Fancy Nancy is one of the most forgiving characters a child can dress as, because her whole style is more is more. She reads at a glance through curly red hair, bright tutu skirts, decorated shoes, a tiara, stacks of necklaces and bows, and accessories that happily don't match. Almost every version here can be put together from a child's own closet, thrift finds, dancewear and craft supplies. I've included the classic look and a long list of twists on it, from ballet and butterflies to Paris, rainy days and bedtime, each with the clothing, hair, makeup, props and shoes. Comfort still comes first: soft layers, accessories that stay put, and shoes that can manage a walk.

Red Curls Without Dyeing a Child's Hair
The curly red hair does more to make a child look like Nancy than any dress, so it's worth sorting first. Not every child will keep a wig on, and I'd never suggest permanent dye for a costume. There are three workable routes, and which one suits depends on the child more than the budget.
A Curly Synthetic Wig
This gives the most convincing result. Cheap curly wigs shed and tangle out of the bag, so I separate the curls with my fingers, never a brush, and mist them lightly with water and a little fabric softener the night before. A thin wig cap underneath stops it sliding and keeps a child's own hair from poking out. Keep it away from candles and heaters; synthetic fiber frizzes or melts with heat.
Yarn Ringlets on a Headband
For a child who hates anything on their scalp, loops of red or orange yarn stitched along a soft headband hang down like ringlets and come off in a second. Wrapping yarn around a dowel, spritzing it with water and letting it dry overnight gives the loops a corkscrew shape.
Temporary Color Spray
Works on lighter hair and rubs off onto collars and pillowcases. If you use it, do a test strand first, spray outdoors with the child's face covered, and wash it out the same night. It also stains white collars, so pick a darker top or keep the color away from the neckline.
1. Classic Fancy Nancy Costume With Pink Tutu

The classic look is a yellow short-sleeve top with a full pink tutu and a wide light-blue ribbon tied in a big bow at the waist. Pink tights add warmth, and hot-pink Mary Janes should be comfortable enough to walk the neighborhood in. A curly red wig gives Nancy's hair, though temporary red color or a big red bow will do for a child who won't wear a wig. A small silver tiara goes on top. Then the necklaces: purple, blue and pearl-style, layered generously. Rosy blush, pink lip balm, a touch of child-safe shimmer and a pink feather boa finish it, with no sewing at all. Boas shed, so I give them a shake outside the night before to get the loose fluff out.
2. Fancy Nancy Book Costume With Purple Dress

A purple party dress makes a good base for a version that leans on the decorated picture-book wardrobe. Choose a sleeveless dress with a flared skirt and layer a pale pink tutu under it so the tulle peeks past the hem; that peek is what makes it read as Nancy rather than a party dress. Tie a red satin sash at the waist and add patterned leggings. The curly red wig gets a glittering tiara and several colorful flower clips. Rosy cheeks and pink lip balm keep the face light. White gloves, oversized bead necklaces, a feather boa and purple flats with removable rhinestone stickers finish it, and a favorite Fancy Nancy book makes this a natural pick for book-character day.
3. Fancy Nancy TV Costume With Yellow Top

The television-style version is a sunny yellow top with a layered fuchsia skirt and an oversized blue waist bow. A top with puffed sleeves helps, or clip fabric bows near the shoulders. Pale blue leggings go underneath on a chilly night. The red curly wig should look bouncy, not set, and I set the jeweled tiara a little off center on purpose so it looks as if she dressed herself. A purple beaded necklace, pink bracelets and a soft boa add the layers. Pink blush and a hint of lavender shimmer are the makeup. Hot-pink Mary Janes and a toy purse stuffed with costume jewelry and ribbons complete the character.
4. Fancy Nancy Tea Party Costume

Think of an afternoon table of tiny cakes and flowered cups. Here a child wears a pink floral party dress with a ruffled collar and full skirt, a lavender cardigan for warmth and a turquoise bow at the waist. The star is a miniature fascinator of fabric flowers, feathers and ribbon loops; I attach it to a small comb or a pair of snap clips, because elastic under the chin gets pulled off in minutes. Rosy cheeks and berry lip balm are enough makeup. Pearl-style necklaces, short white gloves and glittery pink flats or low Mary Janes keep it practical. Carry a plastic teacup and saucer or a flowered handbag; ceramic props break.
5. Fancy Nancy Ballerina Costume

