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If you want to get out on the street and revel in the celebrations in style, you'll need to consider picking up a Mardi Gras costume. Since this probably isn't something you're going to wear more than once, many people decide to rent, rather than buy, their outfit. But even renting an outfit comes with a lot of considerations. After all, if you're going to go through the trouble and expense of dressing up for the occasion, you might as well make sure you're going to look your best. Here are some of the things you need to know before patronizing a shop. Accessories Part of the fun of a Mardi Gras costume is all of the accessories that go along with it. No one shows up on the streets of New Orleans without a few bead necklaces hanging around their neck at the very least. But beads are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to fun accessories. Masks, feather boas, and even fans can make sure that you stand out from a very strange and eclectic crowd. Some shops will have all of the accessories you need to complement your outfit, while others stop at the outfits themselves. You may want to find a shop that can meet all of your needs if you don't want to hit several places in an attempt to cobble together an ensemble. Customization If you've ever visited a Halloween store, you know that there are two types of people that dress up on the 31st of October: those who are happy with an outfit off the rack and those who want to put a lot of thought and creativity into their look. The same is true when it comes to putting together a Mardi Gras costume. Obviously, the mere fact that you are renting and not buying means your options will be limited when it comes to customization. But that doesn't mean you have to go out looking just like the catalog, by any means. A helpful shop owner will help you find ways to add your own touch to the outfit, whether it means using a different hairstyle or adorning yourself with interesting accessories. Reservations Don't make the mistake of waiting until the last week of January to pick out your Mardi Gras costume. While you may have no problem finding something suitable at this late date, you could just as easily find yourself completely out of luck. Don't take the chance. Find a good shop early and reserve your outfit well in advance. Not only can you have the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're all squared away, but you also won't have to fight the crowds to find your outfit closer to the event.