Alphabet Fancy Dress Theme

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Posted on 24th June, 2012 by Adele

Letter Related Parties

Giving your guests a letter as a costume theme is quite common and can make for some very interesting ideas for costumes. You have a few options…

Allow guests to dress up in a costume related to their initials (or just first name if you want to narrow their choices)
Ask guests to dress up in costumes related to your initials
Choose 1 or 2 letters that they have to find a related costume for.

To be honest, when you first send out your invitations, many of your guests will be very confused as to what you are asking. We would suggest that in the invitation you do give them a good explanation. If your guests are confused, they may not even attempt to dress up, or worse, not bother to attend your party.

I would include some costume suggestions for various letters, just to get their brain cells working a bit. If you really want to help, why not print out this page, or share it with your friends on Twitter, or Facebook. so you have a complete A-Z list of possible costumes.

We have costume ideas for the entire alphabet, and think of new potential costumes all the time. We’d love to know what costume you would dress up as, or any other costume ideas you may have. Why not drop us a line?

Now, we are not saying that we stock everything on these lists,but we hope our information on all of these costume ideas for a letter fancy dress party will give you inspiration. We will provide links, where more detailed information may be available to help you even further.

Costume Ideas For The Letter W

Posted on 28th June, 2012 by Adele

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Wizard Costume

£31.25

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Roman Gladiator Warrior Kids Costume

£23.04

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Hawaiian Shirt - Magnum Costume

£15.60

Costume Ideas for Letter W

There are a number of overhead masks and photo-style cardboard masks which may enable you to impersonate celebrities. Some of these may be featured in the list, but for others there may be no set costumes and outfits. These celebs include:

Wales, Prince of
Walsh, Louis
Watson, Emma
Wheres Wally
William, Prince
Williams, Robbie
Willoughby, Holly
Will I Am
Walliams, David
Wayne Rooney

WAG – Otherwise known as ‘Wives & Girlfriends’ – originally footballer’s wives (and girlfriends) were called this. it is now associated with a lady who needs a lot of money for her upkeep. A great fun costume that you could easily put together at home.

W G Grace - Famous English Cricketer, portrayed in old style cricket ‘whites’ and is specially famous for his extensive moustache and beard

Waitress – Standard uniform is a black dress or white blouse and black skirt, topped with an apron and a headdress. Sexy versions could be used such as the French Maid. Also available are 50s Diner-style outfits in the shorter style.

Wales, Prince of -Either use a Prince Charles mask, as mentioned above, or wear formal dress and pin some pictures of Welsh landmarks to it the Prints of Wales.

Wallace - Along with his sidekick/companion/dog Gromit, a popular character from Aardmann Animations films. An official character is available.

Wally - See Wheres Wally

Walpurgisnacht – A religious celebration, on the eve of Mayday. Known as the spring equivalent to Halloween. Costume could consist of either an English nun, or possible a Halloween character such as a witch.

Walter Raleigh, Sir-Tudor nobleman, explorer and one-time favourite of Elizabeth I. Tudor outfit (including cloak for spreading on puddles) plus pointed beard.

Waluigi - Lazy anti hero cartoon video game character, a companion to Wario(below). An official costume is available.

War & Peace – A theme that can consist of male and female uniforms, with army outfits ranging in sizes and colours. There are so many military based costumes on the market to suit all shapes and sizes.

Wario A cartoon video game antihero, portrayed as the opposite to the popular Mario the Plumber character (the W being an upside-down M). Similar style costume to Mario, but with yellow shirt and purple dungarees.

Wet Wear Event – Perfect for summer, a wet wear event can consist of outfits in our Hawaiian range, with accessories from flower garlands to coconut bras.

Warlock - Generally accepted as the male equivalent of a Witch or an evil Wizard.

Warrior – You can decide what type of warrior you want to be (Roman, Medieval Knight, Warrior Queen i.e. Boudicca or Xena or a Ninja).

Washington, George-Famous early American President. Georgian or colonial style outfit, with white periwig.

Watchdog - Animal used to guard premises (usually Boxer, Rottweiler or Alsatian). Also Tock, a dog character with a clock on his body in the story/film The Phantom Tollbooth.

Watchmen- Originally a types of guard or policeman of a city or premises but also a group of costumed anti-hero superheroes (Night Owl, Rorschach, Silk Spectre, etc.) in the graphic novels by Alan Moore and the spin-off film. Costumes for the heroes are available.

Watermelon An interesting choice, but there is apparently a female novelty costume based on the bright green and pink colours of a watermelon on the market.

Wednesday- Daughter from the ‘Addams Family‘ Wednesdays child is full of woe. A-Line black dress with white pointed collar and cuffs. Against the general spirit of the character, a sexy version is available

Wee Willie Winkie- Nursery rhyme character famed from running through the town. Long white (or striped) night gown with matching nightcap and candle on a candle-holder.

Weed, Little Companion character to Bill and Ben the Flowerpot Men, popular childrens TV characters.

Wellington (1) – Military hero who defeated Napoleon at battle ofWaterloo in 1815

Wellington (2) One of the Wombles.

Welsh Dragon- A red dragon costume, symbol of the welsh nation. It appears on the Welsh national flag. Hire option may be the only way around this unless you are very artistic and can make your own.

Welsh National Costume- Traditional costume featuring a skirt with petticoats, blouse and black tall tapered hat, possibly carrying love spoons, leeks. etc.

Wench Peasant style costume that did not change much through history. Costumes are available to purchase. See also German-style stein-Maiden outfits.

Wet Wear Event – Perfect for summer, a wet wear event can consist of anything from souwesters and raincoats through to outfits based on swimwear or wet-look fabrics.

Werewolf – Half man, half wolf. The man changes into the wolf-form during the time of the full moon. Hairy werewolf costumes with body, mask, gloves etc. It is easy to purchase items to make up your own costume. A great tip is to use some theatrical hair and have hair coming out of rips in shirts and trousers etc. A Michael Jackson variation, using the red Thriller outfit is possible.

Western Hero

Whale & Prince of Whales - There are few off-the-peg whale outfits (possibly on grounds of practicality and size) but one can work the same concept as the Prince of Wales (above) with whale pictures!

Wheres Wally/Wanda-Popular book characters with distinctive red/white stripe clothing. Official costumes (and masks) are available.

White Rabbit (1) Principal character in Alice’s Wonderland adventures. Initially seen wearing a jacket (or tailcoat) en route to a party. Later seen in a heraldic tabard.

White Rabbit (2) Character either useful as an Easter Bunny or as an assistant/partner to a magician.

White Lady – Popular name for a female ghost and sometimes the spectral harbinger of death. In German mythology, Bertha, the White Lady, steals into nurseries and rocks infants to sleep, but acts as a bogey-figure, striking terror in naughty children. Any white clothes will suffice with a pale complexion. Some might regard Dickens Miss Haversham as a White Lady.

White Queen – In the original ‘Alice Through The Looking Glass’, the White Queen (a rather shambolic counterpart to the Red Queen) seems more elderly, wears a shawl and turns into a sheep later in the story. In the Tim Burton ‘Alice’ she is slightly ‘other-worldly’, leading the forces of Good against the tyranny of the Red Queen.

White Suited Disco Dancer – As portrayed by John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever, wearing a white three piece suit and either a black or pink shirt with wide collar.

