Malabar Costume Rentals Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Do I get a price break if I rent for only one day?

No. Many costumes need to be altered, and all costumes need to be dry-cleaned after use, which the rental fee covers. The price is the same for a one-, two- or three-day rental.

Q: Can I rent for longer than three days?

Yes you may. 15% per day is applied for up to a two-week period. Please see the rental staff for a quote for the time you will need the costume.

Q: If I don't use the costume, can I bring it back for a refund?

We do not offer refunds on costumes. If you are unsure of whether you will need the costume or not, we are happy to hold it for you until you are sure.

Q: I don't have a credit card. Can I give you a cash deposit?

It is our policy that only a valid credit card may be used as a deposit. Both the card and cardholder must be present when renting. Please plan ahead accordingly as there are absolutely no exceptions to this rule.

Q: Am I allowed to take pictures in your rental store?

We only allow pictures to be taken for theatre, film and TV costume sourcing. If you wish to take pictures in costume, there is a fee of $60/hr. If you need a picture of a specific costume, our rental staff is able to take pictures and email them to you.

Q: Do you rent wigs, masks or shoes?

We do not. Due to hygiene issues involved with renting wigs, masks and shoes, we do not offer these items as a part of our rental stock. These items can, however, be purchased at our retail store.

Q: Do you sell your rental stock?

No. Many of our costumes belong to specific productions, and are not available for sale. If you are looking to have something special made, please see our rental staff.

Q: Will you make me a custom costume?
On occasion our workroom will make a custom piece, or pieces. It depends entirely on how busy the workroom is, and how much advance notice is given. If you are interested in having something made, please speak with our rental staff.

Q: Do you have Dora the Explorer/Barney/Blues Clues etc ... ?

The images of these licensed characters belong to the company which created them, therefore we cannot rent them as our own. We do have a stock of generic mascots which can be viewed here.

Our retail store also sells a selection of licensed costumes.  

Q: Why don't you have pictures of all your costumes on your website?

While we continue to update our website with current costumes, our stock is so large that we couldn't possibly picture everything on the site. If there is something specific you are looking for, please contact our rental staff, and they will be happy to email pictures to you.

Q: Do you rent for children?

Generally we do not rent for kids. We do have a small selection of children's medieval costumes that are used in medieval wedding parties from time to time. Our retail store does, however, sell a variety of costumes for kids.

Q: I have costumes to sell. Would you be interested in buying them?

It is highly unlikely. Our rental costumes must meet specific standards in regard to seam allowance and durability. We have an extensive sewing department which supplies us with all of our rental pieces. If you sincerely think that you have something that we would want to purchase, please email pictures to rentals@malabar.net , or contact us at 416-598-2581 x 230 beforehand.

Q: How much time do I need to commit to the rental process?

We encourage customers to come in as soon as possible and try things on. Ideally, please come in at least 3-5 days prior. This way, if there are alterations that need to be made (included in the price), they can be finished in time for the event. The costume you choose can then be held until you're ready to pick it up.

Q: I'm from out of town, and can't get in to try on costumes. What should I do?

If you are able to give us detailed measurements over the phone, we can select costumes and send you pictures via email. However, if you are not able to physically try on the costume prior to picking up, we cannot guarantee a proper fit.

Q: Can I pay for my order over the phone?

Yes you can, provided that we also receive a manual imprint fax of the front and back of the card. The fax must have the card number, expiry date and verification code clearly visible, and be signed by the cardholder. Our fax number is 416-598-3296.

Q: Will you ship the costume to me?

We're happy to ship with the courier company of your choice, provided that you make all prior arrangements and pay for the shipment yourself. If you are returning costumes by courier, please be sure that they are returned freight prepaid.

Q: Do you rent to US/ international customers?
We do. For US customers, renting one or two costumes, please plan at least three weeks in advance as you must allow for enough time for the costume to be pulled, altered, shipped and for the shipment to clear customs. While we do our utmost from our end to fill out detailed paperwork, shipments can be held at the border for up to a week, for any number of reasons. Shipping and customs charges are the responsibility of the customer. For US customers renting full productions, please see our rental information here.
For customers outside of North America , please contact us at 416-598-2581 x 230.

Q: What happens if I can't return the costume during store hours? Do you have a drop-box?
Due to the delicate nature, and large size of many of our costumes (ie: mascots), we do not offer a drop box service. It does not have to be the renter returning the costume. You may send it with a friend, family member or courier. Many taxi companies offer a delivery service for a small charge as well.

We're happy to answer any other questions you make have! Contact us