The Summer Olympics in Sydney has the potential to inspire even more sports-related costumes, complete with gold medals. Some shops are stocking up on cheerleader outfits, in expectation that the movie, Bring It On will catch the attention of little girls who want to dress as members of a high school pep squad. Bruce Reid, Vice President of Sales for the Paper Magic Group, says that there are a number of costumes which are extremely popular, but which are unlicensed, or, in other words, not tied to a specific character or brand name. These costumes tend to be favorites year after year. Inspired by various books, TV shows and other influences, especially the phenomenally popular Harry Potter series, this is a trend that is expected to grow markedly.
Adults tend to enjoy a variety of costumes.
Austin Powers, Felicity Shagwell, Dr. Evil and the Fembots, all characters from the recent Austin Powers movies, have remained strong, and are looking toward continued growth with the scheduled release of a third movie. Cleopatra, witches and French maids also remain very much in demand among adult women. At the same time, clothing from the sixties and early seventies is looking very strong, as are costumes depicting members of the drug culture, such as those from the Woodstock era. Halloween is an excuse to be silly and do what you don't normally do. A costume allows you to do that.