blazers men`s • ladies` - National Costumers Association

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The official publication of the National Costumers Association, Inc.
LEA DERS
A N D TREN DSETTERS O F THE C OSTU ME IN D USTRY
December 2 0 1 2
Volume 88, Issue 4
Established 1923
P ublic
atio
ns Manag
er
ublicatio
ations
Manager
The Costumer
Diane Sheibley
31 Bramblewood St.
Bridgewater, MA 02324
800-NCA-1889 • 774-217-9381
Fax 508-819-3013
[email protected]
Ex
ecutiv
ector
Executiv
ecutivee Dir
Director
Dorothy Shadrick
6000 E. Evans Ave. 3-205
Denver, CO 80222
800-NCA-1321 • Fax 303-758-9616
[email protected]
© 2012, National Costumers Association.
The Costumer is published by the National
Costumers Association, Inc., with headquarters
located at the above address, a nonprofit and
incorporated association of costumers located
in the United States, Australia, Bahamas,
Canada, India, Ireland, Mexico, and Great
Britain.
No responsibility is assumed for the opinions
expressed or claims made by the authors of
articles or by advertisers. Appearance in the
magazine does not consititute endorsement by
the National Costumers Association, nor its
officers or represenatives.
www
.costumers.org
www.costumers.org
4
4
5
6
NCA Administration
This Issue’s Advertisers
President’s Letter
Organization, Member, and Industry News
11
12
14
30
30
32
35
Midwest Regional Meeting
Membership Committee Update
Halloween & Party Expo Assembling an Exciting Slate of
Speakers
Convention 2012: Education Recap
From Steamboats to Steampunk: It’s Full Steam Ahead to
Mini-Convention 2013
Buyers Group 2013 Suppliers
Getting a Clue About Accessories
Unmasking the Masquerade: Worldcon
Member Profile: Mehron Inc.
36
NCA Marketplace
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18
About the Cover
This illustration is from a 1849 masquerade
engraving. This engraving was by J.Penston after a
painting by E. Corbould.
Graphic design & typography by Rob Lehr.
The Costumer • December 2012
N C A Administration
B O ARD O F DIRECT O RS
PRESIDENT
Janie Westendorf
Curtains Up Costumes
100 Kramer St
Sigourney, IA 52591
641-622-3991 • Fax 641-622-3992
[email protected]
FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
Debbie Meredith
Akron Design & Costume LLC
3425 Manchester Road
Akron, OH 44319
330-644-0425 • Fax 330-644-7425
[email protected]
SEC O N D VICE PRESIDENT
Linda Adams-Foat
Camelot Costumes
1321 S. Demeter Dr.
Freeport, IL 61032
815-233-1861
[email protected]
IM MEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
Nancy Cox
Acme Costumes
2604 Highway 80
Garden City, GA 31408
912-966-0201 • Fax 912-966-0824
[email protected]
DIRECT O R
Marion Bradley 2014*
Balloons-N-Parties
1300 Watson Blvd.
Warner Robins, GA 31093
478-328-1414
[email protected]
DIRECT O R
Karen Grizzard 2013*
Main Street Party Station
10749 Jefferson Ave
Newport News, VA 23601
757-597-7069
Fax 757-591-0692
[email protected]
DIRECT O R
Lorraine Brown 2013*
Fabian’s Upstairs Closet
South Main Street
Fair Haven, VT 05743
802-265-3545
Fax 802-265-3843
[email protected]
DIRECT O R
Terri Greenberg 2014*
Halco
723 E. Railroad Ave
Verona, PA 15147
724-929-7300
Fax 724-929-7301
[email protected]
DIRECT O R
Julie Gump 2013*
Make Believe Costumes & Dancewear
1855 Parental Home Rd.
Jacksonville, FL 32216
904-645-6337
Fax 904-645-5564
[email protected]
DIRECT O R
Jane Powell 2013*
Costumes Etc.
2138 Faulkner Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30324
404-728-4598
Fax 404-728-4599
[email protected]
*indicates end of current term
N C A N ATI O N AL HEA D Q U ARTERS
Dorothy Shadrick, Executive Director
6000 E. Evans Ave. 3-205
Denver, CO 80222
800-NCA-1321 • Fax 303-758-9616
[email protected] • [email protected]
4
2 0 1 2 Standing Committee Chairs
Buyers Group
The Costumer
Disaster
Grievance
Historian
Membership
Memorial Fund
National Awards
Nominations
Parliamentarian
Plot Service
Policy & Procedures
Publications
Roster
Source List
Time & Place
Web Site
Gary Broadrick and Glenn Alexander, Performance
Studios
Diane Sheibley, Publications Manager
Debbie Meredith, Akron Design & Costume LLC
Debbie Meredith, Akron Design & Costume LLC
Barb Lochner, Once Upon A Fantasy
Lorraine Brown, Fabian’s Upstairs Closet
Nancy Cox, Acme Costumes
Debbie Lyn Owens, Debbie Lyn’s Costumes
Ken Epperly & Ken Fox, Magic Makers Costumes
Adrienne Anderson, Past President
Joy Galbraith, Costume Gallery-Newport
Linda Adams Foat, Camelot Costumes
Dorothy Shadrick
2 0 1 3 Event Committee Chairs
National Mini-Convention
Awards
Convention Chair
Convention Host
Convention Program
Creative Costume Event
Education/Shop Talk
Hospitality
Membership Forum
Market
Newcomers Orientation
Opening Night Party
President’s Banquet
Registration
Show and Share
Janie Westendorf, Curtains Up Costumes
Joy and Elizabeth Galbraith, Costume GalleryNewport
Linda Adams Foat, Camelot Costumes
Kathy Dowd, Costume Holiday House
Janine Caufield, Caufield’s
Terri Greenberg, Halco
Lorraine Brown, Fabian’s Upstairs Closet
Linda Emerson, Emerson Costume
Crystal and Jacob Locklar
Kathy Dowd, Costume Holiday House
This Issue’s Advertisers
Alan Sloane & Co. ................................................................ 35
Alchemy of England ............................................................. 8
BodyFX ............................................................................... 15
Caufields ................................................................................ 11
Disguise ............................................................................... 34
Fanfest ................................................................................. 17
Fun World ................................ Inside Front & Back Covers
Halco ................................................................................... 13
Halloween & Party Expo ..................................................... 7
Junk for Joy ......................................................................... 20
Premiere Props ............................................................... 2-3
Private Island Party ............................................................... 20
Rubies .................................................... Outside Back Cover
Such-A-Deal Lace & Trim .................................................. 34
Transworld Exhibits .............................................................. 10
President’s Letter
In previous President’s Letters I’ve focused on the
letters ‘C’ and ‘H’, so this time I’m going to emphasize the
letter ‘A’. Is it coincidence that these three letters are the
beginning of the word CHANGE?!? I think not! Our
association is changing – right now we are smack dab in the
middle of change. We are adjusting, and adapting, and
assimilating – and I think we are doing it quite well.
ACE Management is acting as the nerve center of the
NCA. Dorothy Shadrick and her team provide
information, answer questions, and guide the association in
a professional manner – it’s what they do. As in the past,
the Board of Directors will continue making decisions and
considering all the alternatives for our organization – ACE
Management will be instrumental in making it happen. It’s
going to be an adjustment, but we can do it.
Another Halloween has come and gone. Some have
reported a so-so year and a few did pretty well, while I
heard from many that Halloween 2012 was quite frankly
not good at all. Maybe there are things we can accomplish as
an association to help improve upon sales for our members
or at least avoid another down year; let’s work together to
do so! I think we have a great group of directors and
committee chairs and it’s time to get those creative wheels
turning.
I know you have plenty to do when you attend the
Halloween Party Expo in Houston January 19th through
22nd, but I hope you will stop by the NCA booth (#2217)
to meet our new Executive Director, analyze the past year,
and work toward improving our organization!
I am continually amazed and appreciative of all the
volunteers that make our costume association function.
Until we meet again in person or the next issue, I urge you
to advocate for the NCA as best you can: sign up more
members (you’ll even get a monetary referral bonus),
emphasize the scholarship program to eligible applicants,
encourage members that haven’t attended a NCA function
to do so, and if you aren’t already, think about what you can
do to help advance the National Costumers Association!
I think we’re going places – so, as my grandson would
exclaim while flying off the back of the couch, arms
outstretched as if he were a human spaceship, with his tshirt tucked into his superhero undies and a dishtowel
‘cape’ tied around his neck – “TO INFINITY AND
BEYOND”!
Janie Westendorf, President
National Costumers Association
Curtains Up Costumes, Sigourney, IA
5
Organization, Member, I ndustry News
Some of these items have appeared in the weekly e-contact, but bear republishing here for the benefit of the entire
membership.
NC
A CONT
A CT INFO
ONTA
NCA
Please note the contact information
for the NCA National Headquarters is:
Dorothy Shadrick, Executive Director
National Costumers Association
6000 E. Evans Ave. 3-205
Denver, CO 80222
800-NCA-1321
Fax 303-758-9616
[email protected]
[email protected]
P AP
ER MA GIC GRO UP NEWS
APE
(September, 2012) CSS Industries,
Inc. (NYSE: CSS) announced that it has
sold the Halloween portion of its Paper
Magic Group, Inc. (“PMG”) business to
Gemmy Industries (HK) Limited
(“Gemmy”). Under the terms of the
purchase agreement executed, Gemmy
acquired, upon execution of the agreement,
certain tangible and intangible assets
associated with PMG’s Halloween
business.
As part of the transaction, PMG will
remain responsible for the manufacture,
sale and distribution of all PMG Halloween products (such as Halloween masks,
costumes, make-up and novelties) for the
Halloween 2012 season. Stifel Nicolaus
Weisel served as exclusive financial advisor
to CSS in the transaction.
“As part of a continuing review of our
PMG seasonal business, we decided that
the sale of PMG’s Halloween business was
appropriate at this time, as it will allow
management to focus its time and resources on more profitable product
categories,” said Christopher J. Munyan,
President and Chief Executive Officer of
CSS.
As a result of this transaction, CSS
expects to incur pre-tax charges, net of
proceeds, in a range of approximately $6.0
to $7.6 million, all as further described in
CSS’ Form 8-K filed today.
“Because the closing of this transaction occurs as we are completing our
shipment of Halloween 2012 products to
our customers,” said Mr. Munyan, “we
agreed that CSS will finish its commitments to our customers for the Halloween
2012 season, and that Gemmy will provide
Halloween products for the Halloween
2013 season and thereafter. We also agreed
that Gemmy will be able to use the “PMG
Halloween” name for the Halloween 2013
season.”
“Gemmy is a highly respected
provider of consumer décor products,
including Halloween décor products,”
continued Mr. Munyan, “and we believe
that, as a result of this transaction, Gemmy
will be able to enhance its product offerings.” CSS is a consumer products company primarily engaged in the design,
manufacture, procurement, distribution
and sale of seasonal and all occasion social
expression products, principally to mass
market retailers. These seasonal and all
continued
Welcome to O ur New Executive Director
I hope you will join the Board of Directors in
throwing a virtual ticker tape parade to welcome Dorothy
Shadrick and the staff of ACE Management to the
National Costumers Association! Woo hoo and welcome!
