Thing One and Thing Two come down to three parts: a red base, a white circle with the name on it, and a shock of wild blue hair. That's why they make such a good sewing project. The base can be almost anything red, and the circle and the hair are where the craft goes. Below are T-shirt versions, dresses, jumpsuits, pajamas, cold weather layers, kids, babies, twins, teachers and a pet. For each one I've noted what I'd make, what I'd buy, and the part that tends to come unstuck, so your pair still looks right at the end of a long night of school events or trick-or-treating.
Name Circles That Don't Peel by Bedtime
The white circle is the part people read first, and it's the part I see fail most. Felt letters glued onto a polyester tee look fine at home and start lifting at the edges after an hour of hugging, sitting and seat belts. The fix depends on the fabric underneath.
- Cotton tees and sweatshirts: iron-on vinyl is the neatest choice. Cut the letters, press with a cloth over the top and let it cool before peeling the carrier.
- Polyester, fleece and performance fabric: these can't take much heat, so sew a felt circle on with a zigzag or blanket stitch around the edge and stitch or fabric-paint the letters.
- Sequins or anything you want to keep: back the circle with felt and attach it with snaps or safety pins from the inside. No glue, no iron.
- Paper or card: last-minute only. Cover the front with clear packing tape so it survives one evening.
For lettering, I draw a guideline in chalk across the circle first, because the words curve badly when you freehand them. A thick black outline around the white circle helps it read from a distance on a red shirt. Make both circles the same size and place them at the same height on both people. That one detail does more for a matched pair than any accessory.
1. Classic Thing One And Thing Two Costume
The classic version needs very little explanation, which is half its charm. Both people wear red long-sleeve shirts with red pants or leggings, and a big white circle on the chest reading Thing One or Thing Two. I cut the circles from white felt and stitch around the edge, since cardstock curls and splits once you start moving. Fluffy electric-blue wigs are the finishing piece. Light foundation, rosy cheeks and blue mascara are enough makeup. A striped hat or a copy of the book makes a good shared prop, and red socks with white sneakers will take you through the whole evening.
2. DIY Thing One And Thing Two T-Shirt Costume
Plain red cotton tees are the quickest base you can buy. Add white felt circles with black lettering, then pair them with whatever leggings, joggers or jeans you both already own. For hair, washable spray or chalk works, but I prefer blue yarn tied onto headbands, which comes off in a second and won't stain the shirt collar. Tinted moisturizer, pink blush and a sweep of blue liner keep the face simple. A small cardboard sign with each number is a fun extra. Canvas sneakers and red socks finish it. It packs flat, which makes it handy for a party you're driving to.
3. Thing One And Thing Two Tutu Costume
Red tulle turns the pair into a party version with movement. Wear fitted red tops with the circles centered on the chest and knee-length tutus over opaque leggings or bike shorts. Tulle is scratchy against bare legs, so I always put something underneath. For hair, blue wigs work, or you can gather blue tulle into a puff on a headband to echo the skirts. Sparkly blue shadow and red lip tint suit the mood. Striped ribbon wands or pinwheels give you something to wave in photos. Striped knee socks connect the colors, and white sneakers or flat red shoes keep both of you comfortable.
4. Thing One And Thing Two Dress Costume
A red A-line or T-shirt dress gives a tidier version of the pair. Because the dress is the costume, I make the name circles removable: a felt circle with snaps or a pin back, so the dress can be worn again afterward. Blue curly wigs, or blue clip-in extensions with plenty of volume in your own hair, cover the hair detail. Blue winged liner, pink cheeks and gloss suit the brightness. White gloves and small red crossbody bags are practical without hiding the labels. Red tights help in cold weather, and white ankle boots, red flats or sneakers all work. Pick two dresses with a similar shape so the pair reads as one.
5. Thing One And Thing Two Jumpsuit Costume
Red jumpsuits are the closest to the book, and they save you from matching separate tops and bottoms. Relaxed utility jumpsuits, zip-front coveralls or soft bodysuits all work as long as there's room to move. Removable fabric tape will hold a circle for an evening, but I sew a few tacks at the top edge too, because tape lets go first at the corners. Tall blue wigs add height, and a little white face shimmer adds whimsy. Striped suspenders or blue pom-poms make light props. White crew socks and red high-tops finish the shape. Roll the sleeves on a warm night or layer white shirts underneath on a cold one.
