*This is a guest post*

In an increasingly complex world the idea of dressing up and reaching out for fantasy can seem an ideal proposition.

Parties

 Most people love a good party, especially children, and this is demonstrated by the growing popularity of costumes and themed parties. There are so many ideas and styles to choose from that sometimes one is spoilt for choice. For anyone who is conscious of the cost of a party, it’s probably far cheaper to buy a costume rather than risk having food or drink spill down the front of a new and expensive outfit and then have to fork out for an expensive dry cleaning bill.

 Having a themed party can also make the choice of food and decorations a lot easier for the host. For example a Wild West Party could entail the preparation of burgers and nachos and the choice of dress is easy, big hats, waistcoats, gingham dresses and any other configuration that you can evolve.

Character

One of the reasons that dressing up is so popular is that for a short while we can become someone other than ourselves. Thanks to a dinosaur costume, an introverted and shy child may very well transform themselves into a raucous untamed animal. Similarly, a reticent adult may totally amaze their friends when dressed up as Captain America or Superwoman.

 It’s important for all of us to escape from the cares and worries of everyday life and a fancy dress party provides the perfect opportunity to release one’s imagination. The fancy dress costumes do not have to be expensive; you can buy one essential item of clothing and then transform your image with clever make-up and add other items of clothing from a thrift shop. The important thing is to have fun and take the opportunity to share a moment of madness with others, building lifelong memories in the process.

 Anyone who is lacking in inventive ideas should just have a look at a few film magazines and select one of their favourite movie characters to emulate. It’s surprising how becoming someone else, even for a couple of hours, can release the spirits and make everyday life just that little bit easier – so why not give it a go?