Typically reserved for momentous occasions, we are
using such an extravagant display of affection in hopes of
making our new Association Management firm feel right
at home. The Board of Directors is confident in the
choices it has made and is excited that things are moving
in the right direction. If you have any questions or
concerns they urge you simply to ask!
Jen Skarstedt (Administrative Secretary) and Rob
Lehr (Webmaster) have been great contractors for the
National Costumers Association over the years, and their
work with the organization has been much appreciated.
Although you will not be contacting them specifically
any longer, the process itself will remain the same. The dayto-day functions of the NCA will continue how they always
have, only with different people handling different jobs.
• The phone number remains the same: 1-800NCA(622)-1321. The phone will be answered by
“Association Management” and that person will be able
6
to answer your question or get you to someone who can.
Your contacts at ACE Management will be Dorothy,
Laura, and Sally Ann.
• Website questions can be emailed to
[email protected].
• Office-related, membership, and financial questions can
be emailed to [email protected].
When you attend the Halloween & Party Expo in
Houston you will have the opportunity to meet Dorothy
and Sally Ann, as they will be working in the NCA
booth alongside 2nd VP Linda Adams-Foat – please stop
by and introduce yourself. And if you happen to have any
confetti on hand, feel free to throw it their way – a real
ticker-tape parade instead of a virtual one. Talk about a
warm welcome!
7
Organization, Member, I ndustry News
Some of these items have appeared in the weekly e-contact, but bear republishing here for the benefit of the entire
membership.
continued...
occasion products include decorative
ribbons and bows, boxed greeting cards,
gift tags, gift wrap, gift bags, gift boxes, gift
card holders, decorative tissue paper,
decorations, classroom exchange Valentines, floral accessories, Easter egg dyes and
novelties, craft and educational products,
stickers, memory books, stationery,
journals, note cards, infant and wedding
photo albums, scrapbooks, and other gift
items that commemorate life’s celebrations.
Gemmy has emerged as a leader in
innovation and design of seasonal décor,
animated gifts and unique novelty items.
Their special approach to product development and hands-on attitude has led to the
creation of recognizable brands such as the
Airblown® Inflatables, Airblown®
SnowGlobes™, LightShow™, the Butterfly Collection and the unforgettable Big
Mouth Billy Bass™. Their products can be
found at all national retailers.
Read more here:
www.heraldonline.com/2012/09/06/
4240907/css-industries-inc-announcesthe.html
8
P LEASE
R USA AND SAL
ES T AX
EASER
ALE
Dear Valued Pleaser USA Customers,
California State Sales and Use Tax
Law mandates that all drop-shipped
merchandise be charged applicable sales
tax when it is delivered to a consumer in
California by a California-based drop
shipper (in this case Pleaser USA) on
behalf of an out-of-state retailer (you). In
other words, unless you hold a California
seller’s permit or a California Certificate of
Registration-Use Tax, applicable sales tax
cannot be avoided.
Because of this law, starting October
1, 2012, Pleaser USA will be charging by
default all out-of-state retailers 7.75% sales
& use tax based upon the selling price of
our merchandise plus a mark-up of 10%
when we are drop-shipping your order to a
consumer in California.
Alternatively, if you wish to avoid
having this charge being added to your
invoice, you can elect to have your order
shipped to you (an out-of-state address) so
then you can ship it to your customer in
California.
If you have any questions or need
more detailed information about this
California tax law, you can log on to
www.boe.ca.gov/pdf/pub121.pdf
We thank you for your understanding
in this matter and apologize for any
inconvenience this may have caused.
Respectfully,
Pleaser USA, Inc.
[email protected]
GO OD-BYE AND T HANK YO U
By Linda Adams-Foat
[email protected]
Dear NCA Members,
I just want to take a moment to say
good-bye and to thank all of you for the
opportunity I had to serve as your Administrative Secretary. The past 7 years have
been a lot of work and a whole lot of fun!
I’ve gotten to know so many of you and
will miss you as I move on to other things.
It has been a joy to work with you all.
You can find me on Facebook or
LinkedIn if you’d like to keep in contact
and I hope some of you will! Next year’s
convention is pretty close to home for me,
so don’t be surprised if I show up!
Have a wonderful Holiday season!
J. Scott Hennessy, winner of the
National Costumers Association’s 2012
Student Design Competition and NCA
student member has done it again! Scott
was recently named the PGM
Outstanding Student Designer. Scott
learned of this competition from another
NCA member and applied. PGM is a
manufacturer of premium dress forms used
by top designers worldwide. As the winner
of this competition Scott was awarded a
Pro Dress Form, valued at $400.
Congratulations Scott!
If you hear of any other competitions
our students may wish to know about,
please let me know. We will pass the
information along to our previous
participants.
By Jen Skarstedt
HONE
Y BOO B OO N EWS
ONEY
Reality television star Alana “Honey
Boo Boo” Thompson visited Warner
Robins, Georgia, with her family Wednesday to film an episode about buying her
Halloween costume. Marion Bradley,
owner of The Costume Shop at 1840
Watson Blvd., said Authentic Entertainment contacted her about coming to her
store after seeing it on the Internet and
receiving a suggestion from Alana’s family.
“It was fun and crazy,” Bradley said
after the film crew for TLC’s “Here
Comes Honey Boo Boo” left. She and her
employees were under strict orders to tell
no one of the star’s visit prior to the taping.
A few lucky customers got to see the
filming in progress but were not allowed to
take pictures or video. There was also a
bodyguard with the family in case there
was a crowd, Bradley said.
“They were very nice and very funny,”
she said of the family, who is from
McIntyre, Georgia.
Because of the set-up of the cameras
in the store, Bradley and her employees
weren’t able to do much hands-on helping
with the costumes. They mostly found the
costumes when asked about a specific one.
The crew and family were there from
5:30-9 p.m. to set up and try on costumes.
The episode is scheduled to air in January.
Bradley said the girls, including 7-year-old
Alana, tried on at least a half dozen
costumes apiece.
“They were trying on a lot of different
costumes,” she said.
Although Bradley isn’t allowed to say
what costume was ultimately picked for
Alana to wear on Halloween, she said
Honey Boo Boo did buy a costume.
“It’s supposed to be a surprise,” she said.
S TUDE
NTS IN TH E NEWS
UDENTS
You should already
have received your
membership
renewal packet.
Renewals are due
December 31,
2012.
On behalf of the board of directors and
membership of the National Costumers
Association, I would like to give a super big huge
THANK YOU to Jen Skarstedt for all the work she
has done for the association through the years as
both an employee and a volunteer. Her bubbly
personality and knowledge of the job will certainly
be missed! Jen, please know that we send our best
wishes in all your future endeavors!
Another note of thanks goes to Rob Lehr who
served us well as Webmaster of the NCA website
for many years, initiated the weekly e-contacts,
and also devoted himself to the organization as a
volunteer on many an occasion. Thank you, thank
you, thank you Rob – we’ll definitely miss your
friendly nature and fun demeanor!
—Janie Westendorf, NCA President
9
n e t w o r kin g
Midwest Regional Meeting
A regional meeting is being planned for the weekend
of April 12, 13, and 14, 2013. The event will take place in
Freeport, Illinois, the home of Camelot Costumes. We are
planning a fun weekend revolving around the art of
thrifting. Friday evening will be an evening of gathering
and food at the Camelot store; we will take a look at how
this small shop stays alive in this competitive world of
costumes. We will be staying at the Comfort Inn and
Suites just 6 blocks from the store where the rate will be
$99 a night for the run of the house. This means that if you
are one of the early birds, you can request a suite for the
$99 rate. A hot breakfast and free parking is included in
your stay.
The remainder of the weekend will be broken into
sessions all named after 70s songs. The morning session is
entitled “Second Hand Rose,” and we will be visiting the
area’s thrift and consignment stores. The mission is to find
a special treasure to use or make into something really
special. The afternoon sessions will convene at the local
college costume shop where we will have the following
sessions: Janie Westendorf will present “Waisting Away
Again In Margaritaville,” where she will instruct on her
technique of making a standard (non-elastic) waistband
into an adjustable one. Linda Adams-Foat will present
“Dyeing To Know You,” a session explaining her dyeing
techniques using some conventional and unconventional
methods. Another session during the afternoon will be
“Working 9-5,” a presentation by a local staffing agency on
the advantages of using temps for seasonal work.
The evening will conclude with a murder mystery
dinner held at the hotel. Sunday morning will begin with
breakfast at the hotel and then gathering again at Camelot
to discuss and share our thrift store finds and what we plan
to do with them and a possible market of local products. A
lunch of leftovers and sub sandwiches will conclude the
weekend. The cost of registration for the weekend will be
$65 and will include all meals and entertainment through
lunch on Sunday. A Chicagoland fabric buying trip is on
the agenda for Monday for those wishing to stay a bit
longer. Please let us know if you are planning to go with us.
The hotel is in walking distant of several restaurants,
grocery stores and Joann’s (albeit a small one) is just a block
away. If you are driving, please contact Linda or Merlyn
and we will be happy to give you directions. If you are
planning on coming from a bit farther, you can fly into
Rockford or Chicago’s O’Hare Airport. Call us for ground
transportation needs.
– Linda Adams-Foat, [email protected], 815-233-1861
You should already have
received your membership
renewal packet. Renewals are
due December 31, 2012.
11
NCA busin e ss
Membership Committee Update
By Lorraine Brown, Membership Chair
With a new Executive Director, this is going to be a
year of many changes. The changes will bring us into the
competitive world and make our organization more
appealing, and we think our organization will take on a
more professional look. For example, we have upgraded our
brochure with new pictures and changes in text. One of the
pictures is the winner of the student competition – a great
selling point to new, young, potential new members. These
brochures will be available in Houston. If you would like
some to distribute before then, please contact me.
You will also see changes in the application form. It
will be more appealing and simplified. We will also be
working towards more renewals online, decreasing our
postage and paper expenses and reducing the chance of
typing mistakes in your information.
Now the work begins for new members. Once again I
appeal to current members to look around your area for
new members and contact them and invite them to join.
Look in the roster and see if there is a shop that did not
join. Make a call to them and see why. I believe there are
many costume professionals that could benefit from what
we have to offer, they simply may not know about us. Is
there a costumer in your area that you know? We should
also be recruiting vintage shops, and of course we need to
make more students aware of our organization. The
students are our future! Do you know of any? Perhaps
there’s a college in your town with a theater arts
department?
Our new Executive Director will be helping us with
membership but we all know that a personal contact or an
invitation is very effective. Our shops benefit from
knowing other shops and professionals all over the country,
and as our association grows, we benefit even further from
the power of numbers. And, even though this is a business
organization, we all know the importance of the life-long
friendships which we have made.
As a ppeersonal ttestimony
estimony
ould like ttoo off
wing:
estimony,, I w
would
offeer the ffoollo
llowing:
My first convention was Galveston in 1992. After all
these years, these are my memories of it. I did not know
anyone. There was not a “Welcome New Members” session.
As I sat having lunch alone one day, Monica Ladd joined
me and welcomed me, gave me pointers, and explained the
workings of the convention.
I had brought two of my children and we were thrilled
to dress up and take part in the Pirate Parade. Everyone
12
was loaded onto decorated flatbed trailers and taken to the
waterfront where the opening night party was held on a boat.
