Cleo De Nile is one of the easier Monster High characters to get right, because her look rests on a short list: turquoise, gold, black, cream mummy wraps and a lot of jewelry. Her official outfits have included shimmering bodysuits, sheer capes, gold-trimmed separates and pyramid-shaped platform shoes, so there's plenty of room to play. Below are forty ways to dress as her, from faithful recreations to versions pulled from a closet the night before, each worked out from hair to shoes. I've noted where a piece is hard to wear, which ones suit kids, and where the wraps or the cape tend to cause trouble.
Wrapping Mummy Strips That Stay Smooth All Night
Cleo's wraps are tidy and deliberate, closer to a glamorous bandage dress than a horror-film mummy. Most of the costumes below use them somewhere, and they're the part I see go wrong most often: strips that slide down a calf, ends that flap loose, edges that fray into strings by the end of the evening.
- Cut strips from cream cotton jersey or an old knit sheet rather than woven gauze. Knit doesn't fray when you cut it, and its slight stretch lets it hug the arm instead of slipping.
- Make the strips roughly two to three inches wide for arms and legs. Narrow strips look fussy and take forever to wrap.
- If the cream is too bright, soak the strips in weak tea and let them dry. Cleo is a polished mummy, so stop at a soft ivory rather than a grubby brown.
- Start at the wrist or ankle and wrap upward, overlapping each turn by about a third. Angle the turns slightly so the lines run diagonally, which is how her official looks read.
- Finish every strip on the inside of the limb with a small safety pin or two hand stitches. Fashion tape holds on skin for a while but lets go once you warm up.
- For a version you can pull on and off, wrap the strips around an old pair of leggings or a long-sleeve top and stitch them down. You get the same look without rewrapping yourself every time.
Test the wraps with a short walk and a few arm swings before the night. If anything shifts in ten minutes, it'll be around your ankle in an hour.
1. Classic Cleo Monster High Costume
This is the version people picture when they say Cleo: a fitted turquoise mini dress with black trim and gold details, worn over cream mummy wraps on one arm and one leg. Keep the wraps smooth rather than torn, since Cleo is a glamorous mummy, not a horror one. The long black wig with blunt bangs and fine blue tinsel does half the work, so I'd spend money there before the dress. Turquoise shadow, sharp liner, red lips and a small blue gem under one eye handle the face. Stack gold cuffs, bangles, earrings and a jeweled headband, then add cream-and-gold wedges or platform boots and a small metallic phone-shaped clutch.
2. Blue Dress Cleo Monster High Costume
If you can only find royal blue rather than true turquoise, it still reads as Cleo once the gold goes on. Look for long sleeves with asymmetric draping or gathers, because gathered fabric already looks like layered wrapping from a few feet away. Outline the neckline and waist with gold ribbon. I hand-tack ribbon at each end and every few inches rather than gluing it, since fabric glue stiffens and can show through thin jersey. Straight black hair with center-parted bangs and gold hair cuffs, turquoise-and-gold shadow, winged liner and berry lipstick finish the head. A wide gold belt, scarab-style necklace, stacked bracelets and rings carry the rest, with a toy snake or blue handbag in hand and gold block-heel ankle boots for a long night.
3. Cargo Pants Cleo Monster High Costume
Turquoise cargo pants make the most practical Cleo here, since the pockets hold a phone and keys and nobody needs a clutch. Pick a high waist, then attach gold ribbon, chains or geometric appliqués along the hips with safety pins from the inside so the pants survive the costume. A wrapped cream crop top under a short blue vest keeps the mummy idea visible. Style the long black wig with straight bangs, gold clips and a few thin blue strands. Metallic gold liner, turquoise shadow, glossy neutral lips and a small face gem go with a chain belt, chunky earrings, wrist cuffs and a toy snake looped around one forearm. Black-and-gold platform sneakers keep it walkable.
4. Haunt Couture Cleo Monster High Costume
The runway version is the hardest one to pull off, and it's worth it if you like a project. A shimmering turquoise-and-gold bodysuit goes under a floor-length sheer cape; if the bodysuit has no wrap print, add gold ribbon in diagonal bands. Fasten the cape at the shoulders with something stronger than a brooch, because a long cape gets stepped on and the pull goes straight to the fastening. Then a sleek black wig with blunt bangs, blue tinsel and a structured gold headpiece, dramatic gold shadow, extended liner, sculpted cheeks and deep red lips. Oversized earrings, layered necklaces, arm cuffs and jeweled gloves sit above gold pyramid platform booties, with a small jeweled box to hold for photos.
