Picking a character gets much easier once you stop hunting for the perfect licensed costume and start with four things: the signature colours, the clothes people remember, a simple version of the hair and one prop. That's how I style every character look, and it's how the list below works. You'll find film favourites, TV faces, storybook heroes, cartoons and video game characters, each one written up as a full outfit rather than a single accessory, with notes on the base clothes, wig or hair, makeup, shoes and finishing details. A lot of it can come from your wardrobe, a thrift store or a craft drawer, so the looks work for Halloween, themed parties, school days and casual cosplay meetups. Pick by comfort, budget and how much of a ham you're willing to be for one night.
The Three Details That Make a Character Read
When I style a character from regular clothes, I look for the details someone would mention if they described the character in one breath. Get those right and nobody minds that the rest came from your wardrobe. Miss one and even an expensive costume needs explaining.
- Colour first. Most characters on this list are two or three colours, worn in big blocks. Match those as closely as you can and keep everything else neutral.
- Then the outline: a collar, a cape, a hat shape, the hair. Wednesday's braids, Leia's buns and Peach's gown all read from across a room before anyone sees a face.
- Last, one prop. A basket, a book, a plush pet or a foam wand tells the story and gives your hands something to do in photos. Two props is usually one too many.
Shop your wardrobe for the colour pieces before buying anything. Thrift stores are good for blazers, coats and dresses, while craft felt covers emblems, patches and small details. If the budget only stretches to one bought piece, spend it on the hair or the hat, since those sit closest to your face in every photo.
1. Wednesday Addams Costume
Wednesday is the character I recommend most to people who hate fussy costumes, since she's built on a plain black dress. Look for a knee-length one with a crisp white collar and cuffs; if you can't find it, a white button-down layered under any plain black dress gives the same effect, and the collar is what people read first, so press it flat. Opaque black tights and flat loafers or lace-up Oxfords finish the clothes. Part your hair dead centre and do two smooth braids, or wear a long black braided wig. Keep the skin pale and matte, with soft brows, gray shadow and a muted berry lip. A vintage-looking book, or a stuffed glove as a detached hand, is the prop. The deadpan face does the rest.
2. Barbie Cowgirl Costume
Barbie cowgirl lives on pink, and the more matched the pink, the better it reads. Wear a pink sleeveless vest with matching flares, or a pink denim jacket over high-waisted jeans in a similar shade. Pinks vary wildly between shops, so I lay pieces side by side in daylight before deciding. Silver star patches, fringe or rhinestones go on with removable fabric glue. Long blonde waves or a smooth blonde wig with a side part suit her, with fresh pink blush, fluttery lashes and glossy lips. A white cowboy hat, a pink bandana, star earrings and white ankle boots make the Western side clear. A small pink bag holds your phone. Keep it pink from hat to boots so the Western theme and the doll both come through.
3. Ken Beach Costume
Ken is a relaxed costume that only works if it looks deliberate rather than like holiday clothes. Choose a pastel striped shirt or short-sleeve button-down and wear it open over a fitted pink or turquoise tank. Coordinating shorts, a woven belt and very clean white sneakers finish it; scuffed shoes ruin the plastic-perfect effect faster than anything. Set blonde hair in a tidy, slightly lifted shape, or use a short blonde wig. Makeup is just light bronzer and groomed brows. Sunglasses, a plastic surfboard prop and a bright wristband push the beach theme. Carry roller skates over your shoulder instead of wearing them in a crowd. Match every colour to the tank and it reads as Ken, not as a tourist.
4. Dorothy Gale Costume
Dorothy comes down to three things: blue gingham, red shoes and neat braids. Layer a blue-and-white gingham pinafore over a short-sleeve white blouse with puffed sleeves. White ankle socks and sparkly red flats finish the legs; if you'll be walking, flats beat heels every time, and you can cover a plain pair in red glitter with fabric glue and a sealer coat. Divide your hair into two braids tied with pale blue ribbon. Natural makeup with rosy cheeks, defined lashes and a pink lip suits her. A wicker basket lined with blue fabric, with a plush dog inside, is the prop people look for. It works for adults, teens and kids, and most of the pieces get worn again afterwards.
