So... the phrase "World Book Day Costume" can induce many different feelings, ranging from fear to excitement and most of us know where we are on that scale!

I am hugely in awe of those parents who hand-craft the most incredible costumes. You know the ones, those costumes which require sewing, painting, or some kind of cardboard origami. The kid who walks into school in one of those outfits knows that they will get several 'wows' before they even reach the school gate. Oh how I wish I had the ability to do this. Sadly though, I am lacking creativity, time and materials...it's all about knowing your strengths!

If, however, you ARE one of those parents and want to be inspired, take a look at these costumes in the Metro Newspaper, Pinterest and Google Images. And if you fancy having a go yourself. Book Aid has over 40 brilliant downloadable guides for you to make your own DIY costumes.

I'm afraid that personally, I am squarely in the corner of those parents who remember the day before (or morning) of and try and improvise. Don't get me wrong, I'm 100% into World Book Day but for me it's all about kids sharing reading recommendations, trying out new books, sharing stories, rather than fancy dress.

So for those of you who aren't going to be up all night making an outfit,  I thought I'd provide some World Book Day costume ideas using clothing and props you already have at home. So whether you fancy being Matilda, Where's Wally or Harry Potter, you should find plenty of inspiration here. And make sure you check out the books for this year's World Book Day, so you know which to buy with your token!

11 Easy, last-minute costume ideas

So, it's the morning of (or if you're lucky, the evening before!) World Book Day. There's no time to get to the shops or order something online. What can you create just using what you have at home?