6. Thing One And Thing Two Pajama Costume
For a relaxed party or a family evening, red pajamas make a soft, easy costume. Long-sleeve pajama sets, footless onesies or red lounge sets all work, with the circles on the tops where they show. Instead of heavy wigs, I sew loops of blue yarn onto soft sleep caps, which stay on far better than a wig on a sofa. Gentle makeup with cream blush and a touch of blue mascara is plenty. Plush storybooks or small pillows play up the bedtime idea. Red slippers do for indoors; switch to white slip-on sneakers for any walking outside.
7. Thing One And Thing Two Sweatshirt Costume
Sweatshirts keep you warm without hiding the important parts. Each person wears an oversized red crewneck with a large white patch, plus red joggers for a matched set or black leggings from your own drawer. Here, a blue beanie covered in yarn loops does the hair job, and it's a lot warmer than a wig. One thing to watch: felt letters glued onto a polyester-blend sweatshirt peel after a wash or two, so I stitch them or use iron-on vinyl instead. A striped tote holds your things. Warm socks with red sneakers or ankle boots suit a chilly school event or neighborhood walk.
8. Thing One And Thing Two Hoodie Costume
Red hoodies give a sporty version that copes with changeable fall weather. Put the circles on the front, high enough that they show when the hood is down and don't fold into the kangaroo pocket. I clip or stitch blue yarn around the hood opening so the hair frames your face and stays put in wind. Blue face gems and pink lip color are a fun finish. Striped drawstring bags or cardboard kites make good props. White high-tops with blue laces pull the colors together. Once the night is over, snip the yarn and the circles off and the hoodies go back into normal use.
9. Thing One And Thing Two Overalls Costume
Red overalls give the pair a practical, playful shape, and the bib is the perfect flat panel for the name circle. Layer them over white or blue long-sleeve shirts and place the circles at the same height on both bibs. Blue wigs can go up in fluffy curls, or clip blue yarn ponytails on for something lighter. Soft blue liner and clear gloss suit it. Small striped toolboxes hold candy or party things. I like overalls for pairs of different heights, because the adjustable straps let you line both circles up at the same level, which matters more in photos than people expect.
10. Thing One And Thing Two Romper Costume
Matching red rompers suit a warm-weather event. I'd choose relaxed short-sleeve styles rather than tight ones, with bike shorts underneath. Attach bold white circles to the front, and keep them a little smaller than on a shirt so they don't wrap around the sides. Fluffy blue ponytail wigs or curly blue headbands keep the hair light. Blue mascara, peach blush and a bright red lip tint suit the colors. Small white belt bags hold phones without covering the labels. Blue ankle socks and white sneakers finish it. If the evening turns cold, red tights and cropped white jackets go on without changing the colors.
11. Thing One And Thing Two Skirt Costume
Red tops with red skater skirts make a wearable pair. Place the circles high on the shirts so the skirt waistband doesn't cut across them, which is easy to forget until you see the first photo. White opaque tights or shorts go underneath depending on the weather. Tall blue wigs give the drama, and striped hair bows at the base of each wig add a neat detail. Red umbrellas or striped pinwheels make playful props. White lace-up sneakers are the practical choice, with red flats indoors. I always pick skirts with pockets when I can; it saves carrying a bag.
12. Thing One And Thing Two Shorts Costume
For a warm climate or a packed indoor party, red shorts with fitted red T-shirts are the coolest version. Athletic shorts, denim cutoffs or paper-bag shorts all work. Secure the circles at chest level. Blue curly wigs over mesh caps breathe better than solid caps, or you can sew blue faux fur onto a wide headband. Sunscreen, waterproof mascara and tinted balm are enough for a warm night. Striped suspenders add fun without bulk, and a small blue bucket carries treats. White crew socks and red running shoes let you walk and dance all evening.
13. Thing One And Thing Two Leggings Costume
Red leggings with tunic-length shirts give the most freedom of movement. The longer tops give coverage and a flat area for the name circles. Wigs are fine for a party, but for a fun run or field day I'd switch to fluffy blue headbands, since a wig gets hot fast when you're moving. Long-wear blue liner and cheek tint need little touching up. White wristbands, striped sweatbands and blue water bottles act as accessories. Red socks and supportive white sneakers finish it, with a white zip jacket ready for when it cools down.
