Garden Gnome Costume
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Garden gnomes started as clay figures in 1800s Germany, and they’ve been standing guard in yards ever since. As a costume, a gnome is cute, funny and great for groups. It’s one of the rare costumes where everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, wears a beard.
What Makes It Work
The tall pointed red hat is the signature. It should stand up tall, so use a felt hat or stuff the tip with tissue paper.
Add a fluffy white beard (yes, for everyone), a blue or green long-sleeve shirt, a wide brown belt with a big buckle, and brown pants or overalls. Boots or brown shoes finish the body.
Rosy cheeks and a rosy nose with blush give the painted-statue look. Hold a tiny shovel, a watering can or a fishing pole. For bonus laughs, freeze in a pose whenever someone takes a photo.
What People Get Wrong
A floppy hat. If the point falls over, it looks like an elf or a Santa hat. Stuff it or use stiff felt. The other mistake is a small beard. Gnome beards are big and round.
Buy It or Build It?
Gnome hat and beard sets run about $15 to $25, and that’s really all you need to buy. Everything else is probably in your closet.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | What they carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Costume kits, wigs and accessories | Shop on Amazon |
FAQ
How do I make a gnome hat stand up?
Use stiff felt, or stuff the tip with tissue paper or a cone of poster board inside the hat.
Is a garden gnome a good group costume?
It’s one of the best. Give everyone a different color shirt and a different garden prop.
Can kids be garden gnomes?
Yes, and it’s adorable. Use a soft beard that won’t itch.
What couples costume goes with a gnome?
Two gnomes, a gnome and a mushroom, or a gnome and a gardener.
Next up: Little Red Riding Hood 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.