There is something magical about dress-up box for children. It sparks a child’s imagination, encourages creativity, and guarantees hours of fun play – and the best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to create one. With a little creativity and some savvy preloved bargain shopping you can put together a fabulous dress up box on a budget. Unleash a child’s imagination with a DIY dress up box – no shop bought costumes needed!!
Start with the Basics: Think simple, versatile pieces that can be transformed into endless characters. There is no right or wrong when it comes to imagination and creativity. Children love to re-create what they have seen, read, watched and experienced. You do not need shop bought, expensive costumes, when a sheet of fabric or an old shirt can become any costume a child needs.
Hats – Beanies, caps, fascinators, sun hats, helmets
Scarves and Capes – Great for superheroes, royalty, or magicians. Fabric of all colours and materials can be tied around a child’s waits or shoulders to create an amazing outfit.
Shirts and Dresses – Oversized items make the perfect costumes, the possibility is endless – waistcoats, jackets, aprons, coats, old wedding and bridesmaid dresses, dance costumes.
Shoes – Flat sparkly pumps, boots, heels (just make sure they are safe to walk in), slippers, wellingtons, socks and tights. These add the finishing touches o any outfit!!
Add a sprinkle of Magic – Costume jewellery, beads, bangles, assorted fabric, sunglasses, ribbons, old glasses frames, crowns, wands, old handbags, backpacks, make sachets from old materials, gloves and wigs. Accessories enhance any dress up box and can be purchased cheaply or ask friends and family for what they no longer need, you will be able to put it to good use.
Create and Craft – You can add to any dress up box by creating and making with your children. Some of the best costumes are the ones you make together. Turn an old sheet into a ghost, a cape, or a toga, cut cardboard into masks, shields, or crowns, then let the children decorate them.
Get Creative with DIY – Visit charity shops, they are full of amazing finds for your little one. Preloved baby and children’s markets such as Tiny Treasures Markets have preloved stalls full of amazing bargains and preloved finds you can add to your child’s dress up box without breaking the bank. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be giving items a second life and keeping play eco-friendly.
Storage Made Simple – A dress up box doesn’t have to be expensive, use an old laundry basket, a plastic tub or even a suitcase.
Benefits and Learning Opportunities – Playing dress up gives your child the opportunity to develop their learning in so many different ways. By discussing their characters they will grow their language skills, enjoy socialising with other children and learn about taking turns and sharing. Dressing and undressing promotes physical growth and develops fine motor skills when fastening and unzipping outfits.
Final Thought – A DIY dress-up box doesn’t need to cost much — or anything at all. With preloved finds, hand-me-downs, and a sprinkle of imagination, you can create a treasure chest of creativity that will grow with your child. So, next time you visit a Tiny Treasures Market, keep your eyes peeled for sparkly accessories, quirky clothes, or playful props to add to your little one’s collection. You never know what magic you might discover!