5. Gold Cape Cleo Monster High Costume
A metallic gold cape turns a plain turquoise jumpsuit, or a matching top and leggings, into something with real presence. Wind cream ribbon around the torso, forearms and calves for the wraps. Measure the cape so it stops at the ankle bone; anything that brushes the floor collects leaves and gets trodden on by the person behind you. Long black hair with straight bangs works best, and I like gold thread woven through two small side braids. Blue shadow, gold inner corners, sharp liner and red lips pair with a wide collar necklace, cuffs, earrings and a jeweled headband. Wear gold platform sandals, and if you want a staff, cut it from lightweight cardboard rather than wood.
6. Black And Turquoise Cleo Monster High Costume
Black takes Cleo slightly moodier without tipping into scary. Wear a fitted black mini dress with a turquoise wrap panel across the bodice and hips, a wide gold belt, cream arm wraps and black tights with thin metallic lines. Two turquoise streaks near the face of a straight black wig keep her color up by the eyes, which matters more on a dark outfit than people expect. Smoky black and blue shadow, clean wings, gold face gems and dark berry lips. Add a layered collar, snake bracelet, gold earrings and rings, black knee-high boots with gold buckles, and a turquoise book-shaped clutch as a nod to school days.
7. Gold Skirt Cleo Monster High Costume
The gold skirt is the piece that moves, so let it lead. A pleated or textured gold mini catches light every time you walk. Pair it with a fitted turquoise wrap top over a cream mock-neck layer, then add one wrapped sleeve and a thigh band rather than covering everything. I'd check the skirt sitting down before committing, because metallic pleats crease and some lamé cracks along the fold lines. Long black hair with bangs, blue tinsel and a slim gold tiara headband; turquoise shadow blended into gold, black liner, warm blush and ruby lips. Finish with a gold choker, bangles, geometric earrings, a small snake, and cream wedge boots trimmed with gold ribbon, which are far kinder to walk in than narrow heels.
8. Turquoise Jumpsuit Cleo Monster High Costume
One garment does almost everything here. A fitted or wide-leg turquoise jumpsuit with diagonal gold ribbon across the bodice already suggests wrapping, and a detachable cream shoulder panel adds the mummy detail you can take off once you're warm. The catch with any jumpsuit is the bathroom, so check for a zip you can reach yourself. Pull the long black wig into a high ponytail with blunt bangs and gold cuffs around the base. Graphic liner, turquoise lids, gold brow highlights and glossy red lips go with an ornate collar, drop earrings, wrist cuffs and a chain belt. Carry a gold handbag or a small scroll, with metallic platforms hidden under the wide legs for height.
9. Mummy Wrap Cleo Monster High Costume
For a version that leans hard on the mummy side, start with a fitted cream jumpsuit covered in smooth, overlapping strips. Skip loose, torn bandages: they look messy on Cleo and they trail into a tripping hazard by the end of the evening. Over the base go a short turquoise corset-style top and a gold hip drape. The hair has to pull it back toward glamour, so go long and black with straight bangs, blue extensions and a jeweled headband. Turquoise-and-gold eyes, strong liner, glowing skin and red lips, then matching cuffs, big earrings, a statement collar and rings. Cream platform ankle boots wrapped in gold ribbon and a small turquoise purse shaped like a jewelry box finish it.
10. Easy DIY Cleo Monster High Costume
A turquoise tank top, black mini skirt and a few gold craft supplies will get you a convincing Cleo. Attach gold ribbon along the neckline and hem with fashion tape so the pieces go back to normal afterwards. Wrap cream fabric strips around one arm and over black tights, and hide the safety pins on the inside of the limb where they won't scratch anyone. Natural dark hair worn straight is fine, or an inexpensive black wig with bangs. Turquoise shadow, winged liner, red lips and a stick-on blue gem do the face. Costume jewelry covers the headband, cuffs, necklace, earrings and rings, an old clutch painted gold becomes the prop, and black ankle boots get a band of removable gold ribbon.
