Willy Wonka Costumes

Characters for children

• Willy Wonka: the most popular choice. Key pieces are a plum or purple coat, a top hat, a bow tie and a bright waistcoat. Add a cane if it is allowed at your event.
• Charlie Bucket: a simple, warm outfit. A knitted hat, a scarf and a worn-looking jacket work well. A golden ticket makes him instantly clear.
• Oompa Loompa: orange face paint, green hair or a green wig, and white overalls or a white top with brown trousers.
• Violet Beauregarde: a blue or purple tracksuit and a bright sweatband. Blue face paint or a blue-tinted hat adds to the look.

Characters for adults

Adults often choose Willy Wonka too. A velvet-style coat, a tall hat and a colourful cravat or bow tie do most of the work. A tailored jacket with a bold shirt keeps it wearable all evening.

Other good options are Mr Salt or Mrs Gloop, both easy to pull together from clothes you may already own. Oompa Loompa also suits groups.

Finishing touches to make at home

• Golden ticket: cut a rectangle from gold card or wrap plain card in gold paper. Write your own text on it with a marker.
• Oversized lollipop or candy prop: roll coloured paper or foam into a spiral and attach it to a stick.

If you use face paint, do a small skin test first and follow the instructions on the pack.

Choosing the right size

Check the size chart against real measurements and the label's age guidance. If your child is between sizes, go up, so there is room for layers and easy movement.