How do I make a DIY Elf on the Shelf collar?

Cut a large circle out of white craft felt, cut a slit to the center for your neck, and then cut the outer edge into large, sharp triangular points.

What shoes should I wear with an Elf on the Shelf costume?

Simple white sneakers, red socks, or black ballet flats work best to keep the focus on the red and white outfit.

Is there an official female Elf on the Shelf costume?

Yes, the female version typically includes a red felt skirt with white snowflake details worn over the red pants.

AI-generated example

Elf on the Shelf Costume

Bring the beloved holiday tradition to life with this festive look.

The Elf on the Shelf is a beloved modern holiday tradition, making it a highly popular choice for Christmas parties, school events, and festive Halloween looks. This costume recreates the iconic Scout Elf look with a bright red base, a distinct white pointed collar, and a matching red elf hat. It is a cheerful, instantly recognizable outfit that is both comfortable and easy to assemble.

Difficulty: Easy
Time: ~30 min
Budget: $25–60

See yourself as Elf on the Shelf →What you need Buy the Elf on the Shelf costume

Try it on

See yourself as Elf on the Shelf

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Elf on the Shelf costume — Example look · AI-generated

You as Elf on the Shelf

Result

What you need for a Elf on the Shelf costume

Short on time? Buy it ready-made

Spirit Halloween sells the complete Elf on the Shelf costume — one box instead of 5 pieces.

Shop Elf on the Shelf at Spirit ↗

Red bodysuit or jumpsuit
A solid, form-fitting red long-sleeve bodysuit, jumpsuit, or matching red top and leggings set.
DIY: Use a matching red long-sleeve t-shirt and red sweatpants.
Amazon
White pointed collar
A white felt collar with large, dramatic triangular points that rests flat over the shoulders.
DIY: Cut a starburst-shaped collar out of a sheet of stiff white craft felt.
Amazon
Red elf hat
A pointed red felt hat, optionally featuring a white band or a small white pom-pom at the tip.
DIY: Roll a sheet of red craft felt into a cone shape, glue the seam, and trim the base to fit.
Amazon
White mittens or gloves
Simple, solid white cotton or felt mittens or gloves to match the toy's hands.
DIY: Use plain white winter mittens.
Amazon
Optional snowflake skirt
A red felt circle skirt decorated with white felt snowflake cutouts, inspired by official Scout Elf accessories.
DIY: Cut a circle skirt from red felt, add an elastic waistband, and glue on white felt snowflake shapes.
Amazon

Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Elf on the Shelf costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗

How to put it together

1
Put on the solid red bodysuit, jumpsuit, or matching red shirt and pants.
2
If opting for the skirt variant, slide the red snowflake skirt over the red pants or leggings.
3
Drape the white pointed felt collar over your shoulders, securing it at the neck with fabric tape or a safety pin if needed.
4
Place the pointed red elf hat securely on your head, using bobby pins to keep it in place if you have long hair.
5
Pull on the solid white cotton gloves or mittens.
6
Finish the look with clean white sneakers or red socks to keep the color palette uniform.

Makeup & hair

Apply bright red blush to the apples of your cheeks and a touch of red lipstick. Keep hair neatly tucked under the red elf hat, or style it in simple side braids.

Elf on the Shelf for couples, groups, kids & more

couples: One person dresses as the Scout Elf while the other wears a cozy pajama set holding a giant 'Naughty or Nice' checklist.
group: Have multiple people dress as Scout Elies alongside others dressed as Elf Pets like the reindeer or Arctic fox.
kids: A red fleece onesie paired with a soft felt hat and collar makes a warm, comfortable version for children.
Plus size: Opt for a loose-fitting red fleece pajama set or a red tunic paired with red leggings for a comfortable, flexible fit.
pet: A simple red pet sweater paired with a small, lightweight white felt collar attachment.

Tips

If you plan to sit on shelves or mantels for photos, wear thick red leggings or sweatpants for extra cushioning.
Use fabric glue or hot glue to secure the white felt collar directly to the neckline of a cheap red shirt for a seamless look.
Keep your hands free for eating or drinking by choosing fingerless white gloves instead of full mittens.
Strike classic elf poses for photos, such as sitting with your knees bent to your chest or peeking out from behind a door frame.

Elf on the Shelf costume FAQ

How do I make a DIY Elf on the Shelf collar?: Cut a large circle out of white craft felt, cut a slit to the center for your neck, and then cut the outer edge into large, sharp triangular points.
What shoes should I wear with an Elf on the Shelf costume?: Simple white sneakers, red socks, or black ballet flats work best to keep the focus on the red and white outfit.
Is there an official female Elf on the Shelf costume?: Yes, the female version typically includes a red felt skirt with white snowflake details worn over the red pants.

Did you know? The Elf on the Shelf originated from a 2005 children's book written by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell, based on their own family holiday tradition.