Ballet suits Nancy well, and children who take dance classes often already own most of this. Start with a purple leotard and a layered pink-and-lavender tutu, pale pink tights and a satin ribbon belt with a big bow at the back. Curly red hair goes into a loose high bun with a few ringlets left at the face, decorated with silk flowers, a tiny tiara or both. A wig bun is hard to pin, so I build it from a separate clip-on curly piece over the wig's crown. Rosy blush, pink lip balm and a little shimmer at the temples are the makeup, with a jeweled necklace and bracelets. Swap delicate dance slippers for ballet-style flats with real soles, and carry a ribbon wand or dance bag.
6. Fancy Nancy Butterfly Costume

A butterfly is one of Nancy's most natural Halloween looks. Layer a bright pink tutu over a purple leotard or long-sleeve top, with turquoise tights and glittery ballet flats. Lightweight pink, purple and blue wings attach at the shoulders, not the wrists, so the arms move freely and the wings don't drag on the candy bucket. A flower-covered headband with flexible antennae sits on the curly red wig. Soft lavender eye shadow, rosy cheeks and a few cosmetic glitter dots near the eyes make the face; I'd use a gel-based glitter rather than loose, which travels everywhere. Colorful necklaces, ribbon bracelets and a flower wand finish it.
7. Fancy Nancy Paris Costume

Nancy loves all things French, so a Paris version feels right. Start with a pink-and-white striped top and a lavender tulle skirt to the knee, add a black cropped cardigan and a wide turquoise sash. The curly red wig goes under a raspberry beret, with the ringlets left to frame the face. Berets slide off curly wigs, so a couple of bobby pins crossed through the wig cap at the back makes a difference. Rosy blush and pink lip balm suit a child; a small cat-eye flick is for an older teen or adult only. Pearl necklaces, a silky neck scarf, charm bracelets and black flats with removable bows finish it, with a toy Eiffel Tower or flower-trimmed handbag for candy.
8. Fancy Nancy Princess Costume

Nancy never says no to a tiara or an extra ruffle, so a princess version is easy to justify. Choose a full pink dress with puff sleeves, a fitted bodice and layers of soft tulle, with a purple capelet or short lavender cape tied with a decorative bow. A large jeweled tiara sits on the curly red wig, with tiny silk flowers tucked between the curls. Rosy cheeks, a little lid shimmer and glossy pink lips are enough. Long white gloves, several necklaces and a rhinestone bracelet add the sparkle. Pink flats are safer than heels for small children. The trick with this one is to keep it looking homemade and joyful, not like a formal store-bought gown; a deliberately mismatched cape color helps.
9. Fancy Nancy Fairy Costume

A fairy version is lighter and suits a child who finds tutus scratchy, since you can choose a soft layered skirt in pink, blue and purple over a lavender top. Glittery tights and purple ballet flats go underneath. Translucent wings get decorated with flowers, ribbons or removable rhinestones. The curly red wig keeps the character, and a floral tiara adds the magic. Pink blush across the cheeks and child-safe shimmer at the outer corners of the eyes are plenty. I make the wand by wrapping ribbon around a paper straw and topping it with a fabric flower, so there's no hard point. Keep the wings narrow enough for doorways and stack light bracelets on both wrists.
10. Fancy Nancy Flower Girl Costume

Florals give this version a garden-party mood. Begin with a light-blue party dress with a full skirt and add a pink tulle petticoat underneath. A wide purple sash ties at the waist, and fabric flowers pin around the neckline. The curly red wig gets a flower crown of pink roses, blue blossoms and trailing ribbons. Rosy blush, clear gloss and a touch of lavender shimmer keep the makeup soft. Pearl-style necklaces, lace gloves and a flower bracelet add Nancy's layers, and pink Mary Janes with ruffled ankle socks finish the feet. Fill the basket with silk petals glued in place; loose ones end up on the floor, and silk petals on a hard floor are slippery.
11. Fancy Nancy Halloween Witch Costume

Give Nancy a proper Halloween makeover with a purple witch dress, striped pink tights and a layered black-and-fuchsia tutu, cinched with a bright blue ribbon so the palette still connects to her usual clothes. A child-friendly pointed hat covered in flowers, rhinestones, feathers and bows sits on the curled red wig. Witch hats tip forward on curls, so I stuff the crown lightly with tissue and sew a strip of elastic inside the brim. Lavender eye shadow, rosy blush and star-shaped face stickers replace any dark makeup. Multiple necklaces, fingerless lace gloves and purple buckled ankle boots suit it, and a small broom with satin streamers and silk flowers makes a safe prop.
12. Fancy Nancy Black Cat Costume

