Beauty and the Beast Costumes

Choosing a character

Beauty and the Beast has a strong cast, so there is a costume for almost any age and budget. Most people pick Belle or the Beast. The supporting characters are just as easy to spot and often more fun to wear in a group.

Characters for children

• Belle: the yellow ball gown is the signature piece. The blue day dress with a white apron also works, and it is easier to run around in. A book to carry completes the look.
• The Beast: a brown or gold mane, horns, a cape or coat, and paws or gloves. Keep the mask light so a child can see and breathe easily.
• Chip: a small teacup costume or a teacup-shaped hat with a cheerful painted face.

Characters for adults

• Belle: the ball gown suits parties. The blue dress and apron suits a school or library event.
• Beast: a long coat, a mane and a mask or horns. Face paint works well if you do not want to wear a full head piece.
• Mrs Potts: a round skirt, an apron and a white frilled cap.
• Lumière: a gold or yellow jacket with candle-style hands held up.
• Cogsworth: a small clock on the front of a bold jacket, with a stiff, upright pose.
• Gaston: a red jacket, a big belt and plenty of confidence.

Finishing touches to make at home

A single red paper rose in a small jar or glass makes a simple prop for Belle or the Beast. Cut the petals from red card or tissue paper and glue them to a green stem.

For a Beast mane, sew or glue strips of brown felt or faux fur to a headband. If you use face paint, do a small skin test first.

Getting the size right

Check the size chart and the label before you buy, and measure the wearer first. If a child is between sizes, choose the larger one so there is room to move and layer.