Circus Couture

Circus is all about presentation, and what better way to make a showy entrance than in a fabulous costume?

Research circus costumes through history, noting how they have evolved over time. A great place to start is looking at archival circus costumes from the “Circus Fashion” exhibit at Cornell University. You also may want to take a look at a contemporary circus company like Cirque du Soleil to notice what they wear and how it enhances their performance.

Ask your students: How does a performer’s act inform what they wear? What materials do they wear? and How does a circus costume differ from a costume in a play or movie?

Next, prompt each student to choose a circus act, such as juggling, trapeze or archery, and design a costume to accompany it. Students can begin by drawing their idea on paper and then bringing it to life using found objects or items they have in their own closet.

To culminate, walk the runway and put on a circus fashion show for another class. These costumes will really make the audience flip out!