Resources / School Posted by Erica Jabali
Ideas for EveryoneUse these ideas for a variety of ages and stages, even up to adult costume ideas. Where's Waldo
Harry Potter
Coordinatea book character class celebration with a sign up.View an Example Cat in the Hat
Daring Detectives
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Recruit parent volunteers for the school year with a sign up.View an Example Teens and AdultsWith ideas for every type of party, these teen and adult costumes will add a perfect touch of literary magic. Pride & Prejudice
Twilight
Phantom of the Opera
The Great Gatsby
Organize registration for an after-school art program with a sign up.View an Example Best for KidsKids of all ages will love these imaginative ideas for costumes. Get creative and use items you already have around the house! Charlotte's Web
A Wrinkle in Time
Pinkalicious
Since books give us so much room for imagination, you can add your own spin to any of these characters. No matter what you choose, when you get an invite that says costumes required, you'll be the star of the show. Erica Jabali is a freelance writer and blogs over at ispyfabulous.com. Create a Sign UpView Plans SignUpGenius makes school organizing easy. |  | Organize a Halloween class party with a sign up. View Example Create a Sign Up View Plans Recent School Articles 30 Back to School Tips for Parents Read More 50 First Day of School Classroom Activities Read More 30 Inspirational Quotes for Teachers Read More Related Articles 40 Halloween Party Ideas - Food, Games and Decorations for Hosting Read More 45 Non-Candy Halloween Treat Ideas Read More
Just wanted to say, this is such a great resource. I have told so many people about it. Great for school, sports, parties. Thank you!! Lesley Kirts - Towson, MD
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Resources / School
Looking for fresh costume ideas for Halloween, book character day at school or your next dress-up party? You've come to the right place. These 50 costume ideas inspired by book characters and broken down by age group will provide great ideas for years to come. Let's check out the options!
Ideas for Everyone
Use these ideas for a variety of ages and stages, even up to adult costume ideas.
Where's Waldo
- Waldo - All you need is a striped shirt, round glasses, blue jeans and a Where's Waldo book to carry around.
- Odlaw - The odd man out, Odlaw wears a yellow and black striped shirt and hat, black pants and yellow shoes. Bonus points for also grabbing glasses and a mustache.
- Wenda - Similar to Waldo, Wenda wears a red striped shirt, blue jean skirt, red and white tights, glasses and a hat.
- Woof - Even the dog is a character here, with a red and white striped jumper and hat.
- Wizard Whitebeard - A red coat, long white beard, blue hat and rainbow walking stick are the essentials to render the Wizard. Oh, and don't forget that he's barefoot!
Harry Potter
- Hermione Granger - A brown wig with bangs is essential to capturing Hermione's look, along with the quintessential uniform — white dress shirt, black coat, striped tie, pleated skirt and knee socks. Don't forget to have her carrying an old, leather-bound book that could be full of spells.
- Harry Potter - Grab a short brown wig, circular glasses, a white dress shirt, black coat, striped tie and you're ready for a magical night. Bonus points for a cape and a magic wand!
- Dumbledore - The Hogwarts headmaster's look isn't complete with a long, white beard. Finish the costume with long, gray clothing, beaded hat and magic wand.
- Professor Snape - For this dark professor, you'll need a shoulder-length dark wig and long shrouded black clothing. Don't forget a cold, blank stare.
Coordinatea book character class celebration with a sign up.View an Example
Cat in the Hat
- The Cat in the Hat - To bring The Cat in the Hat to life, you'll need a giant cat costume along with the iconic tall, red and white striped hat and a red bow tie.
- Brother - The narrator of the story, the brother tells us all about their wild day. He has short, spikey hair, a red sweater and blue jeans.
- Sally - Don't forget the sister, Sally, with her white blouse, blue jumper, red hairbows and blonde hair.
- Thing One and Thing Two - The Things are so fun to recreate, with their giant aqua-colored wigs and red jumpsuits marked with their names.
Daring Detectives
- Nancy Drew - Bring to life this well-known book character by wearing glasses, a plaid skirt, blouse with a Peter Pan collar and headband. Make sure to also carry your tools of investigation (notebook, magnifying glass, etc.).
- Sherlock Holmes - Represent this iconic detective with a plaid coat, hat, pipe, spyglass, tie and excellent deduction skills. Bonus points if you arrive with your sidekick.
- Watson - Often portrayed in black, Watson is known for his dark, tailored clothing, dark hat, mustache and cane.
- Harriet The Spy - Represent this vivacious sleuth bursting with personality by wearing a yellow raincoat over a red or brightly colored hoodie, hair parted down the middle and tied in the back, and carry a classic notebook with the word "PRIVATE" written boldly on the cover. Don't forget to take notes about everything you see and hear!
