A scout costume is one of the most forgiving builds I know, because the whole thing rests on a collared top, a skirt or shorts, a sash and a few badges. Every one of those can come from a thrift rack or a scrap bin. Below are forty versions: classic and vintage uniforms, outdoor and hobby themes, decade looks, colour twists, and versions for adults, tweens, pregnancy and whole groups. Each one covers the base outfit, hair, light makeup, accessories, a prop and shoes. One rule runs through all of them: keep the badges made up and the design clearly unofficial, so it reads as a fun costume rather than a copy of a real uniform.
Sewing a Sash That Lies Flat Across the Chest
Almost every costume below hangs on the sash, and a badly cut sash twists, slides off the shoulder and bunches at the hip. I make mine from felt or cotton twill, and it takes about half an hour.
- Measure on the wearer, over the top they'll actually wear. Run a tape from the top of one shoulder, across the chest to the opposite hip, around the back and up to the shoulder again. Add a few inches for the join.
- Cut a strip about three to four inches wide. Felt needs no hem. Cotton twill should be folded and stitched along both edges, or the edges will fray by the end of the night.
- Join the ends at the hip, not the shoulder. A seam on the shoulder rubs and lifts the sash; at the hip it sits flat and hides under the arm.
- Close it with a snap or a strip of hook-and-loop tape if the wearer needs to get it on and off quickly, which matters for kids and for pregnancy.
- Stop it sliding with one safety pin through the sash and the shirt at the shoulder, pinned from the inside.
Try it on and lift both arms before you add any badges. If it rides up toward the neck, it's too short. If it drapes past the hip, take an inch out at the join.
1. Classic Green Girl Scout Costume
The forest-green dress is the version everyone recognises, so I start here when someone isn't sure. Look for a shirtwaist with short sleeves, a defined collar and a modest hem. Thrift racks have plenty in green. Cut the sash from green felt and cover it with felt circles and stars, and add a beret or a folded paper cap. Neat braids or a low ponytail suit it, with rosy cheeks and tinted balm. A clipboard and a few cardboard cookie boxes with invented labels finish it, along with white ankle socks and brown loafers.
2. Vintage Brown Girl Scout Costume
Brown gives a vintage feel, and I like it best when the badges look a little worn. A brown A-line dress, or a short-sleeve button-down with a knee-length pleated skirt, takes a tan sash. Make the patches in muted red, gold, blue and green; I tea-stain paper badges with a used tea bag and let them dry flat, which ages them nicely. A small brown cap adds the retro outline. Rolled curls or ribbon-tied braids finish the hair, and soft red lipstick suits the period. A satchel with a notebook and folded map, cream knee socks and brown Mary Janes complete it.
3. Modern Khaki Girl Scout Costume
The modern khaki version is the one I'd wear to work, since it's barely more than smart casual. A white polo or button-down with tailored khaki shorts or trousers, a green neckerchief and a wide sash of bright badges make the outfit. A green baseball cap gives it a sporty, current feel. If you don't sew, attach the badges with removable fabric tape on a cotton sash, which holds better than on felt. A high ponytail, a water bottle and a cardboard cookie tray are enough, with green crew socks and white sneakers.
4. Last-Minute Closet Girl Scout Costume
Out of time? This one comes straight out of your closet. A white collared shirt, a green cardigan and a tan knee-length skirt or shorts make the uniform. Cut a sash from green felt; felt doesn't fray, so it needs no hem at all. Stick on paper circles with double-sided fashion tape and write silly achievements on them, like snack packing or movie watching. Pigtails and clear gloss finish the face. A canvas tote full of cardboard cookie packages is the prop, and brown flats or sneakers work fine.
5. DIY Badge Sash Girl Scout Costume
Here the sash is the whole point, so I make it wider than usual to give the badges space. A green skater dress, a collared romper or a shirt and skirt is the base. Cut the sash from sturdy tan felt and fill it with personal badges: hobbies, pets, favourite foods. Keep the shapes simple and bold, because fussy shapes look like blobs from a few feet away. A side braid, a small beret and a name tag with an invented troop nickname finish her. Brown ankle boots with cream knee socks balance all that colour, and a scrapbook works as the prop.
6. Cookie Seller Girl Scout Costume
Nothing says scout faster than a tray of cookies. The outfit is a green polo, a khaki pleated skirt and a decorated sash. Build the tray from a shallow cardboard box and hang it on wide grosgrain ribbon straps, since narrow ribbon cuts into the neck after an hour. Fill it with empty snack cartons wrapped in coloured paper and labelled with invented cookie names. Twin braids with green ribbons, a small coin pouch and a pretend order sheet add the details. White socks and brown lace-ups keep it comfortable for walking.
