Bernard the Elf costume — example look
AI-generated example

Bernard the Elf Costume

Channel the dry-witted Head Elf who keeps the North Pole running.

Bernard the Head Elf from Disney's The Santa Clause is the quintessential no-nonsense holiday hero. Famous for his dry wit, curly hair, and folk-patterned Renaissance-style tunic, he is a hit at Christmas parties and ugly sweater gatherings. Assemble this iconic outfit using warm layered garments and simple costume props.

Difficulty
Medium
Time
~30 min
Budget
$45–95
See yourself as Bernard the Elf →What you needBuy the Bernard the Elf costume

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Bernard the Elf costume
Example look · AI-generated
You as Bernard the Elf
Result

What you need for a Bernard the Elf costume

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  • Patterned burgundy elf tunic

    A dark red or burgundy long-sleeve Renaissance-style tunic or folk-patterned knit sweater with gold trim.

    DIY: Layer a patterned burgundy vest over a long-sleeve cream shirt and fabric paint gold accent trims.

    Amazon

  • Dark green velvet beret hat

    A slouchy forest green or dark olive velvet beret worn slightly back on the head.

    DIY: Construct a slouchy cap from forest green felt or velvet fabric with an elastic band.

    Amazon

  • Pointed prosthetics elf ears

    Lightweight flesh-toned latex or silicone pointed ear tips that fit over your natural ears.

    DIY: Craft slip-on ear covers using soft tan felt notched to fit over natural ears.

    Amazon

  • Brown leather waist belt

    A wide dark brown leather belt with a antiqued brass or bronze buckle worn over the tunic.

    DIY: Use any wide brown casual belt fastened snugly around the midsection over your tunic.

    Amazon

  • Dark trousers and boots

    Dark brown or black tailored trousers tucked into dark leather riding boots or lace-up boots.

    DIY: Wear dark fitted chinos tucked into dark winter boots you already own.

    Amazon

  • Santa Clause rule card prop

    A small laminated red card printed with 'The Santa Clause' fine print or a glass snow globe.

    DIY: Print a small parchment card with decorative script outlining the North Pole rules.

    Amazon

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How to put it together

  1. 1

    Put on dark brown trousers and pull on dark leather boots, tucking the pant legs inside.

  2. 2

    Slip on the burgundy patterned tunic sweater and adjust the neck and cuffs.

  3. 3

    Fasten the wide brown belt around your waist over the tunic to cinch the midsection.

  4. 4

    Attach pointed elf ears over your natural ears using skin-safe Spirit Gum adhesive if needed.

  5. 5

    Place the slouchy dark green velvet cap onto your head, pulling brown curly hair forward.

  6. 6

    Carry a small snow globe or rule card prop to complete the look.

Makeup & hair

Style dark brown hair into shoulder-length ringlets or tight coils framing the face beneath the slouchy green cap. Keep makeup completely natural with light bronzer or a touch of rosy blush on the cheekbones.

Bernard the Elf for couples, groups, kids & more

couples
Pair Bernard with Scott Calvin in his half-transformed Santa sweater and beard.
group
Form a North Pole workshop crew with Santa, Bernard, and fellow workshop elves in green aprons.
kids
Use a burgundy sweater, green beanie, slip-on elf ears, and dark leggings for a cozy children's version.
Plus size
Choose an oversized tunic or longline sweater with elastic waist belts for adjustability and comfort.
pet
Dress your pet in a small forest green velvet collar collar with jingling brass bells.

Tips

  • Opt for breathable cotton-blend tunics for crowded indoor Christmas parties to prevent overheating.
  • Apply liquid latex or skin-safe double-sided tape behind elf ear prosthetics to ensure they stay secure all night.
  • Hold a snow globe prop close to your chest during family holiday photos for an instantly recognizable character pose.
  • Choose flexible boots with good tread if attending outdoor parades or snowy community events.

Bernard the Elf costume FAQ

What exact sweater does Bernard wear in The Santa Clause?
Bernard wears a long-sleeved burgundy and gold folk-patterned Renaissance tunic layered with dark green velvet accents.
How do I make Bernard's elf ears look real?
Blend flesh-toned latex ear tips with a touch of foundation matching your skin tone, securing them with spirit gum.
Is this costume warm enough for outdoor events?
Yes, long sleeves, full-length trousers, and thermal undergarments make this one of the warmest holiday costumes available.
What props work best for Bernard the Elf?
A classic glass snow globe or a small red card printed with 'The Santa Clause' text are the most iconic props.

Did you know? David Krumholtz was only 16 years old when he played the ancient Head Elf Bernard in the original 1994 film.