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
- The White Witch - Bring your favorite childhood book to life by recreating the White Witch costume. Go big with white hair, dress, face glitter, wand and all.
- Aslan - You must have Aslan, of course, and he is fairly easy with just a head-to-toe lion costume. Practice your deepest voice and stay in character the whole time you are in costume.
- Mr. Tumnus - Guys, go shirtless and wear a pair of ears, grow or buy some facial hair and bring Mr. Tumnus to life.
- Lucy - Lucy must be there, too, in her long dress and healing cordial. Other books in The Chronicles of Narnia series describe her as golden-haired, so you could add a wig to the ensemble if needed.
- Edmund - Become Edmund for a night, either as the young boy that enters Narnia or as the confident king in the end.
- Susan - Depict this feisty sister with her dark coat, bow and arrow and magic hunting horn from Father Christmas.
- Peter - Rounding out the four Pevensie siblings is Peter, the eldest and slayer of wolves. Don a classic British schoolboy outfit and add a replica of the sword Rhindon.
Recruit parent volunteers for the school year with a sign up.View an Example
Teens and Adults
With ideas for every type of party, these teen and adult costumes will add a perfect touch of literary magic.
Pride & Prejudice
- Mr. Darcy - Channel this iconic period character by serving up some Austenian attire. You could go with the classic wrapped necktie, vest, long coat and slacks version or the slightly unbuttoned version with a white shirt, slacks and long coat. Don't forget to assume a haughty (but lovable) air.
- Elizabeth Bennett - Be the lady of the night, dressed in a long, empire-waisted gown with an overcoat. Fix your hair up in an elaborate updo, with tendrils of hair loose around the face, and sass that won't quit. Bonnet is optional.
Twilight
- Bella Swan - Own this moody character with long dark hair and a pale complexion. Have extra fun and come as her pregnant.
- Edward Cullen - Everyone will know you're Edward if you dress in sharp, tailored clothes with a fair, sparkly complexion and short, dark hair.
- Jacob - Easily represent Jacob as either the dark-eyed protector of Bella or come in his full wolf regalia for a look no one will forget.
- Alice Cullen - A super-short pixie cut and dark eye makeup will help you channel the captivating look of this petite vampire.
- Rosalie - Known for her long red hair, Rosalie's getup just needs stunning clothes and a stare that will hypnotize anyone who looks for too long.
- Jasper Hale - The bad boy of the group, Jasper wears a lot of black, always seems on edge and ready for a fight, and has longer, dark hair.
Phantom of the Opera
- The Phantom - You'll be unforgettable in your long black cape and your face partially obscured with a white face mask. Be sure to practice your swoop in and out with your cape and your dark, mesmerizing stare.
- Christine - You're the object of his affection, understandably. Who wouldn't fall in love with you when you're dressed in a stunning gown with your dark, curly hair framing your face?
The Great Gatsby
- Jay Gatsby - Jay is the owner of a luxurious mansion and he dresses the part. Rent your best suit and bow tie, slick back your hair and channel your inner Gatsby. You've got this.
- Daisy Buchanan - Dust off your sparkliest headpiece and grab a fur because you're going to be Daisy. Former love interest of Jay and married to Tom, you stir up quite the drama, which is just how you like it. Load up on the jewelry and brush your short blonde hair before making it a night to remember.
- Nick Carraway - Narrator Nick Carraway is known for his bowtie, vest and suit. You're a critical character to bring The Great Gatsby to life, so do him justice.
- Myrtle Wilson - Who wouldn't want to be Myrtle? With her bright red hair, even redder clothing, big personality, and drive to improve her life and get away from Tom, she'd be a fun character for a night.
- Tom Buchanan - Tom is a cold, hard man with a mustache, dark glasses, very short hair and a sharp, severe suit. Basically, dress like the party security guard and you're ready to be Tom.
- Jordan Baker - Born into privilege, Jordan oozes luxury and has a rather aloof personality. Dark, short hair, long layers of pearls, and a chic flapper dress would bring out your inner Jordan.
Organize registration for an after-school art program with a sign up.View an Example
Best for Kids
Kids of all ages will love these imaginative ideas for costumes. Get creative and use items you already have around the house!
Charlotte's Web
- Fern - Fern is adorable in her farm girl outfit, achieved with a plaid top and rolled up jeans, or a Peter Pan collared shirt with a blue apron or jumper. Hair can be in pigtails or braids — and make sure to stay super close to Wilbur.
- Charlotte - You're a spider! Eight long legs on your back with an all-black sweat suit, and you're ready to go party.
- Wilbur - The cutest little pink pig by far, Wilbur will be recognizable wherever you go. Go all out with a head-to-toe piggy costume or grab a snout, ears and curly tail worn with all-pink clothing.