7. Cookie Box Girl Scout Costume
The cookie box costume is the most construction on this list, and comfort depends on getting the openings right. Use a lightweight box, cut the head and arm holes wider than you think you need, and cover every cut edge with duct tape so it doesn't scratch. Wrap the outside in mint-green paper and draw a big cookie, an invented flavour name and a silly nutrition panel. The box should end above the knees. Underneath, wear a white collared shirt, green shorts and leggings. Walk through a doorway at home before the night to check you can turn without catching.
8. Camp Counselor Girl Scout Costume
The camp counselor version is the costume I'd suggest for adults who want something easy and friendly. A green tee tucked into khaki utility shorts, a badge sash and a light tan overshirt make the outfit. A whistle on a bright cord, a clipboard and an invented activity schedule are the props. A high ponytail or braided bun goes under a green cap, with a rolled bandana at the neck. Paper badges for camp songs and marshmallow roasting make people laugh. Hiking sneakers and crew socks finish it.
9. Hiking Girl Scout Costume
The hiking version is built around gear you'd actually use. A breathable green polo with khaki cargo shorts or hiking pants, a decorated sash and a patterned neckerchief make the outfit. Two braids go under a light sun hat. A small backpack with a folded paper map, a reusable bottle and foam binoculars is the prop set, and a toy compass clips to a belt loop. I'd stitch the badges on this one, because a backpack strap rubs across the sash and peels taped badges off within an hour. Trail shoes and thick socks finish it.
10. Nature Explorer Girl Scout Costume
The nature explorer uses woodland colours and felt shapes. An olive shirt with a tan corduroy skirt or utility shorts is the base. Decorate the sash with felt leaves, butterflies, acorns and flowers; felt in olive, rust and mustard looks more natural than bright green. A light field vest adds pockets for a notebook and coloured pencils. Weave a few artificial leaves through a loose braid. A magnifying glass and a small nature journal are the props, with ribbed socks and brown ankle boots.
11. Stargazing Girl Scout Costume
Stargazing turns the uniform navy and silver. A navy collared dress, or a navy shirt with a khaki skirt, takes a deep green sash with moon, planet and constellation patches. I cut stars from silver iron-on vinyl, which holds well on cotton but can melt on cheap polyester, so test a corner first. Removable silver stars on the beret add sparkle. A low ponytail or smooth waves suit it. A cardboard telescope painted silver and a flashlight with blue film over the lens are fun props, with navy knee socks and white sneakers.
12. Science Club Girl Scout Costume
The science club version layers a short white lab coat over a green polo and a khaki skirt or trousers. The sash gets atoms, magnets, clouds and beaker-shaped felt badges. Clear safety glasses can sit on the head. Pull the hair into a tidy ponytail. An empty plastic beaker full of colourful pom-poms and a clipboard labelled "Observations" are the props; skip any liquids. I'd add a green bow tie for a final touch. White crew socks and green sneakers tie the science layer back to the scout palette.
13. Robotics Girl Scout Costume
Robotics is where craft foam earns its place. A green short-sleeve jumpsuit with a khaki belt takes a silver badge sash. I cut gears and circuit-board patches from craft foam and outline them with a silver paint pen, which reads from a distance better than printed fabric. Foam wrist cuffs add detail and still bend with the arm. A sleek braided ponytail with silver clips finishes the hair. A cardboard controller with coloured buttons and yarn wires is the prop, and every piece can come from the recycling bin.
14. Art Club Girl Scout Costume
The art club version starts with green overalls over a white collared shirt and a tan sash of palette, pencil and paintbrush badges. Real paint flakes and transfers, so I fake the splatter with felt splotches stitched or glued on. A loose bun held with colourful craft sticks, a small beret and pastel liner suit it. A clean wooden palette with dried craft-foam paint blobs and oversized cardboard brushes are the props. Striped socks and white canvas sneakers with fabric stars finish it.
15. Bookworm Girl Scout Costume
The bookworm builds on a forest-green cardigan over a white blouse and a tan pleated skirt. The sash gets felt books, pencils, glasses and letter badges. Round costume glasses and two braids or a low bun finish the look. Real hardbacks get heavy fast, so I make two book covers from painted foam board. A library checkout card makes a funny name tag. Cream knee socks and brown loafers complete the scholarly uniform, and a green ribbon bookmark pinned at the collar is a nice small touch.
