Anna Costume Guide

Anna's adventurous spirit shines through her colorful and practical ensemble. Let's transform familiar clothing items into standout pieces that embody her unique style. For a budget-friendly approach or if you simply love crafting, these DIY tips will breathe life into your costume. And remember, if you're short on time, we've already shared a shopping list above for ready-to-wear Anna costume elements.

The Vibrant Blue Skirt

• What You Need:

  • A-line skirt (knee-length or slightly longer) in a solid blue color that matches Anna's skirt as closely as possible.
  • Fabric paint in blue, teal, and black.
  • Paper or cardboard to insert inside the skirt.
  • Paintbrushes
  • Reference images of Anna's skirt design

• How to Do It:

  1. Find a skirt with a shape and fullness resembling Anna's. Thrift stores can be treasure troves for this! Look for cotton or blends that will take fabric paint well.
  2. Using reference images of Anna's skirt, sketch the basic floral designs lightly onto the skirt with pencil.
  3. Insert paper or cardboard inside the skirt to protect the back from paint bleed-through.
  4. Using fabric paint, fill in the design elements. Begin with the larger blue and teal shapes, then layer with black details.
  5. Once the front design is complete, allow it to dry fully before repeating the process on the back of the skirt.

• Bonus Tips:

  • I've found that fabric medium mixed with your paint helps it adhere better and prevents stiffness.
  • Pre-wash your skirt to avoid shrinkage after painting.
  • Want a shortcut? Iron-on fabric transfers or appliques featuring Nordic folk patterns can add instant detail!

The Fitted Bodice

• What You Need:

  • Black vest, bolero jacket, or fitted cardigan.
  • Gold fabric paint or gold trim.
  • Fabric adhesive (if using trim).
  • Paintbrushes or sewing needle and thread.
  • Reference images of Anna's bodice.

• How to Do It:

  1. Start with a base garment that hugs the torso like Anna's bodice. Look for simple styles without lots of buttons or embellishments.
  2. Study images of Anna's bodice design (the rosemaling pattern).
  3. Option 1 (Paint): Sketch the design lightly on your garment and carefully paint on the gold details.
  4. Option 2 (Trim): If sewing is more your style, attach gold trim to replicate the design, securing it with fabric adhesive or stitches.

• Bonus Tips:

  • Consider your skill level when deciding between paint or trim. Both can look amazing!
  • Adding small decorative buttons along the front of your vest can enhance the look.
  • If you can't find the perfect base garment, don't worry – a plain black shirt worn beneath your open cape will still read as Anna!

The Majestic Magenta Cape

• What You Need:

  • Large piece of magenta fabric (wool or wool-blend is ideal).
  • Sewing machine or fabric adhesive.
  • Scissors.
  • Gold clasp or decorative brooch.
  • Measuring tape

• How to Do It:

  1. Determine the desired length of the cape, measuring from shoulder to mid-calf (or your preference).
  2. Cut a rectangle of fabric in your chosen length, leaving ample width to drape over the shoulders.
  3. Hem the bottom edge of your cape using a sewing machine or fabric adhesive.
  4. Create a simple collar by folding the top edge of your fabric down a few inches and securing in place.
  5. Attach your gold clasp or brooch near the top to fasten the cape.

• Bonus Tips:

  • For a more luxurious feel, line the inside of your cape with satin in a contrasting color.
  • I always pre-wash fabrics to account for shrinkage before constructing any garment.
  • If sewing is intimidating, fabric adhesive provides a simple solution for the cape's basic shape.