Jenny, the girl in the old scary story who never explains why she always wears a green ribbon round her neck, is one of my favourite costumes to make, because the whole character rests on one strip of fabric. Everything else can change. Below are thirty ways to dress her, from a Victorian gown or a vintage school outfit to a plain black dress or a soft floral one, each with hair, makeup, props and shoes. The one rule I follow in every version is the closure: the ribbon fastens with a hidden snap or hook-and-loop tab, never a tight knot, so it stays put and never presses on the throat. Some of these take an afternoon of sewing, others take five minutes and a dress you already own.
Sewing the Ribbon So It Lies Flat and Never Pinches
Every version below depends on the ribbon, so it's worth ten minutes to make it properly. A knotted ribbon is the most common mistake I see: it sits in a lump at the back, slowly tightens and leaves ends hanging down. A hidden fastening fixes all three.
- Measure round the base of the neck with a soft tape, then add about two finger widths of ease plus a little extra for overlap.
- Seal both cut ends. Synthetic satin can be passed quickly near a flame or touched with a dab of fray stopper; velvet ribbon needs the ends folded under and stitched.
- Sew a medium sew-on snap at the overlap, ball half on top, socket half underneath, so the join faces backward.
- For anyone who can't sew, stick-on hook-and-loop works for one evening, but stitch it if the ribbon will be worn again.
- Try it on and turn your head fully in both directions. If you feel it, loosen it.
For children, I go one step further and use a breakaway closure that opens under a light pull, never a closure that has to be undone deliberately.
1. Classic Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
The classic Jenny starts with a long purple or plum Victorian-style dress: high neck, fitted waist and gently puffed sleeves. A wide emerald velvet ribbon goes round the neck on a hidden snap. A high collar makes the ribbon harder to see, so on this dress I sit it just above the collar edge, where it shows against skin rather than fabric. Long dark hair parted in the middle suits the character, and a black wig does the same job. Pale, quiet makeup works best: soft grey eyeshadow, a light flush and muted berry lipstick. A small antique-style locket, an old hardcover book and a lace handkerchief are easy props. Black lace-up ankle boots and opaque tights finish it, and nothing about it needs graphic makeup or a stiff costume piece.
2. Brown Storybook Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
A plain brown dress gives the look of an old children's book illustration with very little effort. I'd look for a calf-length dress with long sleeves, a white Peter Pan collar and a defined waist. The forest-green ribbon closes with a small square of hook-and-loop tape at the back, which is the easiest fastening for anyone who can't sew. Two low braids or loose waves with a neat centre part keep the storybook mood. Natural foundation, brown mascara, rosy blush and a soft pink lip look innocent rather than eerie. A slim old-looking book or a small woven basket is enough to carry. Cream knee socks and brown Mary Janes finish the outfit, and it's comfortable enough for a school event or a long night out.
3. Victorian Schoolgirl Green Ribbon Costume
Picture a quiet student who has stepped out of an old mystery novel. This version uses a white high-collar blouse, a charcoal ankle-length skirt and a fitted brown vest, with a deep green satin ribbon placed neatly at the neck. Satin is slippery, so I add a tiny dab of fabric glue or a couple of stitches where the ribbon meets the fastener; otherwise it slides round until the snap sits under her chin. A smooth low bun with a few loose curls at the temples softens the face. Matte skin, taupe eyeshadow and a dusty rose lip are all the makeup it needs. A stack of light books tied with twine or a small slate board make good props. Black tights and low-heeled lace-up boots keep it walkable, and most of these pieces turn up in a closet or a thrift shop.
4. Gothic Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
For a darker take that still feels tasteful, wear a long black lace dress with a fitted bodice, sheer sleeves and a softly layered skirt. A bright emerald velvet ribbon is the right choice here; a dull or dark green disappears against black lace in low party light. Long black waves, a sleek centre part or a straight dark wig suit the haunting mood. Pale foundation, smoky grey eyes, defined lashes and deep plum lipstick do the work without any graphic effects. Black lace gloves, an antique-style cameo ring and a small hardcover journal are the accessories. Platform Mary Janes or block-heel ankle boots finish it. The black lace against the vivid green is dramatic enough for a party and still easy to read.
