Easy Book Week Costume Ideas for School

March 12, 2026
Posted by Kids Book Week Costumes Team

Book Week is one of the most exciting events in the school year, but for many families the costume decision happens at the last minute. The good news is that Book Week costumes don't need to be complicated. Some of the most recognisable characters from children's books can be recreated with simple costume pieces or accessories that children are comfortable wearing at school. If you're looking for easy ideas that work well for a school parade, here are some easy Book Week costume ideas that are simple, fun and easy to organise.

1. Where's Wally

Where's Wally is one of the easiest Book Week costumes because the outfit is instantly recognisable. A red striped shirt, matching hat and glasses are all you need to create the famous character from the popular puzzle books. The Where's Wally Instant Kit for Kids includes everything in one go - perfect for parents who want a quick fix without piecing it together.

2. Harry Potter

Harry Potter remains one of the most common Book Week costumes in Australian schools. A Hogwarts robe, round glasses and a wand are enough to recreate the famous wizard from the beloved book series. Start with the Kids Harry Potter Gryffindor Robe, or browse our full Harry Potter and wizard costume range for accessories and house variations.

3. Matilda

Matilda is a great costume idea for children who enjoy Roald Dahl stories. A simple blue dress and a stack of books can easily represent the clever character from the classic novel. Pair it with accessories from our Roald Dahl costume range for a complete look - Miss Trunchbull and Fantastic Mr Fox costumes work brilliantly for group themes.

4. Alice in Wonderland

Alice is a timeless character and works well as a Book Week costume for school. A blue dress and white apron instantly recreate the look from the famous Lewis Carroll story. Browse our Alice in Wonderland costume range for dresses, playing card outfits and Tea Party accessories.

5. Dorothy - The Wizard of Oz

Dorothy is another classic character that teachers and students recognise immediately. A blue dress and ruby-style shoes make this costume simple and comfortable for school events. Shop Wizard of Oz costumes and Dorothy accessories for the complete look.

6. Little Red Riding Hood

Little Red Riding Hood is a simple storybook character that works perfectly for Book Week. A red cape and dress can easily represent the famous fairy tale character. Shop Little Red Riding Hood costumes or browse the full storybook and fairytale collection for similar classic characters.

7. Peter Pan

Peter Pan is a fun costume for adventurous children who enjoy classic stories. The green outfit and hat instantly represent the character from the story of Neverland. Browse Peter Pan costumes for kids in our range.

8. Mary Poppins

Mary Poppins is a charming and recognisable character from classic children's literature. A simple dress, hat and umbrella create the well-known look. Shop Mary Poppins costumes and accessories for an easy Book Week outfit.

9. The Mad Hatter

The Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland is a colourful and creative costume idea for Book Week. A hat and bright jacket make the character instantly recognisable. Shop our Mad Hatter costumes or pair it with other characters for a group costume idea.

Tips for Choosing an Easy Book Week Costume

When choosing a costume for Book Week, comfort and simplicity often work best. Many schools hold a parade during the day, so costumes that are lightweight and easy to move in are usually the most practical choice. Some helpful tips include:

choose a character children already recognise
keep costumes comfortable for a full school day
simple accessories can complete a costume quickly

The goal is to celebrate reading and creativity rather than having the most elaborate costume. Book Week is about celebrating stories and encouraging children to enjoy reading. Whether the costume is simple or detailed, dressing up as a favourite book character helps bring stories to life and makes the school celebration even more memorable. With a little creativity, even the simplest costume idea can become a favourite Book Week character.

Not sure when Book Week falls this year? Read our guide on when Book Week 2026 starts and the official theme before you finalise your costume.

Looking for the perfect Book Week costume? Browse our popular collections:

Beyond Book Week: Same fast shipping for our Halloween costumes, princess costumes and 100th Day of School ranges — perfect for the next dress-up event after Book Week.