Dragons and Unicorns Costumes

The classic dragon

Dragons in stories can be fierce, funny or gentle. The usual look has scales, wings, a tail and a row of spikes down the back. Green and red are the traditional colours, but blue, purple and gold all work well. Storybook dragons are often friendly, so a dragon costume does not have to look scary.

The classic unicorn

Unicorns are white or pastel, with a single spiralled horn and a flowing mane. In fairy tales they are gentle, rare and magical. A rainbow mane and a touch of glitter are common, though a plain white unicorn looks just as good.

Finishing touches

A few small extras make the costume read clearly:

• A horn headband for a unicorn, or horns and spikes for a dragon.
• A tail, either soft and fluffy or long and scaly.
• Wings, which suit both characters.
• Face paint or glitter. Do a small skin test first.
• Gloves or paw-style hands, and matching tights or boots.

Children and adults

For children, comfort comes first. Choose something they can move, sit and run in, and check the label for size and materials. Soft hoods and tails are easy to wear all day, which matters at school events.

Adults have more choice. A full costume is fun for a party, but a simple approach also works: a horn or a tail with everyday clothes in matching colours. This is handy for Book Week or World Book Day, when you may want something quick and easy to wear.

Whichever you pick, add one or two of the details above and the character will be clear.