14. Thing One And Thing Two Denim Costume
Denim gives the red base an everyday, casual feel. Both people tuck red logo tees into blue jeans, denim skirts or overalls. Make the circles big; against a plain tee they need to be large to read. Fluffy blue wigs carry the blue up to the head, with blue liner and neutral lips. Red bandanas at the neck or wrist and striped totes make easy extras. Red sneakers or white ankle boots finish it. I'd match the denim washes roughly, dark with dark or light with light. It doesn't have to be the same garment, but two very different washes make the pair look less planned.
15. Glam Thing One And Thing Two Costume
Sequins turn the duo into a dressy party look. Red sequin tops with tailored red trousers, midi skirts or jumpsuits make the base. Never glue or iron anything onto sequins; heat melts them and glue won't grip. I back each white circle with felt and attach it with a couple of safety pins from the inside. Voluminous blue wigs with defined curls, metallic blue shadow and glossy red lips match the shine. Silver mini bags and blue feather fans add sparkle. Silver block heels, metallic flats or glitter sneakers finish it. Keep both outfits at about the same shine level so they look like a pair.
16. Plus Size Thing One And Thing Two Costume
For a plus size pair, start with comfort and fit. Red swing dresses, tunics with leggings or soft jumpsuits all work, chosen by each person's preference. Position the circle at the center of the chest where the fabric sits flattest, so the letters don't stretch or ripple. I make the circles from felt backed with fusible interfacing, which keeps them from bowing over curves. Lightweight wigs with adjustable caps, or fluffy blue headbands that don't pinch, cover the hair. Stretchy striped belts or red crossbody bags give definition and storage. Supportive sneakers or wide-fit boots keep you comfortable all evening.
17. Maternity Thing One And Thing Two Costume
A pregnancy is a sweet excuse for this pair. The pregnant partner can wear a soft red maternity dress with the Thing Two circle, the other a red shirt and pants as Thing One, or swap them. I'd place the circle above the bump rather than on it, so the letters don't stretch and distort. Lightweight blue headbands are kinder than heavy wigs over a long evening. Hydrating foundation, blue mascara and pink blush keep the face fresh. A small striped book or a sign hinting at a new little thing is a nice touch if you're happy to share. Supportive sneakers and comfortable socks matter most.
18. Kids Thing One And Thing Two Costume
For kids, soft red shirts with pull-on pants allow plenty of running. Use felt circles, not cardboard, which bends and pokes. Most kids won't keep an itchy wig on for long, so I make blue yarn headbands or fluffy hats instead and avoid sharp clips. A little blue face paint on the cheeks can stand in for makeup. A light striped bag or foam book is easy to carry. Red socks and closed-toe sneakers protect feet on school days or trick-or-treating. If a jacket goes on, sew a second circle to the outside of the jacket so they still read as the pair.
19. Toddler Thing One And Thing Two Costume
Toddlers need costumes that are soft and quick to change. Red cotton rompers, sweat sets or footless pajamas with fabric circles sewn on work best. A blue yarn hat gives the wild hair with no glitter or hard plastic. I'd skip eye makeup at this age; a dab of child-safe blue on the cheeks is optional. Soft fabric books beat hard props. Grippy socks or flexible walking shoes finish it, and hems should sit well above the floor. No capes or dangling ribbons. A red stroller blanket keeps them warm outside and quietly adds to the theme.
20. Baby Thing One And Thing Two Costume
Matching red bodysuits make baby twins into a very cute pair. I sew the white circles flat with a tight zigzag around the edge so there's no lifting corner for little fingers. Stretchy blue knit caps with yarn loops stitched on firmly cover the hair. No makeup; the red and the labels do it all. Lay the babies beside soft striped cushions or plush books for photos rather than handing them props. Red footed pants and soft booties keep feet covered. Choose breathable fabric, check that necklines aren't tight, and take the caps off when they sleep or get warm.