11. Last-Minute Cleo Monster High Costume
When Halloween sneaks up on you, a blue wrap dress is the shortcut. Its crossover front already looks like layered wrapping, so you only need cream scarves tied around one forearm and one calf, knots turned to the inside. Straighten dark hair and fake blunt bangs by pinning the front section under and forward, then add a gold headband. Blue shadow, black liquid liner, highlighted cheekbones, red lips and one gem below the eye. Pile on every gold necklace, bracelet, ring and earring you own; for Cleo, too much gold is close to the right amount. A small gold purse, a toy snake if there's one in the house, and metallic flats, gold sandals or black boots.
12. Glam Mummy Cleo Monster High Costume
This one is built for an evening party rather than a walk around the block. A cream bandage-style midi dress, a turquoise satin capelet, a metallic gold belt and shoulder jewelry give her a royal outline. Choose stretch fabric with enough give to sit and dance in; bandage dresses vary a lot, and the stiff ones ride up the moment you sit. Glossy waves in a long black wig with straight bangs and thin blue extensions come next, then turquoise shimmer, gold liner, false lashes, luminous foundation and deep red lips, kept glamorous rather than spooky. Add a jeweled collar, arm cuffs, statement earrings, stacked rings, gold block-heel sandals and a turquoise fan or decorated clutch.
13. Royal Princess Cleo Monster High Costume
A full turquoise skirt makes a softer, princess take on Cleo, and it's the version younger fans often ask for. Look for a knee-length dress with a fitted bodice, gold waist trim and blue tulle layers, then add a cream wrap neckline and matching fingerless gloves. A tall gold headpiece needs to sit behind the hairline and be pinned through the wig cap, or it slides back every time the wearer looks up. Long straight black wig with bangs and blue strands, turquoise shadow, gold liner, rosy blush, red lips and a tiny blue gem. An ornate collar, dangling earrings, cuffs and rings, gold ballet flats or low block heels, and a light jeweled scepter or metallic bag.
14. Masquerade Cleo Monster High Costume
Here a gold half-mask decorated with blue gems becomes the main prop, layered with a shimmering blue bodysuit, a sheer turquoise overskirt and a gold cape. Sew or tape stretch ribbon diagonally across the bodice for clean wraps. Choose a mask on a stick or one that lifts off easily: masks narrow your side vision, and you'll want it off indoors and on stairs. A long black wig with blunt bangs, blue tinsel and gold hair chains suits it, with dramatic gold lids, turquoise liner, defined lashes and berry lips. Add a wide collar, sculptural earrings, arm cuffs and rings, black-and-gold platform ankle boots, and a cape cut to ankle length so it swings without tangling around your feet.
15. School Uniform Cleo Monster High Costume
Cleo going to class translates into a turquoise blazer, black pleated skirt and cream wrap-style blouse, which makes this an easy choice for a school or office dress-up day. Gold piping around the blazer, a chain belt and geometric-print tights handle the gold and the pattern. The hair should look sleek and deliberate, with blue clips or metallic thread for color. Keep makeup event friendly: turquoise liner, gold shimmer, mascara, berry lips and a small face gem. A collar necklace, modest hoops, stacked bracelets and rings, a blue notebook or book bag for the prop, and black platform loafers over gold ankle socks. The socks are a small touch, but they tie the shoes back into the palette.
16. Cheerleader Cleo Monster High Costume
A turquoise-and-gold cheer dress over cream bike shorts gives Cleo a sporty twist that holds up to an active day. Use diagonal gold stripes and wrap-like panels rather than borrowing a real team's logo. A high ponytail with straight bangs, blue extensions and a gold scrunchie keeps the wig secure when you move, and I'd anchor the ponytail base with a few extra bobby pins through the wig cap. Turquoise liner, waterproof mascara, gold cheek shimmer and tinted lip balm, plus small gold earrings, flexible cuffs and a light headband that won't slip. Tissue or ribbon pom-poms, white high-tops with gold laces and cream ankle wraps finish it, and it's the one I'd pick for school celebrations and outdoor events.
17. Homecoming Cleo Monster High Costume
This is Cleo dressed for a royal school dance. A sparkly turquoise fit-and-flare dress with a knee-length skirt and gold embroidery or ribbon around the bodice sets the tone, and a cream wrap-style shrug adds warmth and texture. The shrug earns its place: dance halls are cold at the start of the night and hot at the end, and it slips off without wrecking the look. Long black hair half up with blunt bangs, blue strands and a gold jeweled comb. Turquoise and champagne-gold shadow, winged liner, glowing cheeks and berry-red lips. A collar necklace, drop earrings, cuffs and a few statement rings, a tiny gold box clutch, and metallic block heels or embellished flats you can dance in.