Whittington, Dick Pantomime character. A poor boy who goes to London with his cat to seek his fortune and, by defeating the evil King Rat with his cats help, becomes Lord Mayor, marries and lives happily ever after. Traditionally, a Principal Boy role (i.e. played by a girl).

Who, Doctor -After eleven incarnations (give or take), the worlds favourite time traveller has adopted many persona, the most popular traditionally being the fourth and fifth (Tom Baker and Peter Davison) for which official costumes exist. The current incarnation, played by Matt Smith has a keen following but no really distinctive look.

Wicked Witch of the West – From Frank L Baum’s book ‘The Wizard of Oz’. In the original book she was not named, but for the book and spin-off musical ‘Wicked’ she is named as Elphaba Thropp. Her witch costume is all-black with a tall, pointed hat. She is green-skinned.

Wild Man – May take many forms, one of which is an incarnation of the Yeti or Abominable Snowman of the Himalayas or Bigfoot inNorth America. Also the character Ben Gunn ofTreasure Island might be said to have grown a little wild.

Wild Thing – From the childrens book by M. Sendek, ‘Where the Wild Things Are’. Blue/grey fur animal suit, grey balaclava with white bull horns. Grey beard and make-up.

Wild Wig Night – With a wide range of wigs on the market, this can be a fun themed event or a fund raiser.

Will Scarlet – Character who is often associated with Robin Hood. Doublet and hose in scarlet or red shades, hat.

William Brown – Hero of many stories written by Richmal Crompton (the TV Series gave Dennis Waterman his first role). William Brown and his gang have a special place in the remembrance of school days.

William Gladstone – (1809-1898). Victorian Liberal Prime minister and statesman. Victorian sombre style outfit.

William Shakespeare – (1564-1616). Arguably the English speaking world’s best known playwright. Doublet, stiff, lace collar, padded short breeches, silk stockings, shoes with rosettes and a beard.

William Tell – Folk Hero of Switzerland who defied the tyrant administrator Gessler, and was punished by having to shoot an apple from his son’s head. Despite successfully accomplishing this feat, he was captured. He then escaped and led a revolt to lead the Swiss to independence.

Wlliam Wallace – Scottish hero, most recently portrayed by Mel Gibson in the 1995 film ‘Braveheart’. Fur-based warrior outfit (avoid using tartan as it was not thought to have been worn in Scotland before the 16^th Century!)

Willie Wonka- From Roald Dahl’s book ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’. Bright Tailcoat and trousers, top hat, check waistcoat, bowtie or cravat and a walking cane. Portrayed by Gene Wilder in 19721and Johnny Depp in 2005.

Wilma Flintstone – Wife of Fred from the iconic 1960s TV cartoon series and a 1994 film. Wears a white dress and necklace. Has orange/auburn hair normally piled up in a beehive hair-do. For a couple’s pairing, you could use Fred and say he was Wilma’s husband!

Winehouse, Amy - Iconic pop star of the Noughties, famed for her trademark black beehive hairstyle, winged eyeliner and tattoos. Tragically died aged 27, in 2011.

Winnie the Pooh – Originally a rather tatty teddy from the books by A.A. Milne. Now, thanks to Disney, a tubby golden bear with red jacket. Friends with Eeyore and Piglet.

Sir Winston Churchill – (1874-1965). The over-riding image of Winston Churchill is of a large man in a dark suit with balding hair and a large cigar.

Witch – The original wicked woman. The costume consists of hat, dress and cape normally in black although other colours can be added. Accessories can include broomstick, black cat and mini cauldron. Make-up may involve warts (rice krispies can be useful!) and tooth black.

Witch Doctor – Grass Skirt, Fur/Animal Print waistcoat, amulets. Tribal face and body paint may be used.

Wizard - Costume consists of hat and gown, can be used for ‘Harry Potter‘ or ‘Lord of the Rings’.

Wizard of Oz -Supposedly the all-powerful leader of the Kingdom of Oz, but in fact in the story he is exposed as a fraud – a small man hiding behind masks and technology.

Wolf - The woodland creature from the story ‘Little Red Riding Hood‘. Could use any of the following elements: A grey/brown fur suit; Wolf mask; Face paint. For a Granny-impersonation add nightdress. mopcap and glasses (although some ready-made Wolf/Granny outfits exist).

Wolfman -Aside from being a classic Universal Studios Monster, a new variation of costumes based on the film Teenwolf are also on the market.

‘Wobblies’ - From the British ‘Russ Abbott’ comedy programme consisting of such ‘wobbly’ characters as Fatman and Blunderwoman

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart - Famous classical composer. May be relevant to an ‘Eighties’ party thanks to ‘Amadeus’ (1984). Outfit consists of a typical 18th Century ornate frock with lace jabot/cravat and cuffs, breeches, leggings/socks. Could be accessorised with a white judge wig to complete the look. Could also be carrying a musical instrument

Wolverine-One of the mutant X-Men in the comic book (and films) of the same name. He has also had his own spin-off movie. His mutancy is that parts of his skeleton have been replaced with a living steel compound, so he grows knife-like claws and his body can quickly heal itself. The official costume is based on a yellow and blue jumpsuit.

Womble -Popular TV character from the 1970’s. Wombles included UncleBulgaria and Madame Cholet. Outfits consist of large fur suits, with oversized head mask.

Wonder Woman Member of the Legion of Super-heroes, Wonder Woman descended from the Amazonians, and we have a range of Wonder Woman outfits to match her image, both the original style and variations on a more sexy style.

Woodstock-Small yellow bird, friend of Snoopy the beagle in the Peanuts cartoons. An official costume exists.

Woody - Toy Cowboy from the famous Toy Story films. Can be teamed with his friends, Buzz Lightyear , Mr Potato Head, or his seeming sweetheart in Toy Story 1, Bo-Peep.

Woopie Cushion – a foamed novelty costume available to purchase in standard and extra large sizes. Guaranteed to get a laugh!

Worzel Gummidge – Children’s favourite of the book and TV series, famous for being able to change heads. Old tail suit, with straw in strategic places plus a battered top hat. Carrot nose is a good finishing touch.

WPC – Woman Police Constable You can either purchase your costume or you can put your costume together. There are lots of accessories on the market to help you to complete your outfit. all you need as a base is a shirt and black skirt or trousers.

Writer -Simple idea, characters could include William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens or Lord Byron. Costume depends on person in question.

Wrestler – British wrestlers such as Big Daddy, Mick McManus and Jackie Pallot are still fondly remembered for the televised bouts on Saturday afternoons in the 1960s/70s. The newer generation of wrestlers are either members of the American World Wrestling Federation, who all have distinctive names and costumes, or the Mexican masked Lucha libre fighters.

Costume Ideas For The Letter Z

Posted on 28th June, 2012 by Adele

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Zorro - Boys Costume

£16.56

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High Priest Zombie Mens Halloween Costume

£35.95

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Witch Doctor Kit

£10.15

Costume Ideas for Letter Z

There are a number of overhead masks and photo-style cardboard masks which may enable you to impersonate celebrities. However at the moment there are few Z celebrities, although you could always go as a Z list celebrity!

Zebedee – Jack-in-the-box-style character from the Magic Roundabout TV series of the late Nineteen-Sixties/early Nineteen-Seventies (also a more recent feature film). Famous for his giant spring lower body, red, round face and black curled moustache. Catchphrase Time for Bed

Zebra-Traditionally black and white, although some show a brownish tinge, the zebra can be an interesting face/body-paint challenge beyond the fur-fabric alternative. If a full zebra is too much of a challenge, several costumes (pimps, etc) use zebra print clothing or facings to suits.