21. Twin Thing One And Thing Two Costume
Twins are the natural Thing One and Thing Two, and many enjoy the chance to differ a little within the pair. Give them the same red base, a dress, a jumpsuit or shirt-and-pants set, and clear name circles. Then let each pick a different blue hairstyle: a tall curly wig for one, blue pigtail extensions for the other. Matching blue liner or face stars connect them. Striped backpacks or kites make good props. I like white sneakers with different colored laces as a small personal mark. The silhouettes can differ as long as the red, white and blue stay consistent.
22. Sibling Thing One And Thing Two Costume
Siblings of different ages don't need identical clothes. An older child might wear a red sweatshirt and joggers while a younger one wears a red dress with leggings. Matching name circles connect them. Blue wigs need to fit each head properly, so I often make soft yarn headbands that adjust to any size. Blue cheek stars and lip balm are plenty. Each child can carry a striped candy bucket or foam sign. Fit the footwear to each child's needs. Matching accessories hold the pair together even when the clothes are different shapes.
23. Best Friend Thing One And Thing Two Costume
Best friends can put their own style into the pair. Red fitted tees with wide-leg pants, midi skirts or jeans let each choose what they like. Bold circles and matching fluffy blue wigs keep the theme clear. Coordinate the blue graphic liner but try different shapes for each friend. Red, white and blue friendship bracelets are a sweet detail. Striped mini backpacks or pinwheels make photo props. Matching white sneakers with blue or red laces finish it. The one thing I'd insist on matching is the circle size; two different sizes look like two separate shops.
24. Couple Thing One And Thing Two Costume
A couple can mix silhouettes and still read as a pair. One partner might wear a red shirt and trousers, the other a red dress, skirt set or jumpsuit. Center both circles at the same height on the body. Measure down from the collarbone on each person rather than eyeballing, because different garments put the chest in different places. Matching blue wigs, or one short and one long, cover the hair. Striped bow ties, suspenders, scarves or hair bows add coordination. One big storybook makes a shared prop. Sneakers, loafers or ankle boots work, and red shade matters more than identical clothes.
25. Men’s Thing One And Thing Two Costume
A straightforward men's version uses red crewneck shirts with red or black pants. For the circles I like iron-on vinyl on cotton tees; it's crisp, it handles a wash and it won't lift like glued felt. Short fluffy blue wigs with adjustable caps, or temporary blue spray in styled hair, handle the hair. Minimal makeup works: a little foundation, blue brow gel or one small blue star near the temple. Striped suspenders and blue wristbands add detail. Cardboard books or pinwheels make easy props. White sneakers or red high-tops finish it, with a relaxed fit for a long evening.
26. Women’s Thing One And Thing Two Costume
For a women's pair, red tops can go with whatever bottoms each person likes: wide-leg trousers, A-line skirts, leggings or red jeans. Attach the circles evenly on each top. Fluffy blue wigs, ponytail extensions or voluminous blue headbands all work. Blue winged liner and berry lip tint are a fun mix. Striped scarves, white gloves and red crossbody bags make practical accessories. White sneakers, red flats or low block-heel boots finish it. I'd hold the two reds side by side before buying, because a cherry red next to a tomato red looks like a mistake.
27. Gender-Neutral Thing One And Thing Two Costume
Relaxed matching separates suit anyone. Red oversized T-shirts, sweatshirts or coveralls with the white circles make the base, with straight-leg joggers, loose trousers or red jeans. Each person can pick a fluffy wig, a blue beanie or temporary color. Makeup is optional: blue face stars, subtle liner, tinted balm. Striped socks, suspenders and canvas totes carry the palette. White high-tops or red lace-up boots finish it. Keeping the core clothing simple lets everyone adjust fit, coverage and hair without losing the pair.
28. Teacher Thing One And Thing Two Costume
Two teachers need a version that lasts a full school day. Red cardigans or crewneck sweaters with black trousers, knee-length skirts or red dresses work well. Pin removable circles on the upper body so they show over a desk. Fluffy blue headbands are much easier to wear all day than wigs. Keep makeup understated. Striped folders, oversized pencils or foam books make good classroom props. Loafers, sneakers or flats finish it. I'd avoid long scarves or anything that catches on desk corners, and choose layers you can wash after a day of paint and glue sticks.
