Jungle Theme Costumes
From LoveToKnow Costumes
Jungle theme costumes come in far more varieties than the standard Tarzan-and-Jane famous couples costumes. With a bit of creativity, it is possible to create a jungle look for birthdays, Halloween, masquerade parties, or any safari-inspired event.
Defining a Jungle Theme
The first step in choosing an appropriate jungle theme costume is to decide exactly what level of “jungle-ness” is appropriate. A sexy jungle goddess costume is not appropriate for a toddler costume, for example, nor would a cuddly leopard cub fit in well at an adult king-of-the-jungle themed event. Most jungle and safari oriented costumes can be adjusted to meet several party styles, however, and with some creative adjustments to accessories, they are great choices for nearly any age as well.
Designs for Jungle Theme Costumes
When pressed to name costume ideas that fit a jungle or safari style theme, most people could easily come up with two or three different outfits. If the event is thoroughly themed, however, guests run the risk of being one of several Tarzans or Janes in the crowd. From classic costumes to outrageously creative designs, ideas for jungle costumes include:
- Tarzan and Jane couples or individuals
- King Kong or a more generic gorilla
- Jungle animals such as leopards, monkeys, elephants, tropical birds, tigers or boa constrictors
- Safari hunters or explorers
- Amazon jungle warriors
- Native tribesmen or medicine men
- Insects such as venomous spiders or exotic butterflies
- Jungle fantasy fairies
- Jungle foliage such as a palm tree or vibrant flower
- Tiki figures with fun or villainous expressions
- A king-of-the-jungle lion or lion cub
- A "Survivor" type reality show contestant, complete with immunity idol or torch
- Jungle tourist with binoculars and gaudy tropical print shirt
Which costume is most appropriate not only depends on the wearer’s age and the scope of the party, but also its precise theme. The jungles of Brazil, for example, are far different than the jungles of Africa, and while many guests won’t notice such nuances, taking the time to create a realistic and appropriate costume can make the fantasy all the more real.
Creative Details to Make a Jungle Costume
Many costume retailers offer basic jungle theme costumes, but adding personal details will make the outfit much more individualized and memorable. Adding unique touches also distinguishes a costume in case another guest has the same general costume idea. Costume embellishments can include:
- Makeup “whiskers” for jungle cat costumes
- Wooden or leather jewelry for jungle tribesmen
- A map and compass for jungle explorers
- Tropical silk flowers added to standard jungle attire
- Wild hair styles that suit a jungle lifestyle away from the salon
- Rich tans for jungle inhabitants
- Dirt under the fingernails of a "Survivor" contestant, or authentic "Survivor" merchandise such as a shirt
- Antique firearm replicas for a jungle hunter
By adding simple details to a basic costume, it is possible to create a completely unique jungle look just as wild as the party’s theme or the mood of the wearer.
Additional Jungle Details
If jungle theme costumes are not enough, there are many ways to create an entire jungle theme for a party, dance, or other event. Halloween props can often be purchased or rented from specialty stores, including:
- Table wear and dishes in jungle colors (green, brown, or tropical motifs)
- Fake palm trees or real potted palms
- Mural scenes of jungle foliage, wildlife, or waterfalls
- Vines and floral garlands in place of plain streamers
- Pith hats for bowls
- Torches for authentic lighting
By giving the setting itself a jungle theme, the hosts guarantee a wild event sure to delight guests.
Finding Jungle Costumes
Most costume stores offer at least a minimal selection of jungle and safari theme costumes, but they can be difficult to find. Simply searching “jungle” may not yield adequate results – if possible, specify a type of animal or broaden the search to include “prehistoric” and “cave men” options. The similar fur wrap costumes can easily be adapted to fit a jungle theme.
Online costume merchants with a variety of jungle apparel include:
Jungle theme costumes are great for a tropical-themed party or just as a unique masquerade option for all ages. From birds and bugs to animals, explorers, and natives, there is a jungle option available to bring out anyone’s wild side.
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