Zero- Unusual suggestion in so far as this is Jack Skellingtons skeletal dog in the film Nightmare Before Christmas. Zero costumes for dogs do exist, but one for a human may require some improvisation.

Zeus-Leader of the Greek Gods, whose main claim to fame is transforming into various birds and animals, to visit and seduce mortal women.

Ziggy Stardust-Persona adopted by British singer David Bowie for a music album and tour in the early 1970s with his backing group, The Spiders from Mars.Bowie wore a glitter jumpsuit and had orange hair. This look later developed into the more elaborate Aladdin Sane featuring the iconic zig-zag make-up.

Zippy-Copyright character from the Nineteen-Seventies childrens series Rainbow. Characterised by a large zip mouth. A yellow licensed costume does exist.

Zit -A very non-PC costume popularised by the film Animal House. Using a white sheet for the body and filling your cheeks with food, you pop yourself (by slapping your cheeks) from time to time!

Zodiac- Sign your body with pictures of the various zodiac symbols or entities or just choose to portray a single Zodiac entity.

Zombie-For those seeking the more gross and gruesome approach, the un-dead look is the popular one to die for. The Michael Jackson ‘Thriller’ video and the various George A. Romero Zombie films are good reference sources. Recent years have seen a growth in enthusiasm for Zombies and Zombie films, matched by an expansion in the range of costumes available. Examples include Zombie Cheerleaders and Zombie Doctors and Nurses.

Zoo Animal -Use this as an excuse to portray any animal you wish.

Zoo Keeper-Someone has to look after the livestock, so some parties have seen the staff as Keepers to tend to the every need of their guests. An alternative to all animal dress, couples/groups may work an Animal and Trainer concept.

Zoot-The saxophonist from Dr Teeth and The Electric Mayhem, the band on Jim Hensons Muppet Show. Also seen in some of the Muppet films.

Zoot Suit-Nineteen-Fifties American suit, popularised in the late Nineteen-Seventies/early Nineteen-Eighties, by the pop singer Kid Creole and also Jim Carrey in the film The Mask. White, black or coloured fedora (depending on suit). Baggy trousers with tapered hem, long jacket with padded shoulders, white or coloured shirt and bowtie. Smokin!

Zorg-Villain and weapons dealer with a cranial prosthetic in the film The Fifth Element. Played by Gary Oldman, who had a strange cat-cum-chameleon pet.

Zorro-Swashbuckling masked hero of Old Spanish California, portrayed in several films and TV series’. Costume usually involves dark trousers, light shirt, cummerbund, hat, cape and sabre (plus, of course, the mask (either in fabric with ties or a black domino style).

Zuko-Leading character in the film The Last Airbender (2010). Zuko himself is a Firebender. What licensed costumes are available (in theUS) are for children.

Zuko, Danny – Principal character in the popular film Grease (1978). Played by John Travolta, opposite Olivia Newton-John as Sandy Olsson. Costume – T-Bird jacket, jeans and quiff wig.

Zulu- For the Caucasian client, this costume requires a black catsuit or a deal of body colour. A grass or coloured-cloth skirt is used with spear and shield accessories, plus a dark and curly wig. Other accessories such as earrings and jewellery may be used.

Zulu Krewe Member- The Zulu Krewe of New Orleans Carnival presents a parody of black Africans – all coconuts and grass-skirts. Perhaps not the most politically correct costume, but a possibility to use an upgraded witch-doctor outfit for the celebrations. The addition of a crudely made crown of bamboo, tropical fruits, coconut shells or whatever, plus an equally improvised sceptre will provide a Zulu King.

Zumba Dancer - Zumba is the latest in a long line of energetic dance/fitness regimes and has a keen following, along with its own special clothing!

Zurg, Emperor Arch-foe of spaceman Buzz Lightyear in the film Toy Story 2.

Costume Ideas For The Letter Y

Posted on 28th June, 2012 by Adele

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Trilby Hat - felt type Yellow

£10.50

Costume Ideas for Letter Y

There are a number of overhead masks and photo-style cardboard masks which may enable you to impersonate celebrities. However at the moment there are few Y celebrities!

Yankee Doodle Dandy -Derived from the 1942 musical film biography of the multi-talented American George M Cohen. The film starred James Cagney and the Yankee Doodle Dandy song involved him in a patriotic Uncle Sam-style outfit. On the other hand, Yankee Doodle Pigeon was the carrier bird chased by Dastardly and Mutley in their Flying Machines cartoon series.

Yankees Supporter - For someone not wanting to dress up or try too hard, get any of the widely available NY logo leisure-wear and go as a New York Yankees baseball team supporter.

Yashmak dancer - A yashmak is a type of veil, usually made of muslin or chiffon worn by women of the Middle East, especially Turkey. One or several such veils may be part of a belly-dancer outfit.

Yellow -A ‘Yellow’ person intimates cowardice, but if you ignore that, there are opportunities for use of yellow wigs, clothes, tights etc for a head-to-toe portrayal of this colour. Also, of course, The Simpsons are yellow-skinned! For simplicity, a banana costume may also work. You could also use a yellow Morphsuit to create an all over yellow look.

Yellow Rose of Texas – Subject of a much-loved American tune of the 1950s. Cowgirl in shades of yellow & white.

Yeoman of the Guard- The traditional scarlet and gold uniform of the Yeoman of the Guard, who protect the Tower of London was devised by Henry VII but has been embellished over the centuries. (The ruff originated in the Elizabethan era, the be-ribboned bonnet in James IIs reign).

Yeti- Also known as the Abominable Snowman. A legendary creature of shaggy appearance sighted in the Himalayan mountain range.

Yin Yang Person (or a couple as Yin and Yang) – The contrasting elements of Chinese symbolism combine to create a novel concept for a party theme of opposites. As a couple, one person can dress all black, the other all white, or for the more ambitious one person can do a half-and-half costume – Black/white; Male/female.

YMCA -Iconic song from the 1980s. An opportunity for a group to get together as the group The Village People.

Young Ones (The)-BBC television series first broadcast in 1982. Main characters are: Neil – Hippy Costume, Rik – would-be anarchist, Vyvyan – punk and ‘normal’ Mike.

Yoda -Jedi Master in the Star Wars Universe. This might be an interesting costume idea for someone of small stature who has access to a suitable mask and robes.

Yo Gabba Gabba- Childrens TV series of the late 2000s which has something of a cult following with teenagers (and some adults) because of its colourful costumes, unusual characters and music content. Because of a limited following inBritain, costumes are available mostly through American sites and are mostly for children, although the orange/white jumpsuit of DJ Lance Rock can be found for adults.

Yogi Bear Major Hanna-Barbera cartoon character (Smarter than the average bear) who, with his side-kick Boo-boo Bear and girlfriend Cindy lived in Jellystone Park. Noted for his green flat hat and white collar with green tie.

Yoko Ono – Wife of the late John Lennon. Wear a hippy costume, long black hair and dark round glasses. Alternatively, she was famous for appearing in white mini dress or white suit.

Yosemite Sam - Prospector-style cartoon character from the Warner Bros Looney Tunes series. Noted for his voluminous red moustache and small stature, he was another character in constant battle against Bugs Bunny.

Youth Worker- May also work for YMCA. Wear a track-suit, carry a clipboard and look enthusiastic!

Yuppie – A term from the 1980s, denoting the young upwardly mobile set. Designer suit, coloured braces. Old-style (large) mobile phone.

