Bethlehem Costume Ideas

InfoStarBase Bethlehem costume ideas for a nativity scene or themed event, perfect for schools, church plays, or holiday gatherings:

Traditional Nativity Costumes

1. Mary:

   • Outfit: A long, flowing robe in shades of blue or white, symbolizing purity. You can use a simple cotton or linen fabric for authenticity.
   • Accessories: A headscarf or veil that covers the hair, often in a matching color. A simple belt or sash can be added to cinch the waist.
   • Props: Consider carrying a small doll or a wrapped cloth to represent baby Jesus.

2. Joseph:

   • Outfit: A long tunic in earthy tones like brown or beige, made from cotton or wool fabric. A simple robe can be layered over it.
   • Accessories: A headscarf or turban, and a sash to tie around the waist. Sandals or simple footwear complete the look.
   • Props: A wooden staff or shepherd’s crook can enhance the character.

3. Baby Jesus:

   • Outfit: A simple white cloth or swaddling blanket. You can use a soft fabric to make it comfortable.
   • Props: A small cradle or manger can be used to present the baby Jesus, adding to the nativity scene’s authenticity.

4. Angels:

   • Outfit: A long white robe or dress, which can be embellished with gold or silver accents.
   • Accessories: Wings made from cardboard or fabric, attached to the back with straps. A halo can be created using a headband with a wire circle covered in tinsel or fabric.
   • Props: Consider carrying a small lantern or a scroll to represent the message of peace.

5. Shepherds:

   • Outfit: A long tunic or robe, often in plaid or checkered patterns, with a simple belt. Earthy colors work best.
   • Accessories: A headscarf or cap, and a shepherd’s crook made from a long stick or dowel.
   • Props: A small stuffed sheep or a basket can add to the shepherd’s character.

6. Wise Men (Magi):

   • Outfit: Colorful robes in rich fabrics like velvet or satin, adorned with gold or silver trim. Each Wise Man can have a unique color to represent their gifts.
   • Accessories: Crowns or headpieces, and a sash or belt.
   • Props: Decorative boxes or containers to represent the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Creative Variations

1. Animals:

   • Sheep: Dress in white or cream fabric, with a fluffy texture. Add ears and a tail for authenticity.
   • Donkey: Use gray or brown fabric, with ears attached to a headband and a tail made from fabric or yarn.
   • Camel: A brown or tan outfit with a humped back made from fabric or a pillow, and a headpiece with ears.

2. Star of Bethlehem:

   • Outfit: A gold or silver dress or tunic adorned with star motifs. You can use fabric paint or glitter to create star patterns.
   • Accessories: A headpiece shaped like a star, made from cardboard or fabric, and twinkling lights can be added for effect.
   • Props: A small banner or sign that says “Star of Bethlehem” can enhance the character.

3. Townsperson:

   • Outfit: Simple tunics or dresses in earthy tones, with aprons for women. Men can wear loose-fitting trousers and tunics.
   • Accessories: Headscarves for women and caps for men. Sandals or simple footwear complete the look.
   • Props: Carrying baskets or clay pots can represent daily life in Bethlehem.

DIY Ideas

1. Fabric Scraps:

   • Use old sheets, tablecloths, or fabric scraps to create tunics and robes. Cut the fabric into simple shapes and tie with a belt or rope.
   • Consider dyeing the fabric with natural dyes for a more authentic look.

2. Face Paint:

   • Use face paint to add details like beards for men or rosy cheeks for children. Simple designs can enhance the character without needing elaborate masks.

3. Props:

   • Incorporate props like baskets, staffs, or small animals to enhance the costumes. Handmade items can add a personal touch.

Group Costumes

1. Nativity Scene: Coordinate with friends or family to create a complete nativity scene with all characters. Each person can take on a different role, from Mary and Joseph to the animals, angels, and wise men, creating a cohesive and visually appealing representation of the Nativity.
2. Bethlehem Market: Dress as merchants or townsfolk selling goods. Use vibrant colors and accessories to represent the lively market atmosphere of Bethlehem. Characters can include bakers, potters, and cloth merchants, each with their unique costumes and props.
3. Shepherds and Their Flocks: Form a group of shepherds, each wearing similar tunics but in different colors or patterns. Add stuffed sheep or lambs to represent their flocks, creating a lively scene that showcases the shepherds’ role in the nativity story.

Additional Tips for Creating Costumes

1. Comfort and Fit:

   • Ensure that costumes are comfortable and fit well, especially for children. Loose-fitting garments are ideal for ease of movement, particularly if the costumes will be worn for an extended period.

2. Layering:

   • Consider layering costumes for added warmth, especially if the event is outdoors or during colder months. Underneath the main costume, wear simple long-sleeve shirts and pants that match the color scheme.

3. Accessorizing:

   • Use accessories to enhance the costumes. Simple items like belts, ropes, and jewelry can add authenticity. For example, a simple necklace or bracelet can represent the gifts of the wise men.

4. Practice and Rehearsal:

   • If the costumes are for a performance, ensure that everyone practices in their outfits to get comfortable with the look and feel. This will help prevent any wardrobe malfunctions during the event.

5. Storytelling Elements:

   • Incorporate storytelling elements into the costumes. For example, the wise men can carry scrolls with their gifts, and shepherds can have small bags for their supplies. This adds depth to the characters and enhances the overall presentation.

Conclusion

Creating Bethlehem costumes for a nativity scene or themed event can be a fun and rewarding experience. By using traditional designs, incorporating creative variations, and utilizing DIY techniques, you can craft authentic and memorable costumes that bring the story of Bethlehem to life. Whether you’re participating in a church play, a community event, or a family gathering, these costume ideas will help you celebrate the spirit of the season while engaging in a meaningful representation of this cherished story.