World Book Day comes just once a year and is a celebration of imagination, a tribute to tales, and a canvas for the creatively inclined. For those looking for creative world book day costumes, have you ever thought of dressing up as the book itself?
Each year, world book day brings us amazing costumes and homemade outfits brought to life by enthusiastic parents all around the globe, dedicated to the cause of reading and a love of books.
This time, we’re thrilled to spotlight a unique and absolutely ingenious costume concept crafted by the talented Lucy Hughes for her daughter, Lila, age 9.
Lila’s costume was not just any character from a storybook; it was the book itself—a dictionary to be precise!
And not just a static representation of one. Lucy constructed a wearable cardboard costume that actually opens to reveal book-related words on the inner pages, blending the magic of words with the joy of dressing up.
This dictionary costume is a tribute to all the words that build our beloved stories. The attention to detail is commendable—the costume mimics the Oxford School Dictionary, with a cover so realistically painted, you’d be forgiven for attempting to thumb through it.
Here you can see a size comparison of the wearable cardboard costume, next to the real copy of the Oxford dictionary. To make one of your own, you’ll just need a large cardboard box to fit your child, a box cutter to make holes for the head and arms, acrylic paint and some patience to replicate the design.
As the “book” opens, one is greeted by neatly printed definitions, making it not only a costume but also a learning tool on the go.
We also love how Lucy even included the “this book belongs to” plate on the inside cover, for a touch of personalisation.
But why a dictionary? Here’s what Lila shared:
“I didn’t know what to pick as I like so many books, so I thought I would be a dictionary because most people know it, and it’s related to school and learning,”
This statement isn’t just adorable; it reflects a profound understanding. A dictionary is foundational—it’s where every story begins, with words.
By embodying this essential book, Lila symbolizes the very building blocks of literature and learning.
Lucy Hughes has showcased her creation on Instagram, where she regularly shares her creative ventures. You can witness more of her incredible work and possibly draw inspiration for your own World Book Day costume at Lucy’s Instagram.
Lila’s dictionary costume is a testament to the endless possibilities that books represent. It’s an emblem of knowledge, a nod to every author’s tool, and a celebration of the limitless imagination that books can fuel.
On World Book Day, it reminds us that every page we turn is a door to a new adventure, and every word we read is a step towards a new discovery.
For those seeking a unique idea for World Book Day, this costume is not just memorable; it’s interactive, educational, and imaginative.
It opens up discussions about favourite words, prompts storytelling, and even becomes a fun game to find and read words on the wearer. It’s a costume that carries more than just the weight of cardboard and paint; it carries the weight of the words that have shaped our world.
In a sea of characters and capes, Lila stood out as a walking lexicon, and we can’t help but celebrate this brilliant concept.
More World Book Day Ideas
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- World Book Day Activities for Parents
- World Book Day Costume Ideas
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- Today Is a Great Day to Read a Book Printable Poster
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If you’ve made something you’re proud of, and would like to be featured – get in touch at anna@intheplayroom.co.uk, we always enjoy showcasing creative talent and cool ideas for families.
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Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.
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