16. Photography Girl Scout Costume
The photography version is built around a cardboard camera on a wide strap. A green button-down with khaki shorts, dark tights and a colourful sash make the outfit, with camera and landscape badges cut from felt. A ponytail sits under a green bucket hat. Make the camera flat and light, and use a wide strap; a box camera on string swings and bangs into your chest all night. A small scrapbook of printed scenery is the second prop. Black socks and brown lace-up boots finish it.
17. Gardening Girl Scout Costume
Gardening suits overalls. Layer green short overalls over a gingham collared shirt and add a tan sash with vegetable, flower and watering-can badges. Low pigtails with green ribbons go under a floppy canvas hat. An empty watering can or a small basket of artificial flowers and felt vegetables is the prop. Gardening gloves tucked in a pocket add a detail. If you add artificial vines around the sash, I'd keep them short and wire-free so they don't snag on chairs or other guests. Brown work boots and striped socks finish it.
18. Baking Girl Scout Costume
The baking version adds a small apron over a green collared dress or blouse with a khaki skirt. Tie the apron at the waist so the sash still shows across the chest. Badges shaped like cupcakes, mixing bowls and rolling pins suit it. A high bun under a green headband finishes the hair. I make fake cookies from brown felt circles with a few stitches for the chips, which are light enough for a tray. An empty recipe box and a green oven mitt in the apron pocket are fun extras, with white socks and brown Mary Janes.
19. Animal Helper Girl Scout Costume
The animal helper is a sweet choice for pet lovers. A green polo, a khaki skort and a sash of paw prints, birds and hearts make the outfit. Add a tan utility vest with pockets for pretend care supplies. A braided ponytail and a tiny painted paw print on one cheek finish the face. A plush dog or cat in a fabric carrier is the main prop. Felt ears are optional, but I'd keep them small so the costume still reads as a scout helper rather than an animal. White socks and green sneakers finish it.
20. First Aid Girl Scout Costume
The first aid version is about being prepared, not playing a medic. A green collared shirt with khaki cargo pants and a patch-covered sash make the outfit. I put a green heart on a white armband instead of a red cross, which is a protected symbol and better left off costumes. A tidy braid keeps the hair neat. A small fabric kit labelled "Helpful Supplies" holding clean gauze and bandage boxes is the prop, and a clipboard checklist adds detail. Badges for kindness and teamwork keep it playful.
21. Rainy Day Girl Scout Costume
This is the costume to pick if rain is in the forecast. A clear or green raincoat goes over a white polo, a khaki skirt and the sash. Weather badges in clouds, raindrops and rainbows suit the theme. Felt badges soak up water and droop, so for this one I cut them from vinyl or laminate paper badges before attaching. Two braids go under a green bucket-style rain hat. A compact green umbrella is the prop, and tall green rain boots with striped socks peeking over the top finish it. Indoors, leave the coat open to show the sash.
22. Winter Camp Girl Scout Costume
Winter camp is the warmest version here. A forest-green sweater over a white collared shirt with tan corduroy pants makes the base. The sash needs to be a little longer to cross a bulky sweater, so measure it over the sweater, not over a shirt. Snowflake, cocoa and pine tree badges suit it. Braided pigtails go under a cream knit beanie with a green pom-pom. A rolled plaid blanket and an empty enamel-style mug are light props. Mittens clipped to backpack straps and brown lace-up boots finish it.
23. Summer Camp Girl Scout Costume
Summer camp is light and breathable, which matters for a warm indoor party. A green camp tee and tan walking shorts take a sash full of swimming, canoe and campfire badges. A high ponytail through a green baseball cap, a stack of friendship bracelets and a bandana at the neck finish the look. A canvas backpack with a rolled towel and foam binoculars is the prop set. I'd keep everything compact; bulky camping gear gets in the way in a crowded room. Striped crew socks and white sneakers finish it.
24. Eco-Friendly Girl Scout Costume
The eco version is built from scraps, which is my kind of costume. A secondhand green shirt, a tan skirt or trousers and a sash cut from leftover fabric make the base. Badges come from clean cardboard, bottle caps, scrap felt and old ribbon. Bottle caps are heavy on a sash, so I limit them to three or four and glue them with a strong craft glue rather than hot glue, which lets go of metal. A reusable tote with a little cardboard recycling bin is the prop, plus a small handmade sign. Visible stitching suits this one.
25. 1950s Girl Scout Costume
The 1950s version is about a fitted waist and a full skirt. A short-sleeve green shirtwaist dress with a knee-length circle skirt and a narrow brown belt is the base. Add a tan sash with badges set in neat rows. Soft pin curls or a curled ponytail with a green ribbon suit the period, with winged liner and muted red lipstick. A small tilted cap pinned at an angle needs two bobby pins crossed under it to stay put. A cardboard cookie case or structured handbag, cream socks and brown Mary Janes finish it.