All of Galveston was aware that the National
Costumers’ convention was in town. There was media
coverage, as Sylvia thought of everything and was a local
celebrity. As a new costumer, I was overwhelmed with the
array of costumes at all of the events. The creative costume
event was my favorite. The participants were given this
awful sofa print material. I was blown away by how it was
used. I looked at every piece of material differently from
that point on. I even remember the box lunch that was
served.
I signed up for every class that I could and I felt I
learned more in that week than I did in many of my college
courses that took months to complete. I was totally hooked.
One of the classes was taught by Paula Oulette. She was
from Massachusetts, and being that I was from Vermont,
we became costume friends. We kept in contact until she
went out of business.
After that convention I realized the importance of
having friends in my business. Having a shop in a small
Vermont town did not give me the contact that I needed to
share creative ideas and discuss the trials and tribulations of
being in business. My favorite parts of the conventions that
followed were – and are – the shop tours. They are worth
staying an extra day if that’s what it takes. This is where you
talk to everyone on an informal basis. This is where you see
what you can do in your own shop. This is where you share
ideas and learn how to improve your business.
Without the NCA, I would not have stayed in this
business so long. Without the NCA, I would have lost out
on incredible friendships. Without the NCA, life would
not have been so creative and exciting.
SAVE THE DATE !
NCA Nat ional
M ini-Convent ion
Cov ington, Kentucky
July 12-14 , 2 013
13
O PP O RTUNITIES
Halloween & Party Expo Assembling an
Exciting Slate of Speakers
(Houston, TX) – After a very successful year in 2012,
the Education/Demo Center will return in 2013. The
Education/Demo Center will feature a full slate of
refreshing, relevant and rewarding sessions and
demonstrations, which will emphasize ways to improve and
maximize your party, costume, and Halloween business.
There will be something for everyone, whether you operate
a permanent brick-and-mortar store, are in the temporary
Halloween business, are an ecommerce merchant, or are a
manufacturer/distributor.
One of last year’s most positively reviewed presenters
was nationally-recognized retail speaker and trainer, Anne
Obarski of Merchandise Concepts. Based on the feedback
we received, the Expo has invited Ms. Obarski back to
present two new sessions: Retail Business is Show Business!
Strategies That Will Keep Customers Applauding, which will
explore how color, lighting, inventory control,
merchandising, smells, sounds and well-trained “actors” are
all part of the retail stage; and New Expectations of Customer
Service in 2013: 7 Business Multipliers That You Need to
Know!, which will examine what you’re doing today and
how you can modernize your efforts to lead you into 2013
and beyond.
“I had a wonderful time speaking with my session
attendees at the 2012 Halloween & Party Expo,” said
Obarski. “I can’t wait to return this January to share even
more information with even more attendees looking to
improve their businesses.”
Two new confirmed speakers for the 2013 show are
industry-leading party-planner, Charlie Scola, and Edward
Hecter, President of PartyPail, Inc., a holding company for
a collection of online party supply stores, and one of the
fastest-growing companies in Washington State.
Charlie Scola, affectionately known as PartyCharlie
and author of Party Planning Secrets, has been a leading
innovator in the party planning industry for over 30 years,
providing party planning advice, entertainment, design,
staffing, rentals and more. PartyCharlie’s goal is to
continuously deliver the newest and most innovative party
entertainment and supplies available, making your party a
huge success. Charlie will share many of his tips and secrets
in a special session on party planning and creative party
ideas.
Edward Hecter, President of PartyPail, Inc., will speak
at the 2013 Halloween & Party Expo on internet
marketing for brick-and-mortar party, costume, and
Halloween retailers. In today’s increasingly “wired” and
“wireless” world, making sure your company’s website—and
social media pages—show up when potential customers are
searching for products you sell is vital to your success. He
will discuss the many competitive advantages brick-andmortar retailers have over online e-commerce retailers, and
the best ways to use them and grow your business.
To stay up-to-date on new education and demo
sessions as they are confirmed, check back to the Events
page of the Halloween & Party Expo website.
Registration for interested buyers is free and currently
open on the homepage of the Halloween & Party Expo
website and will remain so all the way through the Expo,
with onsite registration available as well. However,
registration for interested exhibitors is limited; with only
four months until showtime, the floor is currently more
than 90 percent booked, and space is going quickly.
The Halloween & Party Expo is THE leading global
show for the Party, Costume and Halloween Industry.
With thousands of serious buyers from more than 46
countries and territories around the globe attending
annually, this show cannot be missed. For more
information, or to reserve your spot to exhibit, visit
www.halloweenpartyexpo.com
The Halloween & Party Expo is endorsed by the
National Costumers Association, the Halloween Industry
Association and the International Balloon Association as
well as Party Club of America and Paper First Affiliates,
who conduct their annual meetings in conjunction with the
show. The Expo is also home to the Halloween Costume
Style Show, Industry Wide Celebration hosted by Party
and Paper Retailer and Rubie’s Annual Halloween Bash.
For more information about the Halloween & Party Expo,
call (877) 347-3976 or visit
www.HalloweenPartyExpo.com.
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C O NVENTI O N 2 0 12
Convention 2012: Education Recap
By Joy & Elizabeth Galbraith
Education sure kept Elizabeth and I busy, so I hope
you learned something. A big think you goes out to all the
educators and room helpers, we could not have presented
all the sessions without your help. There were 10 education
sessions, with craft, business, and costuming sessions.
A very big thank you to businesses that donated
materials for the education sessions. Sculptural Arts, in
Greensboro, North Carolina, donated 3 gallons of Sculptor-Coat for the “Making Armor Chest Plate w/Sculpt-orCoat.” Innovative Craft Products, of Scarbough, Maine,
donated Inspire, for the flower and hat class.
Dr. Linda Gravett, Ph.D., CEQC, SPHR, led class
members through a self-assessment on “Knowing Your
Emotional Intelligence”. Dr. Gravett taught us that
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is just as important, if not
more so, to a person’s career success as IQ. We learned to
use our emotions in intelligent ways and, yes, the capacity
to understand our own and others’ emotions. Dr. Gravett
also held individual
sessions and moderated
“Small Fish in a Big
Pond – Diversifying your
Business”. These notes
and ideas will be posted
on the e-contact.
“Making Armour
with Sculpt-or-Coat”
class was a learning
experience for
everyone, including
Joy, who was
teaching the class.
Joy and Elizabeth
Galbraith taught
the participants
how to stabilize,
trim, and paint
inexpensive plastic
amour. This
method uses wool felt
and Sculpt-or-Coat to
line the armor, and
when it dries, the felt
dries to the amour and
creates a hard shell. We
had some problems
16
with the felt drying. First the felt was not 100% wool and
second, it was too thick. After much discussion between
participants, we decided that using old 100% wool material
and pants would be a better idea. Using wool material and
wool pants that have been washed and dried would be less
expensive, and allow the craft person to layer the wool and
dry between coats. Joy will be posting the corrected
directions in an upcoming e-contact.
Marilynn Wick, of Costume World, presented their
Broadway Costume Collection. Costume World is a
nationwide theatrical costume design and rental business,
with retail locations in Florida, Texas, and Pennsylvania, an
internet business, and two warehouses in Florida that
house the largest collection of theatrical costumes in the
country. Marilyn has collected costumes from many
Broadway shows. Her amazing collection is available to the
public, on tours.
Innovative Crafts’ product Inspire, was used to make
flowers. Ingrid Heithaus, a props artisan at the Tony
Award-winning Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, taught
the class. Inspire is a stiff, non-woven stabilizer, which
allows you to heat the material and mold it into any shape
imaginable. The class made flowers to use on hats as a
demo project. Inspire has been used in hats, costumes, handbags, bowls, and boxes all covered in your fabric choice.
Gene Flaherty, from Mehron Inc., is always a
convention favorite. His makeup demos and tips are very
useful to all of us. Thanks, Gene, for your continued
support! Gene taught two sessions in Atlanta. The first
session had helpful tips on how to market your makeup
products and get your makeup backstage. Gene’s second
session was “Old Age Makeup and Theatrical Tips”. This is
an area we always have to teach to our customers, as many
of them are young actors, who need to look “old”. We
always go home with pages of ideas from Gene.
Many business owners are concerned about health care
reform, which will be implemented by 2014. Kyle Jackson
from the National Federation of Independent Business
Owners, spoke on the bill and its impact on business
owners. This session was extremely informative.
Cleaning costumes, a dirty job, but a necessary one, was
discussed in “Toxic Issues–The ABCs of Costume
Cleaning”. Debbie Meredith, Cheri Sanwick, and
Elizabeth Galbraith tackled this “dirty” issue. Many products
and methods were discussed.
Thanks again to everyone. A special thank you to Barb
Lochner, who acted as our recording secretary in the sessions
we were not able to attend. We will start listing ideas and tips
in the weekly e-contact for all the membership.
New for 2013
Private Island Party
Coming in January 2013: The Private Island Party Wholesale
Catalog. This brand new showcase of our products will be available to
mail to our valued customers! Specially geared towards wholesale
purchases, this catalog features 3-tier pricing. The more you buy, the
more you save! Speed through the carefully organized pages to browse
our extensive collection of costume accessories and novelty items.
We offer a variety of categories to suit all of your party needs.
Perhaps you are planning a theme party? We’ve got you covered with
80s gear, vampire attire, animal disguises, and much more! Maybe it’s a
holiday event you have in mind? Private Island has thousands of items
for Halloween, Christmas, New Year’s, Valentine’s, Mardi Gras, April
Fool’s, St. Patty’s, Easter, Cinco De Mayo, Independence Day, and everything in between!
Behold our wide array of LED light-up accessories that will add visual excitement to any house party, sporting
event, nightclub, concert, or celebration! If you are looking for humorous gifts, fly to Private Island. We have dozens
of novelty items and pranks for your store.
Aside from our more festive accoutrements, we also sell classic wardrobe staples for every season. Pick up some
sunglasses or fedoras to protect yourself from the sun. We also offer earmuffs, scarves, and hats to fight the cold!
To order your copy of the Private Island Party Catalog simply go to www.privateislandparty.com/mailing-list and
enter your address in the form provided. For any additional questions give us a call toll free at 1-877-272-0215.
C O NVENTI O N 2 0 13
“From Steamboats to Steampunk”
It’s Full Steam Ahead to Mini-Convention
2013!
July 12-14
Costume Gallery-Newport is working at Full Steam to bring
you the National Costumers Association’s 2013 Mini-Con, so
mark your calendars to join fellow members in Northern
Kentucky next July. The area known as “Northern Kentucky” is
located directly across the river from downtown Cincinnati,
offering big city attractions, dining, and entertainment with
spectacular views of the Cincinnati skyline. The Cincinnati/
Northern Kentucky area has the cosmopolitan atmosphere,
amenities, and beauty of a much larger city — without the hassles
and congestion. Northern Kentucky is located on Interstate 75, if
you are driving, and the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky
International Airport is just minutes from the host hotel. It is
consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the world and
within a two-hour flight of 60% of the U.S. population.
The Radisson Hotel in Covington, Kentucky will be the site of the 2013 Mini-Con. Located just across the
river from downtown Cincinnati, the Radisson Hotel/Cincinnati Riverfront offers warm hospitality, inviting
atmosphere, and top-notch services. And the Radisson/Riverfront is within minutes of all the major attractions in
the Cincinnati area.
