National Costume Day

Young girl wearing a colorful, extravagant costume, posing in a whimsical and enchanting forest setting.. — National costume day illustration

Ah, National Costume Day - a day that celebrates the joy of dressing up in the most fabulous and outrageous costumes. It's a day to unleash your inner superhero, princess, or pirate, and let your imagination run wild. So grab your cape, don your tiara, and get ready for a day of fun-filled fancy dress!

When is Costume Day?

It's national costume day on the 17th June.

What is National Costume Day?

National Costume Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the beauty and creativity of costumes. Whether it's for Halloween, a themed party, or just for the sheer fun of it, costumes allow us to transform into someone or something entirely different for a little while.

Costumes have been a part of human culture for centuries. From ancient rituals and ceremonies to theater and cosplay, costumes have always served as a way to express ourselves and experiment with different identities. National Costume Day is a chance to embrace this tradition and let your imagination soar.

The Internet History of National Costume Day

The internet buzz around National Costume Day has been growing steadily over the years. In 2016, it reached its peak with 165 online mentions, making June 17th the most popular day for costume enthusiasts to come out and play.

Social media platforms, such as Twitter and Instagram, have become hotspots for sharing costume creations and getting inspiration from others. The hashtag #NationalCostumeDay often trends on social media, with people sharing photos of their amazing costumes and encouraging others to join in on the fun.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the largest gathering of people dressed in costumes was achieved in 2015 at the Royal Victoria Country Park in Hampshire, UK? A grand total of 1,806 people came together to break the world record and create a stunning spectacle of creativity.

History behind the term 'Costume'

1097

First Recorded Use of 'Costume'

The term 'costume' is first recorded in English in the year 1097. It is derived from the Old French word 'costume', which originally means 'custom', 'habit', or 'style'. This suggests that even in its earliest usage, the term was associated with clothing and personal adornment that reflected regional or cultural customs.

15th Century

Evolution of Costume Design

During the 15th century, the concept of costume expanded to include the attire and accessories worn by actors in theatrical performances. The intricate and detailed costumes became an integral part of stage productions, allowing performers to visually portray their characters and enhance the theatrical experience. This marked the beginning of a broader understanding of 'costume' as the attire specifically created for a particular role or dramatic presentation.

18th Century

Costume in Masquerade Balls

In the 18th century, the term 'costume' gained popularity in the context of masquerade balls. These extravagant and secretive balls were social events where attendees wore elaborate and often masked outfits. The costumes displayed imaginative designs, drawing inspiration from historical characters, mythical figures, and even fictional creatures. This era played a significant role in elevating 'costume' to a term associated with themed dress-up for entertainment purposes.

19th Century

Costume as a Reflective Art Form

In the 19th century, costume became recognized as an art form in its own right. The development of the costume design profession allowed for the creation of visually captivating outfits for theatrical productions, circuses, ballets, and operas. Costume designers, such as Charles Frederick Worth and Leon Bakst, brought innovation and a deeper understanding of the role of attire in storytelling. Their work reflected the evolving societal trends and cultural influences of the time.

20th Century

Halloween and Costume Parties

The 20th century witnessed the rise of Halloween and costume parties, further shaping the modern concept of 'costume'. Halloween, rooted in ancient Celtic traditions, became an occasion for dressing up in disguises as people adorned themselves to ward off malevolent spirits. Meanwhile, costume parties gained popularity as a form of social entertainment. Both phenomena contributed to the idea of costume as a means of self-expression, encouraging individuals to transform into different characters or explore different identities through attire.