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Style, Jewelry & Accessories

Costumes

6 kinds worth knowing, 11 picks, and what to check before you buy.

Representative photo-style image of costumes — generated, not a specific product
Representative image, generated

Costumes get bought for kids who play dress-up all year, for friends who host theme parties and for whoever has agreed to be Santa at the family gathering. The ones that get worn over and over are easy to put on, comfortable enough for a whole evening and roomy enough to go over regular clothes. A pirate costume or a princess costume can become a favourite at the dress-up bin for years, while a Santa suit may come out only once a season. Think about where the costume will be worn and by whom. Then pick something that suits that person's sense of fun, not just the look in the photo.

Kind 1 of 6

Pirate costumes for dress-up and theme parties

A pirate costume usually means a loose shirt or vest, a sash, a hat and sometimes an eye patch or toy hook. It suits kids who like adventure play, and adults headed to a theme party. Pieces that layer over everyday clothes are easier to wear in a Canadian winter. Before buying, check which pieces are included, because the listing photo often shows extras sold separately. Look for sizing by height as well as age, and adjustable ties or elastic so the costume still fits next year.

  • Representative photo-style image of costumes — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Swashbuckling pirate adventurer ensemble

    Perfect for those who enjoy tales of the high seas and wish to embody a daring buccaneer for themed gatherings or imaginative play.

Kind 2 of 6

Inflatable costumes that get a laugh

Inflatable costumes use a small battery-powered fan to puff up a lightweight shell, so the wearer suddenly looks like a dinosaur or some other oversized character. They suit friends who love being the funniest person at the party, and older kids who enjoy a big reaction. Check the battery type the fan uses, and pack spares with the gift. Look at the height range, since these costumes are cut long, and at how the wearer sees out and uses their hands. They're best for short bursts of fun, not a full day of wear.

  • Illustration of Inflatable T-Rex Costume

    Curated pick$50–$100

    Inflatable T-Rex Costume

    Whoever unwraps this MUST wear it for one round. House rules.

  • Representative photo-style image of costumes — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Humorous inflatable novelty outfit

    This eye-catching and amusing costume is ideal for anyone who loves to make a grand, comical entrance at parties or events.

Kind 3 of 6

Superhero costumes for young heroes

Superhero costumes usually come as a printed or padded bodysuit with a cape or mask. Kids often wear them far beyond party days, to the grocery store, to the park and around the house. Pick a hero the child already talks about, not the one that's trending. Check whether the mask is soft and whether the cape attaches with hook-and-loop tape, since that's easier for small hands. A size up leaves room to layer and grow. Wash instructions matter too, because a favourite costume will need a lot of washing.

  • Representative photo-style image of costumes — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Classic superhero themed costume set

    This outfit is perfect for children or adults who enjoy imaginative play and embodying heroic characters for various events.

Kind 4 of 6

Princess gowns for the dress-up bin

A princess costume is typically a long gown with a fitted top and a full skirt, sometimes sold with a tiara, gloves or wand. It suits kids who love twirling, storytelling and tea parties. Look at the fabric: soft cotton-blend linings feel better than scratchy tulle against the skin. Check the length so the hem doesn't catch underfoot, and choose a closure the child can manage alone. If the gift is for a specific character fan, match the colours they'll recognize.

  • Representative photo-style image of costumes — generated, not a specific product

    Gift ideaUsually $25–$50

    Enchanting themed princess gown

    A delightful present for young dreamers who adore fairy tales and wish to embody royal elegance for special occasions or play.

Kind 5 of 6

Full Santa suits for playing the part

A Santa costume is the complete look: red jacket and pants, a belt, a hat, and often a beard, wig and boot covers. It's a good gift for the relative who does the gift handout every year, or for someone volunteering at a school or community event. Check how full and secure the beard is, since that detail makes or breaks the effect with kids. Size generously so a pillow or padding fits under the jacket. Heavier fabrics look more convincing but get warm indoors, so think about how long it will be worn.

Kind 6 of 6

Santa outfits and festive party pieces

A Santa outfit can be lighter than a full suit: a hat, a red top, suspenders or a trimmed vest that adds holiday spirit without the beard and padding. These suit office parties, family photos and gift exchanges where everyone joins in. Group packs work well when a host wants the whole room dressed up. Check that hats stretch to fit a range of head sizes. Pick pieces that are easy to take off once the photos are done.

How to choose costumes as a gift

  • Buy by height and chest measurements when they're listed, since age sizing varies a lot between costumes.
  • Check exactly which pieces are included before buying, because photos often show accessories sold separately.
  • Pick costumes that go on and off easily; kids especially lose interest in anything with fiddly closures.
  • Match the costume to a character or theme the person already loves, not what's popular this season.
  • For group events, party packs of hats or headbands let everyone take part without a full costume.

Usually safe to skip

  • Costumes tied to a single movie release often lose their appeal fast once the hype passes.
  • Tight-fitting costumes sized exactly to today's measurements usually get outgrown or skipped when layering for cold weather.
  • Heavy, full-coverage costumes for young kids tend to come off within minutes because they're too warm indoors.

Questions people ask about costumes

What size costume should I buy for a child?
Go by height first, then chest, and choose the next size up if the child is between sizes. A little extra room lets them wear the costume over clothes and keeps it fitting for another season of dress-up.
How long do inflatable costume batteries last?
It depends on the fan and battery type listed with the costume. Fresh batteries usually cover a party or an evening out, so include a spare set with the gift and remind the wearer to switch the fan off between uses.
Is a Santa costume a good gift for someone who isn't hosting kids?
It can be, if they enjoy office parties, charity events or holiday photos. For someone who just likes festive touches, a hat or lighter Santa outfit is often worn more than a full suit with a beard and padding.

Looking for one person in particular? Shop by person.

Everything else

All costumes picks

Show:AllSpecific productsGift ideasBudget:AnyUnder $15$15–$25$25–$50$50–$100Over $100

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