Sometimes the goal isn’t accuracy. It’s choosing a look that fits the story, the setting, and the moment.
For this cosplay, I needed something that could exist between timelines.
Purgatory Chasm in Middletown, Rhode Island, carries multiple stories tied to it. One involves a man attempting a dangerous jump after being promised marriage, only to fall. Another tells of a Native American man chasing a woman and accidentally falling to his death. Whether both stories are true or one has evolved into legend over time, the location carries a layered history.
Because of that, I didn’t want to commit too strongly to one specific time period. Instead, I chose something that felt recognizable, neutral, and appropriate to the environment: a Gibson Girl-inspired look.
The Concept
Going into this ghost investigation, I wanted to be mindful of two things:
- The setting itself (a coastal chasm with a heavy atmosphere)
- The uncertainty of who or what I might connect with
Rather than choosing something overly specific, I leaned into a look that could feel familiar without being tied too tightly to one exact story.
The Gibson Girl aesthetic worked well for that.
It has a timeless quality that’s historical, but not overly rigid and it allowed me to step into the environment without feeling visually out of place.
The Look (Closet Cosplay Approach)
This was another true closet cosplay, built almost entirely from items I already owned.
The main piece is actually not a dress. It’s a nightgown I purchased on Amazon.
It’s not my favorite nightgown in terms of everyday wear, but it has a very dated, vintage-inspired look to it. That alone made it worth keeping, because I immediately recognized its potential for use in ghost investigations and historical-style concepts.
To shape the silhouette, I used a wide satin ribbon (approximately three inches thick) as a belt.
The ribbon itself is something I’ve owned for a long time. I keep a drawer of ribbons specifically because they’re incredibly versatile for cosplay. They can be used for:
- Waist ties
- Hair accents
- Decorative elements across multiple looks
This one was tied around the waist and finished with a bow in the back, giving the nightgown a more structured and styled appearance.
One important detail: I seal the ends of my ribbons using controlled heat to prevent fraying. This is something I’ve done many times, but it’s always important to emphasize that you have to be extremely careful when working with any kind of flame. Synthetic materials can ignite quickly, so this should only be done with caution, proper awareness, and safety in mind.
Because I take care of my materials and store them properly, pieces like this ribbon last a long time and can be reused across multiple cosplays.
Practical Styling Choices
A traditional Gibson Girl hairstyle typically features a fuller, softer updo with volume. For this look, I simplified it.
Instead of fully styling my hair to match that exact shape, I pulled it back into a more controlled bun. This was a deliberate decision based on timing and logistics. I had plans immediately afterward and needed something that could transition easily without requiring a full restyle.
This is one of those real-life moments where cosplay isn’t always about perfection. Sometimes it’s about adapting the look to fit your schedule, especially when you’re moving between locations or events in the same day.
Another practical detail:
I was actually wearing this nightgown over another dress that I planned to wear later that evening in Jamestown, Rhode Island.
This made the entire process more efficient:
- Arrive at location
- Explore the area
- Layer the cosplay over my existing outfit
- Conduct the investigation
- Remove and continue on
It’s a simple approach, but it saves time and allows for more flexibility when planning multiple stops.
The Experience
Purgatory Chasm has a very distinct presence, especially as the sun starts to set.
I intentionally timed this visit to fall within that narrow window right before sunset. The point where the lighting shifts and the atmosphere becomes noticeably heavier. It adds a visual and emotional layer that fits naturally with paranormal exploration.
This wasn’t a situation where I stayed in full costume the entire time. I explored first, took in the environment, and then changed into the look when I was ready to begin the investigation.
During the session, there was a brief interaction.
The communication itself was subtle, but it carried a clear tone: quiet, reserved, and slightly somber. It didn’t feel aggressive or overwhelming, but there was a sense of presence that acknowledged the moment.
The interaction didn’t last long, and as the light continued to fade, it became clear that it was time to wrap up and move on.
Final Thoughts
This is a great example of how effective simple concepts and practical execution can be.
The entire look came down to:
- A nightgown
- A ribbon
- Minimal styling
But the strength of it came from:
- Choosing the right aesthetic for the setting
- Understanding the timing of the environment
- Adapting the look to fit real-life logistics
Not every cosplay needs to be complex to be impactful.
Sometimes, it’s about knowing when to keep things simple and let the location and experience do the rest.
Costume Notes & Condition
This piece remains part of my wardrobe, even though it’s not something I typically reach for in everyday use.
It falls into that category of:
- Functional
- Reusable
- Situation-specific
The nightgown, while not a favorite for regular wear, is incredibly useful for:
- Paranormal investigations
- Historical-inspired looks
- Quick, layered cosplay concepts
The ribbon is still in my collection and continues to be reused across different outfits. Because it’s properly stored and maintained, it holds up well over time.
Closet cosplay like this is a great reminder that not every piece needs to be perfect—it just needs to be useful and adaptable.