26. 1960s Girl Scout Costume
The 1960s version is simple shapes and colour blocking. A green A-line dress with a crisp white collar and a slightly boxy outline is the base. Layer a tan sash over it and arrange round badges in bright orange, yellow, turquoise and pink. A flipped bob or a high ponytail with a wide headband finishes the hair, with graphic liner and pale pink lipstick. A small case with invented camping stickers is the prop. White knee socks and brown buckle shoes suit the decade, and light flower earrings add a period detail.
27. 1970s Girl Scout Costume
The 1970s version is earthy and relaxed. An olive camp shirt with high-waisted tan corduroy shorts or flared trousers makes the base, and a brown felt sash carries orange, mustard, avocado and rust badges. Long waves parted in the centre, or two low braids under a floppy hat, suit the decade. A canvas messenger bag, a paper trail map and toy binoculars are the props. Badges shaped like suns, tents and flowers connect it to the era. Striped socks and brown lace-up boots finish it.
28. 1980s Girl Scout Costume
The 1980s version is all neon. A bright green polo tucked into high-waisted khaki shorts takes a wide sash with neon felt badges in pink, yellow and blue. A green windbreaker over the shoulders and matching wristbands add the sporty layer. A high side ponytail with a big fabric scrunchie is the hair. A belt bag and a cardboard cassette player with an invented troop mix tape are fun props. Neon felt fades quickly in sun, so I'd keep it out of a sunny window until the night. Slouchy socks and high-tops finish it.
29. 1990s Girl Scout Costume
The 1990s version is casual separates. A green polo under khaki short overalls, a patch-covered sash, and a plaid shirt tied around the waist give the decade feel. Mini braids or two buns with butterfly clips finish the hair. A mini backpack with invented camping pins and a cardboard instant camera are the props. White ribbed socks and chunky sneakers suit the era. I'd keep the colours mostly green and tan, because the scout idea should read before the decade does.
30. Pastel Girl Scout Costume
Pastels are a soft twist on the classic dark green. A mint collared dress or polo with a pale khaki pleated skirt is the base. A cream sash carries pastel lavender, peach and pink badges. The one problem with pastels is contrast: pale badges disappear on a cream sash, so I outline each badge with a darker stitch or paint pen. Loose waves with two small front braids and a mint headband finish the hair. A tote of cookie packages in matching pastel paper, white knee socks and pale green sneakers complete it.
31. Pink Girl Scout Costume
The pink version is playful and monochrome. A dusty-pink collared dress or polo and skirt is the base, with a cream sash of pink, green and gold badges. Curled pigtails tied with velvet ribbon and a matching beret finish the hair. A pink cookie tray of cardboard packages with invented flavours is the prop, and a heart-shaped name badge with a funny troop nickname adds a joke. I always add a few green accessories here, otherwise it reads as a pink outfit and loses the scout idea. Cream socks and pink Mary Janes finish it.
32. Purple Girl Scout Costume
Purple is a distinctive change that still works with khaki. A plum polo or collared dress takes a tan sash with lavender, silver, green and yellow felt badges. A long side braid woven with a purple ribbon is the hair. A purple cardboard cookie case and a notebook covered in star stickers are the props, with a neckerchief and a compact beret. I'd stick to two shades of purple only; three or more starts to look busy. Cream socks and dark brown loafers keep the colours grounded.
33. Blue Girl Scout Costume
Blue tones suit stargazing, hiking or nature themes. A sky-blue button-down with a navy pleated skirt or shorts is the base, with a green sash of cloud, wave, compass and star badges. A sleek ponytail goes under a navy cap. A blue canvas backpack with a rolled map and foam binoculars, plus a small bottle, are the props. Keep the sash green, because that one piece is what links a blue outfit back to the scout idea. White socks and navy sneakers finish it.
34. Glam Girl Scout Costume
A glam version adds sparkle while staying covered and practical. A structured emerald-green dress with short sleeves, a pointed collar and a knee-length skirt is the base. Add a gold-trimmed tan sash with sequined stars, hearts and crowns. Sequin badges are lovely but scratchy, so I back each one with a felt circle before stitching it on. Glossy waves under a small green beret, gold eyeshadow and berry lipstick finish her. A metallic gold clipboard and a glittery cookie case are the props. Keep the sparkle to a few details so the costume still reads.
