Super Easy DIY Clockwork Orange Halloween Costume For Parent And Child

This was quite a few years ago, coming up to a decade I reckon – oh my gosh! I still love these costumes and the idea. I love fancy dress parties, therefore I always look forward to Halloween and decide about my costume months before. In fact I have a long list of ideas, enough for years.

In those years, together with my local mum friends, we organised a trick or treat route in our neighbourhood, so our – then – very little toddlers can have some Halloween fun. We’ve had a fantastic time and we all loved dressing up.

Because Bobcat didn’t quite like dressing up at that time (he loves it now and always very particular in what he wants to get dressed up as for Halloween) and I also had to carry Babs in her carrier, we had to keep our outfits pretty simple and similar to our everyday clothes. But… how about if they are all white? And just pop a bowler hat on? Sounds ok. But I really wanted to have it to be coordinated! This was something every parent wants to do at least once. (Ok, maybe most of the parents?) At least, whilst you can as they are little. A matching Halloween outfit.

What are droogs?

Droogs are a term made famous by Anthony Burgess in his novel “A Clockwork Orange.” In the book, they refer to a group of teenage delinquents who engage in acts of extreme violence and rebellion. The word is derived from the Russian slang “druzhka,” meaning “friend” or “mate,” but in the context of the novel, it takes on a darker connotation. The droogs, led by the protagonist Alex, embody the themes of free will and the consequences of a society stripped of moral boundaries. Their chaotic actions invite readers to explore the complexities of human nature and societal influence.

What do you need for a droog outfit?

The droog outfit from Clockwork Orange is always a winner when I’m stuck with Halloween outfit ideas, as I always want to wear something different than a witch or a zombie costume. And it always gets lots of “oh wows”. It’s scary too (it is, if you’ve seen the movie!), so perfect for Halloween. In my opinion, if a zombie outfit is appropriate for a small child, then this one too. (Stating this as I’m sure some people might disagree. Which is fine too.)

As long as you have the basics at home, it’s cheap and takes no time to produce it.

What you need:

• white or cream skinny jeans or trousers
• white top or shirt
• black bowler hat
• white or off-white suspenders/braces
• walking stick
• black eye pencil to paint the eyes

Is it expensive to make a droog costume?

Not massively, to be honest. Creating a droog costume can vary in cost depending on how elaborate you want to be. Basic elements include a white collared shirt, black suspenders, and trousers, which can be found at secondhand or charity shops for a reasonable price. Plus it’s of course more sustainable than buying a brand new, mostly made of plastic Halloween costume. The iconic bowler hat and cane might require a bit of investment, especially if you’re looking for quality. If you plan to add accessories or customize the outfit further, that could increase your budget. Overall, it’s doable within a moderate budget if you’re resourceful! 

Is a droog Halloween costume cool?

Well, yes. When it comes to Halloween costumes, a droog costume can definitely make a bold statement – which is why I did it. Some may find it intriguing, while others might view it as controversial – which I think is the very definition of cool. 

That’s all!

So this is quite basic, of course you buy the whole matching outfit from fancy dress shop nowadays.

Happy Halloween!

*Excuse husband’s rubbish photos. This what happens when you don’t have an Instagram Husband. 😉 At least my face is on some of them.