Reindeer Costume
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Santa’s reindeer are a Christmas classic, and this is one of the coziest holiday costumes you can wear. A brown base and a pair of antlers gets you most of the way there, and the red nose is up to you.
What Makes It Work
The antlers are the key piece. A headband with felt or plush antlers in brown or gold, with small ears just below them. Antlers wrapped with tiny battery lights are a fun touch for parties.
The body is brown. A brown hoodie, sweater or onesie, ideally with a lighter cream patch on the chest and belly. A short tail at the back is a cute extra.
Finish the face with a painted nose, either brown, black, or the famous red, plus freckle-style spots on the cheeks. Brown pants and brown boots complete it. For a group, everyone can be a different reindeer from the team.
What People Get Wrong
Antlers that are too heavy. Big stiff antlers on a thin headband slide forward and give you a headache by the second hour. Choose plush or felt antlers and a padded band.
Buy It or Build It?
Antler headbands run about $8 to $15. Reindeer onesies and kits run about $25 to $50. A brown hoodie plus a headband and a little face paint is an easy, cheap version.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | What they carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Costume kits, wigs and accessories | Shop on Amazon |
FAQ
How do I make reindeer antlers?
Bend brown pipe cleaners into antler shapes and twist them onto a headband, or cut them from brown felt and stuff them lightly.
Do I need a red nose for a reindeer costume?
No. A brown or black nose works for any reindeer. The red nose is a fun option if you want the most famous one.
What's a good couples costume with a reindeer?
Santa, an elf, or another reindeer.
Is a reindeer costume good for a family photo?
Yes. A whole family in antlers, with one Santa, makes a great holiday card.
Next up: Santa Claus Costume
See Also
Free: The Last-Minute Costume Cheat Sheet
Ten costumes you can make tonight, mostly from your own closet. One page, printable, plus a short email before each costume season. No spam.