It's that time of the year that some parents dread but most children absolutely love – World Book Day! This yearly event, which takes place on 1 March, promotes reading by encouraging children across the country to dress up as their favourite fictional character for a whole day. For those parents not so keen on creating costumes at home, we've selected the best fancy dress ensembles available online and in stores from as little as £9.95.
PETER RABBIT
He is set to become the most popular fictional character this year with the release of the film on 16 March, so what better than to choose this incredible costume. The hooded design features a 3D plush Peter Rabbit hood with fluffy ears that match the cosy bottom half of the all-in-one outfit, whilst the upper sports a mock jacket with long sleeves – we’ve even included a cross-body bag that they can keep their vegetable loot in.
Available from direct.asda.com for £14.00
Postman Pat
Early in the morning, just as the day is dawning, your little one will be up, dressed and ready for a day as part of the postal service, delivering to the people of Greendale. The shirt and trousers design is crafted to look like Postman Pat and features a hat and glasses that they can put into the included postbag when they need a break.
Available from direct.asda.com from £14.00
Paddington Bear
Paddington is definitely the nation's favourite marmalade eating bear! This costume's hook-and-loop tape fastenings make it easy to slip the all-in-one outfit on, and the 3D plush hood replicates Paddington's face and his iconic red hat. There's also an included mock suitcase that they can carry, although this one isn't filled with marmalade sandwiches.
Available from direct.asda.com for £14
Roald Dahl's Oompa Loompa
Oompa Loompa doompety doo, George at Asda have the perfect costume for you. Your little one will look like they're straight out of Willy Wonka's Chocolate factory with this cool all-in-one design. Complete with button detailing and a green wig, they'll be dancing and singing all day as they act out scenes from the iconic film.
Available from direct.asda.com for £15.00
Horrid Henry
Kids who love reading all of Horrid Henry's gruesome stories will love dressing up as him in this amazing costume! It includes a long sleeved blue top with yellow accents and a logo. It also comes with blue trousers and a face mask. Available in Medium: Age 5-6 and Large: Age 7-8 sizes.
Available from very.co.uk for £15.25
Peppa Pig
Who wouldn't like to dress up as the most popular piglet in the world? This super cute Peppa Pig Costume consists of a red hooded tabard with a Peppa pig logo on the front along with a pocket with a removable yellow felt teddy and a piggy tail applique to back. The soft padded tabard has a character hood attached to it, complete with eyes, ears and snout.
Available from partydelights.co.uk for £15.99
Gangsta Granny
Transform your child into a Burglar Granny with this funny costume. It includes a long sleeved dress with a Peter Pan collar, pink top, brown skirt with an elasticated waist. To complete the outfit is a black eye mask which secures in place with Velcro and elastic and a bag with 'Swag' printed in black.
Available from ebay.co.uk for £9.95