What to Check Before Buying a Costume Online

A costume can look right in a listing and still arrive wrong. Most of the problems are easy to spot before you pay. This page is a short checklist to work through before you click buy.

Read what is actually included

Start with the product description, not the main photo. The photo often shows extras that are not part of the price.

Look for a list of pieces. Then compare it with the picture, one item at a time.

• Is it a full outfit, or just a dress, a tunic or a jacket?
• Are the hat, wig, belt, gloves or cape included?
• Are shoes, tights and props shown but not supplied?
• Does "set" mean the whole look, or only two or three pieces?

If the description does not say, assume it is not included. If you are still unsure, ask the retailer before you order.

Check materials and care

The fabric tells you a lot about how the costume will feel and how long it will last. Look for the material list and the care instructions. They are usually further down the page.

Think about how it will be worn. A child at school all day needs something comfortable and easy to move in. A costume for one party can be more delicate.

• Check whether it can be washed, or is spot clean only.
• Check the label for any notes about heat, such as ironing or tumble drying.
• If a costume is worn close to the skin, look for a lining or wear a layer underneath.
• Read the materials for anything that might bother sensitive skin.

If you are using face paint or makeup with the costume, do a small skin test first.

Use the size chart, not the age label

Sizes vary between brands. An age range is only a rough guide, and children of the same age can be very different heights.

Find the size chart on the product page. Measure the person, then match the numbers.

• For children, check height first, then chest and waist if the chart lists them.
• For adults, check chest, waist and hip, and height for long items such as robes and dresses.
• If you are between sizes, think about layers. Sizing up is often easier if the costume goes over clothes.
• Check whether the chart is in inches or centimetres.

Children grow, and costumes are often bought weeks ahead. Allow a little room, but not so much that they trip on it.

Compare the photos with the item

Product photos are styled. They may use padding, pins, clips or extra layers that you will not get in the box.

Look at every image on the page, including the back and the close ups. Zoom in on the details.

• Check the trim, buttons and fastenings. Are they shown clearly?
• Note the length of the hem, sleeves and cape.
• Read the description for any difference between the picture and the item.
• Think about the colour. Screens vary, so treat it as a close guide, not an exact match.

If a costume has to match a particular character, decide which details matter most. Then check those first.

Check delivery against your event

Work backwards from the date you need it. Do not start from the date you are ordering.

Look at the delivery estimate at checkout, not only on the product page. Then add a few spare days. Costumes can be needed for a school day that will not move, such as Book Week or World Book Day.

• Check whether the estimate counts working days or calendar days.
• Check whether there is a faster delivery option, and what it costs.
• Allow time to try the costume on and fix any problems.
• Order early for busy periods like Halloween.

If it arrives too late to use, a returns window may not help you. Plan for that.

Know the returns policy, and add the extras

Read the returns policy before you order. It is easier than reading it when something has gone wrong.

• How many days do you have to send it back?
• Does the costume need to be unworn, with the tags still on?
• Who pays for return postage?
• Are some items, such as wigs or hats, excluded?

If you plan to try the costume on, keep the packaging and tags until you are sure.

Then think about what is missing. Most costumes need something extra to look finished. Make a short list from the description and add it to your order, so it all arrives together.

• A wig, hat or headband
• Shoes, boots or tights
• A prop, such as a wand, a book or a basket
• Makeup or face paint, if the character needs it

Many of these you may already have at home. Check the cupboard before you buy.