When it comes to teaching literature, not all stories are grounded in reality, and that’s exactly what makes them powerful.
Fantasy worlds invite students to think beyond logic, explore symbolism, and embrace creativity. One of the most iconic examples is Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.
By using costumes inspired by this whimsical tale, students don’t just read the story, they experience its absurdity, curiosity, and deeper meaning.
Exploring Wonderland Through Costume
Unlike historical literature, Alice in Wonderland thrives on exaggeration, nonsense, and bold visual identity. Each character’s costume reflects their personality and role in the story:
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Alice – simple blue dress, symbolizing innocence and curiosity
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The Mad Hatter – eccentric, mismatched clothing, representing chaos and unpredictability
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The Queen of Hearts – bold red and black attire, symbolizing authority and irrational power
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The White Rabbit – formal yet frantic, reflecting urgency and anxiety
When students see and wear these costumes, it becomes much easier to understand who the characters are.
Helping Students Understand the Story
Alice in Wonderland can be confusing. The story is full of strange events and silly conversations.
But when students act it out in costume:
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The story feels more real
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The characters make more sense
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The “nonsense” becomes fun instead of confusing
For example, acting out the tea party scene helps students see how strange and funny the characters really are. If you're wondering where to get the costumes? How to get the sizes for your students sorted? Drop CCM Costume Rental a note, they'll assist with minor alterations and also take care of the laundry!