5. Cottagecore Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
Soft florals take the costume out to the countryside. Choose a cream or muted lavender midi dress with tiny flowers, ideally with puff sleeves and a gathered waist. Wrap a dark green velvet ribbon round the neck and fasten it at the back. One thing I check on a floral dress is that the print doesn't contain much green, or the ribbon gets lost in it. Loose waves or a relaxed braid with a few artificial leaves tucked in suit the hair. Peach blush, brown liner, brushed brows and berry-tinted balm keep the face fresh. A woven basket holding silk flowers and an old book is a light prop. Cream ankle socks and brown lace-up boots or clogs finish it, and it's a gentle version for daytime and outdoor events.
6. Regency Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
An empire-waist gown turns Jenny into a figure from an early nineteenth-century portrait. Pick a floor-length cream, pale blue or dusty rose dress with a square neckline and short puff sleeves, and a narrow emerald satin ribbon closed with a discreet snap. A narrow ribbon suits the delicate scale of a Regency gown better than a wide one, which can look like a choker from a later century. A curly updo with small face-framing tendrils, or a softly curled brown wig, suits the hair. Luminous skin, rosy cheeks, softly defined eyes and a natural pink lip complete the face. A folded letter, a small fabric-bound book or a plain decorative fan are period-appropriate props. Low satin slippers and white stockings finish the romantic historical look.
7. 1920s Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
The Jazz Age version uses a knee-length black or deep plum fringe dress. Keep the neckline simple so a wide green velvet ribbon stays clearly visible. Fringe swings constantly, and I've found long fringe at the neckline can catch in the ribbon's fastener, so I choose a dress where the fringe starts lower on the body. Finger waves on short hair, longer hair pinned into a faux bob, or a glossy dark bob wig suit the era. Softly smoky eyes, defined brows, a little rouge and dark berry lipstick give the period face. A beaded headband, long costume pearls and a small structured evening bag are enough; any more and they compete with the ribbon. Black T-strap shoes with a low, stable heel finish it and stay walkable.
8. 1930s Tea Dress Green Ribbon Costume
A bias-cut tea dress is a quieter, less theatrical way to play Jenny. Look for a calf-length dress in burgundy, navy or a tiny floral print, with flutter sleeves and a gently fitted waist. A medium-width green satin ribbon should lie flat round the neck and close with a hidden fastening. Bias-cut fabric clings and moves, so a slip underneath helps the dress hang properly and stops it riding up when you sit. Soft side-parted waves or a low rolled style suit the hair. Thin liner, muted rose blush and brick-red lipstick are understated period makeup. A compact handbag, short gloves and a small vintage-style book complete it. Low brown pumps or T-strap shoes finish the outfit for an indoor party or themed dinner.
9. 1940s Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
A tailored 1940s outfit gives the character a practical vintage update. A collared midi dress in navy, rust or forest brown, ideally with short sleeves and a belted waist, makes the base. The collar is the tricky part: I wear the ribbon under the collar points so it shows in the opening, rather than over the collar where it looks like a scarf. Victory rolls or a smooth curled style suit the hair, with a dark wig if you want Jenny's classic coloring. Soft brows, neutral eyeshadow, peach blush and classic red lipstick give the era's face. A small top-handle purse and a folded storybook-style note are the props. Seamed-look tights and low-heeled brown pumps finish the shape, and the dress is warm enough for most autumn evenings.