5. Velma Dinkley Costume
Velma is a cosy costume, and most of it might already be in your drawer. Start with an oversized orange turtleneck and a red pleated skirt, then add orange knee socks and comfortable red loafers or low heels. Getting the orange right is the hard part; I'd buy the sweater first and match the socks to it, not the other way round. A short brown bob wig gives her hair, or shape your own short hair with a smooth side part. Simple matte makeup, peach blush and a neutral lip are enough. Thick black square glasses are the one piece you can't skip, and a magnifying glass or small notebook adds the sleuth. Make sure you can move easily in the skirt and sweater all day. It's warm and school-friendly with no tricky makeup.
6. Daphne Blake Costume
Daphne is purple and green, and those two colours do most of the work. Choose a long-sleeve purple mini or knee-length dress, ideally with a soft flare. Tie a bright green scarf at the neck and add a purple headband. Pale pink tights with purple flats, loafers or low block-heel boots finish the legs. Long red hair with smooth volume and curled ends is her look, or an auburn wig that falls past the shoulders. Lilac shadow, defined lashes, peach blush and a soft pink lip keep the face fresh. A small purple bag or a light magnifying glass hints at the mystery-solving. She's a stylish choice for a party or school event, and she pairs naturally with a Velma for a group.
7. Cher Horowitz Costume
Cher needs almost no explanation once people see the yellow plaid. Wear a yellow plaid blazer over a white fitted top or sweater vest, with a matching pleated skirt. Buying a matching set is far easier than finding two plaids that line up; mismatched checks are the first thing people notice. White knee socks and black Mary Janes finish the preppy base. Long blonde hair worn straight with gently curved ends, or a smooth golden-blonde wig, suits her. Polished makeup with soft brows, pale shadow, rosy blush and glossy nude-pink lips keeps it clean. A mini backpack, a flip phone prop or a fluffy-topped pen adds a school-day joke, and small gold earrings finish it.
8. Elle Woods Costume
Elle is head-to-toe pink, but it has to look tailored or it turns into any pink outfit. Start with a fitted pink blazer and matching skirt, or a structured pink dress with a cropped jacket. Pick nude or pink pumps, ballet flats or heeled ankle boots, depending on how much standing the night involves. A smooth blonde blowout with soft curled ends suits her. Bright, polished makeup with pink blush, mascara and a glossy lip finishes the face. A pink handbag with a plush dog peeking out is the detail people look for, and a notebook or thick book prop nods to law school. Pearl studs and a fine necklace finish it. Tailoring is what separates her from a generic pink outfit, so check that the jacket fits at the shoulders.
9. Mia Thermopolis Costume
Mia's school uniform look is easy to wear and has a royal joke built in. Wear a navy blazer over a white button-down, with a blue plaid skirt and a loosely knotted striped tie. Knee socks and chunky black loafers finish the uniform. Natural brown waves with a small silver tiara on top carry the story. Keep makeup to light blush, mascara and a pink balm. A backpack, headphones or a closed diary suggests her ordinary student days, and a small felt royal crest pinned to the blazer pocket adds one more clue. I'd clip the tiara to small combs sewn on each side, since a slippery tiara slides off loose waves. The uniform and the crown have to appear together for the awkward-student-turned-princess idea to land.
10. Mary Poppins Costume
Mary Poppins comes across through neat tailoring and a few odd accessories. Wear a white high-neck blouse with a red bow tie under a fitted navy or black jacket. A long dark skirt, opaque tights and black lace-up ankle boots finish the outline. Put dark hair in a tidy low bun beneath a small black hat trimmed with fake daisies and red berries; I hot-glue the flowers to a band of ribbon first, then stitch the ribbon to the hat, so it can come off later. Clean makeup with rosy cheeks and red lipstick suits her. A carpet-style bag and a closed umbrella, with a parrot handle if you can find one, are the props, plus white gloves. Stand straight; her charm is in the precision. It's modest and fits almost any dress-up event.
11. Willy Wonka Costume
Willy Wonka is a fun pick for anyone, and the coat is where the money should go. Choose a plum, burgundy or deep purple velvet coat over a patterned vest and a crisp white shirt. Dark tailored trousers, a floppy bow tie and polished boots or dress shoes finish the suit, topped with a brown or purple top hat. Velvet coats turn up at thrift stores more often than you'd think, especially after the holiday party season. Curl medium hair around the face, or wear a bobbed brown wig. Light foundation, warm blush and softly defined eyes give a theatrical but family-friendly face. A gold-topped cane and a pouch of wrapped sweets are the props, with bright socks peeking out below the trousers.