Yul Brynner- Actor who died in October 1985. Most famous for playing the King of Siam in the King & I. Wear a sultan style costume plus bald cap wig. He also portrayed Rameses II, so an Egyptian pharaoh costume would also be suitable.

Costume Ideas For The Letter X

Posted on 28th June, 2012 by Adele

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Miss Xmas Child

£15.53

Costume Ideas for Letter X

There are a number of overhead masks and photo-style cardboard masks which may enable you to impersonate celebrities. However at the moment there are few X celebrities!

X-Box- So far as we know, theres no official X-box costume yet – but we have seen an improvised outfit based on a giant eggs box!

Xena, Warrior Princess -Female fighter in ancient and mystical lands of Myth and Legend whose adventures provide a classical counterpoint to the likes of Lara Croft.

Xmas entity -Using the alternative spelling for Christmas gives you the opportunity to wear one of the wide range of festive seasonal costumes available the Xmas Fairy, the Xmas Elf, etc.

X-Files – Popular sci-fi/ mystery show of the 1990s featuring the maverick Fox Mulder and CIA agent Dana Scully. One interpretation involves a suitable outfit plus a blacked-out tooth – The tooth is out there.

X-Men -Characters from Marvel Comic Books (and latterly three films plus a Wolverine spin-off in 2009 and a prequel in 2011). The X-Men are humans each having mutant powers, gathered together by Professor Xavier. Examples are the white-haired Storm, who controls the weather, and Wolverine, who has heightened senses and retractable claws. In contrast to these good X-Men mutants, there are also mutants who have allied themselves with Magneto, who has powers over metal. These include the shape-shifting female Mystique, whose blue-skinned look is popular at comic conventions. Official costumes for X-Men characters, when available, may reference the original comic book costumes rather than those seen in the films.

X- Rated – A teddy bear in a skeleton suit!

X-Ray – Wear a skeleton costume.

Xerxes Mighty king of the Persian Empire. His forces are seen taking on the might of a small group of Spartans, in the film 300. As portrayed in the film, he wears a lot of jewellery and has several piercings.

Xmas Helper – wear any Christmas themed elf / pixie costume.

Xmas Tree – Costumes are available, fairy lights are optional.

Costume Ideas For The Letter V

Posted on 28th June, 2012 by Adele

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Darth Vader Adult Costume

£48.50

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Vicar Kit

£4.20

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Scarlett O'Hara - Girl's Victorian Costume

£15.60

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Victorian Adult Maid Costume

£19.50

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Bathing Belle Ladies Costume

£34.80

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Victorian Boy Costume

£14.40

Costume Ideas for Letter V
There are a number of overhead masks and photo-style cardboard masks which may enable you to impersonate celebrities. Some of these may be featured in the list, but for others there may be no set costumes and outfits. These celebs include:

Victor Meldrew
Victoria Beckham
Vladmir Putin

V – Masked freedom fighter in the film V For Vendetta (2005). Outfit is based on the classic Guy Fawkes look. The mask has recently been adopted by anti-capitalist protestors.

Vader (Darth) – Villain from the original Star Wars fillm, released in 1977. Licensed costumes are available to purchase

Valentine-Typically a cupid, Eros or heart costume.

Valeria – Character from the film Carry on Screaming played by Fenella Fielding (whose talent was somewhat unique anyway). Valeria is a cross between Morticia and Elvira with white face, heavily lashed eyes, a black beehive hair-style and sheath-like dress in velvet – black, of course.

Valkyrie – In Norse folklore, one of the warrior maidens who scour the field of battle and take fallen heroes to the Halls of Valhalla. Possibly the most well known is Brunhilde, who, with her sisters, appears in Wagners operatic Ring Cycle. Her outfit is based on a female Viking, featuring a horned helmet and trident-like spear.

Valley Of The Kings Mummy The Valley of the Kings is the Egyptian location of many of the tombs of the pharaohs. Wear a mummy costume, or wrap yourself up in white toilet paper do not use real bandages as this can be dangerous..

Vampire – Creature of Slavonic myth, representing an evil spirit of the Dead returned as a bat, to drink blood and turn their victim into a vampire. Bram Stoker is said to have based Dracula(Dracul-Romanian for Devil) on a mix of Vlad the Fifth (‘The Impaler’) of Wallachia (15^th C..) and Countess Bathori, who was arrested in 1610 for killing girls to bathe in their blood.

Vanessa Kensington – From the first two Austin Powers films. There are three basic looks:- 1) Business Suit – Efficient PA-style with glasses; 2) Futuristic Silver Mini-Skirt & Boots; 3) Leather-look Catsuit & Belt.

Vanilla Ice ->a) A popular flavour of ice-cream (an ice-cream cone novelty costume is available).

b) A rapper musician, possibly best known for his hit Ice, Ice Baby sampled in Under Pressure by Queen & DavidBowie.

Vegas Showgirl - Brief, almost there glitzy costume with headdress and feathers. Go glam!

Vegetable -Dressing as a vegetable may seem a novel idea but veg. costumes are less abundant than fruits! Chilli Pepper and Carrot costumes are fairly easy to come by and we have seen mascot-style costumes for sweetcorn husks and broccoli.

Velmas - Yes, theres more than one, and all offer potential as a costume character.

a) Velma Kelly – Key character in the stage musical/film Chicago who, as the show begins, has just murdered both her sister and her husband after finding out about their affair. Standard 1920s flapper with a period bob hair-style.

b) Velma Dinkley – The studious one from the Mystery Machine gang in the Scooby-Doo cartoons. Probably best used as one of a group dressed as the gangs characters as Velma on her own might need some explanation. An official licensed costume exists.

c) Velma Von Tussle – Character in the popular stage musical/film Hairspray. Mother of Amber, the scheming drama-queen keen to win the Miss Hairspray Pageant

Venetian Ball-Goer (Male/Female) – The Venetian masquerade is associated with all-encompassing robes: Either the Batta, featuring a black silk, or velvet robe with a hood, over which a mask and tri-corn were worn, or Dominoes (a name also given to masks worn with such cloaks), which were monk-like robes with hoods, a headdress and, of course, a mask – originally in porcelain, but now in a range of materials, principally papier-mch. These masks may be plain and featureless, or painted with elaborate designs. They are favoured over make-up, as the wearer’s identity, status and sex is more easily hidden (and they are quicker/cleaner to remove when it comes to moments of passion).

Venetian Masked Carnival Goer – Aside from the characteristic elaborate costumes, masks are an essential element in Venetian carnival, being great levellers of class. Not all need be extravagantly decorated: The volto or larva is a plain white or black mask with only eye-holes and mouth cut-out, worn with a simple bautta hooded cape. On the other hand, the long beaked mask is characteristic of the zanni and also the medico della peste (plague-doctor) whose costume of wide brim hat, linen tunic and long stick represents the times when Venetians were ravaged by infections from the lagoon in which Venice sits.

Venetian Blind – Not particularly PC. Either of the above, with a white stick.

Ventriloquist & Dummy- A potential couple costume, with one partner as the ventriloquist and the other as the dummy. Costumes for the couple will depend upon who plays what role, but a mask or doll-style make-up may be required for the dummy.

Venus -Roman Goddess of Beauty and Sensual Love, Mother of Cupid. (Feast Day: 1st April). The equivalent of Greek Aphrodite. Romans regarded her as founder of their race. Costume may involve a body-stocking and long blonde hair, or Roman robes with appropriate accessories.