10. 1950s Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
For a 1950s Jenny, pair a fitted black top with a full, calf-length plum circle skirt, or wear a fit-and-flare dress in dark green, burgundy or black. If the dress itself is green, pick a ribbon in a clearly different shade so it still stands out as the clue. Brushed curls with a side part, or a shoulder-length curled wig, suit the decade. Winged liner, rosy cheeks and cherry-red lipstick give the 1950s finish. A small box purse or a vintage-looking hardcover book is the prop, and a narrow belt defines the waist. A circle skirt needs a petticoat to hold its shape; without one it hangs flat and the silhouette loses its period look. Short white gloves and black Mary Jane pumps finish it, and it's lovely for dancing.
11. 1960s Mod Green Ribbon Girl Costume
A short A-line dress moves the story into the clean, graphic 1960s. Choose a black, white or deep purple mini dress with long sleeves, and wear opaque tights for coverage. A narrow but vivid green ribbon sits at the neck. Because mod clothing is so plain, this is one version where the ribbon reads from across a room with almost no help. A smooth bob, a high ponytail or a rounded beehive-style updo suits the hair. Bold lashes, precise black liner, matte skin and a pale pink lip give the mod face. A small square handbag and a mini book with a homemade cover are the props. White knee-high boots or black low ankle boots finish it, and it's quick to assemble for anyone who doesn't want a long historical gown.
12. 1970s Prairie Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
Flowing layers make the prairie version comfortable and still old-fashioned. Start with a long prairie dress in rust, cream, brown or a small autumn floral, with a high neckline, gathered sleeves and a tiered skirt. A forest-green ribbon goes round the neck with a flat closure. On a high-necked prairie dress I sew the ribbon straight onto the collar band instead of wearing it loose, which keeps it level all evening. Long loose hair with a centre part, or two relaxed braids, suits it. Warm brown eyeshadow, peach blush, a few freckles and a terracotta lip are soft and natural. A woven shoulder bag, a pressed-leaf bookmark and a worn paperback make simple props. Brown suede-look ankle boots with a low heel finish it for walking or an outdoor festival.
13. 1980s Storybook Green Ribbon Costume
This version nods to the decade when many readers first met Jenny in a book of scary stories. Wear a purple puff-sleeve dress with a fitted waist, gathered skirt and slightly oversized shoulders, and add a wide emerald ribbon round the neck as the focal point. Big shoulders can push the neckline wide, so I check the ribbon still sits on the neck rather than drifting down onto the collarbone. Soft volume, curled bangs or a high half-up ponytail give the hair its era. Lavender eyeshadow, pink blush, mascara and berry lipstick are playful. Small pearl earrings, a structured mini bag and a paperback with a homemade dark cover finish it. Black tights and low black pumps keep it grounded, and the ribbon and book stop it reading as a generic decade costume.
14. 1990s Grunge Green Ribbon Girl Costume
For a casual version, layer a dark floral slip dress over a fitted black long-sleeve shirt, with opaque tights and a wide green velvet ribbon worn like a choker. Make sure the ribbon is fastened firmly but sits loose enough to turn your head freely. Straight dark hair with a centre part, a messy low bun or a plain black headband suits the grunge mood. Softly smudged brown liner, matte skin, mauve lipstick and a touch of grey under the eyes complete the face. A worn paperback and a small canvas bag with a few pins are the props. Black lace-up combat boots are comfortable and fit the decade. I like this one for anyone who wants a subtle costume built from everyday clothes that book lovers will still spot.
15. Modern Black Dress Green Ribbon Costume
Sometimes the plainest clothes make the strongest costume. A long-sleeve black midi dress with a clean neckline and a fitted waist is all you need, plus a wide emerald velvet ribbon on a hidden snap so no loose ends hang down. With nothing else competing, the velvet's texture does a lot of the work, so I'd spend a little more on a good ribbon here. Sleek waves or a straight centre-parted style suit the hair. Natural matte foundation, cool taupe eyeshadow, mascara and deep rose lipstick give an eerie but polished face. A small green-covered book or an antique-style key on a chain is plenty. Sheer black tights and pointed flats or low block-heel boots finish it, and it moves easily from an office to an evening party.
