7 Classic Book Week Costume Ideas for Grade School Kids

Book Week is one of the most exciting events on the school calendar. Each year, students across Australia get the chance to celebrate their love of reading by dressing up as their favourite characters.

For parents, however, coming up with a costume idea that’s creative, age-appropriate, and easy to put together can sometimes be a challenge. That’s where classic Book Week costumes come in handy. These timeless ideas are popular for good reason; they’re familiar, fun, and often quite simple to make using items you already have at home.

1. Harry Potter

Harry Potter remains one of the most iconic book characters of all time. A Harry Potter costume is easy to put together with a black robe, a white shirt, a striped tie, round glasses, and a wand.

Many stores offer ready-made versions, or you can make your own using a school uniform and a few accessories. Kids love the magic of Hogwarts, and this costume is a popular choice across all primary school year levels. You can also adapt the look for Hermione Granger or Ron Weasley using similar pieces.

2. Alice from Alice in Wonderland

Alice is a charming and timeless character that works beautifully for Book Week. Her classic blue dress, white apron, and headband are instantly recognisable. This costume is perfect for younger children who enjoy the whimsical world of Wonderland.

Pair it with a small stuffed white rabbit or a pocket watch to complete the look. Alice’s story encourages imagination and curiosity, making it a perfect theme for celebrating the joy of reading.

3. The Cat in the Hat

Dr. Seuss books have been loved for generations, and the Cat in the Hat is one of the most well-known characters from his collection. This costume is bold and playful, ideal for children who want something colourful and fun.

A tall red-and-white striped hat, a black outfit, and a red bow tie are the main elements. You can also use face paint to draw on the cat’s whiskers. It’s a great unisex costume and a great introduction to classic rhyming stories for early readers.

4. Matilda

Matilda, from Roald Dahl’s beloved book, is a clever and courageous girl who stands up for herself and others. Her costume is simple and budget-friendly—a blue dress, red ribbon headband, and a book tucked under her arm are all you need.

Many kids relate to Matilda’s love of reading, making this a heartfelt and meaningful choice. For a fun extra touch, carry a pretend chalkboard or a stack of tiny books to complete the outfit.

5. Where’s Wally?

Where’s Wally? is another Book Week favourite that’s instantly recognisable. This costume is very easy to put together: a red-and-white striped shirt, blue jeans, a beanie, and round glasses.

ou can find the full outfit online, or create it at home with everyday items. This is a great option for last-minute dress-ups and works well for both boys and girls. Wally’s adventures through busy, detailed illustrations also make this character a great way to engage kids in visual storytelling.

6. The Very Hungry Caterpillar

For younger grade school kids, the Very Hungry Caterpillar is a fun and colourful costume that celebrates a much-loved picture book. You can create the look using green clothing and adding a red hat or headband with antennae.

Some parents opt for a full costume made from felt or fabric, but it can also be a DIY project using paper, cardboard, and safety pins. This costume stands out and captures the imagination of younger children who love the story’s vibrant illustrations and simple language.

7. Mary Poppins

Mary Poppins is a magical character who brings charm and a touch of nostalgia to Book Week celebrations. Her look is elegant and classic—usually a dark coat, hat, gloves, and a small handbag or umbrella. Children who are familiar with the books or film adaptations will love the idea of dressing up as someone who brings joy and order wherever she goes. This costume is also great for parents who want something traditional and neat for school dress-ups.

Making Book Week Easier

Choosing Book Week costumes doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. Many classic characters can be created using items already in your child’s wardrobe or with a few small additions. Book Week is all about celebrating stories, imagination, and creativity, not about having the flashiest outfit. Involving your child in the costume planning process can also make it more fun and meaningful. Ask them what books they enjoy and who they admire in those stories.

Classic costumes are a smart choice because they stand the test of time and are recognised by teachers and students alike. They also provide great talking points in class and often link directly to books studied in school. Whether your child is heading into Prep or Year 6, there’s a timeless book character that will suit them perfectly.

Book Week is a wonderful opportunity for children to express themselves, explore their favourite books, and share their love of reading with friends and teachers. With a little planning and creativity, you can help your child feel confident, excited, and ready to celebrate Book Week in style.