Elves and Gnomes Costumes

The classic looks

Elves and gnomes are easy to tell apart once you know what to look for. Both are popular for Book Week, World Book Day and parties because the costumes are simple to put together.

Elves

Elves in storybooks are usually slim, quick and a little mysterious. Some are woodland folk from old fairy tales. Others are cheerful helpers in Christmas stories, working away in a workshop. The look changes with the story, but a few things stay the same:

• Pointed ears
• A tunic or short jacket, often green, red or brown
• A pointed hat or hood
• Boots, sometimes with curled toes

Woodland elves lean towards earthy greens and browns. Christmas elves go brighter, with stripes, bells and bold red and green.

Gnomes

Gnomes are shorter and rounder. In garden tales and folklore they are small, kind of grumpy and often live underground or in the woods. What makes a gnome recognisable:

• A tall, floppy pointed hat, often red or blue
• A long white beard
• A round nose
• A belted tunic and sturdy boots

The hat and beard do most of the work. Get those right and the rest follows.

Easy finishing touches

• Pointed ear tips, which are a quick way to turn any outfit into an elf
• A wide belt with a plain buckle
• A small sack, lantern or toy hammer to carry
• Striped tights or socks
• A little face paint for rosy cheeks (do a small skin test first)

Children or adults

For children, comfort comes first. Choose soft fabrics, hats that stay put and shoes they can walk in. Check the label for sizing and any age guidance. A long beard or loose hem can be a trip hazard, so keep lengths sensible.

For adults, a simple base of neutral clothes with a hat and one or two details works well. Gnome beards can be warm at a long party, so think about how long you will wear it. Matching costumes also work nicely as a family or class group.