18. Prom Queen Cleo Monster High Costume
Go full gown: floor-length turquoise with a fitted gold bodice and cream wrap panels. A side slit is optional, and if you choose one, wear matching leggings or tights so you aren't adjusting all night. Put a dramatic gold crown over long black hair with bangs and subtle blue highlights, then metallic turquoise lids, precise black wings, gold gems, luminous cheeks and classic red lips. An ornate collar, matching earrings, arm cuffs and a gold sash reading Prom Queen if the event allows text. Carry a small bouquet of blue artificial flowers and metallic leaves. I always tell people to hem a gown over the shoes they'll actually wear, because gold platforms or low wedges underneath change the length more than you'd think.
19. Runway Cleo Monster High Costume
This fashion-show take is all asymmetry: a turquoise mini dress, one wrapped cream sleeve and a sculptural gold shoulder panel, with a fitted black bodysuit underneath for coverage and contrast. For the shoulder piece, I'd use foam curved over the shoulder with gentle heat rather than cardboard, which flattens and creases the first time you lean on it. A pin-straight black wig with blunt bangs and blue metallic strands, long liner, gold brow accents, turquoise shadow, contour and deep red lips. Oversized earrings, stacked cuffs, a geometric collar and hand jewelry, a small gold fan, and tall turquoise platform boots trimmed in gold, with a heel height that suits the floor you'll be standing on.
20. Rhinestone Cleo Monster High Costume
Rhinestones pay off under bright party lighting and in flash photos, and they fade into nothing in dim rooms, so match this one to the venue. Add gold stones along the neckline, waist and wrap-shaped seams of a turquoise mini dress. I set them with a flexible fabric glue rather than hot glue; hot glue sits stiff on stretch fabric and the stones pop off when it flexes. Cream tights under the dress with removable metallic ribbon on one leg, and a black wig with bangs, blue tinsel and scattered hair gems. Turquoise shimmer, winged liner, gold gems, highlighted skin and red gloss. A jeweled headband, drop earrings, collar, cuffs and rings, a rhinestone box clutch, and gold platform sneakers or low ankle boots.
21. Sequin Cleo Monster High Costume
A turquoise sequin dress does the heavy lifting without any construction at all. Choose one with black side panels, then add a gold belt and cream fabric strips across one shoulder. Sequins scratch the inside of the arms, so if the sleeves are sequined too, a thin cream long-sleeve layer underneath doubles as wraps and protection. Long black hair with blunt bangs, blue clip-in extensions and a narrow gold headband. Matte foundation keeps the face from competing with the dress, then turquoise liner, gold lid shimmer, defined lashes and rich red lips. Geometric earrings, stacked bangles, an upper-arm cuff and rings, a small blue-and-gold fan, and black knee-high boots with gold buckles to ground all that shine.
22. Velvet Cleo Monster High Costume
Velvet is the one to choose for a cold late-October night. A fitted long-sleeve turquoise velvet mini with a gold-trimmed neckline and cream wrapped panels at the waist, plus opaque black tights, keeps you warm and looks rich. Velvet crushes wherever it's pressed, so I hang it in a steamy bathroom rather than ironing it, and never put an iron flat on the pile. A sleek black wig with bangs, subtle blue strands and gold clips placed evenly at the temples. Turquoise smoky eyes, gold inner corners, sharp liner, berry lips and one gem. An ornate collar, large earrings, cuffs and a chain belt, a structured gold mini bag or jewelry box, and black velvet platforms trimmed in gold.
23. Satin Cleo Monster High Costume
Satin gives Cleo movement and a softer edge. Wear a draped turquoise satin dress with an asymmetrical hem and a fitted gold belt, over a cream bodysuit whose neckline and sleeves stand in for smooth wraps. Satin shows every drop of water and sweat, so carry blotting papers and keep drinks at arm's length. The long black hair goes into a low ponytail with straight bangs, the base wrapped in gold cord. Luminous foundation, turquoise shadow, fine gold liner, warm blush and glossy red lips. A broad collar, drop earrings, cuffs and hand chains, a satin pouch or light scroll, and gold lace-up sandals or low block heels, straps checked so they don't slip by midnight.
