Michael Jackson costumes big this Halloween

All things Michael Jackson are among the most popular sellers at Halloween Adventure, said Manager Mike Rowe.

The shop stocks two different Jackson jackets, including one similar to what he wore for the "Thriller" video, a wig and dark glasses, hats, and a sparkly glove and socks combo pack.

"A lot of people really adored him, even after all the controversy," said Assistant Manager Richard Young. "He was the King of Pop."

A few minutes after he spoke, 16-year-old Taylor Johnson of Upper Marlboro spotted the Michael Jackson costumes. "This is the bomb!" she said before donning a "Thriller" jacket.

While overall Halloween sales aren't bombing at stores in Annapolis, they're not booming, either. Sales are average or a little down, something managers attributed to the economy.Of course, this could also be partly due to Halloween oversaturation, since there are four large stores within a couple miles of each other all trying to scare up business.

Still, people are dressing up - in spite of the economy.

A trend managers did notice was that some people are saving money by buying parts of costumes, like a jacket or mask, rather than full outfits.

Taylor's father, TyJuan Johnson, said Halloween is a much-needed escape from the fiscal doldrums.

"Dressing up keeps your mind off the economy," he said.

Johnson himself is considering some kind of "Harry Potter" inspired wizard outfit. His son, Christopher, 5, favors superheroes. He donned a Hulk mask in the store and was definitely pretty happy about it.

Overall for boys, costumes from "Star Wars," "Transformers" and "G.I. Joe" are pretty big this year. For girls, princesses, "Dora the Explorer," and Dorothy and Glinda the Good Witch from "The Wizard of Oz" are popular choices, according to managers.

Jackson paraphernalia is a hit with both children and adults, they said, while guys are also opting for hippie outfits, disco duds and general horror accoutrements.

Ladybug outfits for girls and women are a big hit at the Halloween Spirit store at Westfield Annapolis mall, said manager Liberty Brown.

She's not exactly sure why ladybugs are spreading their wings this season, but the shop is selling versions of the costume from toddler-size on up.

"We even had a couple guys try them on, but they don't fill out as nicely," she said, laughing.

Brown herself is planning to dress as Mary Ann from "Gilligan's Island" on Halloween, though she wears different costumes every day at work. She's been everything from Wonder Woman to a penguin.

"I always loved Halloween," she said.