Thrift stores and costume shops have been bustling with Halloween shoppers, store managers say.

"We've actually had a lot of people coming in looking for Halloween costumes. Different themes and everything," said Allie Clemmons, store manager at Encore Consignments on Davis Road. "I think people are getting a little bit more creative, actually. Dressing up like a punk rocker -- instead of going to buy the prepackaged costume, they can purchase several different things and make up their own costume."

The store has had about a 50 percent increase in Halloween traffic compared to last year, she said.

Children's costumes have sold out at Community Ministry of North Augusta, said director Nancy Joyce. She has noticed shoppers piecing together items for adult costumes.

Catholic Social Services Thrift Shop has seen a 10 percent increase in holiday customers, said store manager Philomena Mooney. The store has vintage clothing and gently-worn costumes for all ages.

"We offer things at a discount, and people are looking for bargains," said Ms. Mooney, who expects traffic to steadily increase. "We are seeing some people who are looking for (costumes), but from previous experience, that tends to be a last minute thing."