Pirate Day Costume Ideas for Kids

The fastest approach: a bandana tied over the head (pirate-style, covering the top with a knot at the back), an eye patch over one eye, and a striped or plain shirt with jeans. Done in 30 seconds and every kid in school knows your child is a pirate. For a step up, add a pirate vest. Pirate vests come in most costume kits and they instantly upgrade the look from "kid wearing an eye patch" to "actual pirate." The vest goes over any t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt, so your kid stays comfortable underneath. Swords and hooks are the accessories kids are most excited about — and the ones most likely to get confiscated at school. Check your school's prop policy before buying. Foam swords are generally safe and school-approved. Hard plastic swords are not. Inflatable swords are the safest bet: they're obviously not weapons, they're fun, and they don't hurt when kids inevitably sword-fight at recess. Hook hands made from a cup with a plastic hook attached are a classic prop. They're usually uncomfortable after about 20 minutes, so don't expect your kid to wear it all day. The hook is more of a prop they carry than an accessory they wear. For a more detailed look: a white or striped dress shirt with rolled-up sleeves, a sash or belt around the waist, pants tucked into boots or tall socks, and all the accessories. A toy telescope or a stuffed parrot on the shoulder takes it to the next level.

Pirates are one of the easiest costumes to DIY from household items. A black or red bandana (or any dark cloth cut to size) ties on the head. An eye patch can be made from black construction paper or felt with an elastic band or string — it takes about two minutes. Make a pirate vest by cutting the sleeves off an old black t-shirt and cutting straight up the front. Leave it open and it looks like a vest over any shirt. Add skull-and-crossbones or gold buttons drawn with a metallic marker. A wrapping paper tube becomes a telescope. A cardboard tube covered in aluminum foil becomes a hook — poke it through the bottom of a paper cup so your kid can grip the cup while the hook sticks out. A belt or sash tied around the waist over a long shirt adds the pirate silhouette. Draw a curly mustache or a scar on the cheek with eyeliner for a finishing touch. Temporary tattoos of anchors or skulls on the forearm are another easy add-on that kids love.