35. Sporty Girl Scout Costume
The sporty version is made for active parties and long walks. A green polo-style top with a khaki tennis skort or loose athletic shorts takes a light sash with running, swimming and teamwork badges. A high braided ponytail under a green visor keeps hair off the face. A reusable bottle and a small drawstring backpack are the props. A whistle on a short cord is fun, but tuck it away in crowds. White socks with green stripes and supportive sneakers finish it.
36. Preppy Girl Scout Costume
The preppy version is neat tailoring. A forest-green sweater vest over a white button-down with a knee-length khaki pleated skirt is the base. Add a tan sash with evenly spaced fabric badges; I mark the spacing with chalk before stitching so they line up. A smooth ponytail with a green bow or a padded headband finishes the hair. A small satchel and a cookie box wrapped in green paper are the props, with a narrow striped scarf at the collar. Cream knee socks and brown loafers complete it.
37. Plus-Size Girl Scout Costume
For a plus-size version, comfortable fit matters more than anything. A green fit-and-flare dress, a belted shirt dress, or a soft polo with high-waisted khaki trousers is the base. The sash is the piece that usually goes wrong: a standard length bunches or rides up, so I measure from the shoulder across to the opposite hip on the wearer and add a few inches for the join. Space large, bold badges evenly. Soft curls or a braided crown under a beret finish the hair. A crossbody bag and a light cookie tray, with supportive ankle boots, complete it.
38. Maternity Girl Scout Costume
For pregnancy, a soft empire-waist dress in forest green with some stretch is the easiest base. Make the sash adjustable, with a snap or hook-and-loop join at the hip, so it lies over the bump without pulling. Funny badges for patience, snack preparation and resting suit it well. A tan cardigan adds warmth. A loose braid or low bun with a green headband finishes the hair. Carry a light empty cookie carton or a tote rather than a rigid tray, which presses on the belly. Supportive flats or sneakers matter more than period shoes here.
39. Tween Girl Scout Costume
For tweens, the trick is a costume that doesn't feel too young. A relaxed green polo with khaki cargo pants, shorts or a skort is the base. Let them design the sash badges themselves: gaming, music, animals, favourite subjects. Bubble braids or two small buns with green clips finish the hair, and makeup can be optional, maybe a few face gems. A mini backpack and a cardboard cookie case with made-up flavours are the props. Green high-top sneakers give it a casual, current feel.
40. Group Girl Scout Troop Costume
A group troop costume lets everyone keep their own style while reading as one team. Ask everyone to wear a green top with a khaki skirt, shorts, pants or overalls. I make the sashes together in one session, cutting all of them from the same bolt of tan felt so the colour matches exactly. Then give each person a different speciality: nature, science, baking, photography or sports. Matching green hats or neck scarves tie the group together. Each person carries a related prop, and one shade of green across the group matters more than identical clothes.
Badges That Stay On Through a Night of Hugs
Badges fall off for one reason: the wrong attachment for the fabric. Here's how I match them.
- Fabric glue works well on felt and cotton, since the fibres grip it. Let it cure overnight before wearing.
- Hot glue holds for a photo but often lets go once the sash bends or the night gets cold. I'd only use it on cardboard badges.
- Fabric tape is fine for a quick costume, but it lifts on felt and on stretch fabric. Press it hard and give it an hour before wearing.
- A few hand stitches at the edges of each badge never fail. Four tacks per badge is enough, and they snip out cleanly if you want to reuse the sash.
- Iron-on vinyl and iron-on patches suit cotton twill, but test the iron on a scrap first, because cheap polyester can melt.
Why Made-Up Badges Make a Better Costume
Real scouting badges, logos and uniform pieces belong to the organisation and to the girls who earned them, so I keep every badge on a costume invented. It's also simply more fun. A badge for snack packing, napping, glitter cleanup or surviving the school run gets a laugh every time, and it makes a plain sash personal.
Draw the badge shapes on paper first, then trace them onto felt with a fabric pen. Circles, triangles and shields read better from a distance than detailed shapes, and two colours per badge is plenty. If you want the sash to look full, overlap a few badges slightly, the way a well-worn sash looks after years of earning them.
A Collar, a Sash and Forty Directions
One theme really can stretch into forty different costumes. Keep it classic with a green dress and a patch-covered sash, or take it toward cookies, camping, science, art, sport or a favourite decade. Thrifted clothing and handmade badges keep it cheap and easy to fit to any age or size. Whatever version you make, give it a clear base outfit, simple hair, light makeup, comfortable shoes and one good prop. Invented badges add humour and personality without copying an official uniform, and they're the part people stop to read.
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