12. Mad Hatter Costume
The Mad Hatter is the one costume where clashing on purpose is the point. Wear a colourful tailcoat over a patterned vest, ruffled shirt and cropped trousers, mixing stripes, checks and colours like teal, orange, green and burgundy. The trick is keeping one colour running through at least two pieces, so the clash still reads as a choice. Patterned socks and sturdy lace-up boots finish the legs. A curly orange wig, or warm-toned hair teased out for volume, suits him. Rosy cheeks, bright shadow and pale pink lips keep it playful. The tall top hat with ribbon, feathers and a little paper price card is essential. Carry a light plastic teacup and saucer. Fix the hat with an elastic under the hair at the back, or it tips forward every time you bow.
13. Alice In Wonderland Costume
Alice is a pale blue dress and a white apron, and the details make it storybook. Choose a knee-length blue dress with short puff sleeves and tie a white apron over it. White tights or ankle socks with black Mary Jane flats finish the legs. Straight or loosely waved blonde hair with a wide black headband across the crown suits her. Keep makeup soft: peach blush, a little mascara and a pink lip. A teacup, a white plush rabbit or oversized playing cards make good props, and a tiny bottle with a handwritten paper label adds a recognisable detail. If the apron you find is too short, I'd tie it higher on the waist rather than cutting a new one; the line looks right either way. It's simple and comfortable.
14. Little Red Riding Hood Costume
Red Riding Hood is mostly everyday clothes under one strong cape. Begin with a white peasant blouse and a black or brown lace-up vest, with a red or dark neutral knee-length skirt, opaque tights and brown ankle boots. The red hooded cape is the whole character, so let it fall somewhere between the waist and the knees; much longer and it drags on stairs. A cape is one of the easiest things to sew, a half circle with a gathered hood, and a fleece version needs no hemming. Soft curls or two loose braids sit well under the hood. Natural makeup with rosy cheeks and a berry lip suits her. Carry a basket with a folded gingham cloth and fake bread or flowers. Keep it clean rather than distressed so it stays cheerful.
15. Tinker Bell Costume
Tinker Bell is all fresh green and wings that don't take over. Wear a sleeveless green skater dress, or a fitted green top with a layered tulle skirt. Cut the hem into soft leaf points if you want a handmade look; tulle doesn't fray, so it can be cut freely without finishing. Nude tights and green ballet flats with white pom-poms finish the feet. A high blonde bun with side-swept bangs, using a bun extension if needed, is her signature. Gold shimmer shadow, pink blush and glossy lips keep it light. Fix translucent wings securely to the back and carry a star wand with a little biodegradable shimmer. Small gold earrings finish it. Keep the wings within your shoulder line so you get through doors and crowds.
16. Peter Pan Costume
Peter Pan is about as forgiving as a costume gets, and it comes together from basic green clothes. Wear a long green tunic with a jagged hem over brown leggings or slim trousers, a medium-width brown belt at the waist, and soft brown ankle boots. Felt is ideal for the jagged hem because it doesn't fray when cut. The pointed green felt hat with a bright red feather is the headwear people expect. Tousled short auburn hair suits him, or tuck longer hair under the hat. Minimal makeup, warm blush and soft brows are enough. A small cloth pouch or a light map is a safe prop. Felt leaves on the tunic and shoes add detail. It moves easily and works for adults, teens and kids alike.
17. Princess Leia Costume
The white Leia gown looks impressive for how simple the shape is. Select a long white mock-neck dress with wide sleeves and a lightly belted waist. White or silver flat boots stay hidden under the hem but give you support. The side buns are what everyone looks for. I'd build them on two hair doughnuts so they keep their shape, or buy a brown wig already styled that way. Keep makeup clean, with defined brows, brown liner, peach blush and a neutral lip. A slim silver belt and a small painted card tablet make safe extras. Avoid bulky accessories. White fabric and that hair are enough for this costume to read clearly and photograph well, so let them carry it.
18. Princess Peach Costume
Princess Peach is soft pink with a crown on top. Choose a floor-length pink gown with puff sleeves, a fitted bodice and a darker pink overskirt or hip panels. If a full gown is too much for the night, a pink skater dress over a matching tulle petticoat gives the shape in a walkable length. White gloves and comfortable pink flats or low block heels finish it. Long blonde hair with curled ends, or a golden wig with side-swept bangs, suits her. Blue shadow, rosy blush and a pink lip do the face. A small gold crown with coloured gems and blue drop earrings are the royal details. A plush star or pink handbag is a better prop than anything large.