16. Glam Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
For a formal party, a floor-length black velvet gown makes Jenny glamorous. A fitted shape, long sleeves or an off-the-shoulder neckline all work, as long as the neck stays clear for a wide emerald ribbon. Velvet on velvet can look heavy, so I sometimes swap to a satin ribbon here for a little shine against the matte gown. Glossy dark hair in structured waves or a sleek low bun suits it. Luminous foundation, smoky eyes, defined lashes, soft contour and berry-red lipstick keep it glamorous rather than frightening. Emerald-colored studs, a small metallic clutch and a decorative hardcover book finish the details. Black block heels or pointed flats, depending on how long you'll be standing, complete it.
17. Plus Size Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
A wrap-style maxi dress is an adaptable base for a plus size Jenny. Deep plum, chocolate brown or matte black with long sleeves and a flowing skirt all suit the character. The ribbon should never be cut to a guessed length; I measure round the neck, add room for the fastener and sew on an adjustable snap extension so it sits comfortably. Defined curls, a braided updo or a smooth centre part all work for the hair. Makeup that suits your skin tone, with softly smoky eyes, warm blush and rich berry lipstick, finishes the face. A small vintage handbag and a light hardback book are the props, and a waist belt is optional. Cushioned ankle boots or supportive Mary Jane flats, plus breathable fabric, keep you comfortable through a long event.
18. Teen Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
For a teenager, a knee-length purple skater dress with a fitted cream cardigan and opaque black tights is easy and comfortable. The green ribbon sits over the dress neckline on hook-and-loop tape or a snap. I'd sew the hook-and-loop onto a small ribbon tab rather than straight onto the ribbon, so the scratchy side never touches the neck. Two neat braids, a half-up style or soft waves suit the hair. Tinted moisturizer, mascara, rosy blush and berry balm keep the makeup age-appropriate. A paperback and a small crossbody bag keep her hands free. Black ballet flats, loafers or low lace-up boots finish it, and most of it comes from an ordinary wardrobe, which suits spirit week and book day.
19. Kids Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
For a child, the costume needs to be simple, comfortable and quick to take off. A long-sleeve purple or brown cotton dress with white tights is warm and easy. Rather than tying anything round a child's neck, I sew the green ribbon onto a soft stretchy fabric collar that fastens with hook-and-loop and pulls apart with a light tug. Low braids, gentle curls or a neat half-up ponytail suit the hair. Skip heavy makeup; a little rosy cheek color and tinted balm are enough. A foam book or a small fabric-covered notebook is a light prop. Brown Mary Janes, black flats or secure ankle boots finish it. Keep hems off the ground and skip dangling accessories for classroom parades and walks around the neighbourhood.
20. Teacher Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
A teacher can wear a book character all day without giving up comfort. A brown midi dress works, or a white blouse with a long plum skirt and a fitted cardigan. Add a wide green ribbon on a breakaway or hook-and-loop fastening; a breakaway closure matters around small children who like to grab. A low bun, a braid or smooth shoulder-length waves suit the hair. Neutral eyeshadow, soft blush, mascara and muted berry lipstick look professional. Carry a copy of the story collection, or make an oversized light book cover as a classroom prop. A small name card reading “Jenny” helps younger students understand who you are. Supportive loafers or low ankle boots are the only sensible shoes for a full day on your feet.
21. Last-Minute Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
This one uses what's already in your wardrobe. Any plain black, brown, purple or burgundy dress will do, or a dark blouse with a midi skirt. Cut a length of green ribbon and add a snap, a hook-and-loop tab or an elastic extension. If you're short on time, a sew-on snap takes about two minutes per side with a needle and thread, and it holds much better than a safety pin. Wear your hair down with a centre part or in a low bun. Pale matte makeup, brown or grey eyeshadow, mascara and berry lipstick are enough. An old book from your shelf and a small vintage-looking handbag carry the story. Black tights and whatever dark flats or boots you wear comfortably finish it. The ribbon and book do almost all the storytelling.