- Templeton - A full rat costume — or just some ears, whiskers and a tail — will help you transform into Templeton for the night.
A Wrinkle in Time
- Meg Murry - Meg begins her journey with sadly low self-esteem — something we all might relate to at 13 years old! But you can wear her glasses, "mouse-brown" hair and teeth full of braces with pride, knowing that she learns to love and believe in herself as the heroine she is.
- Charles Wallace - Meg's younger brother may look like a normal five-year-old, but he's also a boy genius. You can even depict him after he gives himself over to the man with the red eyes and becomes robot-like, with glasses showing the opaque blue eyes that he'll wear until Meg rescues him.
- Calvin O'Keefe - Tall, thin, red-haired and popular, Calvin joins Meg and Charles Wallace in the journey across time. Despite his social status and self-declared protector role, he longs to belong in a family like theirs, so keep close to their sides all night.
Pinkalicious
- Pinkalicious - Every child will know this unforgettable book character by her bright pink dress. Take it even further and spray her hair with washable pink hair spray and glitter.
- Peterrific - The little brother, Peter, is an adorable sidekick who loves to build things, so make sure Peter is dressed to play and has a basket or backpack full of building blocks for his giant tower.
- Parents - Keep a close eye on Pinkalicious and Peterrific, as they are known to be a bit mischievous. Mom is usually seen in a dress or long skirt, while dad has short dark hair, shirt and slacks.
Since books give us so much room for imagination, you can add your own spin to any of these characters. No matter what you choose, when you get an invite that says costumes required, you'll be the star of the show.
Erica Jabali is a freelance writer and blogs over at ispyfabulous.com.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
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Book Character Costume Ideas
The article provides a list of 50 costume ideas inspired by book characters, broken down by age group. The costumes range from classic characters like Where's Waldo and Harry Potter to characters from books like The Cat in the Hat, Nancy Drew, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Pride & Prejudice, Twilight, Phantom of the Opera, The Great Gatsby, Charlotte's Web, A Wrinkle in Time, and Pinkalicious.
Where's Waldo
- Waldo: To dress up as Waldo, you need a striped shirt, round glasses, blue jeans, and a Where's Waldo book to carry around.
- Odlaw: Odlaw is the odd man out and wears a yellow and black striped shirt and hat, black pants, and yellow shoes. Bonus points for glasses and a mustache.
- Wenda: Wenda is similar to Waldo and wears a red striped shirt, blue jean skirt, red and white tights, glasses, and a hat.
- Woof: Even the dog is a character here, with a red and white striped jumper and hat.
- Wizard Whitebeard: The essentials for the Wizard Whitebeard costume are a red coat, long white beard, blue hat, and a rainbow walking stick. Don't forget that he's barefoot!
Harry Potter
- Hermione Granger: To capture Hermione's look, you need a brown wig with bangs, a white dress shirt, black coat, striped tie, pleated skirt, knee socks, and an old, leather-bound book that could be full of spells.
- Harry Potter: Dress up as Harry Potter with a short brown wig, circular glasses, a white dress shirt, black coat, striped tie, and bonus points for a cape and a magic wand.
- Dumbledore: The Hogwarts headmaster's look is complete with a long, white beard, long gray clothing, a beaded hat, and a magic wand.
- Professor Snape: For this dark professor, you'll need a shoulder-length dark wig, long shrouded black clothing, and a cold, blank stare.
The Cat in the Hat
- The Cat in the Hat: To bring The Cat in the Hat to life, you'll need a giant cat costume, the iconic tall, red and white striped hat, and a red bow tie.
- Brother: The narrator of the story, the brother, has short, spikey hair, a red sweater, and blue jeans.
- Sally: Sally wears a white blouse, blue jumper, red hairbows, and blonde hair.
- Thing One and Thing Two: The Things can be recreated with giant aqua-colored wigs and red jumpsuits marked with their names.
Nancy Drew
- Nancy Drew: To bring Nancy Drew to life, wear glasses, a plaid skirt, blouse with a Peter Pan collar, and a headband. Don't forget to carry your tools of investigation like a notebook and magnifying glass.
- Sherlock Holmes: Represent this iconic detective with a plaid coat, hat, pipe, spyglass, tie, and excellent deduction skills. Bonus points if you arrive with your sidekick.
- Watson: Watson is often portrayed in black and known for his dark, tailored clothing, dark hat, mustache, and cane.
- Harriet The Spy: Represent this vivacious sleuth by wearing a yellow raincoat over a red or brightly colored hoodie, hair parted down the middle and tied in the back, and carry a classic notebook with the word "PRIVATE" written boldly on the cover. Don't forget to take notes about everything you see and hear!
