Cool Handmade Toddler Costume: Ms. Gulch with Toto from Wizard of Oz

Most of the popular costumes I see on the internet are based off of pop culture or iconic figures. I wanted to make a costume that was based off of something that everyone could identify with but also something that I hadn’t seen done before.

The Wizard of Oz is one of those things that everyone recognizes. There are so many memorable scenes from this movie. The characters are all stand out and the costumes are so original. I love Victorian clothing so I decided to make a costume depicting Ms Gulch taking Toto away on her bike. This is something I have never seen done before.

I had to create my own pattern for her outfit because there is nothing commercially available for a 20 month old. I made a fitted jacket with laces at the back so that I could adjust it if our toddler grew. The skirt likewise has an elastic waist for adjusting. The skirt is a straight skirt with a pleated bottom. I made a vest to go under the jacket and added a little ruffle to the neck line for a feminine touch.

The hat is one that I found at a thrift store. I had to cut it down in size and paint it black. I also painted a rose black and glued it to the front of the hat.

The baskets on the bike are from the thrift store, also. I made Toto from some scraps of fur that I had. The shoes are second hand and I painted them black.

I was surprised how well the costume fit. I started it several months ago and just guessed at what size our toddler might be come Halloween. I was very close. The laces in the jacket worked great for cinching the jacket in to her present size. She should also be able to wear it for quite a while. I can just loosen the laces as she grows.

WE have gotten a lot of positive feedback for this costume. Our toddler has even ridden around the block a couple of times on costume. People get a big kick out of seeing a baby dressed up in such adult clothing. Of course everyone knows who her character is. It is so much fun to bring smiles to our neighbors faces and the baby loves all the attention too.