19. Mario Costume
Mario is bold primary colours and work clothes. Wear blue denim overalls over a long-sleeve red shirt, keeping the bib and straps clearly visible. White gloves and sturdy brown work boots or sneakers finish the outfit. A red cap over short brown hair, with a white circle and red letter on the front, is the main clue; felt circles fixed with fabric glue hold up well on a cotton cap. A soft costume moustache above the lip, or one drawn in skin-safe brown makeup, finishes the face, with warm blush and groomed brows. A plush mushroom or painted card coin is a light prop, and oversized gold buttons on the overalls make it look more animated. It's comfortable, works for anyone and comes mostly from basics.
20. Luigi Costume
Luigi uses the same overall shape with green in place of red. Layer a bright green long-sleeve shirt under blue denim overalls and fix oversized yellow buttons to the bib. White gloves and brown boots or cushioned sneakers finish the outfit. A green cap with a white circle and green letter on the front sits over short brown hair, or tuck longer hair into a low bun. A reusable costume moustache or skin-safe makeup gives the curved moustache; adhesive moustaches tend to lift at the corners in a warm room, so pack the glue. A plush green mushroom, a card coin or a toy flashlight is the prop. Stand beside a red Mario for a duo, though the green and blue are clear enough on their own.
21. Link Costume
Link can look ready for adventure with no sharp or weapon-like props at all. Start with a long green tunic over a cream undershirt and fitted brown trousers or leggings, then a brown belt and tall brown boots with comfortable soles. The pointed green cap over blonde hair, or a chin-length blonde wig, is his signature. Natural makeup with lightly sculpted cheeks and defined brows keeps it simple. Pointed ears in flexible silicone or felt finish the look; I'd test silicone ears for an afternoon, since they can rub behind the ear. Brown wrist cuffs, a crossbody satchel and a small blue bottle are safe extras, and a rolled map adds to the travelling-hero feel. Keep the layers light so you don't overheat indoors.
22. Princess Zelda Costume
Zelda reads as royal through white fabric, purple details and gold. Wear a floor-length white dress with a fitted bodice and flared skirt, then lay a purple tabard or decorative front panel over it with gold trim and geometric shapes. A tabard is just a long rectangle with a head opening, so it's a good first sewing project. White flats or low boots keep you comfortable. Long blonde hair worn straight with small side braids, or a pale gold wig, suits her. Gold shadow, defined lashes, peach blush and a pink lip give a luminous face. Flexible pointed ears, a delicate gold headpiece and jewellery with blue accents finish the details. A small book or a glowing orb is a better prop than a weapon. She's a graceful pick for a cosplay meetup.
23. Ash Ketchum Costume
Ash is basically casual clothes with the right accessories, which makes him very easy to wear. Begin with a blue short-sleeve jacket over a black or white tee, plus relaxed blue jeans, a green fingerless glove and red-and-white sneakers. The red-and-white cap with a simple green felt symbol is his signature, so get that one right. Minimal makeup, light foundation, natural brows and a touch of blush keep it youthful. A small red-and-white ball prop and a yellow plush creature on your shoulder or poking out of a backpack tell the rest of the story. A safety pin through the plush's foot into the jacket shoulder keeps it from falling off. A green wristband adds another detail. It suits adults, teens and kids, because the clothes are ordinary and the accessories do the work.
24. Misty Costume
Misty comes together from summer basics and a bright palette. Wear a cropped yellow tank, over a longer fitted camisole if you want more coverage. High-waisted denim shorts, red suspenders and red-and-white sneakers finish the outfit. Her high side ponytail in orange hair is the signature, secured with a bright tie, or use a short orange wig with a clip-on ponytail. Fresh makeup with waterproof mascara, peach blush and coral balm suits her. A small blue backpack and a light red-and-white ball prop are the extras, and a star-shaped plush can sit under one arm for photos. For an October party outdoors, I'd add skin-tone tights under the shorts; they're barely visible and keep the legs warm.