A black cat turns fancy fast when it's covered in Nancy's color. Start with a black long-sleeve top, soft leggings and a fluffy purple-and-pink tutu, with a glittering pink belt and black ballet flats with rhinestone bows. The cat-ear headband sits on the curly red wig, decorated with silk flowers and a small tiara. A tiny black nose and simple whiskers in washable face paint, rosy cheeks and pink lip balm make the face. The tail should be a soft clip-on that lets go if caught. Bright bead necklaces, lace wrist cuffs and a cat-shaped candy purse finish it. The black base is what makes the red hair and pink pop; it's the best of these for photos after dark.
13. Fancy Nancy Unicorn Costume

A unicorn version gives a child pastel color and tulle in quantity. Dress them in a pale pink top with a rainbow tutu in purple, blue and fuchsia, white or lavender leggings and glittery pink sneakers for steady walking. The curly red wig keeps her recognizable. A padded unicorn horn headband goes over the curls, surrounded by silk flowers, ribbons and a small tiara; with this much going on, I fix the headband to the wig with two small clips so it doesn't slide back. Iridescent face shimmer, rosy blush and pastel star stickers are the makeup. A rainbow tail clipped to the waistband, bead necklaces and a flower wand or pastel purse finish it.
14. Fancy Nancy Mermaid Costume

A mermaid Nancy needs to walk, so skip the narrow tail skirt entirely. Pair a turquoise sequin top with a knee-length skirt of overlapping blue, purple and pink tulle, with shiny scale-print leggings underneath and iridescent ballet flats. Sequin tops scratch the inside of small arms, so I'd put a soft long-sleeve tee under it or choose one with a lining. A side braid in the curly red wig holds pearl clips, fabric flowers and light shell accessories. Turquoise eye shadow, rosy blush and shimmer on the cheekbones suit it. Pearl necklaces, a small purple cape that hints at fins, and a shell purse or star wand in place of a trident finish the look.
15. Fancy Nancy Cupcake Costume

A cupcake suits Nancy's love of the extravagant and is still very wearable. A pale yellow top decorated with felt sprinkles goes over a light pleated skirt that looks like a wrapper, with a full pink tutu on top as the frosting. A turquoise ribbon belt marks the transition. A headband topped with a fabric cherry and small white tulle puffs sits on curly red hair. Rosy blush, pink lip balm and a little cheek glitter are the makeup. Candy-colored necklaces and bracelets keep it happily excessive. Pink leggings, cushioned Mary Janes and a small bakery box or cupcake candy bag complete it. Stitch the felt sprinkles on; glued ones fall off on the first car ride.
16. Fancy Nancy Artist Costume

An artist version keeps Nancy's glamour while giving her a job. Start with a purple top, a pink tutu and a child-size white art smock decorated with removable felt paint splashes in blue, yellow and fuchsia. Striped leggings and pink slip-on sneakers go on the feet. The curly red wig gathers into a loose side ponytail under a lavender beret. Rosy blush, pink lip balm and a few washable rainbow dots near one cheek suit it. Chunky bead necklaces, flower bracelets and a big bow at the waist add the flair. A plastic palette with blunt brushes fixed on is the prop. A real old shirt worn backwards works as the smock if you don't have one, and it's comfortable for a school day.
17. Fancy Nancy Sleepover Costume

The sleepover version is the coziest on this list, and it's the one I suggest for a child who refuses scratchy fabric. Choose pink pajamas with ruffled cuffs and layer a fluffy lavender robe, tied with a turquoise ribbon, with a short tulle skirt over the pajama bottoms. The curly red wig goes into loose pigtails with oversized satin bows, and a feather-trimmed sleep mask rests on top of the head. Skip makeup beyond rosy blush and pink lip balm. Fuzzy purple slippers need sturdy soles if they're going outside, and pearl-style necklaces add Nancy's sparkle. A small stuffed dog or a ribbon-tied rolled blanket makes a sweet prop. Robes are long, so I'd check the hem and belt ends clear the ankles.
18. Fancy Nancy Beach Costume