Venus Fly Trap-Carnivorous plant noted for its broad hinged leaf-endings with bristled edges which snap shut on insects lured by the nectar within. Audrey, the plant from Little Shop of Horrors is a variation. Although we know of no official trap-plant costumes, an ingenious party-goer could improvise a version and perhaps go with a partner dressed as a fly.

Vermin – Wear a rat or mouse costume. In some countries other animals are classed as vermin, for example Kangaroos in Australia

Veronica Lake- Film star and pin-up model of the 1940s. She specialised in femme fatale roles and was famous for her curtain-like peek-a-boo hairstyle. The character Jessica Rabbit in Who Framed Roger Rabbit? was modelled on her look.

Versailles Queen – Palace of three Queens of France before the French Revolution, with Marie-Antoinette probably being the most famous. Wear a Georgian style costume with ornate white wig.

Vestal Virgin -In the Ancient World, many Gods had temples or shrines located in Rome, tended by dedicated staff. Vesta was the virgin Goddess of the Hearth (and its fire) and her attendants were probably the most famously dedicated: Six maidens of spotless virtue were chosen to tend the sacred flame brought by Aeneas fromTroy. The girls were selected between the ages of six and ten and then served a term of thirty years. Any virgin who fell during this time was buried alive. Thus a Vestal Virgin is dressed in pure white robes with a simple hair-style.

Vet- Simple costume for the cosplay-shy. White doctor or medical gown plus a plush soft toy, or partner dressed as an animal of some kind.

Vicar- In Britain, local religious minister, usually of the C of E (Church of England) faith, best known for his dog-collar neckwear (in practice a black close-fitting collar with a white front-piece) worn both when off and on duty. Alternatively, any pseudo-religious-style costume worn for a Vicars and Tarts event.

Viceroy Butterfly – A species of Butterfly, orange in colour. We stock a beautiful ladies butterfly outfit (see image) that is ideal for this costume.

Vicky Pollard – Character from the television series Little Britain. She wears a pink tracksuit top, blue tracksuit bottoms and is rather rotund with he blonde hair tied up into a high pony tail.

Victoria -British Queen who presided over a major period of innovation and change from 1837 until her death in 1901. Although hers was one of the longest reigns, the black mourning-style outfit with white lace and head-dress (from the period when she virtually disappeared from public life in mourning for her husband, Prince Albert) is best known.

Victoria Beckham – Wife of David Beckham and former Spice Girl (when she was known as Posh Spice). Tends to wear black tight fitting clothing, slick dark hair and never smiles.

Victorias Secret Model – Victorias Secret is a well-known quality lingerie brand in the US, so this is an underwear model costume, although there is a drag version Its A Secret on the market.

Victorian Bather – Victorians wore all-in-one, all-encompassing bathing suits, females often changing into them in bathing-machines (wheeled huts which could be moved down to and into the water).

Victorian Boy There are normally two styles of Victorian boy that are usually required. One is the Ragamuffin Urchin look as portrayed by characters such as the Artful Dodger and Oliver Twist. The other is the Little Lord Fauntleroy style.

Victorian Carol Singer (Male)- Dickensian style frock suit & caped overcoat, lantern and song sheet.

Victorian Carol Singer (Female) – Victorian dress, fur trimmed cape, fur muff, bonnet, lantern and song sheet.

Victorian Female – Whereas in Elizabethan times the farthingale proved popular, during the reign of Queen Victoria the Crinoline was to become the standard, although these varied in size and shape throughout her reign, with the bustle and waterfall skirt approach, becoming the fashion at the end of the Nineteenth Century.

Victorian Girl – As with the Victorian Boy, the Victorian Girl comes in two separate categories. Firstly, there is the long dress with over-apron and mop cap approach. Secondly there is the quality costume worn by the upper classes. In many cases this reflected a miniature version of the style of clothing worn by the Victorian Females. If all else fails, an Alice costume will quite often fit the bill.

Victorian Male – Upper classes feature Morning Suit, Frock Suit and Evening suit with winged collars and cravats, whilst the working classes would be seen in rough trousers, or breeches, collarless shirt, neckerchief and cap.

Victory Captain – Lord Nelson fought the Battle of Trafalgar (1805) from HMS Victory. Wear a high-ranking naval costume

Viking-The Vikings, in their role of conquerors, were not known for their subtlety. They are usually depicted heavily armed with axes or swords. The costume comprises coarse material trousers, fur cape or jerkin, tunic or tabard. Helmet with or without plaited hair!

Village People- Pop group from the late Nineteen-Seventies and early Nineteen-Eighties, with hits such as YMCA and In the Navy. Favourite group characters for themes on those eras and Karaoke nights. Biker:- Black leather cap, jacket and trousers; Motor-cycle cop:- Helmet & Ray-ban glasses, pale blue shirt and chinos jeans; Indian:- Feathered head-dress, buckskin Indian-wear; Cowboy:- Hat, red western shirt, jeans, chaps; Sailor:- White doughboy hat and sailor-suit; Construction Worker:- Check shirt, hard hat and jeans.

Villain- As many have observed, the Baddies often have more fun, and just possibly the client might want to be wicked for once. Villainous alter-egos might include Blofeld, (from the Bond movies), Dick Dastardly (from Wacky Races) who was modelled on Professor Fate from The Great Race movie, Doctor Evil (nemesis of Austin Powers), and The Joker, or the Riddler, or any of Batman‘s foes.

Villainess-In the female fiend department, aside from Catwoman whose villainy is debatable, we have Cruella de Vil and Maleficent from the Disney stable; Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn amongst Batman‘s female foes; Medusa, Queen Mab, Queen of Fairies and the White Witch of Narnia from Fantasy and Myth.

Vina-The Orion Slave Girl from the original series of Star Trek (She was in the ST pilot episode The Cage (later The Managerie) and featured in the end credits). For the client wanting a visual but basic ‘costume’, a green-skinned girl in a belly-dancer costume. Skin colour and markings can obviously be changed for different aliens.

Vincent Price A veteran actor and the master of under-stated horror. Possibly best known for his role as Prince Prospero in the film of Edgar Allan Poes The Masque of the Red Death and as the narrator on Michael Jacksons Thriller.

Vincent Van Gogh – Famous artist whose talent was not recognised until after his death. Noted for his erratic lifestyle and the fact that he lost an ear!

Violet Beaudelaire - Hapless orphan heroine of Lemony Snickets A Series of Unfortunate Events. Wicked Count Olaf attempts to marry her to gain the family inheritance.

Violet Beauregarde - The girl who chewed’ all through Willy Wonka

Viper – The Tarantino films Kill Bill 1 & 2 feature members of the The Deadly Viper Assassination Squad, each with the nickname of a snake. The main character of the film, The Bride (aka Black Mamba aka Beatrice Kiddo) is seeking revenge against the others after a four year coma. Outfits for Beatrice are available. Those for others may need to be improvised.

Virgil – Character from Thunderbirds TV puppet series. Licensed costumes are available to purchase.

Vivian The Beverley Hills street girl played by Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman (1990). The outfit shown on the films poster consists of a pink jumper, black hotpants and black thigh-length boots!

Vivian Leigh -English actress possibly best known for her portrayal of Scarlett OHara in Gone With The Wind.

Vixen -Female fox. Either take it literally in a fox costume you can feminise it with either an appropriate eye-mask or make-up, or go as a foxy female vamp-style!

