As tempting as it is to don a Halloween costume that reflects popular culture — an orange-faced John Boehner, a green-egged Ted Cruz or a twerking Miley — why not make an effort to stand apart from the undulating asses? Seek out an authentic period costume at the Vintage Fashion Expo. Better yet, stock your closet with unique clothing classics. After 25 years at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, the show has relocated to more spacious digs downtown so that a whopping 85 dealers can gather under one roof to sell men's, women's and children's fashions from the 1850s to the 1980s. For holiday or just everyday wear, summon the spirit of Coco Chanel at the Chanel 'n' Chandeliers booth. Indulge your inner hippie with '60s bellbottoms and suede mocs. Conjure the Roaring '20s with a cloche and a fringed flapper dress. No knockoffs here; you'll see originals by designers Bill Blass, Schiaparelli, Lanvin, Halston and others. And you can accessorize like crazy with handbags, ties, wraps, eyewear, jewelry, notions and footwear. At 2 p.m. kick up those new heels for vintage dance lessons given by the UCLA Historical Ballroom Dance Club. Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St., dwntwn.; Sat., Oct. 12, 9-10:30 a.m., $25; 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m., $12; also Sun., Oct. 13, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., $12; students free Sunday with student ID. vintageexpo.com.

Sat., Oct. 12; Sun., Oct. 13, 2013

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