Pok-a-Dots Costumes - What is the best costume to wear

Pok-a-Dots Costumes: A Journey Through Time and Style

Undeniably one of Downtown Arcadia’s most quirky shops, Pok-A-Dots Costumes has a fun history.

Carie Nuss started the business when she was only 18 years old drawing inspiration from her mother’s disco-era adventures.

While growing up in the 1970s, Carie’s mom Arlene, was quite the fashionista at the local disco scene and sold vintage clothing from the trunk of her car to fellow disco enthusiasts. Eventually, she set up shop at the Rose Bowl Flea Market with Carie by her side.

After graduating Arcadia High in 1983, Carie was hired by one of their Rose Bowl customers to work at a vintage clothing store in Pasadena. Unfortunately (or fortunately), she was unjustly denied a commission for a rattan furniture set she had earned. This experience left a bitter taste for working for someone else and drove her to become her own boss.

Later that year, Carie took the courageous step of starting her own business. She rented a modest 400-square-foot space on Live Oak. The following year, in 1984, her mom joined as her partner. Carie assumed responsibility for the business operations, while Arlene contributed her artistic flair.

During the early days, they sold mostly clothing, Levi’s, collectibles and unique knick knacks.

Cari Nuss dressing up a man in a costume.

Vintage Costume's

“People didn’t even know what the word vintage meant–that’s how new it was during that time!” Carie said.

As their business grew, they eventually purchased the building their store now occupies in Downtown Arcadia.

The evolution of Pok-a-Dots from a small vintage boutique to a full-service costume shop was dictated by their customers.

Nearly 40 years into the business, Carie understands a vital business principle, “You have to listen to what your customer base tells you. Our customers molded us into what we are today. They wanted a place to rent costumes year round so we gave it to them. There’s always a need for costumes… birthdays, weddings, masquerades, conventions, and things you wouldn’t even think of!”

Carie and Arlene enjoy helping their customers build the perfect outfit or costume.

“I love to watch someone put a costume or outfit together that I never would’ve thought of,” Nuss said. “They have their own spin on things. Eye of the beholder–the customer knows when they see it.”