Princesses and Princes Costumes

The classic looks

A princess look usually means a long, full skirt, a fitted bodice and a bit of sparkle. A prince look is a tailored jacket with braid or buttons, worn with fitted trousers and boots. Both are often finished with a crown or a sash.

How they appear in stories

Fairy tales give us many versions. Each has a detail that people spot straight away.

• Cinderella: a pale blue ball gown and glass slippers.
• Snow White: a yellow skirt, blue bodice, red bow and short dark hair.
• Sleeping Beauty: a pink or blue gown and a golden crown.
• Belle: a golden ball gown or a plain blue village dress.
• Prince Charming: a fitted jacket, a sash and a sword at the hip.
• The Frog Prince: a green jacket, or a green prince with a small crown.

Colour is usually the clearest clue. If you keep the colour right, people will guess the character.

Easy finishing touches

Small extras change a costume a lot, and most are quick to add.

• A crown or tiara.
• Gloves, long or short.
• A cape or a sash.
• A wand, a scepter or a toy sword.
• Simple jewellery, such as a necklace or bracelet.
• Light face paint or glitter. Do a small skin test first, and check the label.

Choosing for children

Comfort matters most. Pick something they can walk, sit and play in. Check that skirts are not too long to trip on, and that any crown stays on without pinching. Children often grow quickly, so leave a little room in the fit.

Choosing for adults

Adults can go as elegant or as playful as they like. A full gown suits a party, while a simpler dress with a crown works well for a school day. Think about how long you will wear it, and whether you need to move, sit or drive. A prince look can be as simple as a smart jacket, dark trousers, a sash and a crown.