Judging from the parade of goths, hippies, and aging poets, you may think that every day is Halloween in the East Village. But when October 31 rolls around, the denizens of the 'hood really know how to dress. We scoped out some of their key sources to bring you three of the best Halloween costumes ever.

Groovy Gal

This psychedelic, glitter-licious bodysuit will send you hurtling straight back to the swinging seventies ($50), funky 'fro sold separately ($25). Now all you need is the soundtrack—Fleetwood Mac, Bruce Springsteen, Marvin Gaye—and you are one serious soul sister.

New York Costumes Halloween Adventure

Fresh From the Grave

This deliciously ghoulish Lady Gruesome costume will wither plants, horrify children, repel small animals and win you major kudos from the costume cogenscenti ($45). We love the decades-old dust gray hue and the all-over shredding. Now all you have to do is perfect a blood-curdling shriek.

Vampire Freaks

Minnie Mouse, Mini Price

Second-hand shops in the East Vlllage are now getting into the act with outfits like this perky polka dot number, complete with matching headband and those all-essential oversized mouse ears. At a mere $18, you'll have plenty of cash leftover for a big fat pumpkin and a hefty supply of Halloween candy.

Buffalo Exchange

332 E. 11th St. (btwn. 1st & 2nd Aves.)
(212) 260-9340
www.buffaloexchange.com