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
- The White Witch: Recreate the White Witch costume with white hair, dress, face glitter, wand, and all.
- Aslan: Dress up as Aslan with a head-to-toe lion costume and practice your deepest voice to stay in character.
- Mr. Tumnus: Bring Mr. Tumnus to life by going shirtless, wearing a pair of ears, growing or buying some facial hair.
- Lucy: Dress up as Lucy in her long dress and healing cordial. Add a wig if needed to match the description of golden-haired Lucy in other books in The Chronicles of Narnia series.
- Edmund: Become Edmund for a night, either as the young boy that enters Narnia or as the confident king in the end.
- Susan: Depict Susan with her dark coat, bow and arrow, and magic hunting horn from Father Christmas.
- Peter: Rounding out the four Pevensie siblings is Peter, the eldest and slayer of wolves. Don a classic British schoolboy outfit and add a replica of the sword Rhindon.
Pride & Prejudice
- Mr. Darcy: Channel this iconic period character by serving up some Austenian attire, such as a wrapped necktie, vest, long coat, and slacks or a slightly unbuttoned version with a white shirt, slacks, and long coat. Don't forget to assume a haughty (but lovable) air.
- Elizabeth Bennett: Dress up as the lady of the night in a long, empire-waisted gown with an overcoat. Fix your hair up in an elaborate updo, with tendrils of hair loose around the face, and sass that won't quit. A bonnet is optional.
Twilight
- Bella Swan: Own this moody character with long dark hair and a pale complexion. Have extra fun and come as her pregnant.
- Edward Cullen: Dress in sharp, tailored clothes with a fair, sparkly complexion and short, dark hair to represent Edward.
- Jacob: Represent Jacob as either the dark-eyed protector of Bella or come in his full wolf regalia for a memorable look.
- Alice Cullen: Channel the captivating look of this petite vampire with a super-short pixie cut and dark eye makeup.
- Rosalie: Known for her long red hair, Rosalie's getup just needs stunning clothes and a stare that will hypnotize anyone who looks for too long.
- Jasper Hale: The bad boy of the group, Jasper wears a lot of black, always seems on edge and ready for a fight, and has longer, dark hair.
Phantom of the Opera
- The Phantom: Dress up as the Phantom with a long black cape and a face partially obscured with a white face mask. Practice your swoop in and out with your cape and your dark, mesmerizing stare.
- Christine: Dress in a stunning gown with dark, curly hair framing your face to represent the object of the Phantom's affection.
The Great Gatsby
- Jay Gatsby: Dress up as Jay Gatsby with a luxurious suit, bow tie, slicked-back hair, and channel your inner Gatsby.
- Daisy Buchanan: Dust off your sparkliest headpiece, grab a fur, and dress up as Daisy, the former love interest of Jay and married to Tom.
- Nick Carraway: Dress in a bowtie, vest, and suit to bring the narrator Nick Carraway to life.
- Myrtle Wilson: Dress up as Myrtle with bright red hair, red clothing, and a big personality.
Charlotte's Web
- Fern: Dress up as Fern with a farm girl outfit, achieved with a plaid top and rolled-up jeans or a Peter Pan collared shirt with a blue apron or jumper. Style your hair in pigtails or braids and stay close to Wilbur.
- Charlotte: Dress up as a spider with eight long legs on your back using an all-black sweat suit.
- Wilbur: Dress up as the cute little pink pig with a head-to-toe piggy costume or wear a snout, ears, and a curly tail with all-pink clothing.
- Templeton: Transform into Templeton with a full rat costume or just some ears, whiskers, and a tail.
A Wrinkle in Time
- Meg Murry: Wear glasses, "mouse-brown" hair, and teeth full of braces to represent Meg Murry, who learns to love and believe in herself as the heroine she is.
- Charles Wallace: Depict Meg's younger brother, Charles Wallace, who may look like a normal five-year-old but is also a boy genius. You can even dress up as him after he gives himself over to the man with the red eyes and becomes robot-like, with glasses showing opaque blue eyes.
- Calvin O'Keefe: Tall, thin, red-haired, and popular, Calvin joins Meg and Charles Wallace in the journey across time. Keep close to their sides all night.
Pinkalicious
- Pinkalicious: Dress up as Pinkalicious with a bright pink dress. Spray your hair with washable pink hair spray and glitter for an extra touch.
- Peterrific: Dress up as the little brother, Peter, who loves to build things. Have a basket or backpack full of building blocks for his giant tower.
- Parents: Keep a close eye on Pinkalicious and Peterrific. Mom is usually seen in a dress or long skirt, while dad has short dark hair, a shirt, and slacks.
Please note that the information provided above is based on the content of this article.
