How to Create a Parent Trap Costume Set for Twins

"Parent Trap" publicity still, Hayley Mills as both Susan and Sharon

"The Parent Trap" is a classic film that stars Hayley Mills in two title roles. Yes, she played twins in this cutting edge (for the time) movie. Two girls--Susan and Sharon--meet up at summer camp. The two discover an uncanny resemblance to one another, although they couldn't have a more opposite personality and upbringing. Through their rivalry, they are punished by being forced to live together in the same cabin. It is then that the secrets of their past reveal themselves, bringing the girls together at last. Sharon and Susan hope to bring their parents back together as well. There couldn't be a cuter costume choice for the parents of twins.

Instructions

1. Get two wigs. One should be shoulder-length blond hair. The other should be of very short blond hair (a bob). Sharon wore her hair shoulder-length, but Susan wore hers in a very short cut.

2. Gather a sophisticated, velvet dress for Sharon. Susan should wear jeans and a casual top.

3. Get a pair of short heels for Sharon. Susan is content in tennis shoes.

4. Allow the twin playing Susan to wear a bit of lipstick. She got it in California. Sharon should wear no make up.

5. Have your children practice opposite accents for a truly original and believable costume. Susan was from California. Sharon was from Boston. Each girl has a special manner of speaking. Watch the film with your girls and see if she can capture it.

Tips & Warnings

• Let your girls watch the movie several times before Halloween night approaches. Sing along with them to songs like "Let's Get Together" and the title track, "The Parent Trap."

• Don't dictate which costume each girl must pick. Let the twins decide who is wearing which costume. If they both want to wear the same one, explain that the two can switch costumes mid-party. Alternately, one could play the preferred twin for trick or treating. The other would then get to wear it for the Halloween party of carnival.