Retailers say sexy trumps traditional this year when it comes to Halloween costumes. But the princess costume remains the most popular for children.

According to a National Retail Federation survey, 34 percent of adults dress in costume on Halloween. This has been an increasing number for years. Halloween spending has also increased to $5 billion, behind the top holidays for spending -- Father's Day, Mother's Day, Easter, Valentines Day, and Christmas.

Paul Blum, who operates Manhattan's Abracadabra said one in every two costumes he sold this year was sexy. He said it is an increasing trend. However, he said traditional costumes like skeletons are still popular.

According to the survey, about 60 percent of consumers planed to buy Halloween costumes this year, which is up from 53.3 percent in 2005.