1. The Vintage Circus Strongman
Step right up to see the most adorable show on earth! The vintage circus strongman is a delightfully nostalgic costume that is guaranteed to turn heads and melt hearts. Perfect for active toddlers who love to show off their “muscles,” this costume combines old-world charm with a healthy dose of humor. The outfit centers around a classic red-and-white striped unitard, easily crafted from a soft cotton bodysuit or pajamas for maximum comfort. To create the iconic barbell, you can use a painted black dowel or a cardboard wrapping paper tube with two black balloons or painted styrofoam balls attached to the ends. Write “100 LBS” on the sides in bold gold paint for that authentic, old-timey feel.
What makes this costume truly spectacular is the attention to detail. You can draw a gentle, curly handlebar mustache using a safe, non-toxic eyeliner pencil. Add a pair of tiny faux-leather wrist cuffs and some lace-up canvas booties to complete the look. It is incredibly comfortable for a toddler to wear all evening, allowing them to run, jump, and play without any restrictive masks or bulky padding. Plus, it makes for some of the most photogenic moments you will ever capture, especially if they strike a classic flexing pose for the camera.