If you’re anything like me, you’ll probably decide on a costume two days before your first Halloween party… not even priority shipping can save us at that point. Who could’ve known that our extreme academic procrastination carried over to shopping? The search for reliable stores that college students can count on for cute, high-quality, and affordable pieces are seemingly never-ending. Here are a few of my favorite local businesses to check out this month that will save your costume (and Halloweekend IG post)!
1. Miss Behavin’
Miss Behavin’, a trendy women’s boutique located in the Paseo Nuevo shopping center, is an absolute must-visit in the search for your costume. This shop was originally established in Isla Vista in 2007, above Bagel Cafe, before relocating to downtown SB in 2019. Earlier this month, the boutique stocked up on the cutest Halloween essentials like packaged costumes, stockings, bunny ears and more!
Miss Behavin’ carries some of the collegiate woman’s most beloved brands; Free People, Motel Rocks, Lucy in the Sky, Gorjana jewelry, and adorable accessories like pop-culture themed lighters and Wildflower cases. The owner, Kelly, has created a truly welcoming and special environment that makes Miss Behavin’ a staple in the outfit hunt this Halloween!
2. Sweet Jane
Right in the heart of Isla Vista is the small gem that is Sweet Jane. From 4/20-themed items to festival clothing to the classic “U Can Study Buzzed” shot glass, the store is undoubtedly the perfect representation of the IV aesthetic. Seeing as I often stop by here last minute to shop for oddly specific party themes (recently attended an “80’s in Aspen” function), it’s the perfect place for sexy and eccentric costume-building. Even better, the store is located right on Pardall Rd., making it so easy to pop in on your way home from class.
3. Alpha Thrift
As one of my personal favorites and most-visited secondhand stores in Santa Barbara, I can confidently say that Alpha Thrift does Halloween right. Grabbing a coffee and browsing the Alpha aisles is my personal version of therapy. They put out tons of bins filled to the brim with Halloween accessories and every color of wig you could imagine, not to mention the nearly endless racks of pre-loved costumes. Located on Hollister Ave in Goleta, Alpha Thrift purchases go towards the Alpha Resource Center’s mission to support individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities; amazing selection and for a good cause this holiday season.
4. Escobar’s Little Things
Another walkable option for Isla Vista residents, the lovely Escobar’s Little Things holds a place in my heart as my own Y2K heaven. Located on Embarcadero next to i.v. drip, the store is open until 8 p.m. every day of the week, making it perfect for our last minute escapades. I love the fact that I can go to this boutique for both a staple pair of black shorts or an eccentric, neon sparkly crop top. Crafting a costume completely from scratch is definitely what I’d recommend in Escobar’s Little Things, with the wide array of skirts and tops to be mixed and matched.
Even though the prices are already amazing and so accessible for college students, Escobar’s Little Things still does frequent sales and even gives discounts if you use cash. Keep an eye out for sales posted on their Instagram page!
5. Thriftopia
One of my absolute favorite ways to spend Saturdays as a UCSB student is stopping by Thriftopia, a pop-up market for thrifting in Isla Vista! If I ever need vintage vibes, statement piece jewelry, or medieval-esque pieces for my costume, this would be my first stop. The amount of hand-woven bottoms and silky tops would be so perfect for something DIY like a mermaid or pirate costume.
Usually held at one of IV’s parks, you can browse the selections while listening to live local bands and stopping by the food and drink vendors. Even though you can find so many pieces for less than the price of a coffee, I love that you can also swap with your own clothes as an alternative. There are still a couple weekends left until it’s time for Halloween, so check it out!
No more need to stress this year because your whole friend group has their costume while your options are still sitting in your cart. Have fun and stay safe these next few weekends, I’m wishing you the best of luck on your hunt for the perfect costume and manifesting the cutest Halloween 2025 pics!