A beach version brings vacation style to Halloween while staying fully covered. Pair a turquoise rash guard or fitted T-shirt with a pink ruffled skirt and striped leggings, and add a light purple cover-up tied with a yellow sash. A wide-brim sun hat decorated with flowers, ribbon and a tiny tiara sits on the curly red wig. Wide brims catch wind, so a hat with a chin cord, tucked out of sight, is safer outdoors. Rosy blush, clear lip balm and oversized heart sunglasses finish the face, though sunglasses should come off after dark. Pink sandals are fine indoors; bright slip-on sneakers are better outside. A small beach tote, rolled towel and toy pail are the props.
19. Fancy Nancy Rainy Day Costume

When October turns damp, the rainy-day version is the practical choice. A purple dress or tunic goes over pink leggings, with a clear or pale-blue raincoat decorated with removable flower stickers and ribbon bows. Fuchsia rain boots need warm socks inside. The curly red wig can sit under a transparent rain bonnet or a flower-trimmed waterproof hat; synthetic wigs actually handle light rain better than you'd expect, but they frizz badly if you blast them with a hairdryer afterwards. Rosy cheeks and lip balm that won't smudge are the makeup. Plastic bead necklaces go over the coat, a boa only if it's dry, and a small ribbon-tied umbrella and blue bucket complete it.
20. Fancy Nancy Winter Costume

For a cold-weather party, I build Nancy from warm layers rather than adding a coat on top. Start with a pink sweater dress, a purple tulle skirt over fleece-lined leggings and a turquoise satin sash, then layer a lavender coat or cape over everything. The curly red wig goes under a soft pink beret with fabric flowers and a jeweled brooch. Rosy blush and pink lip balm keep the face free of loose glitter, which sticks to wool scarves for weeks. Pearl-style necklaces over the sweater, purple gloves and a faux-fur scarf add the fuss. Insulated pink boots and a decorated hand muff or velvet candy bag finish a version that stays true to her taste on a chilly night.
21. Fancy Nancy Pajama Princess Costume

Pajama princess combines bedtime comfort with royal sparkle. Lavender pajamas with ruffled sleeves and wide-leg bottoms get a soft pink tutu at the waist, and a light satin robe fastened with a jeweled clip becomes the cape. Two loose buns in the curly red wig hold a flexible silver crown; a soft crown is the right call here, since this child may well fall asleep on the way home. Rosy blush, pink lip balm and a few star face stickers are enough. One pearl necklace and soft fabric bracelets are kinder than bulky jewelry with pajamas. Pink slippers with outdoor soles and a ribbon-decorated pillow or crowned plush toy finish it, and it suits a relaxed party or indoor trick-or-treat.
22. Fancy Nancy Birthday Party Costume

A birthday-party version is festive head to toe and easy to read in photos. Choose a bright fuchsia party dress with a full skirt and blue tulle underneath, with a yellow ribbon sash tied into an oversized back bow. A cone party hat covered in flowers, pom-poms and a tiny tiara sits on the curly red hair, and I swap the thin elastic it comes with for soft fold-over elastic so it doesn't cut under the chin. Rosy blush, sparkling lip balm and a few face gems kept well away from the eyes make the face. Bead necklaces, charm bracelets, short white gloves and pink Mary Janes with patterned socks finish it, with a ribbon-tied gift box or cupcake handbag.
23. Fancy Nancy Garden Costume

A garden version gives Nancy jewel tones and a break from the yellow-shirt-and-pink-tutu combination. Begin with a green top and a layered skirt in pink, lavender and turquoise, flower-patterned tights and purple ankle boots for outdoor walking. A large floral crown sits on the curly red wig with several ringlets falling to the shoulders. Rosy blush, pink lip balm and tiny flower stickers along one cheek are the makeup. Colorful bead necklaces and flower bracelets on both wrists add the decoration. A light watering can or basket of silk blooms with ribbon streamers tied on makes the theme clear. Flower crowns get heavy with too many stems, so I wire just a few large blooms rather than lots of small ones.
24. Fancy Nancy Soccer Costume

Sporty clothing can still be extremely fancy, and this is the version for a child who would rather run than twirl. Start with a pink soccer jersey and purple athletic shorts, then layer a short blue tulle skirt over the shorts. Striped knee socks and supportive pink sneakers or cleat-free soccer shoes go on the feet. The curly red wig goes into a high ponytail tied with several ribbons. Light blush and pink lip balm are enough. A glittery sweatband, bead necklace and flower wristbands add flair without getting in the way. A foam soccer ball is the prop. Save the boa for photos only, since it will be trodden on in any game.
25. Fancy Nancy School Costume

