World Book Day returns for its 22nd anniversary this year on March 7, marking a global celebration of literature in all forms.
Many children celebrate World Book Day by going to school dressed up as their favourite characters, which can for parents often mean a frantic scramble to find a last-minute costume. Luckily, we’ve done a round-up of all the best ones on the market.
But don’t worry grown-ups, we haven’t forgotten about you. Whether you’re a teacher or just a parent wanting to dress up for a bit of fun, here are some inventive costume ideas for World Book Day to suit every budget:
Professor McGonagall
Harry Potter is always a favourite choice on World Book Day, but if you’re a Potterhead and want to try something different, this Professor McGonagall costume is just the pick. The outfit includes a full-length cloak and pointed hat.
£22 | ASDA | Buy it now
Roald Dahl's Mr Twit
You can’t go wrong with a Roald Dahl character. Mr Twit never washes his beard, meaning he gets bits of food stuck in it. And – you guessed it – this online exclusive from TU comes with a beard complete with obligatory bits of ‘food’ in it. A very imaginative (if not a teeny bit gross) costume for World Book Day. In addition to the beard, the costume comes with a suit style top and purple trousers.
£20 | TU | Buy it now
Where’s Wenda
Everyone needs the Wenda to their Wally, so play mix and match with your best friend with this comical Wenda costume inspired by the puzzle book series Where’s Wally. The outfit features a top and tights in the iconic red and white striped design, plus a colourful blue skirt, hat and glasses.
£16 | ASDA | Buy it now
Alice in Wonderland
Transport yourself to Wonderland in this costume inspired by the lead character in Alice in Wonderland. The outfit comes complete with a bow headband to match Alice’s trademark blue and white dress.
£10 | ASDA | Buy it now
Captain Hook
Ahoy mateys! Go on a swash-buckling adventure with the kids this World Book Day with this Captain Hook costume. The outfit includes dress, jacket, neck tie and boot covers.
£39.98 | Amazon | Buy it now
Scarecrow from Wizard of Oz
Get your lion, tin man and Dorothy together this World Book Day to embark on a trip to see the Wizard of Oz. This scarecrow costume from Amazon comes complete with an oversized burlap top with sewn-on patches, a ragged hem and faux hay trim at the neck and sleeves.
£23.98 | Amazon | Buy it now
