Have you ever wanted to channel the style of your favourite literary characters? From classic novels to contemporary bestsellers, books are filled with iconic characters whose outfits have left a lasting impression on readers. In this article, we’ll explore 13 of the best book characters’ dress-to-impress outfit ideas that you can incorporate into your own wardrobe.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for a themed party or cosplay event, or simply want to add a touch of literary flair to your everyday look, these outfit ideas will help you step into the shoes of your beloved book characters. Let’s dive into the world of literature-inspired fashion!
1. Jay Gatsby – The Great Gatsby
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s enigmatic millionaire is known for his impeccable style and lavish parties. Gatsby’s signature look is the epitome of 1920s glamour and sophistication.
To channel Gatsby’s style, opt for a well-tailored light-coloured suit, preferably in cream or pale pink. Pair it with a crisp white shirt and a pastel-coloured tie. Don’t forget to add a pocket square and a pair of two-tone oxfords to complete the look.
“He had one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby
Pro Tip: To truly capture Gatsby’s essence, accessorize with a vintage-inspired wristwatch and slick back your hair for that classic 1920s look.
2. Hermione Granger – Harry Potter Series
Hermione Granger, the brilliant witch from J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, has a practical yet stylish approach to fashion that evolves throughout the books.
For a Hermione-inspired outfit, start with a Gryffindor uniform base: a white button-up shirt, grey sweater vest, and pleated skirt. Layer with a black robe and add knee-high socks and Mary Jane shoes. Don’t forget Hermione’s iconic time-turner necklace and a wand as accessories.
Pro Tip: To truly embody Hermione’s character, carry a stack of books or a beaded handbag (with an undetectable extension charm, of course).
3. Sherlock Holmes – Sherlock Holmes Series
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s legendary detective is known for his sharp mind and equally sharp dress sense.
To dress like Sherlock, opt for a tweed deerstalker hat, a long wool overcoat (preferably in a dark colour), and a smart suit underneath. Add a silk cravat or bow tie, and don’t forget the iconic magnifying glass as an accessory.
“The game is afoot.” – Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, The Adventure of the Abbey Grange
Pro Tip: For an authentic touch, add a pocket watch and a pipe (though we don’t recommend actually smoking it).
4. Katniss Everdeen – The Hunger Games
Suzanne Collins’ fierce protagonist from The Hunger Games trilogy has a style that’s both practical and memorable.
To recreate Katniss’ look, start with fitted black pants and a simple black t-shirt. Layer with a dark jacket, preferably with a hood. Add combat boots and fingerless gloves. The key accessory is, of course, a replica of Katniss’ bow and arrow set.
Pro Tip: Braid your hair to the side for Katniss’ signature hairstyle, and consider adding a mockingjay pin to your jacket.
5. Dorian Gray – The Picture of Dorian Gray
Oscar Wilde’s eternally youthful and decadent character is the epitome of Victorian dandyism.
For a Dorian Gray-inspired look, choose a well-tailored suit in a rich, dark colour like emerald green or deep purple. Pair it with a silk waistcoat, crisp white shirt, and an ornate cravat or ascot. Add patent leather shoes and a walking stick for the full effect.
“The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it.” – Oscar Wilde, The Picture of Dorian Gray
Pro Tip: To capture Dorian’s vanity, add a pocket mirror or a small framed portrait of yourself as an accessory.
6. Elizabeth Bennet – Pride and Prejudice
Jane Austen’s spirited heroine from Pride and Prejudice embodies Regency-era elegance with a touch of practicality.
For an Elizabeth Bennet look, choose a high-waisted empire dress in a light, floral print. Add a shawl or Spencer jacket for layering. Complete the outfit with dainty flat shoes or boots, and style your hair in loose curls or an updo with tendrils framing your face.
Pro Tip: Carry a small book or letter to channel Elizabeth’s wit and love of reading.
7. Count Dracula – Dracula
Bram Stoker’s iconic vampire has inspired countless interpretations, but his classic look remains timeless.
To dress as Count Dracula, start with a black suit and white dress shirt. Add a high-collared cape in black or deep red, preferably lined with satin. Slick back your hair and consider adding some pale makeup and fake fangs for the full effect.
“I am Dracula, and I bid you welcome.” – Bram Stoker, Dracula
Pro Tip: For an extra touch of authenticity, add a medallion or signet ring with a “family crest.”
8. Holly Golightly – Breakfast at Tiffany’s
While technically a novella, Truman Capote’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s has given us one of the most iconic fashion figures in literature.
To channel Holly Golightly, start with a little black dress – preferably one with a classic, sleeveless cut. Add long black gloves, a multi-strand pearl necklace, and oversized sunglasses. Style your hair in an elegant updo and don’t forget the tiara for special occasions.
Pro Tip: Carry a small, elegant cigarette holder (even if you don’t smoke) for that extra touch of Holly’s sophistication.