Jump on the South Bank Shuttle to Great America Ballpark and the Cincinnati Reds or the Newport
Aquarium at Newport on the Levee. You’re also within driving distance of the Cincinnati Zoo, Cincinnati Museum
Center, and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
Costume Gallery-Newport has
been planning the Mini-Con around
the theme of “Full Steam Ahead Steamboats to SteamPunk,” with
optional activities on Sunday and
shopping on Monday, for those who
would like to stay over.
Friday night’s shop tour to
Costume Gallery-Newport will
include a Northern Kentucky picnic
with all the region’s favorite foods.
The Cincinnati area is famous for
chili, goetta, brats, metts, and beer.
Saturday will be a full day with
the student creative style show, along
with three education sessions. Lunch
will be in the beautiful 360º
restaurant, atop the Radisson/
18
Riverfront. As one of the
nation’s few remaining
revolving restaurants, 360º
offers the most amazing
views of the Cincinnati
skyline and the Ohio River
as well as an outstanding
menu and first-class service.
Enjoy breakfast or cocktails
at Kelly’s Public House, a
casual Irish Pub, with
Happy Hour Specials.
You will be able to take
a stroll to Historic
MainStrasse Village, a
19th-century German
neighborhood. The Village
area has numerous bars and
restaurants, providing live
entertainment just about
every night of the week.
Interested in art? Stop into
a local gallery, or enjoy a
great cup of coffee.
MainStrasse Village is
home to over a dozen
specialty shoppes. Within
walking distance of the
hotel, there are convenience
stores, fast food, and family
style restaurants.
Joy & Elizabeth Galbraith of
Costume Gallery-Newport hope you will
join them on the Southern Side of
Cincinnati, for the 2013 Mini-Con.
finalists will be chosen. The
winners will be notified and
will be expected to present
their entire project to the
general membership in a
runway show in Covington.
The finalists will then be
expected to present their
complete project in a
display which needs to
include the costume and a
written presentation of all
design materials.
The basic criteria for
the event can be found on
page 21 of this magazine,
and both the criteria and
application can be found at
www.costumers.org, or by
contacting Linda AdamsFoat, 2nd Vice President for
the NCA.
We hope this will be a
fun and exciting
competition that will
introduce students to the
world of costume design
and the National
Costumers Association.
Please feel free to share
this information with schools and
colleges in your area. If you would like an
email copy of the entire design
competition packet sent to you, please
contact Linda at [email protected]
or 815-233-1861.
–Linda Adams-Foat
Student Creative Event Chairperson
2013 Student Design
Competition
We are excited to once again present a
wonderful opportunity for students. At
the Mini-Con in Covington, the NCA
will be holding its 2nd Annual Student
Competition, open to all costume and
fashion design students nationwide. The competition will
culminate with a runway show and an onsite project
presentation. Three scholarships ($1500, $1000, $500) will
be given to the winners and student memberships to the
National Costumers Association will be given to all
finalists. There will also be one cash prize awarded.
To qualify, the student must complete an application by
April 1, 2013 and present his/her completed costume in a
video presentation by May 31, 2013. At this time, up to 12
NCA Market
Attention vendors! Last year we had a
slow start getting the market information
out to vendors, but we’re starting early
this time around. Thanks to Gary
Broadrick and Glenn Alexander of Performance Inc. for
helping send out the information in the vendors e-contact.
This cut down expenses and presented the information to
the vendors in a format they prefer. Because of its success,
this will now be our main way of informing the vendors of
updated Market information and opportunities, so watch
your newsletters!
continued
...
continued...
19
Mini-Con 2013 continued
...
continued...
Remember rental/retail
members, you can also participate
and purchase a table to sell your
overstocked, homemade, or
unique items. Perhaps you could
rent a table to read tea leaves or
Tarot cards. Last year, Curtains
Up Costumes had a booth with
unique, handcrafted aprons. They
graciously donated their profits to the NCA.
We have a Linda Emerson costume that was lost in the
mail last year, to raffle off, and a new raffle item that will be
presented at the Market. The 50-50 will also be available.
There will be a drawing for a free booth for 2014 from
all the 2013 table vendors, and a ballot box for voting for
the best displayed booth. We have some plans in the works
to make the Market even more fun…..some you will know
about and some will be a surprise. With the help of
20
convention host Joy Galbraith, we will be searching for
local vendors that have products of interest to us as well.
Anybody who’s been to Market before knows this is a
do not miss event at the mini-con!
Lorraine Brown, Co-Chair
Linda Emerson, Co-Chair
What else?
Watch your e-contacts and check out the February
issue of The Costumer for more exciting details about MiniCon 2013, including information on how to register, how
to book your hotel rooms, and more. Remember that the
annual NCA Membership meeting is also held during
convention, and you need not register for the convention to
attend the meeting – make your voice heard and your vote
count! Specific date and time TBA.
Student Design Competition Criteria
1. Student must complete an application. It must be received on or before April 1, 2013. At this time contestants will
be instructed where to post their videos. Students must be at least 17 years of age and within one year of high school
graduation.
2. Proof of GPA 2.75 or higher; transcript required with application on April 1, 2013.
3. It is to include an original costume design of the student’s choice. It can be any genre: historical, theatrical,
masquerade, steam punk, Anime, Cosplay, Sci-fi….. anything. It must be a costume.
4. The costume must not exceed 8 feet in height.
5. Costume must be able to be worn by one person and presented at a runway show. Accessories should be included if
possible.
6. Students must provide their own model.
7. Student needs to provide a typed 1 minute or less runway description.
8. The entire project must be completed on $100 or less.
9. Any materials can be used.
10. Students must be supervised by an instructor/or mentor and all designs must be the original work of the student.
11. The costume remains the possession of the designer.
12. All applicants must present a 1 minute video presentation of their completed costume on or before May 31, 2013.
(Details will be released to applicants after April 30, 2013.) A jury of costume designers from the National Costumers
Association will select up to 12 finalists to present their costumes at a runway presentation at the National Costumers
Association’s mini-convention to be held in Covington, KY, in July, 2013. Finalists will be notified via email and followed
by letter on or before June 4, 2013.
13. A written project presentation must be on display at the appointed time and place at the Covington MiniConvention in July 2013. This presentation must include:
a. A designer’s statement that includes concept and or motivation
b. Rough sketches of the costume
c. Final color renderings of the costume
d. Swatches and materials list
e. A cost break down of materials used
f. Photos of the work in progress
g. Research
h. Explanation of processes used to complete the costume
i. The costume may be displayed on a dress form or mannequin or worn by the model.
j. Any additional relevant information the designer wishes to share.
Finalists must attend and participate in the runway show and project display. Three scholarships to attend the school
of your choice will be awarded to the winners and a one year student membership to the National Costumers Association
will be awarded to all finalists. One cash prize will also be awarded. The final phase of judging will be done by a panel of
fashion and costume design experts in the Northern Kentucky area as well as 3 members of the National Costumers
Association. The decision of the judges is final. Participants will be given a packet with the critiques of the judges after
the award ceremony. The costumes will be judged on: runway presentation, craftsmanship, presentation, thoroughness of
display materials and compliance to the rules.
A runway show will be presented. Participant’s family, friends and instructors are encouraged to attend the runway
presentation at no charge. Photographs will be taken of the final costume after the runway event. The student may
purchase the images from the photographer. Students are responsible for any expenses incurred during the convention.
The National Costumers Association reserves the rights to use these images in their publications and on their
website. Finalists are encouraged to enjoy other events at the convention however, some functions incur a fee. Students are
responsible for setting up and breaking down their own displays. The NCA will not be responsible for any materials not
removed from the viewing room.
These rrules
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nta
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.costumers.org.. Co
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amelot7@co
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NCA
Prresident at ccamelot7@co
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questions.
21
The National Costumers Association Vendor Members are
vital to continued success of all our membership. Support
our vendor members as they continue to support you.
At the time of the printing of this publication the vendor
member list is as follows:
PLATINUM MEMBERS:
Disguise Inc.*
•
Forum Novelties*
•
Rubies Costume Company*
GOLD MEMBERS:
Alexanders Costumes* • Arne Distributors Inc. • Caufields Novelties* • Halco*
Smiffy’s (RH Smith and Sons)* • Sunnywood Inc.* • Tabis Characters*
West Bay Inc.* • Zagone Studios*
SILVER MEMBERS:
Alan
Sloane and Company • Alicia International Inc - Enigma*
Bauer Pacific Imports* • Charades, LLC* • Cinema Secrets* • Delicious of NY*
Dreamgirl International* • Dress Up America* • Eddies Trick Shop*
Ellie Shoes* • Elope* • Esco Toys* • Flashback and Freedom*
Froggy’s Fog* • Fun World* • Funny Fashion, Inc* • Ghoulish Productions*
Graftobian Makeup Company LLC* • Jacobson Hat Company*
Kryolan Corporation • Leg Avenue* • Lip Service*
Mehron, Inc.* • Party King* • Pleaser USA* • Rasta Imposta*
R G Costumes* • TM & A of Miami • ThePirateDressing.com*
Trick or Treat Studios* • Underwraps Costumes*
* denotes a Buyers Group program in place for the 2013 year.
Watch e-contacts for further information. These programs will be added to the members-only section of
www.costumers.org for you to use as you start working on your 2013 orders.
N ATIO N AL C OSTU MERS ASS O CIATIO N:
W HERE VEN D O RS ARE MEM BERS
22
2013
BUYERS GROUP 2013 SUPPLIERS
As of 12/6/12
Alexanders Costumes
Alicia International Inc - Enigma
Bauer Pacific Imports
Caufields
Charades LLC
Cinema Secrets Inc.
Delicious of NY
Disguise
Dreamgirl international
Dress Up America
Eddies Trick and Novelty Inc.
Ellie Shoes, Inc
elope, Inc
Esco Imports
951-276-2500
888-282-3777
925-294-4002
502-583-0636
626-435-0077
818-846-0579
516-281-8200
858-391-3600
323-863-7429
866-943-7377
800-544-8278
714-771-0015
719-328-1312
210-271-7794
Flashback & Freedom, Inc.
631-471-2548
Forum Novelties, Inc
516-536-4600
Froggy’s Fog
615-469-4906
Funny Fashion, Inc
888-333-6363
FunWorld
516-873-9000
Garland Beauty Products
310-220-2080
Ghoulish Productions/Caretas Rev S.A. de C.V
866-336-1227
Graftobian Makeup Company
608-222-7849
Halco
724-929-7300
Jacobson Hat Co. Inc
570-342-7887
Leg Avenue
626-581-1273
Mehron Inc.
800-332-9955
Original Cult dba Lip Service
323-260-7308
Party King
888-577-5752
Pleaser USA inc
714-771-1888 x110
Rasta Imposta
856-939-9599
RG Costumes & Accessories
888-858-9559
Rubie’s Costume Co.
516-326-1500
Smiffy’s/R.H. Smith and Sons
646-592-3977
Sunnywood Inc.
815-675-9777
Tabis Characters
323-232-8011
323-284-7201
ThePirateDressing.com
Trick or Treat Studios
831-713-9665
Underwraps Costumes
818-349-5300
West Bay Inc.
800-421-1940
Zagone Studios, LLC
773-509-0610
Be sure to stop by the NCA booth in Houston for an up-to-date Buyers Group booklet!
