Book Week is a time of joy, creativity, and inspiration in schools across the globe. For teachers, it’s the perfect opportunity to connect with students through the world of books, all while having fun with costumes. This year, the trends in book-themed outfits are not only imaginative but also reflect current pop culture, sustainability, and inclusivity. Let’s take a look at the top Book Week costumes for teachers in 2025.
1. Classic Characters with a Modern Twist
Characters like Matilda, The Cat in the Hat, and Harry Potter continue to be popular among teachers. However, this year sees these costumes being modernised - think gender-neutral versions, inclusive designs, and sustainable materials. Teachers are finding creative ways to represent timeless literary characters while bringing something fresh to the table.
2. Eco-Friendly Costumes
Sustainability is a major theme this year. Teachers are increasingly crafting costumes from recyclable or upcycled materials. Homemade accessories, repurposed clothing, and minimal plastic are the focus. Characters such as The Lorax and Fern Arable from Charlotte’s Web lend themselves well to this eco-conscious approach.
3. Diverse and Inclusive Representation
2025 has placed a strong emphasis on diversity in literature. Teachers are embracing characters from books that represent different cultures, abilities, and backgrounds. Costumes inspired by books like Hair Love, The Proudest Blue, and Wonder are helping students feel seen and celebrated. This trend reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity in education.
4. Group and Theme Costumes
Collaborative costumes among staff are a hit this year. Entire grade levels or departments are dressing up as characters from the same book series or author. Think of all the teachers in a school becoming the cast of Alice in Wonderland, Roald Dahl’s universe, or The Wizard of Oz. These group efforts not only look fantastic but also encourage teamwork and school spirit.
5. Graphic Novels and Superhero-Inspired Looks
With the rise of graphic novels in the classroom, characters from books like Dog Man, Smile, and Amulet are showing up in costume form. Additionally, superhero-style characters from books - especially those with literary origins like Percy Jackson or Ms. Marvel - are becoming popular. These outfits are engaging, recognisable, and fun to wear.
Final Thoughts
Book Week costumes for teachers reflect a delightful mix of tradition and innovation. Whether you’re crafting your costume at home or coordinating with colleagues, this year’s trends offer plenty of inspiration to make Book Week memorable for everyone.