Vlad the Impaler - As noted in entry for Vampire, a ruthless warrior, who was one of the inspirations for the Dracula legend.

Voldermort - Villain from Harry Potter series of films. A licensed costume is available.

Von Trapps-Austrian family of singers whose story was dramatised for the stage-show/musical/film The Sound of Music.

Voodoo Doll- Although the Voodoo Doll has a specific purpose, cute toys with a demonic side have featured regularly throughout horror media (Karloff’s ‘The Devil Doll’, also Chucky and Bride of Chucky). Several costumes on this theme are available on the market and it is a costuming opportunity to go OTT with style.

Voodoo Priest/Priestess-For those who fancy a spell as something a little different. Film role models include Dr Facilier in The Princess and the Frog and the celebrant in the ceremony to sacrifice Solitaire in the Bond film Live and Let Die

Voorhees (Jason) – Character from the horror film franchise Friday The 13th. Licensed costumes and accessories are available to purchase, and a female version is also available.

Vulture – Notable scavenger bird of prey. Costumes for the bird are rare, but one can improvise an arty-looking culture-vulture.

Vyvyan – Character from The Young Ones TV comedy series – First shown on BBC2 in 1982. Vyvyan is a punk with a violent nature. Wear ripped clothes and gelled hair with fake body piercings. There is a wide range of punk accessories to purchase on-line.

Costume Ideas For The Letter U

Posted on 28th June, 2012 by Adele

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Werewolf Mask - Brown

£18.25

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Uncle Fester - Adult Halloween Costume

£32.50

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High Priest Zombie Mens Halloween Costume

£35.95

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Teachers Gown - Adult Budget Costume

£25.80

Costume Ideas for Letter U

Ugly Betty - Leading character in a popular US TV series, which reached its finale at the end of 2010. The Betty look involves thick-rimmed black glasses, teeth with braces and, based on an outfit she wore on her first day at Mode fashion magazine, a Guadeloupe poncho. These items are principally available from US suppliers, although some will ship to the UK.

Ugly Bug - The film Summer Magic featured the Burl Ives hit Ugly Bug Ball, and this sometimes turns up as a party theme. Alternatively the costumes can be used for a Garden Party Depending upon your interpretation of the term ugly there are a wide range of insect and bug costumes on the market, from Ladybirds/bugs and Bees to Cockroaches and Flies.

Ugly Sister - Character(s) from the fairy story and pantomime Cinderella. Traditionally they are played by males but this need not stop you girls going over the top. Loud, exaggerated dress, shoes, etc. Brightly coloured wig and overdone make-up.

Uhura, (Lieutenant) Nyota – Communications officer in the original Star Trek series.

Uma Thurman – Actress who has played a number of parts with costume party potential: Mia Wallace in Pulp Fiction; Beatrice The Bride Kitto in Kill Bill; Emma Peel in the film version The Avengers and Poison Ivy in Batman and Robin.

Ulysses aka Odysseus – Legendary leader of the Greeks, whose story is told in Homers epic poem The Odyssey. Having triumphed in the siege ofTroy, he then took ten years to get back home to Penelope, his wife. A standard Greek armour outfit may suffice.

Umpire - Not always popular with sports fans in whatever country, the UK football match official wears, typically, a black football shirt and matching shorts and has a whistle and notebook as accessories. In the US, for games such as Baseball, there may be more than one umpire, a typical outfit here being trousers/pants, a shirt in black and white stripes and a cap. Female versions of the outfit may also be available.

UNCLE Agent – The Man from UNCLE was a popular TV series of the 1960s, created during the enthusiasm for spies generated by the Bond films. Like Bond, UNCLE agents had guns and gadgets, and a spin-off series The Girl from UNCLE showed female agents in action. There is talk of reviving the franchise!

Uncle Fester – Character from the Addams Family. Long grey robe, bald head and whitish/grey make-up & dark circled eyes. He also had a party trick of lighting an electric bulb in his mouth!

Uncle Sam – Potential counterpart to Miss Liberty or the Statue of Liberty. Uncle Sam has for many years been a personification of America. The costume features a top hat (usually red-white stripes with a blue band, blue tailcoat and red-white stripe trousers/pants. He also usually has a beard.

Undead, The - The last few years have seen an upswing in enthusiasm for the Undead or Zombie outfits, over and above the demand seen around Halloween. Aside from the standard zombie, recent variations have included zombie cheerleaders and medical staff.

Underground Station - Underground Station refers to stations on the London Underground transport system, the point being to dress up to represent the name of one of the hundred or so stations on the network.

Underling – Another name for a peasant costume, or someone of a lower station in life – so any peasant style costume would be suitable

Underwear Model - Although you could play this straight if you are daring enough or you have the appropriate event, there are a number of novelty padded underwear model outfits (such as Its A Secret a take on the Victorias Secret brand) on the market, mostly designed for males to imitate females.

Undertaker – Wear a black Victorian style costume with tall black top hat and cane. Alternatively an Undertaker plus Dummy outfit is available.

Underworld Character – The Underworld films tell of the war between werewolves and glamorous vampires (well before Twilight got there). Principal character is Selene, who dresses in leather-look jumpsuits.

Union Jack Character – Aside from the Dolly Bird/Ginger Spice character below, another popular British character using the British flag, the Union Jack, as part of their costume is John Bull, the personification of Britain in much the same way as Uncle Sam personifies America.

Union Jack Dress Girl – Dolly bird of the Swinging Sixties, or as worn by Geri Halliwell (Ginger Spice) at the 1997 Brit awards.

Unicorn – Mythical & heraldic beast, part horse, part lion, with the legs of a deer, and a single horn on its forehead. It is said only a virgin can capture it, and its horn could detect poison in liquid. It, or slight variations appear in many mythologies and stories including Alice Through the Looking Glass by Lewis Carroll. Costume can consist of a white cat-suit or bodysuit, unicorn wig & headdress, (or sequined cone on a balaclava).

Uniform – Choose from a large range of potential costumes here from American Gi Costumes,to a sexy ladies army outfit.

Universe Mr/Miss – Further to the Underwear Model entry above, another excuse to show off some physique either real, or enhanced with padding or muscle chests.

University Teacher / graduate – Wear a headteacher style gown and mortar board

Under The Sea Entity – Various costumes can be used for this including: Mermaids,Neptune, Lobsters, Fish, shark as some examples.

Under-achiever - The politically correct name for a Dunce.

Undressed – just go to the party wearing one of our nude suits with a strategically placed fig leaf!

Union Soldier - Northern soldier of theUS during the American Civil War (1861-1865).

United State - As a challenge, try dressing as the name or representation of a US state. Some, such as Hawaii or New York, might be easy but for others you might need to research the State Flower or its nickname e.g. The Show-Me State (Missouri) or Hoosier State (Indiana).

Ursula Andress – One of the original and most memorable of the Bond Girls. Her emergence from the sea in a white bikini in Dr No is deemed to be one of the sexiest TV moments. She also starred as the goddess-like She in the 1965 film of the same name, based on the H. Rider Haggard book.

Utility Dress - Tailored and fitted dress from the Nineteen-Forties, reaching just below the knee.

USA, Miss - Alternative to Lady Liberty as a female representative of the Unites States, and possible counterpart to Uncle Sam.

US Air Force – Actual US Air Force outfits (or replicas) are difficult to find in Britain, but a good work-around is a Maverick/Top Gun flying suit which can be more easily found from suppliers some will even have the authentic decals.