The following is your 2013 list of companies that have pledged to you, NCA members, special discounts. Please be sure you write your NCA member number on
all your orders to receive your discounts. Remember to place your NCA member number on ALL your orders EVEN for firms NOT listed in this brochure. When you
notice an additional discount is provided, please contact the NCA office (800-NCA-1321) so we can assist the supplier in publishing these great discounts.
The National Costumers Association, its officers, or its representatives are not responsible for errors in this printing.
Always verify all discounts and terms with the company before finalizing purchases.
Buyers Group 2013 Chairs • Gary Broadrick & Glenn Alexander • 615-256-0070 • [email protected]
23
Bauer Pacific Imports
2013
Alexanders Costumes
951-276-2500, Fax 951-276-9727
info @ alexanderscostumes.com
3404 Niki Way, Riverside, CA 92507
www.alexanderscostumes.com
Contact: Leslie Fournier
Specialty: Manufacturer of affordable quality
costumes and accessories. Full line of all
costume accessories.
Discount: Under $2,500: 2%; $7,000: 7%;
$10,000: 10%. Although NCA customers may
start the year with a 2% discount, as soon as
purchases exceed $2,500, customer is entitled
to a 5% discount on all future purchases. When
the customer reaches the next level, the same
procedure will be applied and all future orders
will receive a 7% discount.
Terms: Customer must notify Alexanders
Costumes when a discount level is reached.
Discounts will be applied to all orders after
notification. Late payments will void all
discounts.
925-294-4002, Fax 925-294-4063
bauerpacific @ aol.com
174 Lawrence Dr., Ste A, Livermore, CA 94551
www.bauerpacificimports.com
Contact: Dave Bauer
Specialty: Venetian and festive masks,
costume accessories, Halloween décor, Mardi
Gras, luau, lanterns, hats, wigs, boas, disco
balls, umbrellas.
Discount: NCA members in good standing
receive: Orders over $1000, 5%; orders over
$2,500, 7%; orders over $5,000, 10%.
Terms: New accounts must prepay their orders
by Visa/Mastercard or money order. Established
accounts receive 30-day payment terms from
date of shipment. A 2.5% monthly finance
charge will be applied to delinquent accounts.
To apply for an open account a minimum order
of $250 and a completed credit application
must be completed and approved. Please note:
All discounts and special prices are void if not
paid within terms.
Caufields
888-282-3777, Fax 847-588-0987
hw @ aliciaintl.com
7354 N. Caldwell Av., Niles, IL 60714
www.enigma-hair.com
Specialty: Wigs
Discount: 5% immediately to new orders
placed at show $250-2500; 8% for new orders
placed over $2500.
Terms: Does not apply in combination with
any other discounts. Applies to subtotal of
base prices on Enigma items only and only to
orders placed at show. One time only. No cancellation on custom orders placed at show after
two weeks. No changes on orders after 30 days.
502-583-0636, Fax 502-583-2002
sales @ caufields.com
1006 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202
www.caufields.com
Contact: Tracy Johnson
Specialty: Caufield’s is a family-owned
wholesale distributor since 1920. Fast, friendly
service with low minimums. Caufield’s offers
wholesale pricing that is the same or just
slightly higher than the manufacturers. We
distribute for the following companies: Paper
Magic, Forum Novelties, Disguise, Beistle,
Rubie’s, RG Costumes, Mehron, Rasta Imposta,
Franco.
Discount: As an incentive to NCA members
only, we are offering a low minimum opening
order with Net 11/1/13 dating of only $400
with approved credit. This will enable you to
combine products from several major
manufacturers to reach the $400 minimum.
Dating orders will ship after June 1. All
subsequent orders of $50 or more will also
receive the benefit of November 1 dating. Place
your order by April 1 and you can special order
any item from the manufacturers listed below,
24
Alicia International Inc Enigma
even items we do not regularly stock. Simply
fax or email us your order on the specific
manufacturer’s order form and we will get the
items in for you. This will eliminate the need
for you to reach high minimums with each
company and still get the merchandise needed
with Halloween dating terms.
Charades LLC
626-435-0077, Fax 626-369-5096
sales @ charadescostumes.com
14438 Don Junian Rd, City of Industry, CA
91746
www.charadescostumes.com
Contact: Jerry Beck, Charlie Santilena, Belinda
Toro
Specialty: Quality costumes, weapons, wigs,
accessories.
Discount: Volume discount schedule, with
Halloween dating of Nov. 1 (purchase levels are
annual purchases): Purchases of $3,000+: NCA
discount 3% (standard discount 2%); purchases
of $5,000+: NCA discount 4% (standard 3%);
purchases of $7,500+: NCA discount 5%
(standard 4%); purchases of $10,000+: NCA
discount 6% (standard 5%); purchases of
$15,000+: NCA discount 8% (standard 7%);
purchases of $20,000+: NCA discount 10%
(standard 9%). No discounts are applied on
orders under $3,000.
Terms: No discounts allowed on payments
received after November 15. Terms based on
credit approval.
Cinema Secrets Inc.
818-846- 0579, Fax 818-846-0431
michael @ cinemasecrets.com
4400 Riverside Dr., Burbank, CA 91505
www.cinemasecrets.com
Contact: Michael Stein
Specialty: Woochie special FX appliances,
theatrical makeup, bloods, adhesives, makeup
kits, foam prosthetics
Discount: All NCA members receive a 20%
discount on orders placed with Cinema Secrets.
Delicious of NY
516-281-8200, Fax 516-281-2801
pgatto @ delicioussexywear.com
1770 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville, NY 11747
www.delicioussexywear.com
Contact: Patty Gatto
Specialty: International designer/
manufacturer of high quality women’s
costumes and accessories
Discount: 10% discount (to be reviewed
annually based on group purchase volume).
Terms: Minimum order for new account is $200,
reorders are $100. No minimum case packs.
Disguise
858-391-3600, Fax 858-391-3601
jnafman @ disguise.com, info @ disguise.com,
or dealer link on our website
12120 Kear Place, Poway, CA 92064
www.disguise.com
Contact: Jay Nafman or area Disguise Rep
Specialty: Disney/Pixar, Marvel, Hasbro, Saban,
CN, Nickelodeon, Sesame Street, Proprietary
Discount: (subject to change) Discount from
invoice for all orders placed by April 1:
proprietary product: 17%; licensed: 13%;
confirmed 2013 NCA members placing orders by
April 1 will continue to receive the maximum
17% / 13% discounts against reorder activity
through the 2013 season. NCA members not
placing orders by April 1 will receive
appropriate benefits under our published
standard 2013 program.
Terms: An NCA active membership number/ID
must appear on all orders for the appropriate
discount to be applied. Minimum opening order:
$1000. Premium program minimum order
qualification: $2500+. Terms: Net 11/10/13 for
orders $2500+. Net 30 days for orders $1000$2500. All payment terms subject to credit
approval. Defective allowance: 1%, based on
net volume shipped calendar 2013; in lieu of
return of any defective 2013 product shipped in
2013; deducted from individual member
invoice. Freight FOB Walnut CA. Ship-to location
minimum order/reorder: $100, per ship-to
location. All discounts calculated against net
shipments in 2013 and subject to forfeiture if
payable is delinquent. Discounts do not apply
to direct import orders. Discounts cannot be
combined with any other offers i.e. closeouts,
special sale items. Credit card transactions
available via credit department. Per credit,
there will be a returned check fee of $25 and a
10% restocking fee for returns without a valid
return authorization for defective, recalled, or
mis-shipped merchandise. Any deviations to
the program must be authorized by the sales
department.
Dreamgirl international
323-863-7429, Fax 323-268-4913
eric @ dreamgirldirect.com
5548 Lindbergh Lane, Bell, CA 90201
www.dreamgirldirect.com
Contact: Eric Ehrens
Specialty: Contemporary adult, tween, and
children’s costumes and accessories.
Discount: NCA member discount 8% off
Dreamgirl listed wholesale price list on all
costumes and costume accessories in our
costume collection catalogs, all year long.
Terms: Net 30/credit card/Halloween dating
available to accounts if they qualify as net 30
accounts. Due date 11/10/2013.
Dress Up America
866-943-7377, Fax 718-775-3200
barry @ dressupamerica.com
234 Lee Ave 8th fl, Brooklyn, NY 11206
www.dressupamerica.com
Contact: Barry Grossman
Specialty: A new line of adult dress up! As
well as our specialty in kids’ role model
costumes: police, army, firefighter, SWAT, FBI,
doctor, etc, and the new hit Special Forces.
Discount: A. 10% all year round discount (no
minimum purchase). B. Additional 5% discount
for placing the orders at the Halloween & Party
Expo in Houston. C. Free freight for orders
above $1500.
Terms: Halloween dating (11/10) based on
credit approval.
Eddies Trick and Novelty
800-544-8278, Fax 404-377-2210
eddies1 @ aol.com
262 Rio Circle, Decatur, GA 30030
www.eddiestrickshop.com
Contact: Frank McKinnon
2013
Specialty: Makeup, costumes, costume
accessories, wigs, masks, magic, novelties.
Discount: As a way of rewarding our
customers for adhering to the terms, we offer a
BONUS for all qualified early orders and prompt
payment. On November 15 we will compute
earned bonus rewards and issue a formal credit
memo that may be used against subsequent
purchases only. In no case is it intended to be a
cash reward. The bonus will be computed as
follows: initial orders by July 1; $1000 to $2499
- 3% bonus; $2500 to $4999 - 5% bonus;
$5000 to $7499 - 6% bonus; $7500 to $9999 8% bonus; $10000 and up - 10% bonus. All
subsequent purchases between July 1 and Oct
31, 2013 will be computed at the same rate as
long as they are paid on time. No order will be
included that is paid after November 8, 2013.
Terms: Halloween order(s) must be placed by
July 1 totalling $1000 or more. Payment must
be received on time. Halloween accounts,
including those orders shipped in October, are
due November 5. Any payment received after
November 5 invalidates the bonus. No
discounts will be given on Mehron or Ben Nye
Professional or Mini-Pro Make-up Kits. We will
not duplicate any Mehron or Ben Nye discounts.
California costumes are not included. You can
stipulate shipping dates. When ordered before
July 1, 2013 the items will be reserved for you
for shipment when you desire. This does not
change your regular method of payment. If you
are currently purchasing from us on a net 30
account, C.O.D., or credit card, your method of
payment will remain the same unless some
other terms are worked out with our credit
department.
continued...
25
Flashback & Freedom, Inc.
continued...
2013
Ellie Shoes, Inc
714-771-0015, Fax 714-771-0057
ellen @ ellieshoes.com
1050 N. Batavia St., Ste B, Orange, CA 92867
www.ellieshoes.com
Contact: Ellen Renger
Specialty: Costume shoes and boots for
women, men, and kids.
Discount: 5% year-round discount to all NCA
members.
Terms: We offer Halloween dating to accounts
who are approved in CIT.
elope, Inc
719-328-1312, Fax 719-328-1261
info @ elope.com
3755 Mark Dabling Blvd,
Colorado Springs, CO 80907
www.elope.com
Contact: Kelli Borel
Specialty: Costumes, accessories, licensed
products. Highest quality and most innovative
products, catering to specialty retailers.