For a school day, I'd go for a white blouse, a purple cardigan and a knee-length pink tulle skirt, with patterned tights and blue Mary Janes. A turquoise ribbon ties at the waist with a big bow at the back. A curly red wig or temporary red color gives the hair, and a flowered headband is a better bet than a tall tiara where schools discourage bulky accessories. Rosy blush and tinted lip balm keep it minimal. A few light necklaces and a charm bracelet are enough for a classroom. A decorated book bag holding a Fancy Nancy book, colored pencils and a ribbon-trimmed notebook does the explaining, and nothing trails, so she can sit at a desk all day.
26. Fancy Nancy Library Costume

The library version celebrates Nancy's picture-book roots. A yellow blouse, a pink knee-length tutu and a lavender cardigan repeat her familiar colors, with pale-blue tights and glittery purple flats. A jeweled headband, flower clips and a neat side bow decorate the curly red wig. Rosy blush and pink lip balm keep it soft. Pearl-style necklaces over the blouse add the layers. White lace gloves look lovely but make turning pages hard, so I'd leave them off if she'll be reading in the parade. A stack of light imitation books tied with turquoise ribbon, or one favorite Fancy Nancy title, explains the whole costume, and a book-shaped candy bag adds function.
27. Fancy Nancy Dance Party Costume

The dance-party version is built to move. A sequined purple top goes with a layered pink-and-blue dance skirt with built-in shorts, plus bright leggings and glittery high-tops that stay laced through a lot of jumping. The curly red wig gathers into a high side ponytail decorated with ribbons, flowers and a small tiara. A wig ponytail pulls the whole wig sideways when she spins, so I pin the wig cap to her own hair with four or five bobby pins first. Pink blush, glossy lip balm and child-safe lid shimmer make the face. Light bead necklaces, bangles and fingerless lace gloves add the flair, and a ribbon wand or toy microphone is the prop. Keep the skirt at knee length.
28. Fancy Nancy Red Carpet Costume

A red-carpet Nancy starts with a knee-length lavender dress with a full tulle skirt, a pink faux-fur capelet and a turquoise satin belt. The curly red wig is swept to one side with a sparkling tiara set above one ear. Rosy blush, pink lip color and soft lavender eye shadow suit the glamour. Pearl-style necklaces in different lengths and elbow-length white gloves add polish; long gloves slide down thin arms, so a small loop of elastic stitched at the top edge keeps them up. Glittery flats rather than heels let her walk with confidence. A tiny metallic clutch or a cardboard award covered in gold paper and oversized sunglasses for photos finish it, and the bright colors keep it young.
29. Fancy Nancy Pajama Fairy Costume

Pajamas plus fairy wings is a hybrid most children find irresistible, and it's cozy enough for an indoor party. Start with soft pink pajamas, a short purple tutu and a pair of light blue fairy wings, with a turquoise ribbon around the waist to give the loose pajamas some shape. Pigtails with satin bows and a flower-covered star headband go in the curly red wig. Rosy blush, sparkling lip balm and pastel star stickers near the temples are the makeup. One colorful necklace and soft ribbon bracelets won't snag the knit fabric. Lavender slipper boots with nonslip outdoor soles keep it walkable. A padded felt crescent-moon wand is the prop, and soft felt means no one gets poked.
30. Fancy Nancy Autumn Costume

Seasonal color gives Nancy's wardrobe a cozy October update without losing her clash. Pair a mustard sweater with a cranberry tulle skirt and plum leggings, a teal ribbon belt and brown ankle boots with removable flower clips. A berry-colored felt hat trimmed with silk leaves, small flowers and a jeweled pin sits on the curly red wig. Warm pink blush and berry lip balm are the makeup. Amber, purple and pearl-style necklaces go over the sweater, with fingerless knit gloves. A light basket of silk autumn leaves and fabric flowers is the prop. A short plaid cape adds warmth while leaving the tulle on show, which matters, because the skirt is what keeps this reading as Nancy and not just an autumn outfit.
31. Fancy Nancy Rainbow Costume

In a Fancy Nancy costume, more color is always welcome, and a rainbow version takes that literally. A pale-blue top goes with a tutu built from separate layers of pink, yellow, green, purple and turquoise tulle, white leggings with colorful dots and bright pink sneakers. Rainbow ribbon clips and a silver tiara decorate the curly red wig. Rosy blush, pink lip balm and tiny face gems near the outer eye make the face. Bead necklaces in every color and ribbon bracelets on both wrists finish the decoration. A cloud purse or padded felt rainbow wand is the prop. Trailing ribbons are tempting here, but I'd cap them at elbow length so she isn't tangled. Leftover dancewear and craft scraps make this cheap.
32. Fancy Nancy Doll Costume

