World Book Day 2026 saw celebrity children once again swapping school uniforms for imaginative outfits inspired by their favourite literary characters. From Paddington Bear to Willy Wonka, the little ones embraced the annual tradition with enthusiasm, as documented by their famous parents on social media.
Ashley James shared slightly blurry photos of her son Alfie dressed as Paddington Bear, complete with a red bucket hat, matching wellington boots and a blue jacket. His sister Ada channelled Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz in a blue checked dress, red shoes and bows in her hair. James joked about the photo quality, saying it looked like they were taken on a Nokia 3210.
Stacey Solomon's daughters Rose and Belle delighted in their Red Riding Hood and Matilda costumes, which included sparkly ballet pumps. The Loose Women star revealed she still had DIY work to do, tasked with creating a Diary of a Wimpy Kid outfit for her son Rex.
Myleene Klass's son Hero raced around the kitchen on a scooter in a purple jacket, floral waistcoat, bow tie and top hat, embodying Willy Wonka with props including a Wonka Bar and golden ticket. Helen Skelton's son Louis also opted for a Charlie and the Chocolate Factory costume, complete with cream printed trousers, while his sister Elsie wore a blue Elsa dress from Frozen with a long blonde plait.
Rebecca Adlington, who had given birth to her daughter Thea days earlier, ensured her older children were prepared. Summer wore a pink hoodie and denim skirt as a character from Dork Diaries, while Albie committed to his Gruffalo costume in a onesie. Lucy Mecklenburgh's son Roman was a convincing Harry Potter with a scar and Hedwig the owl, and daughter Lilah dressed as Angelina the Ballerina in a pink tutu and mouse ears.
