Assembling the Costumes

• 1). Dress all of the participants in loose, flowing fabrics. For Mary, a long, ankle-length dress will work best, covered by a long cloak or with a shawl wrapped over her shoulders and head. Dress the men in long-sleeve shirts and slacks, with a bathrobe draped over the ensemble.
  
  
• 2). Keep the colors of Joseph's clothing simple and plain; choose earth tones such as browns and tans. Pick fabrics in blue hues for Mary. For the Three Kings or Wise Men, keep the colors bright and regal. Reds, blues and purples are best. Dress Gabriel in all white.
  
  
• 3). Add accessories to complete the ensembles. Have Mary carry either a real baby or doll, swaddled in an assortment of rags and fabrics. Dress everyone in sandals. Give the Three Kings small dishes or boxes as gifts to carry and give Gabriel wings.