25. Sailor Moon Costume
Sailor Moon is a school uniform with a celestial twist. Wear a white fitted top or leotard with a navy sailor collar, a blue pleated skirt and a large red chest bow, plus a red bow at the back waist, white elbow gloves and red knee-high boots with low heels. Her hair is two high buns with long flowing pigtails, and a wig is the realistic way to get that length. Wigs with clip-on buns and tails are easier to wear than styling a single long wig. Blue shadow, defined lashes, pink blush and a glossy lip finish the face. Red bun covers and a gold tiara across the forehead are the finishing details, and a rounded foam heart or moon wand is a safe prop. Give the hair, the uniform colours and the accessories equal attention so nothing looks thin.
26. Kiki Delivery Costume
Kiki is sweet, comfortable and needs almost no crafting. Choose a loose navy or deep purple knee-length dress with short sleeves, red ballet flats and a big red bow on a headband that sits upright above the hair. A bow that flops ruins the outline, so I stiffen the ribbon with fusible interfacing or spray starch before tying it. A softly rounded short black bob, real or wig, suits her. Natural makeup with peach blush, brown mascara and tinted balm keeps it simple. A woven shoulder bag and a plush black cat are her props, and a small, light broom finishes the delivery theme without being awkward in public. Clean colour blocking and that bow are all she needs.
27. Coraline Jones Costume
A yellow raincoat gives Coraline a bold and practical base. Wear a yellow hooded raincoat over a striped long-sleeve shirt and dark blue jeans or leggings, with blue rain boots or sturdy lace-up boots. A short blue bob wig with a side part gives her hair, or use temporary blue colour on short hair; temporary colour can transfer to a light collar, so set it with hairspray. Light foundation, freckles, rosy blush and a natural lip finish the face. A blue crossbody bag and a small plush black cat are the props. A star-patterned sweater can replace the raincoat for a softer indoor version. Keep button accessories on the bag rather than anywhere near the eyes. It's quirky, colourful and comfortable for kids and adults.
28. Where’s Waldo Costume
Waldo is one of the quickest characters to build, because red-and-white stripes carry it. Wear a long-sleeve red-and-white striped shirt with relaxed blue jeans or a denim skirt, plus brown boots or casual sneakers. A red-and-white knit beanie over short brown hair is the hat, with a wig if you want his slightly messy texture. Stripe width matters more than you'd expect: wide, even stripes read as Waldo, while thin ones look like a sailor shirt. Round black glasses are the key facial accessory, with natural makeup. A foam walking cane, a small crossbody satchel and a rolled paper map round it out. It works for any age, and it's even more fun if you hide somewhere in the group photo.
29. Paddington Bear Costume
Paddington is a coat and a hat, not a full bear suit. Wear a royal blue duffle coat over brown trousers and a cream sweater, with sturdy brown rain boots and a floppy red bucket hat. Brown hair under the hat is fine, or add a soft bear-ear headband if you want more bear. A little warm brown makeup on the nose and small whisker dots in skin-safe liner give the face. Carry a worn-looking card suitcase and tie a paper luggage tag to the coat; I'd write the tag by hand and tea-stain it so it looks travelled. A felt sandwich peeking from the bag is a nice touch. The coat keeps you warm on a cold night, and the red hat, blue coat and suitcase make the character obvious.
30. Matilda Wormwood Costume
Matilda is a strong choice for book weeks and school dress-up days. Wear a simple blue knee-length dress with short sleeves, white ankle socks and black Mary Janes. A neat brown bob or shoulder-length cut with a red ribbon headband suits her. Natural makeup with rosy cheeks, light lashes and a pink lip is plenty. The stack of books is her signature, and real books get heavy fast, so I wrap empty book covers around foam blocks and tie the stack with ribbon. A library card tucked into the pocket is a small, thoughtful detail. It's modest and clever, and it needs no special effects, sewing or expensive pieces.
31. Ms. Frizzle Costume
Ms. Frizzle turns a bright classroom dress into a whole character. Choose a navy or royal blue skater dress and fix felt planets, stars, moons or science symbols across it. Felt shapes stay on far better stitched than glued, especially on a stretchy dress, and a quick running stitch takes an evening. Pick one theme, such as outer space, weather or sea life, so the dress looks planned. Bright tights and pumps, loafers or ankle boots finish the legs. Curly red hair in a big updo, or a vivid auburn wig, is her look. Blue shadow, coral blush and red lipstick keep the face cheerful. Planet earrings and a toy school bus or science book are the props. Teachers love this one for school events.
32. Cruella De Vil Costume
Cruella gets her impact from black-and-white contrast, not from construction. Wear a fitted black dress under a white faux-fur coat or stole, with sheer black tights and red pumps or pointed flats. The half-black, half-white bob wig is what sells her, so buy it with plenty of volume and backcomb it a little more. Pale foundation, sharp brows, gray shadow and a bold red lip finish the face. Long red gloves and big costume jewellery add villain glamour. A spotted bag or a plush spotted dog is a better prop than anything frightening. Keep all fur faux and light. Faux fur sheds on a black dress, so lint-roll before you leave. Strike a pose and she stays stylish rather than sinister.
33. Holly Golightly Costume
Holly Golightly is an elegant black dress and well-chosen accessories. Wear a sleeveless, floor-length black column dress, with black low heels, elbow-length gloves and layered faux pearls. A high French twist or polished updo with a small jewelled tiara at the front gives the hair; a twist holds best on second-day hair or with a little dry shampoo for grip. Classic makeup with a black wing, defined lashes, soft contour and a peach-pink lip suits her. Oversized sunglasses and a small black bag are the props, with pearl earrings and a takeaway coffee cup for the early-morning window-shopping scene. Keep it streamlined. The updo, pearls, gloves and long dress turn a wardrobe staple into a clear character.
34. Wonder Woman Costume
Wonder Woman pairs heroic colours with a strong, comfortable outline. Wear a red fitted top with a gold emblem and a blue knee-length skirt or fitted trousers decorated with white stars. Tall red boots with cushioned soles and silver or gold cuffs finish it; craft foam cuffs wrapped in metallic vinyl are light and comfortable for a whole evening. Long dark glossy waves, or a dark brown wavy wig, suit her. Bronze shadow, defined brows, warm blush and a classic red lip do the face. A gold tiara with a red centre goes across the forehead. A coiled gold rope from soft cord is a safe prop, and a red cape adds coverage on a cold night. It's confident and colourful and stays practical for hours.
35. Spider-Man Costume
Spider-Man is the superhero I'd steer people to when they want a costume that's mostly one garment. Choose a full-length red-and-blue printed jumpsuit with stretchy fabric and flat seams. For a DIY version, pair a red fitted shirt with blue leggings and paint the web lines in black fabric paint; a fine-tip paint bottle and a chalked grid make this far easier than freehand. Red sneakers or light boot covers let you walk safely. A fabric mask that you can see and breathe through is essential, and take it off whenever you need to. Hair and makeup can stay natural under the mask, with a little red on the face for an unmasked version. Light web-shaped wrist pieces are a fun extra. Make sure it fits securely and lets you move freely.
Making a Cheap Wig Look Like Hair
So many of these characters depend on the hair that a wig is often the single most important buy. Inexpensive synthetic wigs come out of the bag shiny, flat and tangled, but they improve a lot with a little work.
- Shake it out and brush it gently with a wide-tooth comb, starting at the ends and working up. Never brush from the roots down on a dry wig.
- Cut down the shine with a light dusting of dry shampoo or baby powder worked through the lengths, then brush out the excess.
- Pluck a few fibres from the parting with tweezers if it looks too thick and flat. A slightly thinner part looks more natural.
- Keep synthetic wigs away from curling irons, oven doors and candles. Most standard fibres frizz or melt with heat, unless the label says heat-resistant.
- Wear a wig cap and pin the wig through to your own hair at the crown and behind each ear. Tuck the edges of the cap under, not out.
- Store it on a stand or a tall jar afterwards, loosely braided if it's long, so it's ready for next year.
When You'd Rather Not Wear a Wig
Plenty of characters work with your own hair styled to the shape. Two braids cover Wednesday and Dorothy, a high bun suits Tinker Bell, and a smooth side part works for Velma. Temporary colour sprays come off in a wash or two, but they do rub onto light collars, so wear something dark at the neck or set the colour with hairspray.
Which Character Fits Your Night?
A good character costume is a few clear details on clothes you can wear for hours. Rather than leaning on one mask or accessory, build it top to bottom: the right colours, the hair, some light makeup, shoes you can walk in and a prop that weighs almost nothing. Much of this list can come from your wardrobe, thrift finds, felt and a few craft supplies. Adjust hemlines, footwear, coverage and layers for your age, the setting and your own comfort. A storybook kid, a game hero, a film icon or a superhero will all get recognised if you choose the two or three details people remember and get those right.
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