Words by Smiley Team
When lessons moved from the classroom to the confines of everyone’s homes, eight-year-old Pearl Parkin wanted something to cheer herself up and keep her entertained.
As a lover of fancy dress and hoping to help others, she decided to don a different outfit each day while raising funds for Save the Children.
“I want to raise money for children around the world who might need help right now because of Covid, or other reasons,” said Pearl. “I find it really upsetting that some children, like refugees, don’t have the same as me.”
From head to toe, she transforms herself into famous characters both fictional and real, from history and the modern-day.
“I decided to dress up each day because I love making costumes with my family. My favourite outfit so far has probably been Lady Gaga from her Telephone video. Next, I’d like to try dressing up as Ariane Grande, Princess Leia or maybe someone from Little Mix,” she said.
“My advice to adults struggling to make an effort with their clothes during lockdown is to just give dressing up a try because it does make you feel really happy.”
With the help of her older brother, Elliot, she repurposes objects and materials lying around her home, crafting them into impressive costumes, which she documents on a dedicated Instagram account.
Elliot explained: “The Lady Gaga headpiece is completely made out of paper, except some tin foil used for the telephone dial. For the stick that Rey Skywalker uses, it’s actually an old piñata stick with the fabric ripped off and then some different old fabric glued on. The Björk costume we completely made out of paper.”
So far raising over £8,000, Pearl has surpassed her target by over £7,000. All the money raised for Save the Children will go to vulnerable children both here in the UK and around the world, offering them better chances at life.
From the charity’s fundraising team, Tammy Hoskins said: “We are so grateful for the support of Pearl and her family – the costumes are so fun and have really brought a smile to our faces. Save the Children’s work is made possible by inspiring children like Pearl and their amazing commitment to make the world a better place for other children.”
If you would like to read more about Pearl’s challenge and support her fundraising, visit her fundraiser.
For more information on Save the Children, visit savethechildren.org.uk.
You can also support their work by donating here.