24. Punk Cleo Monster High Costume
Cleo with attitude. A turquoise moto jacket goes over a black pleated mini and a cream wrapped crop top, with gold studs or removable metallic trim on the jacket instead of sharp spikes that snag other people's costumes in a crowd. Patterned tights and a chain belt, then a black wig with choppy bangs, blue streaks and gold barrettes. Smoky turquoise shadow, thick liner, gold accents and dark berry lips. A chunky collar, mismatched gold earrings, stacked cuffs and rings. Carry a small turquoise crossbody with soft pyramid appliqués, and wear black lace-up platform boots with gold laces, which give a solid base for standing around crowded events.
25. Y2K Cleo Monster High Costume
Cleo's palette sits naturally with early-2000s fashion: turquoise flared pants, a gold-trimmed halter, and a cream mesh shirt underneath that reads as layered wraps. A gold chain belt and tiny blue shoulder bag give the right silhouette. Long black hair with bangs, blue face-framing strands, mini clips and hair tinsel. Frosted turquoise shadow, black liner, glossy red lips and a small gem under one eye. Big gold hoops, stacked bracelets, a collar and rings. Chunky gold platform sneakers or black platform sandals, and a flip-phone-shaped compact as the prop. Mesh layers can itch at the neck, so I'd wear it around the house for an hour first.
26. Streetwear Cleo Monster High Costume
For a version you could almost wear on a normal day, pair turquoise joggers with a fitted cream wrap top and an oversized black bomber. Iron-on patches tend to peel off nylon bombers, so attach the gold geometric patches and blue trim with a few hand stitches or safety pins. A gold belt bag across the chest is practical as well as on theme. High ponytail with blunt bangs, turquoise extensions and gold hair cuffs. Sharp black liner, blue inner corners, gold highlighter and berry gloss. Chunky earrings, layered chains, cuffs and rings, a flexible toy snake curled around the belt bag, and black-and-gold high-tops for long Halloween walks.
27. Disco Cleo Monster High Costume
The disco Cleo is a metallic turquoise jumpsuit with dramatic flares, a wide gold belt, cream wrap cuffs and a shimmery cape cut short so it ends above the elbows. Short matters here, because a long cape and a dance floor don't mix. Give the black wig straight bangs and smooth volume through the lengths, then weave blue and gold tinsel through it. Sparkling turquoise shadow, gold liner, defined lashes, rosy cheeks and glossy red lips. Round earrings, bangles, a jeweled collar and statement rings. A mirrored clutch or light gold fan, and gold platform boots under the flares with soles stable enough to dance in.
28. Winter Cleo Monster High Costume
For a cold night outdoors, start with a turquoise sweater dress over cream leggings wrapped or printed with thin gold bands, then add a black faux-fur-trimmed cape and a wide metallic belt. A long black wig with bangs sits under a gold-and-blue jeweled headband or soft turquoise ear warmers. I'd leave off big earrings unless they hang well clear of the fur trim, because faux fur grabs dangling hooks. Turquoise liner, gold shimmer, mascara, berry lips and a subtle gem. Comfortable cuffs and rings, a black-and-gold handbag, and insulated black knee-high boots with gold laces. You keep the royal palette and stay warm doing it.
29. Warm Weather Cleo Monster High Costume
In hot weather, strip Cleo down to a light turquoise romper with gold piping and a cream wrap panel across the bodice. Breathable fabric and shorts you can move in matter more than accuracy. A synthetic wig is hot, so natural dark hair or a light black wig in a high ponytail with bangs and blue ribbons is the better call. Waterproof turquoise liner, gold cream shadow, tinted moisturizer and red lip stain hold up when you sweat. A thin collar, light earrings, flexible cuffs and a gold belt, a snake-shaped purse or blue handheld fan, and flat gold sandals with ankle straps. Leave the heavy cape and thick tights at home.
30. Plus-Size Cleo Monster High Costume
A wrap-front turquoise midi dress gives shape, adjustable fit and comfortable coverage, and I'd reach for it first for a plus-size Cleo because the tie lets you set the waist exactly where you like it. Add a broad gold belt at that point and layer a cream mesh top beneath. Gold trim along the neckline and hem pulls the pieces together. Long black hair with bangs, blue extensions and a jeweled headband; turquoise shadow, gold liner, sculpted brows, glowing cheeks and red lips. Scale the collar, earrings, cuffs and rings up so they hold their own beside the dress, carry a structured gold handbag, and wear wide-fit metallic ankle boots or supportive block heels.
