Where the Wild Things Are is a beloved children's book that has captured the imagination of readers for generations. Its iconic characters and whimsical world have inspired many adults to seek out costumes based on the story for Halloween, cosplay events, or themed parties. This comprehensive guide will explore various options for adult "Where the Wild Things Are" costumes, including both commercially available products and DIY alternatives. We'll also discuss the popularity of these costumes, their cultural significance, and provide tips for creating the perfect Wild Thing look.
Commercial Costume Options
When it comes to purchasing a ready-made "Where the Wild Things Are" costume for adults, there are several options available from various online retailers:
Etsy Offerings
Etsy, known for its handmade and unique items, offers several choices for Wild Things enthusiasts:
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Adult Monster Hat: Priced at $60.00, this hat comes in various colors and is designed to resemble the wild creatures from the book. It has received positive reviews, with a 5.0 rating from 19 customers.
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Max Costume: For those wanting to dress as the story's protagonist, there's a custom Max costume available for $129.00. This option allows adults to embody the adventurous spirit of the main character.
Amazon and eBay Alternatives
Other online marketplaces also offer Wild Things-inspired costumes:
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Max Wolf Adult Costume: Available on Amazon for $79.95, this costume is designed for adults and comes in various sizes, including X-Small.
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Wolf King Max Costume Hoodie: eBay offers a more casual option with a hoodie-style costume priced at $43.99. This includes a crown, making it a comfortable yet recognizable choice.
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Max Records Adult Halloween Cosplay: For a higher-end option, there's a costume available on eBay for $148.00, which appears to be inspired by the film adaptation of the book.
DIY Costume Ideas
For those who prefer a more personalized or budget-friendly approach, creating a DIY "Where the Wild Things Are" costume can be a fun and rewarding project. Here are some ideas:
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Max's Wolf Suit:
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Start with a white or light gray onesie or jumpsuit
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Add fur trim around the edges using faux fur fabric
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Create pointy ears and a tail using the same fur material
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Don't forget Max's golden crown, which can be made from cardboard and gold paint
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Wild Thing Monster:
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Use a furry bodysuit as a base
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Add horns made from foam or papier-mâché
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Create large, exaggerated claws for hands and feet
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Paint your face to match the monster's features
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Forest Backdrop:
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For a group costume, have some friends dress as trees with brown clothing and green leaf accessories
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This can create the magical forest setting from the book
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Cultural Significance
"Where the Wild Things Are" has remained a cultural touchstone since its publication in 1963. The enduring popularity of adult costumes based on the book speaks to its impact across generations. The story's themes of imagination, adventure, and the complex emotions of childhood resonate with adults, making these costumes more than just a nostalgic choice.
Wearing a Wild Things costume as an adult can be seen as a celebration of creativity and a connection to one's inner child. It allows grown-ups to temporarily step into a world of fantasy and play, which is increasingly valued in our often stressful adult lives.
Tips for the Perfect Wild Thing Look
To truly capture the essence of "Where the Wild Things Are" in your costume, consider these tips:
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Attention to Detail: Focus on the unique features of each character, such as Max's pointed ears or the Wild Things' distinctive horns and claws.
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Texture is Key: The creatures in the book have a shaggy, furry appearance. Incorporate different textures to bring depth to your costume.
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Color Palette: Stick to the earthy tones used in the original illustrations – browns, greens, and yellows.
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Accessories Matter: Don't forget important elements like Max's scepter or the Wild Things' crowns.
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Makeup and Face Paint: For monster costumes, use face paint to recreate the expressive features of the Wild Things.
Crazecosplay.com and Other Cosplay Options
While crazecosplay.com doesn't specifically offer "Where the Wild Things Are" costumes, it's worth mentioning as a resource for cosplay enthusiasts. The site specializes in anime and pop culture costumes, which could provide inspiration or components for a Wild Things costume.
However, it's important to note that customer experiences with crazecosplay.com have been mixed. Some reviews on Trustpilot indicate issues with customer service and product quality. Additionally, discussions on Reddit suggest that while the site has been in business for several years, caution is advised when ordering, as with many cosplay store.
For those interested in creating a more elaborate or high-quality Wild Things costume, consider:
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Combining elements from different cosplay stores to create a unique look
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Commissioning a custom costume from a skilled cosplayer or costume maker
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Attending cosplay workshops to learn techniques for creating fur suits or monster makeup
Costume Care and Maintenance
Once you've acquired or created your perfect "Where the Wild Things Are" costume, proper care is essential to ensure it lasts for multiple wears:
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Cleaning: Follow care instructions carefully, especially for furry or delicate parts of the costume.
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Storage: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or mildew, particularly for fabric-heavy costumes.
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Repairs: Keep a repair kit handy for quick fixes, including fabric glue, thread, and spare fur.
Wearing Your Costume
When donning your "Where the Wild Things Are" costume, consider the following:
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Comfort: Ensure you can move comfortably, especially if wearing a full-body suit.
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Temperature: Be aware of the climate where you'll be wearing the costume, as fur suits can get very warm.
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Visibility: If wearing a mask or headpiece, make sure you have adequate visibility for safety.
Conclusion
"Where the Wild Things Are" costumes for adults offer a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with a cherished childhood story while expressing creativity and playfulness. Whether purchasing a ready-made costume or crafting your own, the key is to capture the wild, imaginative spirit of Maurice Sendak's timeless tale.
While specific rankings for costume options are subjective and can vary based on individual preferences and needs, the Adult Monster Hat from Etsy stands out as a popular choice due to its positive reviews and affordable price point. However, for those seeking a full costume experience, the custom Max costume, also from Etsy, offers a more complete look.
Ultimately, the best "Where the Wild Things Are" costume is one that makes you feel connected to the story and allows you to embody its whimsical, adventurous spirit. Whether you choose to be Max, a Wild Thing, or create your own interpretation of the magical world Sendak created, your costume is sure to bring joy and nostalgia to yourself and those around you.
