Wondering what to wear to a murder mystery party? Your outfit depends on the theme, setting, and character you’re playing. The good news? You don't need an expensive costume to look the part.
Whether you're attending a 1920s mystery, holiday party, Western adventure, or another themed mystery, a few simple clothing pieces and accessories can help bring your character to life.
What Should I Wear to a Murder Mystery Party?
Start with your character and the theme. Ask yourself:
> What time period is the mystery set in?
> Where does the story take place?
> What is my character's personality?
> Are there specific colors or accessories that fit the character?
You can build your outfit around everyday clothes you already own. A blazer, dress, button-down shirt, jeans, or simple accessories can easily become part of a character's look.
Murder Mystery Costume Ideas by Theme
1920s Murder Mystery
Go for vintage glamour with:
- Flapper-style dresses
- Pearls and statement jewelry
- Headbands
- Suits and vests
- Suspenders
- Bow ties
- Vintage-inspired hats
You don't need an authentic 1920s wardrobe. A black dress with pearls or a shirt with suspenders can instantly create the look.
Holiday Murder Mystery
Have fun with festive colors and accessories:
> Sparkly dresses
> Holiday sweaters
> Red, green, or gold clothing
> Santa hats
> Festive jewelry
> Velvet jackets
Even a simple party outfit can become a holiday murder mystery party costume with the right accessory.
Western Murder Mystery
For a Wild West theme, try:
> Jeans
> Plaid shirts
> Boots
> Vests
> Bandanas
> Cowboy hats
> Long skirts
A cowboy hat or pair of boots can transform a basic outfit without requiring a full costume.
What Should Men Wear to a Murder Mystery Party?
Men can keep things simple by matching their outfit to the theme.
Try a suit or blazer for a classic mystery, vest and suspenders for a 1920s theme, jeans and a plaid shirt for a Western mystery, or a festive sweater for a holiday event.
The key is to add one or two details that make the character recognizable.
What Should Women Wear to a Murder Mystery Party?
Women have plenty of options, from elegant dresses to casual themed outfits.
Try a cocktail dress and pearls for a classic mystery, a vintage-inspired dress for the 1920s, boots and denim for a Western theme, or sequins and festive colors for a holiday mystery.
Choose something comfortable enough to wear while you're walking around, talking to guests, and solving clues.
Do You Have to Dress Up for a Murder Mystery Party?
Absolutely not!
If full costumes aren't your thing, use simple accessories to hint at your character:
- Hats
- Scarves
- Jewelry
- Suspenders
- Bow ties
- Gloves
- Sunglasses
- Themed props
You can also shop your closet or visit a thrift store instead of buying a new costume. Sometimes one small detail is all you need.
How to Choose a Murder Mystery Costume
A simple formula can help:
Character + Theme + Colors + One Statement Accessory = Your Costume
Think about what your character would realistically wear, choose a few colors that fit the setting, and add one accessory that makes the look memorable.
You can even add a prop, such as a notebook, vintage handbag, pocket watch, or magnifying glass, to make your character more interesting.
The Best Murder Mystery Outfit Is One You’ll Have Fun Wearing
Your murder mystery outfit ideas don't have to be complicated or expensive. Whether you go all-out with a complete costume or simply add a themed accessory, the goal is to have fun and get into character.
Once you've picked your outfit, it's time to pick your mystery. Explore our collection of murder mystery games and find a story that's perfect for your group.
Then gather your guests, dress the part, follow the clues, and see who can solve the mystery!
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Submit an inquiry via the form below and our expert murder mystery party planner will be in touch shortly to assist with the details of your private murder mystery event.
Broadway Murder Mysteries, where YOU are the show! Broadway Murder Mysteries was created in March of 2020 when many Broadway performers, writers, and talent were out of work. The Broadway shut down had a huge impact on the theater community, and Broadway Murder Mysteries was created to give jobs to out of work talent, while creating something inherently theatrical that theater and mystery fans would love. All our murder mystery party games have been created by Broadway talent. Host a murder mystery party or murder mystery game night today!
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