Free murder mystery costume ideas

Costume ideas for every guest, not just the keen ones.

Pick your theme and how much effort your friends will realistically make. You'll get a dress code and six character looks, from things already in the wardrobe to the full outfit.

Theme
How much effort will your friends make?
Free. No account needed.

Keep planning

Looks sorted. What's for dinner?

Next step

Themed menu for 1920s Speakeasy

Dish names to die for, with vegetarian swaps.

Plan the menu →

Invitations

A themed card and group-chat wording for any occasion.

Make the invite →

Mystery ideas

A victim, suspects and a premise for your theme.

Get an idea →

Themed cocktails

Drinks named after your suspects, with mocktail versions.

Mix them →

How it works

  1. 01

    Pick the theme

    Each theme comes with a one-line dress code you can paste into the invitation.

  2. 02

    Choose the effort level

    Use what you own, spend under $30 at an op shop, or go all out.

  3. 03

    Share the looks

    Send each guest the look that suits them, and paste the dress code into your invitation.

Costumes people will actually wear

The best murder mystery costumes are built from one hero piece and things people already own: a hat, a pair of gloves, a brooch or a prop. Give every guest a low-effort option and a full-effort option, and nobody feels awkward either way.

Where to find pieces cheaply

  • Op shops for blazers, hats, costume jewellery and old books
  • Discount stores for gloves, feather clips and bow ties
  • The kitchen for trays, aprons and 'evidence'
  • Friends' wardrobes, which is half the fun

Interrogation notes

Frequently asked questions

Do guests have to dress up?

No, but they'll want to. Give a dress code with an easy option, like one accessory, so everyone feels included.

Can costumes match each guest's character?

Yes. In Murder At Mine, every guest's personal invitation includes a costume brief written for their character, so outfits fit the role.

Is this free?

Yes. The dress code and all six looks are free, with no account needed.

Continue the investigation

Hosting guideDecorations and costumes guideOccasionHalloween murder mysteryHosting guide20 party theme ideas

The final instruction

Run the whole night in the app

One custom case for your guest list, private characters on every phone and a host who still gets to play.

Download on theApp Store
Get it onGoogle Play