9. Gandalf – The Lord of the Rings
J.R.R. Tolkien’s wise wizard from The Lord of the Rings trilogy has a distinctive look that’s perfect for making a dramatic entrance.
For a Gandalf-inspired outfit, start with a long grey robe or cloak. Add a wide-brimmed pointed hat and a long white beard (real or fake). Don’t forget Gandalf’s stuff – you can make one from a walking stick or find a replica online.
Pro Tip: Add some weathered-looking boots and a belt with a large silver buckle for authenticity.
10. Scarlett O’Hara – Gone with the Wind
Margaret Mitchell’s headstrong Southern belle from Gone with the Wind is known for her elaborate antebellum gowns and her ability to make an impression.
For a Scarlett O’Hara look, choose a wide-skirted gown with a fitted bodice, preferably in a bold colour like green or red. Add hoop skirts underneath for volume. Accessorize with lace gloves, a parasol, and a wide-brimmed hat adorned with flowers or feathers.
“After all, tomorrow is another day!” – Margaret Mitchell, Gone with the Wind
Pro Tip: If you’re crafty, make a miniature hat from green curtain fabric as a nod to one of Scarlett’s most iconic moments.
11. Sherlock Holmes (Modern Version) – Sherlock TV Series
While not strictly from a book, the BBC’s modern interpretation of Sherlock Holmes has created its own iconic look.
For the modern Sherlock look, start with a well-fitted dark suit. Add a purple dress shirt (Sherlock’s signature colour in the show) and a long, dramatic coat – preferably in a dark colour like navy or black. Finish with a blue scarf and leather gloves.
Pro Tip: Style your hair in tousled curls and carry a smartphone instead of a magnifying glass for that 21st-century detective vibe.
12. Anne Shirley – Anne of Green Gables
L.M. Montgomery’s spirited redhead from Anne of Green Gables has a charming, turn-of-the-century style that’s both practical and pretty.
For an Anne Shirley-inspired look, choose a high-necked blouse with puffed sleeves and a long skirt or pinafore dress. Add lace-up boots and style your hair in two braids. Don’t forget to accessorize with a straw hat adorned with flowers or ribbons.
Pro Tip: If you’re not a natural redhead, consider temporary hair dye or a wig to fully capture Anne’s look.
13. James Bond – James Bond Series
While the James Bond films might be more famous, Ian Fleming’s original character from the books is just as stylish.
For a James Bond look, opt for a perfectly tailored black tuxedo with a crisp white shirt and black bow tie. Add patent leather Oxford shoes and a sleek watch. For a more casual Bond look, choose a well-fitted suit in a dark colour.
“The name’s Bond. James Bond.” – Ian Fleming, various James Bond novels
Pro Tip: Add a martini glass (shaken, not stirred) as a prop to complete your Bond persona.
Conclusion
These 13 book character outfit ideas offer a range of styles from different eras and genres, allowing you to express your love for literature through fashion. Whether you’re dressing up for a special event or just want to infuse your everyday wardrobe with a touch of literary magic, these iconic looks are sure to impress.
Remember, the key to pulling off any of these outfits is confidence. Channel the spirit of your chosen character, and you’ll be sure to turn heads wherever you go. Happy dressing, book lovers!
| Character | Book/Series | Key Outfit Elements |
|---|---|---|
| Jay Gatsby | The Great Gatsby | Colourful suit, silk waistcoat, ornate cravat |
| Hermione Granger | Harry Potter | Gryffindor uniform, robe, time-turner necklace |
| Sherlock Holmes | Sherlock Holmes Series | Deerstalker hat, long coat, magnifying glass |
| Katniss Everdeen | The Hunger Games | Black outfit, jacket with hood, bow and arrow |
| Dorian Gray | The Picture of Dorian Gray | Empire waist dress, Spencer jacket, dainty shoes |
| Elizabeth Bennet | Pride and Prejudice | Grey robe, pointed hat, staff |
| Count Dracula | Dracula | Black suit, high-collared cape, pale makeup |
| Holly Golightly | Breakfast at Tiffany’s | Little black dress, pearls, oversized sunglasses |
| Gandalf | The Lord of the Rings | Gray robe, pointed hat, staff |
| Scarlett O’Hara | Gone with the Wind | Wide-skirted gown, hoop skirt, parasol |
| Modern Sherlock | Sherlock (TV Series) | Dark suit, purple shirt, long coat, blue scarf |
| Anne Shirley | Anne of Green Gables | Puffed sleeve blouse, pinafore, braided hair |
| James Bond | James Bond Series | Black tuxedo or well-fitted suit, dress shoes |
Remember, these outfit ideas are just starting points. Feel free to add your own personal touch and interpretation to make each look uniquely yours. Happy reading and happy dressing!