Discount: TBA
Esco Imports
210-271-7794, Fax 210-223-1547
dave @ escoimports.com
6055 Woodlake Center, San Antonio, TX 78244
www.escoimports.com
Contact: David Landez
Specialty: Toy gun costume accessories and
novelties.
Discount: Members can buy by the box and
receive case prices and also receive Halloween
dating.
Terms: No minimum order; Halloween dating
(with approved credit).
26
631-471-2548, Fax 631-471-3183
flashyfreedom @ yahoo.com
140 Corporate Dr, Holtsville, NY 11742
www.flashbackandfreedom.com
Contact: Howard Gruick
Specialty: Hottest latest fashions and
accessories. First, hippie, 60-80s accessories
and clothing, sunglasses, pimp jewelry,
labcoats, etc.
Discount: NCA members shall enjoy a 5%
discount off list price for the year 2013.
Forum Novelties, Inc
516-536-4600, Fax 516-536-9741
fred @ forumnovelties.com
1770 Walt Whitman Rd., Melville, NY 11747
www.forumnovelties.com
Contact: Fred Pittella
Specialty: Costumes, masks, makeup, wigs,
décor, props, Halloween accessories, joke,
tricks, novelties, Mardi Gras, St. Pats, luau,
Christmas.
Discount: 5% discount on all orders and on all
categories. 7% on orders $5000+. 10% on
orders $10,000+. 15% for orders over $15,000.
Terms: Halloween dating November 10th.
Froggy’s Fog
615-469-4906, Fax 615-346-9430
sales @ froggysfog.com
302 Rutherford Lane, Columbia, TN 38401
www.froggysfog.com
Contact: Chris Markgraf
Specialty: Fog fluid, snow fluid, bubble fluid
Discount: 5% off our wholesale price. All
inventory levels, store graphics and forms are
on the buying group website,
www.fogorders.com
Terms: Net 60
Funny Fashion, Inc
888-333-6363, Fax 877-674-6487
order @ funnyfashion.com
10035 Federal Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80908
www.espa.be
Contact: Diane or Megan
Specialty: Costumes: 20s to 80s, historical,
ethnic, western and Indian, clowns, characters,
and accessories.
Discount: $250-$4,999: 5%; $5,000+: 7%;
$10,000+: 10%; $20,000+: 15%
Terms: Halloween dating (Nov. 10) WAC
FunWorld
516-873-9000, Fax 516-873-9005
AlexL @ fun-world.net
80 Voice Rd, Carle Place, NY 11514
www.fun-world.net
Contact: Cust Serv: Isora Gozley x264; Group
details: Alex Losito x256
Specialty: Costumes (buntings, plus sizes),
accessories, wigs, hats, masks, makeup, décor,
Santa suits, bunny mascots
Discount: NCA Members automatically receive
10% off of our list price on all items in our
line. Group “selected” or “recommended” items
receive an additional discount of 10-30%.
Additional discount varies, see official
FunWorld/NCA order forms for exact price/
discount. Free freight on all orders over $2000
or 300lbs per warehouse.
Terms: Orders to be placed by May 15, 2013 to
qualify for all discounts.
Garland Beauty Products
310-220-2080, Fax 310-933-4280
sales @ garlandbeautyproducts.com
13041 Cerise Ave, Hawthorne, CA 90250
www.garlandbeautyproducts.com
Contact: Sara Schaap
Specialty: Specializing in false eyelashes and
glamorous party eyelashes, as well as wigs,
beards, and moustaches
Discount: Halloween dating -- 5%.
Terms: Halloween dating for existing net
customers in good standing with Garland, and
pre-approved net terms with 3 credit references
for new customers.
Ghoulish Productions/
Caretas Rev S.A. de C.V
866-336-1227, Fax +52,777-3143199 x102
sales @ ghoulishproductions.com
Alfonso Junco 4, Col-Lazaro Cardenas,
Cuemavara, Morelos, Mexico, 62080
www.ghoulishproductions.com
Contact: Rosalba Dorado
Specialty: Masks, props, hands, accessories,
and costumes for Halloween and costume parties.
Discount: 10% discount. Special price for
“face gas” line of $4US, min. 12 pieces. Special
price for “skull face” line of $4US, min. 12
pieces. Special price for some half masks of
$3.15US, min. 12 pieces. Special price for
“serial killers” of $4.50US, min 12 pieces.
Special price for “chinless” line of $5.99US, min
12 pieces. Special price for “zombie feet”
25326, 25327, 25328 of $5.10US, min. 12
pieces. Special price for “junior skeleton hands”
27058, 27059 of $5.40US, min. 12 pieces.
Terms: Minimum order $500US. Discount and
special prices only if order is received before
April 1st/payment via credit card. Credit card
information needs to be given at time of order.
Graftobian Makeup
Company
608-222-7849, Fax 608-222-7893
ordermakeup @ graftobian.com
510 Tasman Street, Madison, WI 53714
www.graftobian.com
Contact: Janine Wardale
Specialty: Professional makeup for stage,
screen, Halloween, HD beauty, fantasy,
clowning, gore, etc. Made in USA.
Discount: NCA members will receive a one tier
level increase in their earned discount per the
schedule on the back of our 2012-13 wholesale
catalog.
Terms: Orders for the year need to have
exceeded $1,000 before discount level increase
kicks in. Ontime payment is required.
Halloween orders must be in by April 15.
Halco
724-929-7300, Fax 724-929-7301
terri @ halcoholidays.com
723 E. Railroad Ave., Verona, PA 15147
www.halcoholidays.com
Contact: Terri Greenberg
Specialty: High quality Santa Claus suits: Mrs.
Claus, elves, Santa’s helpers, mascots, and
Christmas accessories.
Discount: NCA members receive a 4%
discount on orders placed by 5/31/13 plus 5%
discount on orders of $1,500 or more.
Terms: Credit card or terms given to qualified
accounts.
Jacobson Hat Co. Inc
570-342-7887, Fax 570-342-7454
sales @ Jhats.com
1301 Ridge Row, Scranton, PA 18510
www.Jhats.com
Contact: Jeffrey Jacobson
Specialty: Hats & accessories for Halloween &
theatrical productions; seasonal hats.
Discount: Case pack price for orders placed by
Houston Halloween & Party Expo.
Terms: Ship August 1 or sooner with Nov. 10
payable.
Leg Avenue
626-581-1273, Fax 626-581-1881
tvestal @ legavenue.com
19601 E. Walnut Dr. South,
City of Industry, CA 91748
www.legavenue.com
Contact: Tamera M. Vestal
Specialty: Costumes: adult female, adult male,
juniors, kids, plus size, hosiery, lingerie,
burlesque, shoes, rave wear
Discount: 8% on all catalog items.
Terms: 30 Net on everyday orders, accounting
approval only. Halloween dating 11/10 on
Halloween orders upon factor approval.
Halloween dating must be noted on the order.
Mehron Inc.
800-332-9955, Fax
gflaharty @ mehron.com
100 Red Schoolhouse Rd.,
Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977
www.mehron.com
Contact: Gene Flaharty
Specialty: Professional makeup for stage, TV,
film, fashion, facepainting, Halloween, clowning.
Discount: Automatic 5% discount off
wholesale list prices for any/all orders over
$100 plus 50% off standard UPS shipping
rates. 10% discount off wholesale list prices
once YTD purchases reach $1,500, plus 50% off
standard UPS shipping rates and for all
additional orders over $100 for the rest of the
calendar year. 15% discount off wholesale list
prices once YTD purchases reach $3,750 plus
50% off standard UPS shipping rates and for
all additional orders over $100 for the rest of
2013
the calendar year. Free product info guides and
free promotional materials.
Terms: No retroactive discounts. Member firms
must present membership documentation with
P.O. Net 30 day payment terms must be
honored. Halloween dating payment terms
must be honored; payment due 11/10/13.
Original Cult dba Lip
Service
323-260-7308, Fax 323-260-4970
maria @ theoriginalcult.com,
sasha @ theoriginalcult.com
130 S. Anderson St., Los Angeles, CA 90033
www.lip-service.com
Contact: Sasha Wheatcraft, Maria Santilena
Specialty: Sexy men’s and women’s costumes
and steampunk clothing with quality fabrics
while achieving reasonable price points.
Discount: 10% off all packaged costumes,
hosiery, and wigs.
Terms: We offer Halloween dating for
Halloween orders and net 30 for everyday
orders and clothing orders upon factor
approval. We require a 4-piece per style
minimum.
continued...
27
Rasta Imposta
continued...
2013
Party King
888-577-5752, Fax 866-594-7886
info @ pkhalloween.com
attn: Margarita Castillo
4438 Ish Dr, Simi Valley, CA 93063
www.pkhalloween.com
Contact: Margarita Castillo
Specialty: Halloween costumes, wigs, masks,
and Halloween accessories.
Discount: NCA discount program: $1000+: 5%
discount; $2000+: 10% discount; $3000+:
20% discount. $2,000 net orders, seasonal
dating due 11/10/13.
Terms: Orders must be received by March 18,
2013. All orders must indicate NCA membership
and include NCA member account number.
Orders may be emailed, faxed, mailed, attn:
Margarita Castillo.
Pleaser USA Inc
714-771-1888 x110, Fax 714-771-6888
bill @ pleaserusa.com
679 S. Placentia Ave., Fullerton, CA 92831
www.pleaserusa.com
Contact: Bill Bonorris
Specialty: Sexy Halloween, costume shoes,
boots; traditional Halloween costume shoes,
boots; handbags.
Discount: $499-$2999=8%; $3000$5999=12%; $6000+ =15%. Volume discount
applies per individual sales order dollar
amount. This discount structure only applies to
order placed before April 30, 2013 and
payments are made on time per our
agreement.
Terms: Halloween dating is available upon
credit approval.
28
856-939-9599, Fax 856-939-5990
sue @ rastaimposta.com
PO Box 7, Runnemede, NJ 0
www.rastaimposta.com
Contact: Sue Wellington
Specialty: Leader in licensed and non-licensed
humor and novelty costumes, hats, and
accessories for all sizes.
Discount: 5% on initial order of $1,000, 20%
on initial order of $3,500. Discounts
established with initial order for the year.
Terms: Initial orders must be placed by March
1 to qualify for discounts. Members must apply
for terms.
RG Costumes & Accessories
888-858-9559, Fax 626-858-9798
halloweenbyrg @ aol.com
726 Arrow Grand Circle, Covina, CA 91722
www.rgcostume.com
Contact: Roger Lee
Specialty: Costumes (Halloween, biblical,
periodic, sexy), accessories, Funsies animal
costumes, wigs, Christmas items, capes, gorillas.
Discount: 15% off listed prices of items
printed on all catalogues (closeouts excluded),
minimum amount order of $1500 annually to
entitle 15% discount. No discount will be
applied for order less than $1500. No discount
for e-retailers.
Terms: Discount will be forfeited for all past
due invoices.
Rubie’s Costume Co.
516-326-1500, Fax 516-326-1713
asavarese @ rubies.com
One Rubie Plaza, Richmond Hill, NY 11418
www.rubies.com
Contact: Arthur Savarese
Specialty: Rubie’s is the world’s largest
manufacturer and distributor of Halloween
licensed and non-licensed costumes and
accessories.