USA Cheerleader – Okay, this is a bit of a long shot, but you always think of cheerleaders as being American

Costume Ideas For The Letter T

Posted on 28th June, 2012 by Adele

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Costume

£48.00

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Aviator - Top Gun Male Costume

£28.80

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Trinity - The Matrix Adult Costume

£31.20

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Teachers Gown - Adult Budget Costume

£25.80

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Teddy Boy Red Jacket

£26.40

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Batman - The Dark Knight Costume Muscle

£41.58

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Tiger Overhead Animal Mask

£15.85

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Tailcoat - Ladies Deluxe - Pink & Black

£30.00

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Wilma Flintstone Costume

£32.50

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Tartan Miss Christmas Ladies Costume

£41.58

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Flapper 1920s - Black -Ladies Costume

£31.75

Costume Ideas the Letter T

T Personalities
There are a number of overhead masks and photo-style cardboard masks which may enable you to impersonate celebrities. Some of these may be featured in the list, but for others there may be no set costumes and outfits. These celebs include:

Tendulkar, Sachin
Tess Daley
Tommy Cooper
Travolta, John
Tulisa Contostavlos

Mr T – Popular character from the 80s TV series (and recent film) The A Team. Heavy-set coloured ex-boxer with a mohican hairstyle and loads of bling.

T Bird – From the musical Grease. Official jackets are available to purchase or, get an old black bomber jacket and using fabric paint write T Bird across the back.

Tamora – Queen of the Goths in the Shakespeare play ‘Titus Andronicus’. You could use a costume based on Boudicca (an early English tribal queen) or Xena the Warrior Princess for queen Tamora. Bolder party-goers may care to add some tattoos or tribal body-art.

Tap Dancer – Variation on the Top Hat n Tails look, although many musicals feature tap-dance routines in other costumes. Potential novel variation for the hero plumber Mario character.

Tardis – Dr. Who’s Time Machine. Not a standard off-the-peg costume, although we have come across some female fans who have built corsets based on the Tardis Larger inside than they seem from outside.

Tart – Alternative name for a hooker or French sex worker, although might prove a glamorous companion to a Jack of Hearts as a couple costume.

Tartan Wearer – Scottish or punk costume

Tarzan - Character from the book by Edgar Rice Burroughs, made famous by the film. Brought up by apes, this character’s costume includes fake-fur trunks or a tunic, and can be teamed with accessories. Tarzan could be partnered with Jane from the film.

Tasmanian Devil – Endangered rodent from Australasian continent. Best known from the Warner Bros. cartoon character Taz. Official costume is available to purchase.

Teacher - Male or female, the Teacher can be teamed in a group with schoolgirls and schoolboys, or just as successfully on its own. Accessories like a cane are perfect for this character. A teacher’s gown is relatively cheap to purchase, or you can just purchase a cane, mortar board hat. A moustache (for men) and small rimmed glasses would help to complete the look.

Tea Gown - A popular at-home gown from the late Victorian and early Edwardian eras. Consisting of full length dress and sleeves with a fitted yoke, usually a quality lace fabric. During the War years, a young lady would go out to a dance in a Tea Dress.

Teddy Bear – Childhood companion. Costumes for Winnie the Pooh or Rupert the Bear could be used. Similarly, a plain bear in a range of shades of brown can be worn, or, if portraying a much-loved bear, very worn.

Teddy Boy - A fashion statement from the late 1950’s/early 1960’s. Drainpipe trousers, draped jacket with black collar and cuffs. Suit jackets come in a range of popular colours from the era. Shoes are also available, ‘Brother Creepers’ or ‘Winkle Pickers’.

Teddy Boy Image - This look was adopted by many artists such as Cliff Richard, Buddy Holly and Shaking Stevens. The same outfits would be used. You could also get a group of lads to go as Showaddywaddy who adopted the Teddy Boy style in the 1970s but added a glitter sheen to the jackets!

Teddy Girl – From the same era as the Teddy Boys. The two can be partnered together, with the lady in a full ‘Poodle skirt’, petticoats, off-the-shoulder tops and a neck scarf. Many different hairstyles were worn, popularly a pony tail (wigs available) teamed with many accessories such as glasses. You may see some 50’s style costumes also called ‘Teeny Bopper’.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – a licensed version is now available to purchase. To put this costume together at home you will need to find green trousers and long sleeved top. You may be able to make the turtle shell from cardboard, or from a padded fabric. You will also need an eye mask in the chosen colour of your favourite turtle character.

Donatello – Purple eye mask
Michaelangelo -Orangeeye mask
Leonardo – Blue eye mask
Raphael – Red eye mask

Teletubby – Tubby characters with TVs in their chests from British childrens TV. Tinky-Winky (Purple with triangular antenna), Dipsy (Green with dipstick shaped antenna)), Laa-laa (Yellow with curly antenna) and Po (Red with a round-ended antenna)

Temple Dancer - Exotic dancers found in countries such as Cambodia and Thailand. Ornate decorated Eastern dresses with elaborate Eastern make-up, headdresses and jewellery.

Tennis Player - Tennis ‘whites’ for men or women. For women short skirts and blouses, and for the men, shorts and shirt. Accessories for both consist of headbands, wristbands, racquet, ball and towel.

Tequila Bottle – Novelty foam costume available from some suppliers. Add a Sombrero for that extra Mexican look!

Teresa, Mother – Living saint and nun who died the same day as Princess Diana. White robes with a blue/white headdress.

Terminator - Character from the future in three Arnold Schwarzenegger films. A cyborg mask is combined with combat gear and weaponry to suit.

Texan – Either a large, brash American in loud suit, wearing a Stetson hat and smoking a large cigar (as in the popular soap Dallas) or Jerry Hall, the model and ex-wife of Mick Jagger.

Texmex – A mix of the above and a Mexican or a novelty Taco costume.

Thatcher, Margaret - Major Conservative/Tory leader of the Twentieth Century and Britains first female PM. Noted for her blue two-piece suit and uncompromising attitude.

The Avengers characters - The indomitable Mr. Steed and the sexy but deadly Mrs. Peel, The Avengers combines a duo of sophistication, ruthlessness and grit with a healthy dose of humour.

The Beatles - The Fab Four, either in grey ‘Beatle suits’ or Sgt. Pepper uniforms

The Dark Knight – Latest version from Batman – Official costume available to purchase.

The Cat in the Hat - The Cat in the Hat is a children’s book by Dr. Seuss and perhaps the most famous, featuring a tall, mischievous cat, wearing a tall, red and white-striped hat and a red bow tie. He also carries an umbrella.

The Cowardly Lion – see The wizard of Oz. Lion face masks and costumes are available

The Flintstones - Get a group of 4 and go as Fred and Wilma Flintstone, and Barney & Betty Rubble. For a group of 6, add the children Pebbles and Bam-bam.

The Good, The Bad & The Ugly – How about this for a ‘thinking outside the box’ idea? Ideal for a group of 3 people. You could use an angel costume for good, a devil costume for bad and a whole number of things for ugly! You may have a spirited debate deciding who will be ‘ugly’ but it is guaranteed to get you a laugh!

The Joker - Batman Villain – Official costume available to purchase. You do not need to do your make up very well as throughout the film The Joker’s make up deteriorates

The Lord Of The Rings - Again, a great theme for a group of people. You will need people for Arwen, Frodo, Gandalf at least.