A doll version looks polished without being stiff. Choose a pink dress with puff sleeves, a white collar and a full skirt, add a purple tulle petticoat, and wear white ruffled socks with bright blue Mary Janes. Two high pigtails tied with oversized satin bows go into the curly red wig, with a tiny tiara between them. Round rosy cheeks, pink lip balm and a few painted freckles give the doll face; I press the blush on in a circle with a fingertip rather than sweeping it, which is what makes it look doll-like. Pearl necklaces, a flower bracelet and short white gloves add detail. A cardboard doll-box frame is for photos only; a toy purse goes on the walk.
33. Fancy Nancy Music Costume

A music version is the one for a child who loves performing. Combine a yellow ruffled blouse with a purple tutu, bright pink leggings and glittery blue flats or supportive sneakers. A headband decorated with fabric music notes, flowers and a mini tiara sits on the curly red wig. Rosy blush, pink lip balm and a little silver shimmer at the temples make the face. Several necklaces with light note-shaped charms, lace wrist cuffs and a turquoise sash add to the layers. A toy microphone, tambourine or lightweight violin prop suits it, but I'd pick the quietest option for school, since teachers rarely thank you for a tambourine.
34. Fancy Nancy Last-Minute Costume

When time is short, Nancy is one of the best characters to throw together, because no matching store-bought set is needed. Pair any bright yellow, pink or purple top with a full skirt or inexpensive dance tutu, and tie a contrasting scarf round the waist as a big bow. Add colorful tights and the fanciest comfortable flats in the house. For hair, curl natural red hair, use a curly red wig, or stitch loops of red yarn to a headband for ringlets in about twenty minutes. A toy tiara, every child-safe bead necklace and bracelet in the dress-up box, rosy blush and pink lip balm come next. Sunglasses, a small purse and a feather boa if you have one finish it.
35. Fancy Nancy Deluxe Halloween Costume

The deluxe version piles every signature detail into one costume. Start with a yellow puff-sleeve top and a multi-layered pink, lavender and blue tutu, a wide turquoise sash, patterned tights and rhinestone pink Mary Janes. A full curly red wig gets silk flowers, jeweled clips, a big satin bow and a sparkling tiara. Rosy blush, pink lip balm, lavender eye shimmer and a few face gems make the face. Pearl and purple bead necklaces, stacked bracelets, short lace gloves and a pink feather boa go on next, with a decorated handbag holding a mirror, ribbons and costume jewelry. With this much on the wig, weight is the issue; I sew the heavier pieces onto the bow rather than clipping each one to the curls.
One No-Sew Tutu You Can Reuse Across These Looks
Nearly every version here uses a tutu, and a single well-made one can be re-dressed with different tops, sashes and accessories for years. I make them on a band of wide elastic, measured snugly around the child's waist and joined with a few hand stitches.
- Cut soft tulle into strips about two hands wide and twice the finished skirt length.
- Fold each strip in half and loop it over the elastic with a lark's head knot.
- Push the knots close together; a dense skirt needs far more strips than you expect.
- Mix two or three colors in a repeating order so it reads as fancy rather than plain.
- Trim the hem level with the child standing, so it stops above the knee.
Choose soft tulle over stiff netting; the stiff kind scratches bare legs and children start pulling at it within an hour. Tights or leggings underneath help too.
How Many Necklaces Is Safe
Piles of jewelry are part of the character, but long strands around a small child's neck can catch on playground equipment, door handles and other children. I keep necklaces short enough that they can't loop over a chair back, and I stick to bead strands that snap apart if pulled hard. For toddlers, I'd skip strung beads altogether and stitch a few large felt or fabric beads onto the collar of the top. It gives the same layered look with none of the worry.
More Is More, as Long as She Can Still Run
Nancy's style is about imagination, not perfect matching, which makes her a gift for anyone dressing a child on a budget. Start from whatever base suits the day, a bright dress, a tutu, pajamas or practical separates, then build the character with curly red hair, a tiara, layered jewelry, bows, flowers and decorated shoes. Keep props light and makeup simple; rosy cheeks and a little shimmer are usually enough. Most of all, let the child choose the colors and accessories. From a warm October evening to a book parade, she'll look most like Nancy when the clashing combinations are her own.