22. White Nightgown Green Ribbon Costume
A long white nightgown gives Jenny a dreamy ghost-story look without frightening makeup. Choose an opaque cotton or lace-trimmed gown with long sleeves and a hem that clears the floor. I always hold a white gown up to a bright light before buying, because thin cotton turns see-through under party lighting and camera flash. A wide forest-green velvet ribbon stands out sharply against the pale fabric. Long dark hair worn loose and gently waved, or a centre-parted dark wig, suits it. Light foundation, soft grey eyeshadow, cool pink blush and muted rose lipstick keep the face quiet. A battery candle or a small closed book is a safe prop. White tights and cream ballet flats or soft ankle boots finish it for an indoor party.
23. DIY Paper Doll Green Ribbon Costume
The paper doll version is a fun craft project built on a simple purple dress. Cut an oversized white collar, cuffs and buttons from flexible craft foam and attach them with removable clothing tape. Craft foam has a habit of curling at the edges once it's warm from body heat, so I cut it slightly smaller than I want and press the pieces flat under books overnight first. A bright green ribbon collar closes with hidden hook-and-loop. Smooth dark curls or two matching braids add to the illustrated look. Round rosy blush, clean black liner and a soft pink lip give doll-like makeup. A flat cardboard storybook painted in muted colors is the prop. White tights and black Mary Janes finish it, and the bold shapes show up well in photos.
24. Rainy Weather Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
Wet weather doesn't have to hide the costume. A dark purple sweater dress goes over black leggings, under a belted brown trench left open enough at the top to show the ribbon. Velvet ribbon spots and flattens in the rain, so for a wet night I'd switch to grosgrain, which shrugs off water far better. A metal snap holds better than a bow, which goes limp and droops. A low braid, or hair tucked under a deep green cloche-style rain hat, suits it. Waterproof mascara, cream blush and a berry lip stain handle damp air. Carry a clear umbrella and keep your storybook prop in a clear plastic sleeve. Waterproof ankle boots with nonslip soles finish it for outdoor walks and festivals.
25. Cold Weather Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
For a cold evening, start with a long burgundy knit dress over thermal tights. Add a fitted black wool-look coat or a brown cape that opens at the neck so the green velvet ribbon still shows. The coat collar is the problem here; a big collar covers the ribbon completely, so I'd choose a collarless coat or turn the collar down flat. Dark waves under a small vintage-style beret, or a braided low bun that won't tangle in the wind, suit the hair. Moisturizing foundation, soft charcoal eyeshadow, rosy cream blush and berry balm hold up in cold air. A light book-shaped bag and dark gloves that match the coat are the extras. Insulated lace-up boots and warm socks finish it for long outdoor nights.
26. Warm Weather Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
When Halloween stays warm, choose a breathable cotton midi dress in lavender, brown or black with short puff sleeves, a loose skirt and room at the neck for a light green satin ribbon. Thick velvet against warm skin gets sweaty and leaves a red line, so I switch to satin or cotton ribbon in hot weather. Use a breakaway fastener. A low ponytail, a loose braid or simple waves keep hair off the neck. Tinted moisturizer, waterproof mascara, peach blush and berry lip tint won't slide in the heat. A tiny hardcover notebook and a woven crossbody bag add no extra warmth. Cushioned Mary Jane flats or low canvas shoes in black or brown finish it for daytime festivals and crowded indoor parties.
27. Modest Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
The high-coverage version starts with a loose long-sleeve maxi dress in deep plum or chocolate brown. If the neckline is low, layer a cream blouse underneath and leave enough of the neck free for the ribbon to show. An optional matching capelet adds warmth. A long braid, a low bun or soft shoulder-length waves suit the hair. Even foundation, brushed brows, brown mascara, muted blush and a natural berry lipstick keep the makeup quiet. A small leather-look satchel and a fabric-bound book are the props. Opaque tights and flat lace-up boots finish it. With so much fabric around it, I'd use the widest ribbon in this list, because a narrow one looks lost on a long modest dress. It suits school functions, work events and family parties.