Discount: Rubie’s Costume Co., Inc. will give
all members of the buyers group one upgrade
from the normal discount level that they would
qualify for providing that they reach at least
the first discount level on their own.
Merchandise included in program: All
merchandise purchased from Rubie’s catalogs
are included, whether it be children’s costumes,
adult costumes, rental costumes, hats,
accessories, Christmas items, St. Patrick’s Day
items, Easter, etc. ONLY EXCEPTIONS would be
any items marked closeout, overstock on
special quotations on customer’s orders, Tillie
Beige packages (TBC 1-4), “Rubie’s Red Line”
pricing, or merchandise purchased on letter of
credit. Purchases from the “Rubie’s Red Line”
pricing will be invoiced separately and not
counted as part of your “Dollar Volume
Discount Program” with Rubie’s. This is for the
sole purpose of eliminating further discounts
on the items purchased from this “Rubie’s Red
Line” pricing. Your discountable sales to the
year total will determine your discount level.
Volume Incentive Program: With the purchase
of $500 or more from Rubie’s Makeup/Mask
Illusions Divisions (FOB-Phoenix, AZ), NCA
members can deduct 50% of their freight
charges from their Makeup/Mask Illusions
invoices ONLY. Rubie’s will also offer special
pricing on select Christmas items.
Dollar Volume Discount Program: Annual
purchase above $3,000, NCA discount 3%
(normal 2%); above $5,000, NCA 5% (normal
3%); above $7,500, NCA 7% (normal 5%);
above $15,000, NCA 10% (normal 7%); above
$25,000, NCA 12% (normal 10%); above
$37,000, NCA 15% (normal 12%); above
$50,000, NCA 16%.
NOTE: Maximum discount level is 16%, and
can be achieved by purchasing $50,000 in
merchandise during the 2013 year. The final
adjustment for all accounts will take place at
the end of the year as a rebate, thereby giving
each account the maximum amount of time to
reach the highest discount level. This offer is
valid only to members of the NCA in good
standing by May 1, 2013 which have paid at
least 97% of their Halloween invoices with
Rubie’s Costume Co., Inc. by November 10th as
required. This program cannot be combined
with any other offers.
Terms: The initial Halloween order has to be
placed before May 1, 2013 to receive all the
NCA discounts. As long as the initial Halloween
order was placed before May 1, all subsequent
reorders in 2013 will also be subject to the NCA
program. All Halloween orders placed after May
1 will not be included in the NCA program & will
be subject to the regular Rubie’s discount policy.
Shipping charges are not discountable, and
are not included in your year-to-date sales
total. The computer calculates discounts on
merchandise actually shipped by December 31
(not on unfilled orders or backorders). Discounts
are based on payments within terms.
Delinquent accounts forfeit all discounts.
Smiffy’s/R.H. Smith and
Sons
646-592-3977, Fax
markbehar @ smiffys.com
Pecket Plaza, Gainsborough Business Park,
Gainsbourough Lincolnshire, DN21 England,
www.smiffys.com
Contact: Mark Behar
Specialty: Retail costumes and accessories
including wigs and hosiery. Sexy costume line
known as Fever. Complete Christmas costume line.
Discount: 15% off wholesale list price and
free freight on orders over $1500. We offer
Halloween dating upon approval.
Terms: Minimum opening order $500.
Sunnywood Inc.
815-675-9777, Fax 815-675-9788
ctolbert @ sunnywood.net
2503 Spring Ridge Dr., Ste H,
Spring Grove, IL 60081
www.sunnywood.net
Contact: Courtney Tolbert
Specialty: Sunnywood specializes in tiaras,
crowns, Santas, plus-size costumes, mascots,
and other rhinestone accessories.
Discount: NCA members receive one of the
best discount programs in the industry. 1.
Dozen pricing all year long. 2. Net 60-day terms
on all orders under $1000. 3. Net 90-day terms
on all orders over $1000 with approved credit.
Plus we offer special promotions only for NCA
members throughout the year.
Tabis Characters
323-232-8011; Amy cell 818-599-7476,
Fax 323-232-8016
tabis @ sbcglobal.net
808 E. Jefferson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90011
www.tabischaracters.com
Contact: Jasmine or Amy
Specialty: Quality costumes at affordable
prices.
Discount: All NCA members in good standing
will receive 2% off wholesale prices on all
orders throughout the 2013 year.
Terms: Payment due upon shipping. We accept
all major credit cards and checks upon approval.
ThePirateDressing.com
323-284-7201, Fax 888-229-1577
info @ thepiratedressing.com
105/Balji Plaza, Sector-8, Rohini, Delhi, India,
110085, www.thepiratedressing.com
Contact: Aditya Agarwal
Specialty: Pirate, Medieval & Renaissance
clothing including shirts, blouses, coats, pants,
skirts, and more.
Discount: 5% additional discount to NCA
members, minimum order value of $500.
Terms: Discount cannot be combined with
other offers.
Trick or Treat Studios
831-713-9665, Fax 831-621-4763
chris @ trickortreatstudios.com
3170 Mar Vista Dr, Aptos, CA 95003
www.trickortreatstudios.com
Contact: Chris Zephro
Specialty: Halloween masks, costumes, and
props.
Discount: Orders over $500, 5% discount.
Orders over $1000, 10%.
Underwraps Costumes
818-349-5300, Fax 818-349-7200
info @ underwrapscostumes.com
9600 Irondale Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311
www.underwrapscostumes.com
Contact: Payman Shaffa
Specialty: Infant, toddler, children & adult
costumes (regular, plus sizes), licensed
costumes, accessories, and dancewear
Discount: 5% additional discount to all NCA
members, above and beyond our discount rate,
when $500 minimum order is placed.
Terms: $500 minimum order (per season).
Terms will be determined through credit
application only for new accounts.
2013
West Bay Inc.
800-421-1940, Fax 323-720-5799
pjang @ westbayinc.com
7245 E. Oxford Way, Los Angeles, CA 90040
www.westbayinc.com
Contact: Paul Jang
Specialty: Everyday fashion wigs, costume
wigs, Santa wigs and beards, mustaches and
beards, eyelashes.
Discount: $200-$750: 3%; $751-$1,500: 6%;
$1,501-$2,500: 10%; $2,501-$3,000: 13%;
$3,001+: 15%.
Terms: NCA member number must be provided
with every order. Discounts apply on a per
order basis not on a cumulative basis. Minimum
order: $200. All freight paid by customer.
Discounts do not apply to freight and less-thanlist price items (specials, closeouts, etc). All new
accounts opened on pre-paid by credit card
terms, future terms based O.A.C. Halloween
terms (Nov. 10, 2013) on orders of $5000+ with
prior credti approval from West Bay accounting
office (additional credit application & info
required).
Zagone Studios, LLC
773-509-0610, Fax 773-509-0613
tonyz @ zagonestudios.com
2600 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60618
www.zagonestudios.com
Contact: Tony Zagone
Specialty: Quality, great fitting, moving mouth
Halloween masks; complimenting hands, feet,
pants, and shirts.
Discount: 5% discount for orders exceeding
$500; 10% discount for orders exceeding $1000.
29
Getting a Clue About
Accessories
by Jennifer Rosbrugh
A fair number of historical costumers I've talked with
have no problem when it comes to sewing a dress for an
upcoming event. They can get the right pattern. And
they've got the routine down of selecting fabrics. Despite
the fitting challenges, after some hard work they manage to
produce a creation they love. Then… the brick wall.
Now that the dress is done, they get stuck
with what to do with it. Do I wear a hat? What
kind of hat? Shoes – black or white? Brooch or
necklace? Short gloves? Is a shawl ok? Perhaps
you're this way. Follow these quick tips when you
get to that drastic moment, "I have no freaking
idea what accessories to wear with this!!"
Tip #1: Do your research. These
suggestions are in general, meaning not all
accessories can span time periods and still look
"right." The best way to know what to add to
your costume is to study what they did.
The internet has helped us more than we can imagine
in studying original sources. Even a
quick 10 minute Google image
search will reveal a general glance
into what was done back then. Now
go forth with imitating what you
find.
Whatever your time period, study
paintings and original accessories so
you get a feel for general styling and
colors. How is a Regency reticule different than a Victorian purse? Do we
see more bonnets or hats on the ladies
in the fashion plates?
Tip #2: Always be on the lookout for accessories. You
never know when that Christmas ribbon will turn into a
lovely 1840s bonnet tie, or those $3 Goodwill shoes go
perfectly with your Edwardian gown.
In addition, observe other costumers who are
accessorizing how you want your costume to look. Ask
them what they did, what patterns they used, where they
30
went shopping. (And if they snub you for asking, you don't
need to draw ideas from them anyway.)
Tip #3: Use common sense.
I know this seems rather
prosaic, but it's true. I've seen costumers leave their brain
behind when going out the door. It's not the
biggest mistake they can make, but seriously…
go-go boots under that hoopskirt you think no
one will see, will be seen. Trust me.
Shoes
Speaking of boots… what do you think
you'd wear with that ball gown? Obviously the
6" clear heel pumps are out…. What to do?
When in doubt, simple black or ecru
leather (faux or real) flats span the ages and
will go with many of your costumes. I have a
pair of them from Payless Shoes that have
time traveled from the Regency to the 1870s
and back again to the 1830s.
• Choose small heels – under 2". Keep the heel size
small – no chunky "granny heels" or stripper stilettos here.
A basic pump covers many day and evening costumes. A
rosette shoe clip can spice it up for later Victorian years.
• Ankle boots are great for daywear throughout the
1800s. Look for cast-off sales from the winter selections
and pick basic brown or black leather.
• Avoid open toed shoes. Keep those for your 1930s
dresses.
• Don't be overwhelmed by the gorgeous originals you
see with straps and cut-outs and embroidered beading.
Those are fabulous which you can duplicate by covering a
basic modern pump or flat. But when in doubt, go for
classic styles.
Hats & Headwear
If you are wearing any outfit from the 19th Century,
you need to have something on your head, especially when
in public. Research photographs and fashion plates to get
an idea of the styles especially for your age group (really
important!).
• Day dress or event: a hat or bonnet. Buy ready-made,
make one yourself, or re-make a store-bought straw. (I
know many costumers who've successfully taken those
cheap decorative straw hats from craft stores and wet them
and mold them into a period shape.)
• Bonnets (a crown portion that covers the back of the
head with a brim that frames the face) were popular from
the Regency Era (1795-1820) clear through to the early
1880s. Trim with ribbons and silk/fabric flowers.
• Do not, under any circumstance, wear a bonnet with
an evening or ball dress. Please. Thank you! Use common
sense here! Would you wear a hat with a modern cocktail
dress for an evening out with your
friends? Bonnets & hats protect
the head from the sun. Wear them
only when the sun is out.
• For evening wear, a voile or
organdy lace cap works for older
ladies.
• Flowers or some sort of
headdress with ribbon should be
worn at night. Fancy combs and
mantillas are great for Late
Victorian (1890s).
• Shun obviously plastic
flowers, stamens and stems. You
can find many terrific florals at big box craft stores like
Hobby Lobby and Michael's that work for headwear. Stick
to soft fabrics (even though the flowers aren't made of silk
any more) and colors found in nature.
Jewelry to Adorn
Do you have a character you play? Would they have
money for jewelry? Did they inherit it?