31. Modest Cleo Monster High Costume
Cleo can be fully covered and still read clearly. Use a floor-length turquoise tunic over cream wide-leg pants, with long sleeves, wrap-like seams and gold trim at the cuffs, collar and hem. A structured black capelet gives contrast. Dark hair straight with bangs, or a long black wig, sits under a gold jeweled headband; if you wear a headscarf, a cream or turquoise scarf with the headband over it keeps the character intact. Turquoise shadow, precise liner, gold highlights and berry lips. A statement collar, drop earrings, cuffs worn over the sleeves and rings, a blue book-shaped bag or scroll, and closed-toe gold flats or low boots.
32. Kids Cleo Monster High Costume
For children, I build Cleo around one rule: nothing loose. A turquoise skater dress with attached cream sleeves and soft gold trim goes over comfortable leggings, because wraps that unwind get tripped on or pulled off within the first street. Use the child's own hair or a light black wig with bangs, plus a flexible headband and blue ribbon. Makeup is optional; washable turquoise face color, lip balm and one small gem are plenty, and I always patch-test face paint on the inner wrist the day before. Soft jewelry without sharp edges, clip-on earrings, a plush or rubber snake, and gold sneakers or flat boots with grippy soles for supervised trick-or-treating.
33. Teen Cleo Monster High Costume
A turquoise corset-style top over a cream long-sleeve shirt gives teens a fashionable Cleo that stays covered enough for school events. Add a black pleated skirt, opaque tights and a gold chain belt. Long straight black hair with bangs, blue extensions and a slim jeweled headband. Turquoise shadow, clean black liner, gold cheek shimmer, berry gloss and an optional gem. A collar, light earrings, cuffs and rings, a small blue bag with a flexible toy snake clipped to the handle, and black platform loafers or gold high-tops. Corset tops pinch when they're laced too tight, so leave a finger's width of give and it stays comfortable for hours.
34. Adult Cleo Monster High Costume
An adult Cleo can lean on tailoring: a turquoise velvet blazer over a gold satin camisole and high-waisted black trousers, with a cream sash at the waist as a nod to the wraps. It's the version I'd suggest for a grown-up party where a mini dress feels like too much. A long black wig with bangs, blue strands and a sculptural gold hairpiece. Metallic turquoise shadow, extended liner, luminous foundation, contour and red lips. A statement collar, oversized earrings, cuffs and rings, a small gold box clutch with a snake handle, and black platform heels or metallic block-heel boots. Grown-up, but still theatrical.
35. Gold Armor Cleo Monster High Costume
Gold armor is a weekend craft project, and a fun one if you have a heat gun. Cut the shoulder piece, collar, belt and forearm cuffs from foam: thicker EVA foam holds a curve well after heating, while thin craft foam is easy to cut but creases if you fold it sharply. Seal the foam before painting so the water-based metallic paint sits smooth instead of soaking in, soften the cut edges, and fix each piece on with elastic. Wear it over a turquoise jumpsuit with cream wrapped sleeves and black side panels. Long black hair with blunt bangs, blue streaks and gold cuffs, turquoise-and-gold eyes, black wings and dark red lips. Keep the jewelry light, carry a gold shield-shaped bag rather than a weapon, and add gold foam panels to turquoise knee boots.
36. Sheer Cape Cleo Monster High Costume
A translucent turquoise cape moves well without hiding what's underneath, so the base outfit has to be finished properly. Put it over a fitted black jumpsuit with gold wrap patterns and cream diagonal panels. Fasten the cape at the shoulders with light jeweled clips and keep the hem above the ankles. Sheer chiffon frays fast at a raw edge; a narrow rolled hem or a line of fray-stop liquid keeps it neat for the whole night. Straight black hair with bangs, narrow blue highlights and a gold tiara band. Smoky turquoise shadow, gold liner, mascara and deep red lips. A wide collar, statement earrings, upper-arm cuffs and rings, a blue gem-shaped clutch, and black platform boots trimmed in gold.
37. Blue Bodysuit Cleo Monster High Costume
If you plan to dance or perform, start from a long-sleeve blue bodysuit. Layer a short gold wrap skirt and cream bands around the torso, forearms and calves, and stitch or pin every band so nothing hangs. A high braided ponytail keeps the black wig off your face, with blue ribbon and gold cuffs between sections. Turquoise shadow, graphic liner, gold cheek accents and red lip stain, which outlasts lipstick through a lot of movement. A flexible collar, light earrings, cuffs and rings. A small gold fan makes the prop, and blue-and-gold dance sneakers or low platforms let you stand, pose and walk comfortably.
