any look. Apply for a trade account to unlock wholesale pricing.