• When in doubt, wear little jewelry. But small hanging
earrings and delicate brooch can go far.
• Earrings are only on wires in the 19th C. If you have
studs or hanging earrings with a stud clasp, break it off and
add wires with jump ring findings.
• Victorians loved their jewelry. A brooch is seen quite
often at the center bust line or collar.
• Be attentive to avoid ghastly plastic-looking costume
pieces. A mid-20th Century bakelite brooch is not
Victorian. Be careful in your use of vintage pieces.
• Stay with natural elements – glass, pearls, jewels (real
or paste ), gold metal.
Gloves
• Of course, wear leather ones if your budget allows for
it. Historical colors include black, white, ecru/cream, dull
yellow, red and navy.
• If you want to be fully dressed or are going "visiting,"
put your gloves on. Otherwise, leave them off. You can find
many photographs of women wearing no gloves.
• Full hand gloves are found throughout history. Mitts,
those fingerless or half-finger gloves, were widely seen in
the late 18th C. and were quite popular in the 1830s. They
fell out of favor by mid-century and you hardly even see
them in the Bustle and Late Victorian decades.
• Although they are immensely popular, those run-ofthe-mill crochet gloves are a bit cliché and modern for a
historical look. Try silk or cotton net gloves and mitts
instead. Or look for a crochet glove with very fine thread.
A Bag to Carry
It always seems that we forget to plan where we will
carry our modern items like our cell phone and keys. I
highly recommend putting a pocket in your skirts to start
with. Keeps your hands free and you won't spend time
putting your bag down when someone want to take your
picture.
• A small bag, known as a reticule, is perfect for nearly
the entire 19th Century. Keep the size small – no more
than 9" tall or so.
• Avoid matchy-matchy bags. It may be fun to use your
dress fabric, and you can do so. Although, for a historical
look, go with another practical, but complementary, fabric.
• Reticules and purses made from velvet/velveteen,
cotton or silk crochet, and silk fabrics are lovely. Use
embroidery, ribbons or braid trim to add pizzazz.
• Victorians used metal clasps to close their bags. Find
them online to make your own.
• Sturdy basket purses (even those from the mid-20th
C.) will translate well for your costumes (but pull off any
plastic flowers).
Sometimes you just have to try out a particular
accessory and see if it works. Remember every costumer
stumbles in picking accessories – and remembering to wear
them!
One last tip: dress yourself on paper before your event.
List *everything* starting with your chemise and drawers.
Write out each piece as you go through how you will get
dressed. Finish with your hair, hat, hat pin, and other
accessories like a belt and reticule.
Where do you get caught up in accessorizing your
costumes?
Jennifer Rosbrugh is a 21st century lady with a
passion for sewing 19th century costumes. Jennifer
teaches historical & modern sewing techniques that
go into creating beautiful period garments from the
Regency, Romantic, Victorian, and Edwardian eras,
has been making her own modern and historical
clothing for nearly 30 years, and works in the
costuming & reenacting communities. Find her on
Facebook (Historical Sewing) or at
www.HistoricalSewing.com.
31
Leather Sole Airship Pirates
Mad Madam M
32
Unmasking the
Masquerade:
Worldcon
By: Sheila S. Hudson
From the opening ceremonies on August 30 till the
closing workshop on September 3, fans and mundanes
alike anticipated the signature event at the World Science Fiction Convention (WSFC) - the Masquer
Masqueraade
de. For seventy
years, “WorldCon” has spun its magic over the Labor Day weekend. And this year was no different.
Chicon 7, the 70th World Science Fiction Convention, also known as “Worldcon,” is the premier gathering of
authors, artists, fans, dealers, and more in the world science fiction community. Worldcon covers all the genres of written
speculative fiction including science fiction, fantasy, horror, slipstream, and alternate history, as well as science, media
(movies, television, anime, and online), fanzines, gaming, costuming, filking, and more.
More than 5,000 attendees from more than thirty countries attended
the five-day event.
Chicon 7 was held in Chicago, and inaugurated the festivities at
the Adler Planetarium. Thousands of science fiction fans
headquartered at the Hyatt Regency Chicago while the city played
host to aliens, pirates, Japanese anime characters, zombies, steam
punk enthusiasts, and mundanes of every ilk.
WorldCon offered competitions, workshops, sing-alongs,
filking musical sessions, endless autograph sessions, and
Kaffeeklatsches until the magical masquerade began on Saturday
evening. Masquerade judges award on four skill divisions:
·
Master
·
Journeyman – for those who have not won awards.
·
Novice – beginning adults.
·
Junior – beginners under 13 years of age.
Judging for
the WorldCon
masquerade is based on presentation and workmanship, and must be
either an original design or a re-creation, i.e. a duplicate or adaptation.
Re-creations require documentation.
In 2012 Steam Punk reigned. The definition of this theme is
Victorian meets science fiction in the industrialized 19th Century and
as Caitlin Kittredge puts it, “It’s sort of Victorian-industrial, but with
more whimsy and fewer orphans.”
Think Jules Verne, H.G. Wells, Wild Wild West, The League of
Extraordinary Gentlemen, and Sherlock Holmes. Features are
advanced machines that assume electricity and petroleum power never
exist. Characteristics include brass and copper, glass and polished
wood, goggles and gears powered by steam, of course.
“Add a dash of Victorian street culture and a sprinkling of
ragtime, and ‘punk’ comes into focus.” (G. D. Falksen,
www.gdfalksen.com)
The first winner of original design was Mad Madam M, a
creation of Margaret Gentile. Her dress was classic Victorian adorned
Photographs by Tim Hudson
continued
...
continued...
33
Unmasking, continued...
with her Marvelous Machine (photos p.32). Judges gave
kudos for attention to detail. She won Best Original in the
Journeyman class.
Details of steam punk costumes include detailed
leather work, spyglasses, opera glasses, boots with a nail
heel, and pumps featuring hinge brass work. Feminine
devotees favor leather brad-studded corsets, miniature head
pieces, and gadgets that whirr.
Another original entry was the Leather Sole Airship
Pirates whose pilot, Kendra Wayman, wore a tooled leather
helmet (photos p.32). The machine had steam-powered
propellers and an exhaust operated by wooden levers.
Wayman wore the impressive machination complete with
woven basket. She was assisted by Charles and Paul
Wayman clothed in appropriate Victorian dress. Tanks of
steam billowed as she circled the stage gleaning the
Mechanical Wizard award for mechanical work and Best in
Class for the Master Division.
Hall costumes leaned toward the steam punk theme.
Attendees devote research, construction time, and personal
funds in order to fashion original works of art. The
photographer snapped a steam punk fairy, a very rare breed,
strolling with a Victorian family. He also happened upon a
steam punk couple adorned with lantern, leather wristlets,
tubes of iridescent light, and a steam tank complete with
glowing orb.
This Labor Day weekend the Windy City was powered
by steam.
Sheila Hudson is a f reelance journalist based in Athens, Georgia. Her primary areas of expertise include humor, travel, inspiration, and mentoring. Her
work has been featured in numerous publications f rom newspapers to anthologies, and her “Bright Ideas” columns are currently featured on the Southeastern
Writers Association website and on The Infinite Writer. Ms. Hudson has long been an admirer of the handiwork of costumers, at events such as Comic*Con,
Dragon*Con, and Renaissance festivals, and looks forward to continuing to contribute to The Costumer.
34
m e mb e r pr o fil e
Mehron, Inc.
Chestnut Ridge, NY • Joined N C A in 1 9 7 0
2012 marked Mehron’s 85th year of operation. During
that span, Mehron has undergone dramatic evolution.
From a limited line of rouges and pomades in 1927 to a
diverse product mix of over 1,200 brand
skus and 500 private label formulas, they
have proven to be responsive to the needs
of the entertainment community as well as
their private label clientele. Today, over
3,000 retail specialty stores carry the
Mehron brand of products worldwide.
Brand distribution is supported by a select
group of full-line, full-service stocking
distributors in the United States, U.K.,
Indonesia, Turkey, Mexico, Canada,
Germany, France, Switzerland, Australia, Malaysia, Korea
and Hong Kong.
Mehron Melik founded Mehron Inc. in 1927 in a
small New York City loft just off Broadway, in the heart of
the theatre district. For years, Mehron catered to the
makeup needs of performers in theatre, vaudeville,
burlesque, opera, ballet, and silent films. His staff of as
many as 10 “Mehron Ladies” would fan out each evening to
different theatres and offer cosmetic products and
application advice to the entertainers before their
performances.
When WWII began, Mehron devoted his talents and
expertise to helping severely disfigured soldiers learn how
to use makeup products to camouflage their scars, wounds,
and burns. Mehron traveled from New England to Virginia
for nearly 2 years visiting Veterans’ hospitals. This selfless
donation of his time and talent aided hundreds of returning
servicemen in picking up the pieces of their lives after the war.
During the 1950s and 1960s, the entertainment
business began to migrate across the United States. In
order to keep pace, the distribution of professional quality
makeup products shifted to retail outlets. Hundreds of
stores became Mehron dealers and the era of the “Mehron
Ladies” was over.
In 1971, Mehron’s son, Martin Melik, assumed control
of the family business. He implemented new methods of
promotion and distribution, expanded and improved the
Mehron product line, and ushered in a new era of
aggressive growth and customer service. The younger
Melik still runs the operation today.
Currently, many large productions including Blue Man
Group, Cirque du Soleil, The Metropolitan Opera,
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, and The
American Ballet Theatre depend on Mehron products to
look their best.
As a brand, Mehron makes products
specifically for commercial theatrical,
educational, motion picture, television,
video, opera, clowning, Halloween, and
face painting markets. Under private
labels, they produce color cosmetics for
fashion, face painting, educational
markets, and special promotional events.
They also make health and beauty
products such as skin creams and lotions,
shampoos and conditioners and bath and
body treatments. Mehron products are sold in over 25
countries worldwide and export accounts for approximately
18% of their overall sales.
35
N C A Marketplace
BLAZERS
ROYAL, GOLD,
RED, BURGUNDY,
KELLY, ORANGE,
PURPLE, WHITE,
AUGUSTA, GRAY,
HUNTER, CAMEL,
NAVY, BLACK
BLAZERS-R-US.COM
Call for prices
MEN’S • LADIES’
14 COLORS
+ PINK (Ladies’ only)
SELL TO:
Organizations,
Schools & More
YOU NOW HAVE
THEIR COLORS!
561-265-0065
412-273-3416
ReproductionFabrics.com
An online source of cotton reproduction fabric for
costuming and quilting. Fabric of time periods
1775 to 1950, including the Civil War and
Depression Eras. Consulting and custom sample
sets available for costumers.
205 Haggerty Ln, #190 • Bozeman, MT 59715
406-586-1775 • [email protected]
Advertising in the NCA Marketplace is $35 per issue (10% discount for NCA members). Deadline for ads is 30 days prior to issue date. Issue dates
are February, May, September, and December, so deadlines are, respectively, Jan. 1, April 1, Aug. 1, and Nov. 1. You can submit a ready-made ad, or
just send text and we will place it in a box. You will be billed upon publication of the ad, and payment is due upon receipt. Full details are listed on
the advertising contract available on www.costumers.org, or you can contact the publications office at [email protected] or 800-NCA-1889.
36

blazers men`s • ladies` - National Costumers Association

Transcription

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