The Pink Panther – Pink jumpsuit with attached head is available to purchase.

The Vamp/Torch Singer - Slinky and smouldering, in the style of Marlene Dietrich.

The Wizard of Oz – A great theme for a group of people. You will need someone for Dorothy, The Tinman, The Scarecrow, The Wicked Witch Of the West, The Cowardly Lion, Glinda.

Theatrical Performer – This allows use of any of your historical costumes, or just mix and match for an over-the-top performer

Thief of Baghdad - The Arabian Nights story. Harem trousers and matching waistcoat, with or without a turban is the main look.

Thomas Telford - A Scottish civil engineer. Typical Victorian costume could be worn.

Thor - God of thunder. Also a popular Marvel comic character recently seen in a major movie. Winged Helmet and war-hammer are costume key points. If you cannot get the Official costume, use any Viking costume for this character.

Three Blind Mice - Nursery rhyme characters also recently seen in the Shrek movies.

Three Degrees – A British female soul and disco group (our answer to the Supremes) formed in 1963

Three Little Pigs The three little pigs each set out to build a house but only one, the one built of brick, withstood the efforts (and blowing power) of the Big Bad Wolf. Pigs in workman-like clothing.

Thriller - Celebrated single and video from Michael Jackson. Red PVC top and trousers with an afro wig, or mix with a werewolf mask!

Thunderbirds - Blue jacket with matching trousers. Coloured sash with matching hat

Scott (Thunderbird 1)
Virgil (Thunderbird 2)
Gordon (Thunderbird 3)
Alan (Thunderbird 4)
John (Thunderbird 5)

Tiger - Tiger striped fur jumpsuit with attached hands and feet. Full oversized mask. Also, printed unitards/catsuits can be found allowing for face/body-paint alternatives to masks.

Tiger Lily - Young American Indian female encountered by Peter Pan in Never-never Land.

Tigger - The super-energetic friend of Winnie the Pooh, also using a striped fur jumpsuit. Licensed costumes are available.

Tiki-Man - Character associated with the Pacific Islands. Grass skirt, fur tunic/waistcoat, teamed with face make-up.

Tiller-girl – Similar to a show girl. The Tiller Girls were among the most popular dance troupes of the 1900’s, famed for their synchronised precision dancing.

Tina Turner - Leather/suede mini skirt or short gold sequinned dress. Wig available.

Tinkerbell - Made famous by the much loved Peter Pan film. Tinkerbell is a small blonde haired fairy who wears a short green dress. Extra accessories could be a wand, wings and bells.

Tin Man - From the Wizard of Oz. The character wears a silver suit (either padded or not), a funnel hat, and a silver mask. A female Tin Girl/Woman costume is available from some suppliers.

Tin-tin – Daughter of house-servant Kyrano on Tracy Island in Thunderbirds.

Tintin – Famous comic-strip boy detective. Noted for his jumper and slacks with a quaffed hairstyle.

Toad – Leading character from The Wind and The Willows. Toad mask/make-up available. Wears a tweed jacket or county squire outfit.

Toadstool – Not necessarily an off-the-peg costume, but can be improvised. Be a Fungi to be with. Some costumes involving a pixie/elf sitting on a toadstool can also be found.

Toddler – Large baby outfit or alternatively Stewie from the Family Guy cartoon series.

Toilet – Yes, there is a costume now available that you can buy!

Tomato - Novelty foam-based costume.

Tom Cruise - Maverick (Top Gun) US Naval flying suit with decals: David Aames (Vanilla Sky) Smart dressed but spends much of the movie wearing a white plain-face mask!

Tom Jones – Tight-fitting black leather trousers with open neck white shirt.

Tom the Cabin Boy - From the children’s books ‘Captain Pugwash’. Red/white striped t-shirt with white breeches.

Tommy – British Army Uniform – World War One or Two.

Tony Blair – Wear normal smart clothes and purchase a Tony Blair overhead mask.

Tooth Fairy – Although there is an off-the-peg Tooth Fairy, its designed as a male drag costume, but a female version could easily be devised.

Top Gun – Popular film of 1986 featuring Tom Cruise as ‘Maverick’. Costume consists of a jumpsuit. Can be teamed with glasses and a helmet. Tom Cruise also wear a white Naval Officer style costume, so this is another option for this character.

Top Hat & Tails – Black top hat, black tailcoat and trousers, white waistcoat and bow tie. Accessorise with flower or white handkerchief. Ladies can ‘sex’ this costume up by wearing fishnets instead of trousers.

Top Hat & Tails performer – This can be used for a cabaret dancer.

Toreador – Spanish fighter. Wear a short jacket and pantaloon style trousers (tuck socks into long trousers to get the same effect), black shoes, white shirt and a cape. Costumes are available to purchase.

Toucan – Exotic tropical bird achieved either by fur and fabric or body and face make-up and hairspray colour. Basic black bodysuit with added blue (material) flashes. Use with balaclava and face decoration.

Toulouse-Lautrec – French Artist of the late nineteenth century, famous patron of the Moulin Rouge. Use any Victorian Gentleman costume to create this character and add a beard and moustache.

Tourist – Wear brightly coloured clothes (men should wear socks with shoes and sandals). Sunglasses, camera, hat and of course a bum bag.

Toy Soldier Several variations are possible here: The Guardsman – bearskin hat, red jacket and black trousers. The Nutcracker-style or an American version, based on a GI in green, which can be seen in the Toy Story movies. A costume for the latter is available.

Tradesman - often crop up in nursery rhymes.

Butcher
Baker
Candle-stick maker
Farmer (and wife)
Plumber – use our Super Mario plumber mate costumes

Transformer Some costumes based on the popular toys (robots which transform into vehicles), also seen in a TV series and recent films are available for children.

Transvestite A drag costume rather than the cross-dress style of, say, the Principal Boy of Pantomime.

Trinity - Leading female character from ‘The Matrix’ films. A black PVC cat suit with sunglasses and short, slicked black hair.

Troll - Found guarding the bridge of the Three Billy Goats Gruff. Long haired, bug-eyed trolls were a favourite toy of the 1960s/70s.

Trooper – American cop.

Truly Scrumptious - Leading character in Ian Fleming’s book ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’. An Edwardian style lace blouse with a long white and red striped skirt. Alternatively, later in the story she disguises herself as a wind-up doll.

Turkey - Brown/grey feather costume with crested headpiece and mask.

Tweedledum & Tweedledee - Fictional Characters from Lewis Carroll’s – Through the Looking Glass and again from the Disney 1951 film ‘Alice in Wonderland’ plus the remake of 2010.

Twenties Lady – First time ladies dresses were knee length and hair was cut fashionably short. Plenty of 20s flapper and Charleston dresses available to purchase. You can always purchase the items you need and make up your own costume at home.

Twenties Man – Choose from a striped blazer and Oxford bag trousers, straw boater and moustache, or use a top hat and tail to get the required look.

Tweety - A yellow canary – can be teamed with Sylvester the cat. A canary body and head, yellow tights and overshoes.

Twiggy – An English Model named ‘The Face of 1966′ by the Daily Express. A ‘dolly bird’ combined with the wild excesses of sixties fashion. There are lots of mod style A line dresses available to purchase to suit all sizes and budgets.

Twister – A novelty costume based on this poplar floor-mat game is now available.

Tyrannosaurus Rex – A few dinosaur costumes are available, although most are for children. If you can find one in adult size, add a sombrero for a Tyrannosaurus Mex variation!