29. School Spirit Thing One And Thing Two Costume
A school spirit version mixes the red base with sports details. Numbered red tees over white long-sleeve tops, with track pants, pleated athletic skirts or joggers, make the base. Fluffy blue wigs or blue pom-pom headbands handle the hair. Blue face stripes or cheek stars in skin-safe makeup add team energy. Pom-poms, foam fingers and pennants are fine as long as they don't cover the labels. If your school colors aren't red and blue, I'd put them into laces, wristbands or props and keep the core costume red, white and blue so it still reads as the book.
30. World Book Day Thing One And Thing Two Costume
For a book day at school, I keep it tidy and practical for a day of lessons. Red long-sleeve shirts with black trousers or leggings make the base for children or adults. Stitch the circles on, or use fabric-safe tape for a single day. Blue yarn headbands or soft blue hats are better than big wigs, which block the view of whoever sits behind. Blue cheek dots are optional. Carry a copy of the book or a foam book with a striped cover. Red socks and school shoes finish it, and a red cardigan keeps them warm with the labels still showing.
31. Last-Minute Thing One And Thing Two Costume
When time is short, any red shirt from the closet works, with black jeans, leggings or joggers. Cut two circles from white paper, write the names in thick black marker, and pin them on with safety pins kept away from the skin. Paper tears quickly, so I stick a layer of clear packing tape over the front to make it last the evening. Strips of blue tissue paper or yarn tied onto headbands give the hair. Blue liner and blush are quick. Red-and-white gift bags or paper pinwheels make improvised props. Any comfortable shoes will do.
32. Budget Thing One And Thing Two Costume
On a budget, put the money into comfortable clothes rather than throwaway extras. Find red tees and pants at home or in a thrift store, and make the circles from leftover white fabric. Fabric glue holds felt letters on cotton fine for one night, but if you want to reuse the costume, a quick running stitch around each letter is worth the time. Wrap yarn around cheap headbands and trim the loops into a round shape for the hair. Use makeup you already have. Removable red-and-white stripes on tote bags make practical props. Take the circles off afterward and the clothes go back into your wardrobe.
33. No-Wig Thing One And Thing Two Costume
You can keep the blue without a hot, itchy wig. Style your own hair into buns, ponytails, curls or a swept-up shape and add temporary blue chalk or washable spray. A fluffy blue headband or blue faux-fur cap works too. Wear red tops and pants with clear name circles, blue liner and a white highlight on each cheek. Suspenders, wrist cuffs or light scarves add detail, and blue pom-poms or paper kites give movement in photos. Test the color on a small section first. I always spray hair before putting the red shirt on, with a towel round the shoulders, because blue spray rubs off onto collars.
34. Blue Hair Thing One And Thing Two Costume
If you want the hair to steal the show, go for extra-tall blue wigs with cloudlike volume. Balance them with simple red jumpsuits or long-sleeve tops and trousers, and oversized name circles. Cheap synthetic wigs often arrive flat and tangled, so I tease them gently with a wide comb from the ends up and set them with a light spray of hair spray. Blue mascara, white liner and a sheer red lip keep the face colorful. Small striped bow ties add detail without fighting the hair. Pinwheels match the wild shapes. Secure each wig with a breathable cap and hidden pins before you walk or dance.
35. Retro Thing One And Thing Two Costume
Red flared pants with fitted logo tops give the pair a retro twist. Add white belts and blue curly wigs shaped into rounded vintage silhouettes. Keep the circles large and centered. Pale blue shadow, winged liner and glossy pink lips suit the period. Oversized white sunglasses, striped neck scarves and small structured bags complete the era. Red-and-white pinwheels stay in the palette. White platform shoes or comfortable block-heel boots finish it. Flares look best when they skim the top of the shoe, so I hem them for the shoes you'll actually wear and choose a sensible heel height for a long party.
36. Athletic Thing One And Thing Two Costume
A sporty pair suits races, gym events and very active evenings. Breathable red performance shirts with the name circles, plus running shorts, leggings or track pants, make the base. Blue sweatbands topped with short tufts of yarn replace full wigs. Waterproof blue liner, sunscreen and tinted balm need little upkeep. White wristbands, striped socks and red bottles act as useful accessories. Cardboard tube relay batons make safe photo props. I'd use iron-on vinyl rather than felt for the circles on stretchy performance fabric, since felt sewn onto stretch fabric stops it stretching and pulls at the seams.