28. Maternity Girl With The Green Ribbon Costume
A maternity Jenny needs room to sit, walk and shift about through the evening. An empire-waist maxi dress in soft black, plum or burgundy stretch fabric gives that room. A light green ribbon goes round the neck with an easy-release fastening, since necks and throats can feel more sensitive to pressure in pregnancy. A cropped cardigan adds warmth without pulling across the bump. Relaxed dark waves, a low bun or a side braid suit the hair. Stick to familiar makeup products, with taupe eyeshadow, rosy blush and berry lip color. A small book-shaped crossbody bag is easier than a prop you have to hold. Supportive black flats or cushioned ankle boots finish it, with breathable fabric throughout.
29. Storybook Bride Green Ribbon Costume
For a bridal Jenny, wear an ivory or pale grey vintage-style maxi dress with lace sleeves and a high waist, and skip long trains, which get stepped on all night. A dark emerald velvet ribbon goes round the neck with the snap hidden under the hair. Dark hair in a loose low updo with a short simple veil or a pearl comb suits it. Luminous foundation, cool rose blush, grey-brown eyeshadow and muted red lipstick complete the face. A small bouquet of white silk flowers with green leaves and a miniature book charm make the props. Cream flats or low block heels finish it. The ribbon is the only strong color in this whole outfit, which is why I think the bridal version tells Jenny's story more clearly than almost any other for a dressy Halloween party.
30. Older Jenny Green Ribbon Costume
This version imagines Jenny later in life, in a deep navy or charcoal Victorian-inspired dress with long sleeves, a structured bodice and a full ankle-length skirt. Keep the green ribbon, in velvet for a rich, aged look. A silver-grey low bun works with temporary color spray or a wig rather than anything permanent; spray color does come off on collars, so I keep a towel over the shoulders while setting it. Softly shaded temples, gentle lines, cool blush and muted berry lipstick age the face without anything graphic. An old letter, a lace handkerchief and a worn-looking book suggest a secret kept for years. Black button boots and opaque tights finish it, and the ribbon keeps it clearly Jenny.
Velvet, Satin or Grosgrain for the Neck
The ribbon you pick changes how the costume looks under different lights. Velvet ribbon has the deepest green and reads as rich and old-fashioned, but it marks if it gets wet and can feel warm. Satin catches light and photographs brightly, though it slips round the neck unless the fastener is stitched firmly. Grosgrain has a fine ribbed texture, holds its shape and survives rain, which makes it my choice for outdoor nights even if it looks a little plainer.
Width matters as well. Around one inch reads clearly from across a room on most adults; a narrower ribbon suits Regency and 1960s looks, and wider ribbon suits plain black dresses. Pick an emerald or forest green that contrasts with the dress, and buy an extra length so you have a spare if one gets crushed.
When Someone Asks Who You Are
Jenny is a deep cut, and plenty of people won't recognise her from the ribbon alone. An old hardcover book carried in plain view helps more than any other prop, especially if it looks well read. If you'd rather not explain all night, a small paper tag tied to the book reading “Don't ask about the ribbon” does the explaining for you, and readers who know the story usually get it straight away.
One Green Ribbon, Thirty Ways to Wear It
A single accessory can carry a surprising number of storybook looks. Jenny works in Victorian clothes, in vintage decade fashion, in cottagecore layers, in a modern dress or in weatherproof separates. Whichever you pick, keep the ribbon visible and fasten it with a snap, elastic extension or hook-and-loop, never a knot. Dark hair, quiet slightly eerie makeup, an old book and sensible shoes help people place the reference. Choose clothing that suits your event and lets you move. I'd start by making the ribbon itself; once that's right, the rest of the costume can be eerie, elegant, nostalgic or handmade, and none of it needs graphic effects.
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