Costumes and accessories are still leading the charge as World Book Day 2019 saw children and teachers across the UK dressing up to celebrate their favourite literary characters.
The annual celebration of children’s reading habits has come under criticism in the past and this year has been no different, with parents accused of spending more on fancy dress than on the books they are supposed to be celebrating.
A poll by online auction website eBay revealed that six in ten parents feel that the annual event has become more about the outfits than the books, as some parents admitted spending up to £100 per costume for their children.
Some 40% of parents surveyed admitted to buying a costume for the national event instead of a book.
“We’ve noticed more happening on the creativity side this year, rather than ‘licensed’ or even the generic off-the-shelf solutions,” revealed Palmer Agencies’ Sergio Battaner. “This may be due to the fact that the big supermarkets are offering lesser quality and cheaper licensed character costumes for children.”
He continued; “Sales of accessories, wigs, gloves, glasses and even make-up has kept us fairly busy. Our fox masks have been very popular – some might even say they have been ‘fantastic’!”
“It’s been a special day of celebrating the weird, whacky and wonderful world of wordsmiths through dress-up all across the industry,” agreed Bristol Novelty’s Fran Hales. “It’s been a fantastic World Book Day, as we’ve seen our new children’s range fly out the door and land in stores across the country. Our creative curriculum and quirky themed costumes have proven very popular with both children and teachers. From the Globe to outer space, we’ve hopefully inspired everyone to really get into character!”