38. High-Low Dress Cleo Monster High Costume
A turquoise high-low dress has a short front and a flowing back, which gives a dramatic outline without a cape. Layer a fitted cream top under it so the sleeves and neckline look like neat wraps. Define the waist with a broad gold belt and hang a jeweled chain along one hip. Polished waves in a long black wig with blunt bangs, blue tinsel and a gold headband. Blue and gold eyes, sharp liner, glowing cheeks and ruby lips. Oversized earrings, a collar, cuffs and rings, and a metallic box clutch. Watch the back hem on stairs; gold ankle boots or stable platform sandals keep it clear of your heels.
39. Snake Accessory Cleo Monster High Costume
Cleo's pet cobra is Hissette, and a toy snake makes the strongest single prop for her. A fitted turquoise dress with black side panels, a gold belt and cream wrapped sleeves is the base. Drape a flexible toy snake over one shoulder and tack it to the strap with a few stitches, or fix it to a structured handbag so your hands stay free. Long straight black hair with bangs, blue extensions and gold clips; turquoise lids, gold liner, bold lashes, red lips and a blue face gem. A broad collar, snake bracelet, drop earrings and rings, and black knee-high boots with gold trim. Keep the snake obviously a toy, bright and stylized, so it never startles anyone.
40. Regal Finale Cleo Monster High Costume
The finale piles every signature detail into one costume. A turquoise-and-gold fitted gown with cream wrapped sleeves, a structured waist and a flowing blue overskirt; a gold cape that stops just above the floor; a tall jeweled headpiece over sleek black hair with bangs. Vivid turquoise shadow, metallic gold liner, dramatic lashes, highlighted cheeks, red lips and the small blue gem under one eye. A broad collar, large earrings, upper-arm cuffs, bracelets and rings. A light staff or gold box clutch, and platform ankle boots hidden under the gown. With this many layers, I do a full dress rehearsal at home: sit, climb a stair, raise your arms, and fix whatever pulls.
Her Hair Is Long, Black and Blunt at the Front
Cleo's silhouette starts at the head. A long, straight black wig with heavy blunt bangs carries the character even when the outfit is simple, which is why I'd put more of a costume budget into the wig than the dress.
Most costume wigs arrive with bangs that are too long and too thick. Put the wig on a head form or on yourself, comb the bangs straight down, and trim a little at a time with sharp scissors, snipping into the ends with the tips so the line stays blunt without looking chopped. Stop just above the brows, and step back to look in a mirror after every few cuts.
Cheap synthetic wigs often have a plastic shine. A light dusting of dry shampoo, brushed through, takes the gloss down to something closer to real hair. Keep the wig away from oven doors, candles and hair dryers, because heat frizzes most synthetic fiber for good. For the blue and gold, tie thin strands of hair tinsel to small sections near the roots, or clip in colored extensions. Two or three strands near the face show more than a dozen hidden at the back.
Wearing All That Gold Without Sore Ears or Green Skin
Cleo wears a lot of gold, and costume jewelry is where comfort slips away first. A few habits help:
- Metal collar necklaces get heavy on the back of the neck. A collar cut from craft foam or stiff felt and painted gold weighs almost nothing and looks the same from a few feet away.
- Brush clear nail polish on the inside of cheap cuffs and rings to stop the metal marking your skin over a long night.
- Clip-on or magnetic earrings spare unpierced ears, and long drops tangle in a loose wig, so pick shorter ones if the hair is down.
- Upper-arm cuffs slide down. A strip of clear elastic or a cream wrap underneath gives them something to grip.
- For kids, skip anything with sharp edges or small loose gems.
Cleo Lives in the Wraps and the Wig
Cleo De Nile's turquoise, black, cream and gold stretch a long way, from the wrapped mini dress to the caped bodysuit to a version pulled from your own closet. The costumes that work best repeat the same few details: sleek dark hair with bangs, blue-and-gold makeup, smooth mummy wraps, layered gold jewelry, a royal headpiece and shoes chosen for the night you'll actually have. Secure every ribbon, keep props light, and spend your effort on the wig and the wraps first. Get those two right and every other piece can stay simple.
Related posts:
