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Costume Advice

HOME & HAVOC COSTUMES

Because behind every picture-perfect smile is someone who might poison the punch bowl. 

Not every murder mystery character needs a cape or a wand—some of the most dangerous suspects just want to talk to your manager. Whether she’s the suburban perfectionist, the wine-at-noon lounge queen, or the 1950s domestic goddess, these characters bring sass, secrets, and a whole lot of style.

This guide covers everything from closet finds to how to flick your hair while serving side-eye. So pick your flavor of fabulous—cookie-cutter or chaotic—and step into character.

HOUSE AND HAVOC COSTUMES

CHARACTER TYPES

 The Fun Mom (Velour Tracksuit Vixen)

Think: pink Juicy Couture, giant sunglasses, and a venti iced something. She’s peppy, loud, and low-key dangerous when riled.

Closet Staples:

  • Velour tracksuit or bold workout set

  • Platform sneakers or rhinestone sandals

  • High ponytail, hoop earrings, massive shades

  • Starbucks cup prop or dog on a leash (stuffed - you probably won't be able to care for your pooch during the murder investigation, lol)

Act Like:
Always on—talks with her hands, lives for gossip, laughs a little too loud.

“Oh honey, I don’t need drama—I am the drama.”

The Bride-to-be (Blushing? Maybe. Dangerous? Definitely.)

Think: wedding-day perfection—or is it all an act?

Closet Staples:

  • White dress or veil (wedding gown or “bride-to-be” sash)

  • Bouquet (real, fake, or suspiciously wilted)

  • Pearls or sparkly jewelry

  • Smudged eyeliner or tear streaks for drama

Act Like:
Overly sweet, teetering between blissful and unhinged.

“Till death do us part... sooner, if needed.”

The Nanny (Sweet, Efficient... and Knows Everything)

Think: Mary Poppins meets espionage. Always watching. Probably judging.

Closet Staples:

  • Buttoned-up blouse, pencil skirt or jumper

  • Cardigan or trench coat

  • Hair in a neat bun or ponytail

  • Oversized bag full of random kid stuff

Act Like:
Quietly competent with a steel core. Has dirt on everyone.

“Children aren’t the only ones who spill secrets.”

The 1950s Perfect Housewife

Think: Betty Draper or June Cleaver—but with a (toy) knife in the apron pocket.

Closet Staples:

  • Fit-and-flare vintage dress or polka dots

  • Apron, pearls, kitten heels

  • Red lips, tight curls, oven mitts or feather duster

Act Like:
Polished, perky, and passive-aggressive. Smiles while judging.

“Of course I love my husband. I’d never poison him… again.”

The Peg Bundy Type (Glam-Gone-Feral)

Think: leopard print, hairspray, and zero patience for your nonsense.

Closet Staples:

  • Leopard or zebra leggings

  • Off-the-shoulder top or tank

  • Giant belt, sky-high heels

  • Towering red hair or teased wig

Act Like:
Talks with a sigh. Eats chips off a paper plate while throwing insults.

“If laziness were a crime, I’d be locked up with a mimosa and no regrets.”

Bonus types

  • Crafty PTA Queen: Hot glue gun prop, clipboard, passive smile hiding chaos.

  • Boozy Bruncher: Pajamas under a robe, wine glass always full.

  • Overachiever Wife-Turned-Detective: Blazer over yoga gear, planner in hand, trust issues through the roof.

HAIR & MAKEUP

  • 1950s: Victory rolls, red lips, winged liner

  • Velour Tracksuit Mom: High ponytail, glossy lips, bronzer overload

  • Peg Bundy: Big teased hair, bold lipstick, over-lined eyes

  • PTA Queen: Low bun, headband, sweet but calculating

 

ACCESSORIES & PROPS

  • Mixing spoon, feather duster, wine glass, clipboard

  • Giant purse filled with receipts or suspicious items

  • Fake cigarettes, curlers, or an overstuffed diaper bag

  • A suspicious casserole dish labeled “don’t ask”

HOW TO ACT THE ROLE

  • Use exaggerated gestures—flipping a dish towel, gesturing with tongs

  • Speak in “bless-your-heart” tones or overdone cheer

  • Mix passive-aggression with bursts of manic cheer

  • Add gasps, gossip, or the occasional wine-fueled rant

NOTES FROM THE GAME DEVELOPER

Oh, this costume can be essentially anything - it's up in the air - but these are the cliche stay-at-home mom/bride/gossips. These aren't meant to be today's hardworking superhero mothers that tackle everything both inside and outside of the home. 

A housewife/homemaker character costume can be the traditional, cliche, 50's-inspired homemaker dress with a baking tray full of cookies. Maybe toss a few rollers in your 'updo' that you forgot to remove because the kids drove you crazy during breakfast. 

Or, maybe you are a posh mom -so wear a pink velour sweatsuit like in the movie Clueless.  Add some diamonds (costume jewels are fine), and do your makeup spot-on, and some rhinestone glasses.  Get your nails done for this look, for sure. 

Maybe you are so in a rush - because we all know that stay-at-home moms are super busy all day and excellent multi-taskers - so throw on a Super Mom t-shirt and sweats! Finish it with a ponytail and sneakers, and you're all set. 

Or, what if you wanted to play up the even more traditional Mary Poppins or English Nanny look? You don't have to be a nanny to wear the costume - you could still be a mom/homemaker/neighborhood gossip and make that look to fit your character. 

And don't worry about the vintage looks - in today's eclectic fashion world - anything goes, so you're fine with a "Mrs. Sensational" '50s look in a modern game. 

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© 2006. My Mystery Party, LLC. All rights reserved. Games created by Dr. Bon Blossman.

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