DIY Sally Brown Costume: The Ultimate Guide + Tips & Tricks!

Marcella Rippin Jr. 13 May 2025

Dressing up should be fun, right? Absolutely, and nothing beats the charm and satisfaction of crafting your own costume, especially when it's inspired by a timeless character like Sally Brown! This guide will help you navigate the delightful path to creating the perfect DIY Sally Brown costume, fit for any occasion.

The prospect of assembling a DIY Sally Brown costume offers a unique blend of creativity and a heartfelt nod to childhood nostalgia. Sally Brown, the endearing little sister of Charlie Brown from Charles M. Schulzs iconic Peanuts comic strip, has secured a special place in the hearts of millions. Her innocence, her unwavering (though often unrequited) affection for Linus, and her comical misunderstandings make her instantly recognizable and universally appealing. Whether you're gearing up for a Halloween bash, a themed party that screams "Peanuts," or simply seeking a whimsical weekend project, a Sally Brown costume is an exceptional choice that guarantees smiles and fond memories.

The essence of a DIY Sally Brown costume lies in capturing her signature look, which is both simple and distinctive. Think of it as a recipe with a few key ingredients: a patched blue dress, those classic black Mary Jane shoes, and, of course, her iconic hairstyle, often depicted as short, red, and slightly unruly. The beauty of a DIY approach is the flexibility it offers. You can repurpose existing clothing items, scour thrift stores for the perfect pieces, or even embark on a more ambitious project of creating the dress from scratch. The level of detail you incorporate from the accuracy of the patches to the styling of the wig will significantly enhance the overall impact of your costume.

Creating a Sally Brown costume isn't just about the clothes; it's about embodying the spirit of the character. Sally is known for her distinctive traits: her unwavering optimism, her unique perspective on the world, and her occasional moments of exasperation with her big brother, Charlie Brown. So, when you step into your DIY costume, remember to channel that inner Sally Brown. Let your curiosity shine through, embrace your own brand of bossiness (in a playful way, of course!), and don't be afraid to express your opinions, even if they're a little unconventional.

Let's dive into the specifics of crafting each element of your DIY Sally Brown costume:

The Patched Blue Dress:

This is arguably the most crucial component of your costume. The key is to find a dress that closely resembles the classic blue dress Sally wears in the comic strip. Ideally, it should be a simple A-line or shift dress, falling just above the knees. The color should be a medium to light blue, but don't stress too much about finding the exact shade. The patches are what truly make the dress recognizable.

Options for the Dress:

Repurposing: Check your own closet or ask friends and family if they have any old blue dresses that you can use.
Thrift Store Finds: Thrift stores are a treasure trove of potential costume pieces. You might find a vintage dress that perfectly fits the bill, or you can alter a larger dress to the desired size and shape.
Creating from Scratch: If you're feeling crafty, you can sew the dress yourself. There are numerous simple dress patterns available online, and you can choose a blue fabric that you like.

Adding the Patches:

The patches should be made from various colors and patterns of fabric. Think squares, circles, and triangles in reds, yellows, greens, and browns. The more mismatched and whimsical the patches, the better. You can cut the patches from scraps of fabric, felt, or even old clothing.

Attaching the Patches:

Sewing: The most durable option is to sew the patches onto the dress. You can use a sewing machine or hand-stitch them.
Fabric Glue: Fabric glue is a quicker and easier option, especially if you don't have a sewing machine. Just make sure to use a glue that is specifically designed for fabric and that is washable (if you plan to wash the dress).
Iron-on Patches: Iron-on patches are a convenient option, but they may not be as durable as sewn-on or glued-on patches.

Patch Placement:

Randomly distribute the patches across the dress, focusing on the front and sleeves. Don't be afraid to overlap the patches or to place them at slightly odd angles. The goal is to create a playful and slightly haphazard look.

Black Mary Jane Shoes:

Black Mary Jane shoes are another essential element of the Sally Brown costume. These classic shoes are simple, comfortable, and instantly recognizable. If you don't already own a pair, you can easily find them at most shoe stores or online retailers.

Options for the Shoes:

Existing Shoes: If you already have a pair of black Mary Jane shoes, you're all set.
Purchasing New Shoes: You can find Mary Jane shoes in a variety of styles and materials. Choose a pair that is comfortable and that fits your budget.
Thrift Store Finds: You might be able to find a pair of Mary Jane shoes at a thrift store.

The Iconic Hairstyle:

Sally Brown's hairstyle is typically depicted as short, red, and slightly messy. Achieving this look can be done in a few different ways:

Options for the Hairstyle:

Wig: A red wig is the easiest and most effective way to achieve Sally Brown's hairstyle. You can find wigs at most costume shops or online retailers. Look for a short, slightly choppy wig in a vibrant red color. Style the wig by tousling it slightly and adding a few flyaway strands.
Hair Dye: If you have short hair and are willing to dye it red, this is another option. However, be sure to use a temporary hair dye that will wash out easily.
Hair Spray: If you have short hair that is already a similar color to Sally Brown's, you can use red hair spray to achieve the desired effect.

Styling the Hair:

Whether you're using a wig, hair dye, or hair spray, the key is to create a slightly messy and tousled look. Don't worry about perfection; the goal is to capture Sally Brown's playful and carefree spirit.

Makeup (Optional):

While not strictly necessary, makeup can add an extra touch of authenticity to your Sally Brown costume. Consider the following:

Pale Blue Skin: While a bold choice, some interpretations of Sally Brown include pale blue skin. This can be achieved with face paint, but be cautious about potential skin irritation and ensure the paint is non-toxic and easily washable.
Black Stitches: Another makeup detail sometimes added are black stitches along the face, mimicking the comic strip style. Use a fine-tipped eyeliner or face paint to draw these subtle lines.
Rosy Cheeks: A touch of blush can add a youthful and innocent glow to your face.

Bringing It All Together:

Once you have all the individual components of your costume, it's time to put it all together. Put on the patched blue dress, slip on the black Mary Jane shoes, and style your hair or wig. Add any makeup details you desire. Take a look in the mirror and make any final adjustments. Now, you're ready to transform into Sally Brown!

Adding Personality:

The final touch to your DIY Sally Brown costume is to add your own personal flair. Consider these ideas:

Linus Blanket: Carry a small blue blanket to represent Sally's unrequited love for Linus.
Sayings: Familiarize yourself with some of Sally Brown's famous sayings and incorporate them into your conversations. For example, you could say "Sweet Babboo" when referring to your crush or "I hate school!" with playful exaggeration.
Expressions: Practice Sally Brown's facial expressions, such as her wide-eyed innocence or her frustrated grimaces.

By following these tips and using your own creativity, you can create a DIY Sally Brown costume that is both recognizable and unique. Whether you're attending a Halloween party, a themed event, or simply want to have some fun, you're sure to make a splash as this beloved Peanuts character.

Crafting a memorable and charming DIY Sally Brown costume involves more than just assembling clothes; it's about capturing the essence of her character. It's about embracing her innocence, her unwavering spirit, and her unique perspective on the world. When you step into your costume, remember to channel that inner Sally Brown and let your personality shine through.

Whether it's for a themed party, Halloween, or any special occasion, crafting the perfect DIY Sally Brown costume can elevate your event experience. From capturing her iconic hairstyle to mastering her timeless wardrobe, this guide dives deep into the art of crafting a costume that captures the essence of Sally Brown. This project is an achievable and delightful one, perfect for themed events, Halloween, or simply celebrating the enduring charm of this beloved character. The appeal of Sally Brown, Charlie Brown's spirited younger sister, lies in her simplicity and recognizability.