Most little ones I’ve met LOVE to dress up and pretend they’re someone else. I spent entire days as a kid doing this (and making my sister, poor girl, join in). If you’re still trying to think of a last minute gift for a special little one in your world then a DIY thrift store dress-up costume kit is an awesome idea.
This is also a green gift. You don’t have to buy any new products to pull it off plus you’re saving goods from the landfill and it’s thrifty to boot. For about $30 or less you can create a totally fab, one-of-a-kind holiday gift for a child who loves pretend play. Below is how to pull off this reuse gift.
Hit the thrift stores and look for…
Petite clothing such as dresses, vests, skirts, and more. The dressier the better of course – in fact, and this might sound scandalous but smaller lingerie pieces makes great dress up fodder for little girls because they’re usually lacy, silky, and oh so girly. If you’re giving this to a little girl whose parents won’t find this odd, I’d add a silky slip or two. As you shop check for loose buttons, broken zippers, and any weird pins that kids shouldn’t have.
Hats, ties and silky scarves of all flavors.
Weird stuff such as oddball earmuffs, wedding veils and other rare finds are good additions.
Shoes – get the smallest and shiniest you can. Avoid super high heels. Little girls like them sure, but high heels are a tripping hazard.
Costume jewelry – plan for safety first. Only get jewelry for children who are old enough to handle it. Kids under four may still stick jewelry into their mouth. Also make sure that the jewelry you buy is not pointy, broken, loose in a setting, or hard to get off once on.
Really the possibilities are endless. You can find silk flowers for hair, gauzy shawls, and so much more. Make sure to check the costume section. Most thrift stores have them, even when it’s not near Halloween and you can score some super cheap dress up goods this time of year.
Next steps…
- Wash and clean all items well.
- Optional – add some extra goodies such as a homemade fairy wand or homemade crown for a princess or prince.
- Pack everything into a nice little recycled box or reusable bag. If you really want to get fancy, most craft stores sell little unpainted wooden chests for next to nothing. However, while fun to decorate, a chest is not necessary and will hike the cost of this gift up.
- Wrap and give to one lucky child for Christmas or another holiday.
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