LAKE BLUFF, Ill., Oct. 4, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to One Step Ahead's 2011 Parent Panel Halloween survey, half of respondents indicate their family's interest in Halloween and related expenses have increased over time, with children's costumes being their No. 1 expense. Four out of five participants claim they purchase at least one new children's Halloween costume every year, with the majority of those making their purchases 15-60 days in advance versus waiting until the last minute.
The survey reveals families have turned the one-day holiday into a month-long celebration. Top family October activities include decorating the house (both inside and out!), outfitting kids in Halloween-themed clothes, creating special kid-friendly Halloween-themed meals and snacks throughout the month and trick or treating on the actual Halloween day.
Despite increased interest in the holiday, several shoppers are still spooked and want to remain frugal with their Halloween spending. The majority of these respondents cap their costume expenses at $40 per costume and either forgo any costume accessories or limit their accessory expenses to $20. Other ideas to cut costs include costume swaps, hand-me-downs, DIY costumes and purchasing costumes off- season.
"We recognize parents want to deliver the costumes their kids want while not breaking the bank," said Karen Scott, One Step Ahead President. "We offer a wide variety of popular, unique and high-quality costumes at affordable prices. We pick only the best that will stand up to kids' wear and tear so they can be passed along and/or used for role playing throughout the year!"
One Step Ahead costumes are uniquely made using only high quality fabric and construction so they're sure to be both durable and comfortable. Parents are purchasing costumes earlier in the year which means children are wearing them all October (and all year!) instead of just on Halloween so One Step Ahead prides itself on delivering costumes and accessories that are resilient, comfortable and can withstand the test of time.
Check out this year's top One Step Ahead Baby & Child Halloween Costume Themes:
| Girl (Baby & Child) | |
| Princess (Tinkerbelle, Snow White, Princess Aurora, Rapunzel, Cinderella) |
|
| Minnie Mouse | |
| Fairy | |
| Superhero (Wonder Woman) | |
| Animal (Monkey, Giraffe, Ladybug, Bumble bee) | |
| Strawberry Shortcake |
Boy (Baby & Child)
Superhero (Spiderman, Batman, Superman, Green Lantern)
Star Wars (Yoda, Darth Vader, Clone Trooper)
Animal (Monkey, Giraffe, Dragon, Lion)
Transformers (Optimus Prime)
Power Rangers
Peruse One Step Ahead's Halloween e-catalog that features top costumes and accessories (several exclusives!) such as:
Pumpkin Treat Bags: A One Step Ahead Exclusive! Since trick-or-treaters come in all sizes, we think their treat bags should, too. Available in 8½" toddler-size treat bag or 10" child-size treat bag. Reuse year after year. Personalize it for just $5 more. ($6.95-$9.95)
Baby Bandstand Costume: A One Step Ahead Exclusive! Let's go to the hop, in this baby 50's costume! Poofy poodle Skirt Set features a classic pink poodle skirt with poodle appliqué, self-belt, attached crinoline, and neck scarf. Personalize it for just $5 more! ($29.95)
Baby Bat Bunting: A One Step Ahead Exclusive! Go batty...in this darling baby bat costume with big, purple wings! Cozy bunting of furry plush and lined with satin for baby's comfort. Wings attach to the bunting with hook 'n loop fasteners; includes headpiece with satin-lined ears! (Sale $7.95)
Pig Bubble Suit: This little piggy...is a One Step Ahead Parents' Panel favorite! This squeal-with-delight costume includes a charming chenille bubble suit (check out that curly tail!), darling character headpiece, and tiny "hooves" which are really easy-on spats. Best of all: bubble suits are ideal for layering, so li'l piglets stay toasty and warm! ($34.95)
Cinderella: Just add a pumpkin coach! She'll love twirling about this storybook princess costume, with dramatic hoop skirt, faux fur trim, and a removable peplum. Best of all, it's beautifully made, for dancing at many a make-believe ball! Crown and Silver Sequin Shoes (sold separately). ($44.95)
Batman: No villain stands a chance! This classic costume comes straight from the hit TV series, "Batman: The Brave and The Bold." High-quality jumpsuit features a built-in muscle chest and biceps for more thrilling role play fun. Includes attached boot tops, headpiece, belt, and cape. Imported. Ramp up the adventure with Gloves, Batarangs, and Grappling Hook with Safety Light (each sold separately). ($39.95)
NFL Football Player: Touchdown! NFL boys' football uniform includes iron-on numbers, so you can customize your little champ's jersey. (Better yet, add his name, too!) Outstanding quality; he'll wear it every game day! Includes official team jersey, pants, helmet, and iron-on numbers 0-9. Personalize it for just $5 more! ($49.95)
Emily Savage
847-604-5547
esavage@onestepahead.com
About Chelsea & Scott
Chelsea & Scott Ltd, parent company of One Step Ahead and Leaps and Bounds, specializes in unique, hard-to-find products for babies and children. Founded by Karen and Ian Scott, two parents who wanted the best for their own children, Chelsea & Scott rigorously pre-tests its products and makes product design enhancements based on feedbac from actual parents from its extensive Parents Panel.
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