37. Winter Thing One And Thing Two Costume
Layering for cold weather can be part of the costume. Red thermal tops and pants go under red puffer jackets or fleece coats, with the name circles attached to the outermost layer. Use safety pins or a few hand stitches through the shell only, not through the insulation. Fluffy blue knit hats with yarn tufts replace wigs and keep heads warm. Moisturizing base, waterproof mascara and lip balm protect your skin. Striped scarves, blue mittens and a striped thermos add detail. Warm socks and waterproof boots finish it, and secure hats stay put in wind or light rain.
38. Neon Thing One And Thing Two Costume
A neon-red base gives the brightest modern version. Fluorescent red tees, sweat sets or jumpsuits with high-contrast white circles make the base, and electric-blue wigs or blue braided extensions match the intensity. Neon-blue liner and white mascara accents suit it. Reflective striped belts, glow bracelets without liquid inside and small belt bags add extras. Pinwheels or foam signs make photo props. White sneakers with blue laces anchor the color. I'd stop at red, white and blue, because once you add a fourth bright color the name circles get lost.
39. Family Thing One And Thing Two Costume
A family can grow the theme while keeping Thing One and Thing Two at its heart. Two members wear full red outfits with circles, fluffy blue wigs and white sneakers. Another adult or child dresses as the Cat in the Hat in black with a red bow tie, white gloves and a tall red-and-white striped hat. I make that hat from striped felt over a lightweight card tube, since a tall hat that's heavy flops forward. More family members can wear red shirts as Thing Three or Thing Four. Striped totes, books or pinwheels make props, and similar shoes unify the group.
40. Pet And Owner Thing One And Thing Two Costume
An owner and pet can make the pair with simple, animal-safe pieces. The person wears red with the Thing One circle, a fluffy blue wig, a striped bag and white sneakers. The pet wears a well-fitted red vest or soft shirt with a Thing Two circle. Only add a blue fabric tuft to the harness if it doesn't touch the ears, eyes or movement. No makeup on pets. Check often for rubbing or overheating. I'd sew the pet's circle on a red bandana first and try that; many dogs that hate shirts are quite happy in a bandana.
A Yarn Wig You Can Make in One Evening
Store wigs for this pair are often hot, itchy and flat out of the bag. A yarn version is cooler, kinder to kids and easy to make from a skein of bright blue acrylic and a beanie or a wide headband.
- Wrap the yarn around a piece of card about a hand's width wide, then cut along one edge to make even lengths.
- Fold each bundle in half and stitch the fold to the beanie in rows, starting at the crown and working toward the face.
- Leave some loops uncut near the top for height, and trim the rest into a rounded, messy shape once it's on a head.
- For extra lift, brush out a few strands with a stiff brush. Acrylic yarn fluffs up and gives that frizzy book look.
Hand stitching holds far better than hot glue here. Glue makes the beanie stiff and, outdoors in the cold, it goes brittle and lets go. If you'd rather use a store wig, give it a gentle comb from the ends up and pin it to a wig cap so it doesn't shift.
Keeping Blue Hair Color Off Red Collars
Temporary blue spray and hair chalk are handy for a no-wig version, but they rub off on anything they touch: the shirt collar, the car seat, the pillow. I spray before dressing, with an old towel round the shoulders, and let it dry fully before the red top goes on.
A light mist of hair spray over the chalk helps it stay in the hair rather than on your clothes. Test a small strand first, especially on light or bleached hair, which can hold color longer than the can suggests. Wash the costume and pillowcase separately the next day, just in case.
Red Base, White Circle, Wild Blue Hair
This theme stretches to suit almost any age, body, budget or occasion, because the pair only really needs a clear red base, readable white name circles and wild blue hair. Pajamas, sweatshirts, sequins, sports kit, maternity dresses and even a pet bandana all work once those are in place. For children and long events, I'd put breathable clothes, secure circles and comfortable shoes ahead of any extra. Buy the base or pull it from thrift and closet basics. Then spend your time on the circles and the hair, because those are what people look at.
Related posts:
