5 March 2026
The big one. World Book Day is the Super Bowl of school dress-up days. Every child in the country needs a costume, every parent panics at 10pm the night before. We've got you covered with easy, budget-friendly ideas that won't require a degree in costume design.
6 curated outfits — everything on Amazon
One of the most recognisable book characters ever. The tall red and white striped hat does all the heavy lifting — pair with a red bow tie and you're sorted.
The Outfit
Styling tips
Matilda is the dream costume for book-loving kids. A blue dress, a red hair ribbon, and a stack of books under the arm — done. Bonus: your child can actually read during the day.
The Outfit
Styling tips
The Boy Who Lived is always a crowd pleaser. Round glasses, a Gryffindor scarf, and a drawn-on lightning bolt scar. Half the school will be Harry, but who cares — it works.
The Outfit
Styling tips
Red and white stripes, round glasses, a bobble hat — Where's Wally is the ultimate easy costume. Your child will spend the whole day being 'found' by classmates.
The Outfit
Styling tips
Everyone's favourite Peruvian bear. A blue duffle coat, red wellies (or red hat), and a marmalade sandwich for emergencies. Please look after this child.
The Outfit
Styling tips
A blue dress with a white pinafore — the classic Alice. Add a headband and your child is ready to tumble down the rabbit hole (metaphorically, please).
The Outfit
Styling tips
Costumes nobody else will have. Tired of being one of five tigers? Try these.
Easy · £6–£12
Everyone does cats and dogs — almost nobody comes as the Tiger. It's instantly recognisable to parents and teachers, easy to put together, and your child gets to pretend they've eaten everything in the house.
Orange or yellow clothing with black stripes drawn or stuck on. Add tiger ears and a tail, and maybe carry a teacup for the finishing touch.
Buy The Tiger Who Came to Tea
Easy (craft) · £4–£10
A beloved book that's perfect for EYFS and KS1 kids. Green clothes with red accessories make the caterpillar, and it's a great crafting project to do together the night before.
Green t-shirt and trousers with red socks and a red headband with antennae. Stuff green carrier bags for the body segments if you want to go all out.
Buy The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Easy (craft) · £2–£5
The cheapest costume on the list and one of the most creative. All brown clothing with stick-like arms made from cardboard tubes. Julia Donaldson fans will love it, and it costs virtually nothing.
Brown clothes with cardboard tube arms taped on. Draw a simple face on a brown paper bag or use face paint. That's it. Genuinely the easiest costume here.
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